Staff reporter / Rina Zhu
My grandfather was born in a rural family. His family was poor, but he always wanted to be a calligrapher. As a child, he had to drop out of school to help his mother farm to support the family, and says overcoming difficulties was what he was best at growing up. Despite his poverty, he still loves calligraphy. In his spare time, he always spends time practicing calligraphy.
However, he did not have professional calligraphy tools as a child. He said he often fantasized about having a fine brush. Until his birthday, his mother prepared a brush and a piece of paper for him, this simple gift made him very happy. He immediately began to show his strength with his brush. He said he felt a joy and satisfaction he had never felt before, and that the gift was also an encouragement and support for his dream.
Now, grandpa often tells me his childhood stories to make me understand that difficulties in life should be faced and overcome bravely. No matter what difficulties you meet, you should keep on pursuing your dream. His story inspired me to be a brave man with a dream.
Grandpa was well respected in the community around his home because he was sincere to everyone. His kindness and modesty won people’s respect. He taught me to be honest with everyone and build good relationships. At the same time, he taught me to be optimistic and not to lose faith in myself. He always told me that as long as I remain optimistic, I will be able to overcome everything. Grandpa has always been my role model, and I will continue to face life with optimism in the way he taught me. I will cherish what I get every time, be grateful for everything around me, firmly pursue my dream, and become a person worthy of respect and sincerity like my grandpa.
