Colorful years

He knew that he carried on his shoulders not only his own studies, but also the hopes and dreams of his entire family for the future.

This profound sense of responsibility and mission is deeply rooted in his heart, becoming his strongest support on his journey forward.

Whenever the night is still and quiet, or in the darkest hour before dawn, he would silently tell himself: I cannot fall down, because I am not only fighting for my own future, but also supporting my parents in their old age and for my younger siblings' growth.

This belief made him more resilient and courageous when facing numerous difficulties in his studies.

Meanwhile, his parents at home did not slack off at all. Although they could not help much with his studies, they silently supported their son's dream with their actions.

They carefully planned and managed the extra income earned through hard work, ensuring that every penny was spent wisely.

From improving living conditions to enhancing the quality of life, from purchasing necessary household items to investing in children's education, every small change embodies their beautiful vision for the future of their family.

They know that only by working together as a family can they move towards a happier life.

In those years filled with sweat and laughter, every Sunday became the most anticipated time for the whole family.

At such times, no matter how busy or tired they are, they will put down their work, sit together, and enjoy a sumptuous meat feast. The fragrant dishes are not only a satisfaction for the taste buds, but also a comfort for the soul.

At that moment, all the fatigue and hard work seemed to vanish, leaving only happiness and warmth.

At the dinner table, everyone chatted and laughed, sharing their joys and sorrows. The power of family affection made everyone feel the warmth and strength of home.

Once, while carrying pine resin, Congcong accidentally fell and injured his knee. The pain came like a tidal wave, making it almost impossible for him to stand.

At that moment, a moment of hesitation and retreat flashed through his mind, but then he thought of his family’s expectant eyes and the responsibility he bore, which instantly strengthened his resolve.

He gritted his teeth, endured the pain, and slowly stood up. After resting for a while and waiting for the pain to subside, he resolutely picked up the heavy fifty pounds of pine resin and continued on his way.

When the father saw Congcong's injury, his eyes welled up with tears of heartache, but Congcong smiled nonchalantly and said to his father, "Daddy, I'm really fine. This little injury is nothing to me. We still have to keep going."

Hearing his son's words, the father's worry and heartache instantly transformed into even stronger support and encouragement. He took a deep breath and nodded vigorously, as if to say, "Son, you're doing great!"

During those tough yet joyful days, Congcong not only learned how to face difficulties and setbacks, but also learned to cherish and be grateful.

He thanked his parents for giving him life and their selfless love, which allowed him to thrive in this world; he thanked his family for their support and understanding, which made him never alone on his journey to pursue his dreams.

He also thanked his friends and neighbors who stood by him through the difficult times, saying that their encouragement and help strengthened his resolve to move forward.

He knew that it was with the companionship and support of these people that he could go further and more steadily on the road of life. He also gradually realized that he should not only live for himself, but also for his family and society, and use his actions to spread love and warmth and create more value.

In the blink of an eye, the four-month journey of transporting pine resin oil came to a successful end. Congcong and his father returned home with a wealth of harvest and joy.

When they looked at the banknotes they had earned with sweat and hard work, their hearts were filled with excitement and pride. This money was not only a testament to their hard work, but also the fruit of their family's joint efforts and mutual support.

Shi Daya and her grandfather were also proud of their achievements. They knew that the meaning behind this money far exceeded its intrinsic value.

During that four-month period, what Congcong found most unforgettable was that every time they went to the forest farm, he could hear his father telling wonderful stories in his deep and magnetic voice.

Those stories, like beacons, illuminated his path forward; those spirits, like clear springs, nourished his young heart.

My father was like a knowledgeable encyclopedia, not only giving me a detailed and vivid account of the legendary experiences of many heroes in "The Biographies of Heroes of the Sui and Tang Dynasties," but also emphasizing classic historical stories such as "Mencius' mother moving three times," "Kong Rong giving away pears," "Yue Fei's mother tattooing words on his back," and "pricking one's thigh and hanging oneself by the hair."

Through his father's gentle narration, a series of core ideas full of positive energy, such as loyalty to the emperor and love for the country, fearlessness in the face of difficulties, hard work, humility and politeness, positive progress, and choosing friends wisely, were deeply imprinted in his heart.

Each story is so captivating, as if traveling through a time tunnel, allowing him to have a spiritual dialogue with those historical figures.

He seemed to see those heroes who, in order to realize their lofty ideals, were willing to sacrifice their lives, and persevered in their arduous struggle despite all difficulties and obstacles.