One day in 2014, when I heard your dad had passed away, my thoughts are a jumbled mess. I instantly thought of you, who had just started your elementary school. At that time, I havenât fully understand how it feels to lose someone precious, I couldnât even imagine how painful it is.
I donât know if you remembered, the next day, we all came to your house and tried to give your family some consolation. I recall seeing the deceased family seemed to be doing okay when we were around, but only God knows what was behind those composed faces. I didnât even dare to think what happened behind that wall after we left and closed the door behind us.
In 2018, I finally understood those feelings. No one expected it to happen so quickly, it still feels unreal to this day. For those who are left behind, the death of loved ones feels confusing, disarraying, one thought overlaps another, and then another, and another, until it becomes one chaotic mess. At last, I could fully grasp that the pain of grieving the death of a loved one can only be understood by someone who had experienced it.
In 2021, I had a chance to have a conversation with you who had turned 13. Thereâs something I had only realized at that time, just when exactly did this little kid become so mature for her age? It dawned on me that reality had forced you to grow up so fast. Itâs not a bad thing, but sometimes I wanted you to live your life like other kids your age: experiencing that awkward phase, liking your opposite sex, and doing a bunch of stupid things.
Because being a child is not a sin.
Moving forward, youâll experience many firsts in your life. One day when you find yourself unable to solve your problem alone, you are always welcomed to come home. When you encounter something that makes you want to run away, try to face it as best as you can. Promise me to try your best, like you always have until this day.
Today you are entering a new phase in your life. Although itâs only ceremonial, all the processes youâve gone through to get to this moment certainly are not easy. And after this, your world wouldnât be the same. Maybe in the 9 years youâve been here, this place has lacked many things, but Iâm pretty sure that one day you will miss all the ambience, all the views, and all the corners of this place.
I always hope and pray, wherever you are, that you always be a good girl. I donât know if someone has already told you this, but: thank you for growing well.