我们唯一的向导只有乡愁 (The Only Guidance is our Homesickness)
The Diary of You Liang, March 2023
Pictures of my mother and grandmother.
They are both petite women, yet everyone in the family believes my tall stature is inherited from their lineage.
In this ordinary courtyard, I suddenly realised that I have grown into a taller tree compared to them.
However, it is my mother and grandmother who bear the burden of the family and tradition because the house is small and the trees are not allowed to grow freely.
As for me, I will continue to grow taller and break through the ceiling of the concept of a Chinese home.
I suddenly remember the story of when I left home.
Three years ago today, in the middle of the night, I went out and got myself a piercing. I didn’t want my mother to find out, so I booked an early morning flight. At 5 am. She was half awake, so I went to her room and hugged her for a moment.
Until now, I hadn’t seen her for exactly three years.
Every time I argue with her and think back to that dim and perfunctory farewell, I deeply regret it.