Dear Minh Hien, my daughter,

Hello. How are you? What are you doing now? Are you able to do the things you wanted to do? Has your dream of studying abroad in Japan changed?

Is everything usual with your mom? It was very worrying for Hien to leave her mom and go to Japan. I wondered if you would cry without your mom, if you are eating properly, if you can nap… But Hien, you are stronger than I think. I believe in that.

Seeing you experience so many ‘firsts’ is a daily joy for your mom. What kind of person have you become? Are you still your father’s little princess? Or have you transformed into a demure lady because of some event?

What happy things have happened to you recently? What sad things? Are you still in touch with your important friends? If you are alone now, don’t be sad. If someone speaks ill of you, don’t despair.

I have a request for you, my daughter. Please live a life doing what you want to do. Live without regrets. Challenge yourself. Don’t give up on anything before trying it. Experience things that can only be done now.

I am so happy that you chose me to be your mom. I wish for your happiness too. Remember what you said when you were little, “I am me. Others are others.” Don’t worry about what others say about you. Focus all your energy on achieving your goals. That will lead you to true happiness. Happiness must be found by yourself.

As I write this, you haven’t been born yet, but I sincerely hope you find your own form of fun and happiness and live every day to the fullest. And as you find your own form of happiness, your mom will always be happy too. It’s sad, but I look forward to the day when you become independent from me and I can watch you live every day with a smile. You will be cared for by many people as you grow up. Don’t forget to be grateful for that!

From your mother