A Letter to My Dearest Mum

Dearest Mum,

I miss you every day and wonder what you are up to at Dunkirk Memorial House. The gentle waves of my thoughts often carry me to you, though distances may separate us. Here in the Philippines, each morning, a sunbird appears on my balcony. It flits about, singing its beautiful song, and magically showcases the natural beauty of Cebu Island, with its vibrant bougainvillea dancing in the breeze. I like to think of that sunbird as a little messenger of love, a good way to start these letters to you.

Let’s go back to the beginning, to your birthplace. The echoes of your life began in Shanghai, China, on April 17, 1940. Can you believe so many years have passed? I often wonder what the world was like when you first opened your eyes. I imagine the bustling streets filled with people, the scents of street food wafting through the air, the sounds of laughter and music enveloping you in a warm embrace. It was a time when life was different, yet the bond of family and love remained, as strong as the tides of the Yangtze River.

You have always been a constant source of strength and love in my life, guiding me through every twist and turn with your wise words and gentle spirit. As the sunbird visits me daily, I find myself reflecting on the lessons you taught me—the importance of kindness, resilience, and the beauty of simple moments. Each time I see that vibrant little bird, I am reminded of you—your vibrant spirit and your ability to find joy in even the smallest of things.

I think often of the stories you shared of your childhood, of antique lanterns lighting your way through Shanghai's alleys, of your adventures with friends as you explored and created memories that have become part of our family’s legacy. You taught us to cherish the past while embracing the future, to hold onto our roots while branching out into the world.

In my heart, I carry with me the spirit of our family, your laughter and your love igniting a warmth that never dims. Though I am far from you, I can feel our connection transcending any physical barriers. I close my eyes and picture you surrounded by caring faces, the bright corridors of Dunkirk Memorial House offering comfort and joy. I hope you are finding moments of happiness, small rays of light peeking through this chapter of your life.

Mum, I want to remind you that you are never alone. With each letter I write, I send not just my words but also my love, my memories, and the warmth of our shared experiences. I think about how your hands once held me, nourishing my spirit and nurturing my dreams. Those hands, though perhaps more fragile now, symbolize an unyielding strength that I shall always carry with me.

As you sit by the window, watching the world outside, I hope you can see glimpses of the beauty that life still offers—the laughter of children playing, the colors of the sunset painting the sky, and the melodies of life echoing around you. Close your eyes and listen carefully; you might just hear the sunbird singing, sending whispers of love across the ocean, reaching for you in your cozy corner.

Though the miles between us seem vast, my love knows no bounds. You are forever in my thoughts and prayers. I look forward to the day when we can share stories, laughter, and those much-needed hugs once again.

With all my love, forever,
[Your Name]