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My name is Uncle Li, I am 75 years old this year, my life after retirement is calm and simple, and my monthly pension is 7,500 yuan, which I think is enough. I have a son, Li Qiang, who is in his early 40s, a middle school teacher, and his wife, Xiaomei, have a daughter named Li Qing. I've always had a good relationship with them, at least that's what I think.
That day, I brought up the matter of pension. We were sitting in the living room with the evening news playing on the TV, but no one was really watching. I said softly, "Qiangzi, I'm old and want to discuss with you about the future pension." ”
Li Qiang was stunned for a moment, then nodded, he looked a little hesitant. "Dad, you know we respect you very much, but we also have some conditions. ”
"Conditions?" I didn't react for a moment.
"Yes, condition. Xiaomei interjected, her voice a little colder than usual.
The first condition is that I can't enter their room at will. I can understand this, everyone needs their own private space. The second condition is that I need to have my own fixed life rules and not affect their rhythm of life. I nodded, and that made sense.
But the third condition surprised me a bit, and they asked me not to interfere with the way they educated Li Qing. I'm from the older generation, and I have some traditional ideas and occasionally give opinions about how they are educated. I didn't mean to, I just cared.
The fourth condition made me feel a little uncomfortable, and they asked me not to talk too much about my past, especially about me and my deceased wife. I know it can feel heavy to talk about the past, but it's a memory for the rest of my life.
The last condition is about the economy. They wanted a portion of my monthly pension to be given to the family as a common living expense. This request made me hesitate a little, because I had originally planned to leave the money to Li Qing's education fund.
That night, I sat alone in my room, thinking about these conditions over and over again. I understand the struggles of my son and daughter-in-law, who also have their own life pressures. But as a traditional Chinese elder, I always felt that these conditions were a little beyond my expectations.
The next day, I met Lao Wang, an old friend of mine for many years, while walking in the park. I told him about last night. Lao Wang was silent for a while after hearing this, and then said, "Uncle Li, the times have changed, and we have to adapt." However, you also have to have your bottom line. ”
I nodded, a little confused. This home, I feel more and more strange. Just as I was deep in thought, my phone rang, and it was a message from Li Qing, "Grandpa, I have an early school day today, can you come and pick me up?" I want to go to dinner with you. ”
I immediately replied, "Of course, grandpa will go over." "I think at least the time with my granddaughter is pure and happy.
I don't know what's behind these conditions, maybe it's the discomfort of my old age, maybe it's the worry about the future. But I knew I needed to find a balance between respecting my son's and daughter-in-law's way of life while maintaining my dignity as a father and grandfather.
On the way to pick up Li Qing from school, I had mixed feelings in my heart. Watching the pedestrians rushing by on the side of the road, my mind drifted away. Li Qing is a lively and cheerful girl, and she has a very good relationship with me. When she saw me, she happily ran over and hugged me.
"Grandpa, where are we going to eat?" Li Qing's voice always makes me feel better.
"You can eat whatever you want, and grandpa is in for a treat today. I laughed.
We went to her favorite little noodle restaurant. Eating noodles, Li Qing chattered about what was happening at school. I listened, interjecting a few words once in a while, and my mood gradually relaxed.
"Grandpa, what's wrong with you? Li Qing asked suddenly.
I was stunned for a moment, I didn't expect my little granddaughter to be so sensitive. "No, it's nothing, grandpa just wants to think about some old people. "I try my best to make my voice sound calm.
Li Qing blinked, "Is it related to the pension issue raised by my parents? ”
I didn't expect that she knew about it, and she was a little complicated in her heart. "What do you think?"
"I don't think it's easy for my parents. But, grandpa, you should also have your own life and should not always revolve around us. Li Qing's words were simple but to the point.
I nodded, filled with emotion. After eating, I sent Li Qing home. When I got home, I decided to talk to my son and daughter-in-law again.
In the evening, we sat in the living room. I got straight to the point and said, "I want to talk about pension again. ”
Li Qiang and Xiaomei glanced at each other and nodded.
"I understand your distress and concerns, and I don't want to be a burden on your life. However, I have some thoughts of my own regarding the conditions that you have proposed. I tried my best to keep my tone calm.
"First, I respect your private space and will not enter your room at will. Second, I will keep my life routine and try not to affect you. But I wish we could have more family time and not go it alone. ”
Li Qiang nodded in agreement.
"I will not interfere with the issue of educating Li Qing, but I hope that as a grandfather, I can give guidance and help when appropriate. I continued.
"That's fine. Mei replied.
"As for talking about the past, I don't talk about it very often, but I hope that on special occasions, like your mother's death day, we can remember together. ”
Li Qiang was silent for a while, and finally nodded, "Okay, Dad." ”
Finally, I touched on the issue of pensions. "I am willing to set aside a part of my pension every month for my family, but I hope to set aside a part of it for Li Qing's education fund. ”
"We can accept this. Li Qiang said.
After the conversation, I felt a sense of relief that I hadn't felt in a long time. Although the problem was not completely resolved, at least we started a conversation and communication.
The next day, I began to live up to my promise. I adjusted my schedule to try not to disturb their lives. I also started to think about my future, and I didn't want to be completely dependent on my son and daughter-in-law. I am reminded of a senior activity center mentioned by Lao Wang, where there are various activities such as calligraphy classes and dance classes. Maybe I should check it out and start something new in my life.
That afternoon, I went to the Senior Activity Center. The atmosphere was relaxed and pleasant, and I took part in a hands-on calligraphy class. I find myself enjoying this quiet and focused time. After class, I chatted with a few of my classmates, all of whom are retirees like me, with their own stories and lives. It dawned on me that my life could be more colorful.
I started to participate in the activities of the activity center regularly, which gave me a new focus in my life. I met a few friends in the calligraphy class, and we often practiced Xi together, and sometimes went to the park to show off our work.
At home, I also started to take the initiative to do some housework to reduce the burden on my son and daughter-in-law. In the evenings, we would sit around the living room watching TV and chatting occasionally. I have found that the atmosphere of the family can become more harmonious if we want to.
But just when I thought everything was getting better, the unexpected happened. One night, when Li Qiang and Xiaomei came home, their faces were ugly. I
Asked what happened to them, the two looked at each other, and Li Qiang spoke: "Dad, there are some changes in the school, my position may be adjusted, and my salary will also be affected." ”
My heart tightened, but I tried to keep my composure, "So do you have any plans?"
Xiaomei sighed, "We may need to reassess our household expenses, at least for this time. ”
I looked at their anxious expressions, and I felt a little uncomfortable. I realised that this could affect our family life and even my proposed retirement plan.
A few days later, Li Qiang's salary was indeed reduced. The atmosphere at home became a little tense. I started to think about whether I needed to adjust my pension plan or even the way I distributed my pension.
One day, I told him about it while walking in the park with Lao Wang. "Uncle Li, this is your family's business, but you also have to consider your own needs. Lao Wang said.
When I got home, I sat down with Li Qiang's daughter-in-law and had a talk. "I know that my family's financial situation is a little tight right now, so I can temporarily reduce my investment in Li Qing's education fund and take out more retirement money to help my family. ”
Li Qiang looked a little hesitant, but finally accepted my proposal. "Thank you, Dad. He said.
Over the next few months, I minimized my expenses and was more concerned about my family. But I also didn't neglect my interests and social activities. I continued to participate in the activities of the senior center and communicate with new friends. I have found that these activities have not only enriched my life, but also taught me more wisdom about life.
The atmosphere at home gradually eased. Li Qiang and Xiaomei began to adjust their work and life, and gradually adapted to the new economic situation. I also learned more about the importance of understanding and support in the process.
Just as we were gradually adapting to this new normal, Li Qing's Xi performance had problems. One night, Xiaomei came to me with Li Qing's report card. "Uncle Li, I know we said before that we don't interfere with the way of education, but looking at this report card, I feel like we need your help. ”
I looked at the report card and felt a little worried. I decided to talk to Li Qing. The next day, I found an opportunity to sit down with Li Qing alone.
"Qingqing, your grades have slipped, what's going on?" I tried to keep my voice as gentle as I could.
Li Qing lowered her head and said after a while: "Grandpa, I've been a little distracted recently, and there are some things I can't learn." ”
I patiently listened to her talk about the difficulties and psychological pressure of studying Xi. I realized that as a parent and grandfather, we needed to give her more support and guidance.
I began to spend more time helping Li Qingfu Xi her homework and discussing with her how to learn Xi. At the same time, I also encouraged her to participate in more extracurricular activities to relieve the pressure of Xi.
A few months later, Li Qing's grades improved significantly. Her self-confidence also recovered, and she became more cheerful and lively. It's very gratifying to see these changes.
At the same time, my life at the senior center has become more and more fulfilling. I even joined a senior dance troupe and started learning Xi dance. It gave me a new challenge and a lot of fun.
The atmosphere of the family has also become more harmonious because of Li Qing's progress and my new life. We began to share each other's lives more, and family ties became stronger.
However, just when I thought everything was going in a good direction, Li Qiang and Xiaomei suddenly came up with a new plan. One night, they said they wanted to get a bigger house and hoped I would support it.
I was a little surprised. "It's going to take a lot of money, what are you going to do?" I asked.
Li Qiang looked at me, "We need to borrow some money, including a part of your pension." ”
I was silent for a while, feeling a little conflicted. I knew that changing houses was important to them, but it also meant that I had to sacrifice a portion of my living expenses.
That night, I sat alone in my room, thinking about it over and over again. I have to think not only about my own life, but also about the support I have for my family. I realized that whatever decision I make, I need to fully consider the feelings and needs of all people.
The next day, I decided to talk to Li Qiang and them again
Sit down and talk about this swap plan in detail. I want to have a clear picture of their intentions and expectations, but also to express my own concerns and considerations.
"Dad, we know it's a big decision, but we feel like it's a good investment for the family. Li Qiang began to explain their plan.
Xiaomei added: "The new house is more spacious, which is also good for Li Qing's growth. We plan to take out a loan, but we do need some down payment. ”
I was silent for a moment, struggling with my heart. I understand the importance of changing houses, but I am also worried that it will affect my own quality of life. "I'm willing to help, but I also have my concerns. I don't have much in retirement, and I need to make sure I have a basic livelihood. ”
Li Qiang and Xiaomei listened to my words, and they both seemed a little pensive. "We understand, Dad, we'll try to lighten your load. Li Qiang said.
After some discussion, we reached a preliminary agreement. I will give a portion of my pension to help them, but also make sure that I have enough money left to support myself.
The next few weeks filled the house with discussions about the new house. Although I was worried, I also felt an inexplicable joy to see my family working towards a common goal.
At the same time, my life at the senior center is still fulfilling. My teammates and I prepared a performance, which made my day even more colorful. Through these activities, I have made more friends and my social circle has gradually expanded.
One day, I met an old colleague, Aunt Zhang, in dance class. Since her retirement, she has been active in various club activities. We talked about how we're doing, and I also mentioned to her about the family's plans to change homes and some of my concerns.
After listening to it, Aunt Zhang gave me some advice. "Uncle Li, it's good to support your family, but you also have to ensure your quality of life. Retirement should be enjoyable and relaxing, and you have the right to pursue your own happiness. ”
Her words made me think deeply. Yes, I love my family and am willing to make sacrifices for them, but I should also have my own life and pursuits.
One night, I decided to talk to Li Qiang and them again. I was honest with them about my thoughts and concerns. "I support your plan, but I also want to keep some of the money for my interests and social activities. ”
Li Qiang and Xiaomei expressed their understanding and promised to readjust the plan to minimize the impact on me.
Time passed slowly, and the matter of the new house gradually entered the practical operation stage. I feel warm as I watch my family become more united by this common goal.
In the process, I also continued to enjoy my dance lessons and social activities. My life has become more colorful, and I feel that I am not only a father and grandfather, but also an individual with my own life and pursuits.
While we were busy working on our new house, Li Qing's school held a parent-teacher conference. I participated with Li Qiang. At the meeting, the teacher spoke highly of Li Qing's progress, which made Li Qiang and I very proud.
After the meeting, Li Qiang said to me with emotion: "Dad, thank you for your help to Qingqing during this time, you are not only the pillar of our family, but also an important guide on the road of Qingqing's growth." ”
I smiled and shook my head, "This is what I should do, after all, family is meant to support each other." ”
As the days passed, the matter of the new house was gradually implemented. Thanks to the joint efforts of the family, we finally moved into our new home. Although my pension has been reduced, seeing the happy smiling faces of my family, I feel that everything is worth it.
On the first night of our new home, we sat around the living room and shared this special moment. I looked at everyone's smiling faces and felt a sense of satisfaction in my heart. Yes, this is home, not just a place to live, but a haven of love and support.
My life has not become monotonous because of retirement. Instead, it becomes richer and more meaningful. I played an important role in my family, but I also found my own joy and pursuit. I began to look forward to the future, both in my family and in my personal life, and I was full of confidence and anticipation.
The days after moving into a new home are both a new beginning and an adjustment to my lifestyle. I realized that as my family circumstances changed, I also needed to find a new balance in my life.
In my new home, I have my own small room. It's a small space, but it gives me more personal time and space. I started to practice calligraphy Xi here, and sometimes I read books to enjoy the tranquility.
Li Qing's Xi situation is getting better and better, and she has begun to show interest in various activities. I encouraged her to try it and provided some necessary guidance. I found that by helping Li Qing, I also revisited a lot of what I knew when I was younger, and it was a wonderful feeling.
Li Qiang and Xiaomei gradually adapted to the new rhythm of life in their new home. While they are still busy, they are starting to place more emphasis on family time. We would cook together on the weekends, watch movies together, these simple family activities brought our relationship closer.
My life at the senior center also continued. The activities of the dance troupe made me feel fulfilling, where I learned not only dance, but also how to get along with different people. I've built a strong friendship with my teammates in the dance company, and we share the joys and sorrows of life together.
One day, the Senior Activity Center organized a small demonstration and my dance teammates and I prepared a wonderful performance. Li Qiang, Xiaomei and Li Qing all came to watch our performance. After the performance, Li Qing ran over excitedly, hugged me and said, "Grandpa, you dance so well!"
At that moment, I felt a sense of accomplishment that I had never felt before. My family saw a different me, one full of energy and enthusiasm. I realized that no matter how old you are, you have the right to pursue your dreams and show your self-worth.
Over time, I also started to focus on some other interests and activities. I joined a senior reading club, and every week we would pick a book to discuss. These activities have broadened my horizons and allowed me to meet a lot of like-minded friends.
I found that as my life became richer and richer, my dependence on my family gradually decreased. I started to enjoy my time alone and enjoy the communication with my friends. This change has made me cherish the time I spend with my family even more.
On the other hand, I also noticed that the pressure on Li Qiang and Xiaomei's lives gradually decreased. Their work is getting smoother and smoother, and their lives are becoming more and more stable. As a father, I am very relieved to see that they are able to handle the challenges of life.
In the first Spring Festival of the new home, we made dumplings together as a family and watched the Spring Festival Gala together. That night, we talked a lot, reminiscing about the past and looking forward to the future. I told them about my recent life and plans, and they listened very carefully, interjecting from time to time to express their support and encouragement.
Li Qing also shared her school life and future dreams. I looked at her with hope in my heart. I am incredibly proud of her growth and I am confident that she will be able to achieve her dreams in the future.
That Spring Festival, our family felt unprecedented happiness and satisfaction. We are not only a family, but an integral part of each other's lives.
Time flies and I've spent over a year in my new home. Looking back on the year, I have experienced many changes, but each change has made me stronger and more complete.
My life proves that no matter what age you are, you can pursue your own happiness and have your own life. I'm no longer the old man who only revolves around my family, I have my own life and my world has become more exciting.
I started planning some new activities and trips. I wanted to go to places I hadn't been to when I was younger and experience different cultures and lives. Wang and a few other friends and I planned a small trip, and we were all looking forward to it.
Looking out the window at the sun, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction and happiness. My life is full of color and energy, and I know that no matter what the future holds, I will welcome it with confidence and anticipation. This home, this family, has given me strength and support, as well as the courage and freedom to pursue personal happiness. I feel
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