My dear daughter, I want to thank you for allowing me to be your mommy!
On November 16th 2015, mommy was wheeled into the operating room. I went in alone but came out with you! From that day on, we were seldom separated from each other.
Your father and I witnessed you babbling out your first words! We watched you grow day by day! Your emotions are closely connected to ours. Your growth touches our hearts so much.
With your birth, we too, were born. Please forgive any mistakes I’d made as a new mom. I used to yell at you, being so autocratic and blindly following suit.
Parents, like children, are also constantly growing and learning. Inevitably we make some mistakes, so reflection and correction is always needed.
Sami, thank you for letting mommy gradually understand why I was often unhappy. It was because mommy always expected a positive outcome.
For example, once you read a picture book, I would expect you to understand the moral behind it immediately. Once you took part in an activity, I would expect you to gain rich experience.
When my expectation was met, I felt so relieved.
But, if not, then I would blame myself.
Sami, thank you for helping mommy realize how to respect the differences. Indeed, other children are really wonderful, but you are so unique!
Mommy believes that you will be able to demonstrate your unique beauty freely and comfortably!
Sami, it is you who help mommy understand the importance of listening to others.
Whenever you make a mistake or feel upset, scared or happy, you should know that I will always be there for you. I will never let you feel lost or alone.
It has been nearly 4 months since you entered into Sunshine Home. You have made so much progress in this time. During Open Day, I noticed this wonderful surprise!
For example, every time you stood up, you would push your chair back into the table and made sure everything was fine before leaving.
It was such a little thing that made mommy feel so touched. At least from my point of view, you are a responsible and independent girl who also knows how to maintain public order.
I will never require you to take any graded examinations, obtain any certificates, participate in any competitions or compare you with other children. I hope you can find something you are truly curious about and gain the motivation to learn from it.
This type of motivation is pure and meaningful, which will last more in the long run. I believe that this is how you will become who you really are, not only the person others expect you to be.
So I have always tried to maintain peace of mind and ask nothing of you.、
As for Sunshine Home, I think that it has created several possibilities for young children to develop themselves. Both parents and children can feel that they are growing together.
Everyone can be a leader as well as a follower and learner. There is no god, no authority. No one is occupying a commanding position. Nobody is right all the time.
This is the closest way towards education itself. For example, the Parent Story Month is a valid proof!
Sami, thank you for letting mommy understand that no person is perfect, so mommy does not expect you to be perfect. I just hope you grow up happily and become who you truly are!
Sami, Chinese traditional culture is extensive and profound. “Being temperate, kind, courteous, restrained and magnanimous” or “benevolent, righteous, courteous, wise and trustworthy” are all requirements of Chinese people in order to be considered a promising person.
Mom and dad summarized these words into five words, “kind, determined, wise, generous, and responsible”. These words are also principles that your father and I work hard to follow consistently! I hope you too will be like mom and dad!
Sami, let’s grow up together in a more diverse space with unlimited possibilities. Let’s make efforts together to become better people with broad minds!
By mom and dad who always love you
Written at 02:11, December 25, 2018 (Christmas)!
International Sunshine Home Arts & Sciences