As the years passed, I, Lin Xiufen, a woman in her twilight years, watched over this home that was once full of laughter. Since the death of my lifelong partner five years ago, I have been left alone at home. The monthly pension of 8,000 yuan is not enough for me to live a luxurious life, but it is enough to support me to spend every day peacefully.
My only daughter, Xiaoya, is a continuation of my life and my endless pride. She is smart and independent, and after graduating from college, she worked hard in a large company, and finally entered the palace of marriage with her lover Li Hao. Five years ago, they returned to the city for work and chose to live with me. I am full of joy and look forward to sharing the moments of my life with them.
However, life is always full of unexpected challenges. Li Hao, a young man from the north, has obvious differences in eating habits with me and Xiaoya. He prefers pasta, while Xiaoya and I prefer rice and stir-fry. I tried to adapt and learn how to make a variety of pasta, but it always seemed difficult to live up to his expectations. The subtle changes in his face made me feel a wordless loss.
What made my heart hurt even more was that Li Hao began to question my lifestyle. He thought my meals were too simple to satisfy his gastronomic pursuits. He even bluntly expressed his dissatisfaction with me: "Mom, such a meal is really hard to swallow." "When I heard that, I felt like I was pricked with a needle. I tried my best, but it never seemed like I could meet his request.
The atmosphere of the family is quietly changing, from the initial harmony and harmony, gradually becoming tense and depressing. I began to wonder if my own worth could really bring them happiness and joy. I began to reflect on whether they should be given more space to live independently.
However, whenever I saw Xiao Ya's concerned eyes, I felt extremely distressed. I don't want to embarrass her for my stubbornness. I know that the family is a harbor that needs to be maintained together, and only mutual understanding and tolerance can make it always full of warmth and happiness.
On this silent night, I sat alone in front of the window, staring into the distance. I know that there is still a long way to go, and I need to be stronger and brave to face life's challenges. I hope to be able to find that balance with my daughter and son-in-law, so that our home can be full of laughter again.