Reflection – poetic expression

Dear mum, 
Congratulations! 
 
You not only survived, but thrived in Australia for the past 7 months.
 
I am so proud of you. 
Being your first time in a foreign country with little English, I thought you should be okay. 
But your adaptability exceeded my expectations.  
 
For the first time, your priority became you. 
Not just me and my grandmas, as ladies do in your generation in China. Your world was filled with reading, gardening, practicing Tai chi (even performing in community events, schools and aged care facilities), and learning Chinese medicine and massage. 
You went to the garden a few times a day, because vegetables became your babies. I can’t imagine how much you would miss them after returning to China. 
 
Oh, you enjoyed my gym too. 
In your last group class, you even cried, showing how much you enjoyed the experience. 
Even though you couldn’t understand much English, you observed and followed along with all the yoga, pilates, and body balance classes. 
Glow. 
No wonder people all noticed your rosy cheeks and fit body. 
 
Also, you loved all the nature here. 
I can’t forget your shining eyes as soon as you noticed piles of seaweed resting in Yorke Peninsula. 
Of course, all the friendly people are part of your fond memories too. 
Strangers saying hi to you when we took a walk, and my friends opening their charming houses to welcome you.
 
Thanks for reminding me again.
There’s something more important than languages. 
Without them, you can still go far if you are curious to learn and have a heart to engage. 

XQZ
15th April 2024