"Something you shouldn't learn? Of course not, I am happy to share my culture with anyone who truly wants to learn," I tell Eric with a wave of my hand. Yes, I was very disappointed with the Chinese New Year celebration from the Asian-American society, but that is because they clearly did not research the proper way to celebrate Chinese New Year. You would think that even if they cannot find a Chinese person in the area, they could call someone else and learn a little more about the culture! "I cannot promise that my bread will taste as good as your pie, but I am happy to share the recipes that my mother taught me. It might actually be good for me to practice... I stopped baking as much after I had my second son. Not enough time."
When I talk more about family, I see Eric's hand shift. It reminds me how young Eric looks. Much older than my boys, of course, but I think there is a part of every person that becomes a child again around their parents. I know that is the case with me and Connie, and I know that it means so much to both of us that we have that option. We can return home to our mom and whine in front of her all we like. Mothers provide stability.
I reach out for his hand and give it a soft squeeze. I am not his mother, but I can be here while she isn't.
"Anything that you need to do to feel less lonely is good. As long as it doesn't hurt your health," I say seriously. "It's not pathetic. Everybody gets lonely. But I am very glad you have friends here. Nobody should be alone, especially not in a place as crazy as this."
(no subject)
Date: 2016-08-23 09:56 pm (UTC)When I talk more about family, I see Eric's hand shift. It reminds me how young Eric looks. Much older than my boys, of course, but I think there is a part of every person that becomes a child again around their parents. I know that is the case with me and Connie, and I know that it means so much to both of us that we have that option. We can return home to our mom and whine in front of her all we like. Mothers provide stability.
I reach out for his hand and give it a soft squeeze. I am not his mother, but I can be here while she isn't.
"Anything that you need to do to feel less lonely is good. As long as it doesn't hurt your health," I say seriously. "It's not pathetic. Everybody gets lonely. But I am very glad you have friends here. Nobody should be alone, especially not in a place as crazy as this."