I feel sorry for not being able to express my apologies and gratitude face to face. Although I am always full of gratitude, I was too shy to say “Thank you for raising me all these years.” As a child, I saw how you both worked tirelessly from morning till night for our family, despite our poor living conditions. Yet, I was unable to offer kind words or help, causing you worry instead.

Now, Dad, even though you are only in your forties, the worries and anxieties of life have made wrinkles prominent on your face, making you look like you are in your sixties. You are a man of few words, so we hardly communicate, but I know you worry about me. I can picture you silently listening and smiling beside Mom whenever I call her.

Since living apart, the frequency of my visits has decreased, and we lost the chance to sit down for a meal and talk. But there’s one thing I really want to say: please quit smoking. I know you enjoy it, but I am worried about your health. Despite my repeated pleas, you find it hard to quit. The greatest joy for me is to see you both healthy and well.

Mom, you were strict, but always supportive and empathetic, standing by my side like a best friend. When I wanted to attend a vocational school in Japan, Dad opposed and asked me to return home for work. However, thanks to Mom, you understood and supported my decision.

Mom, you are the woman I respect the most and I am proud to call you my mother. Whenever I’m in trouble or dating someone, I always talk and seek advice from you. You are not just my mother, but also my sister and friend. I cannot imagine life without you.

Recently, you were in so much pain that you had to be hospitalized, but you didn’t tell me. Hearing about it from my brother, I couldn’t stop crying, feeling helpless and sorry for not being there for you.

Dad and Mom, thank you for working so hard for our family and us children. In the future, I want to marry someone like Dad and become a mother like Mom. Please take care of yourselves until my dreams come true and stay healthy always!

I want to take you on a trip to Japan to see where I spent my youth. Lastly, I want to say how lucky I am to be your daughter.

Dad, thank you for raising me with care.
Mom, thank you for giving birth to me.

From Tao, your daughter