Colorful years

Grandpa looked around and, seeing that no one was paying attention, quietly took the pork chop out of his bowl, carefully placed it aside, and wrapped it in a handkerchief.

His movements were gentle and skillful, as if he were performing a sacred ritual.

Everyone around was enjoying the food and the fun, and no one noticed Grandpa's little actions.

Grandpa's heart was filled with love and expectations for Congcong. He knew that the family had many children and life was hard. They rarely ate meat throughout the year, only during the Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Spring Festival.

Every time there was a banquet, as long as there were meat dishes on the table, Grandpa's eyes would lock onto the target like radar, and then he would swiftly and quickly put the ribs into his own small bowl. He couldn't bear to eat them himself and would save them for his grandson.

Every time Grandpa brought home fragrant meat from outside, Congcong would be as happy as a lively little rabbit, waving his arms and legs excitedly. When those delicious pieces of meat were put into his mouth, he would eat with great relish, nodding his head and swaying his body, as if there was nothing more wonderful in the world.

Seeing his grandson's contented expression, the grandfather's wrinkled face broke into a radiant smile. His heart was filled with sweetness, overflowing with happiness and satisfaction.

This time was no exception. The lively banquet finally came to an end, and Grandpa smiled as he bid farewell to the host and other guests before embarking on his journey home.

At this moment, he was carefully tucking a precious pork chop that he had specially saved for Congcong in his arms. This pork chop was priceless to his grandfather.

Along the way, Grandpa's steps were unusually light and powerful, as if he were walking on air. As he walked, he was full of imagination about how surprised and delighted Congcong would be when he saw the big pork chop when they got home, and how happy and cheerful he would be.

Just thinking about it made Grandpa's heart feel like it was about to take flight, filled with endless anticipation and joy.

Before long, Grandpa arrived at the door. As soon as he pushed open the gate, he saw Congcong playing happily in the middle of the spacious yard.

The little guy was having so much fun when he suddenly caught sight of what his grandpa was holding, and his already bright eyes instantly became even more dazzling.

He rushed over like an arrow, hugged his grandfather's strong legs tightly, raised his cute little face, and began to whine, "Grandpa, Grandpa, you brought me back meat again!" His voice was clear and loud, as melodious as a silver bell.

Grandpa smiled kindly and nodded, then gently handed the pork chop wrapped in a clean cloth to Congcong.

Congcong took the meat, took a bite without waiting, and a satisfied and happy smile appeared on his face.

As he ate, he said, "Grandpa, you're so kind! When I grow up, I'll buy you lots of delicious food!"

Grandpa felt a warm glow in his heart as he watched Congcong eat with relish.

He stroked Congcong's head and said, "Good child, Grandpa doesn't expect anything in return. Your health and happiness are my greatest wish."

After finishing his meat, Congcong held his grandfather's hand and played with him in the yard. They played hide-and-seek, swung on the swings, told stories... and laughter filled the whole yard.

Grandpa looked at Congcong's lively and adorable figure, his heart filled with emotion and joy.

He knew that although he was old, as long as Congcong was by his side and he was happy, he felt that his life was full of meaning and value.

However, as he grew older and his body weakened, Grandpa's mobility became increasingly limited.

He began to feel powerless, and sometimes after playing the suona, he would even feel dizzy and breathless.

But he persisted, because he knew it was his lifelong love and pursuit.

Congcong saw this and was very anxious.

He repeatedly tried to persuade his grandfather to stop playing the suona, but his grandfather would always smile and shake his head, saying, "I'm fine, I can still play it. Besides, this is my lifelong skill and hobby!"

Congcong knew he couldn't go against his grandfather's wishes, so he could only silently support him in doing what he liked.

However, fate is always full of variables.

One day, Grandpa suddenly fainted while playing the suona and never recovered from the illness.

Upon hearing the news, Congcong immediately rushed home from the No. 2 Middle School, which was 30 miles away, to visit his grandfather. He had just completed three months of studying at the school that day.

From then on, he never returned to No. 2 Middle School. Instead, he completed his high school education at the commune middle school, which was only one kilometer away from his home, until he was admitted to university.

After examination and diagnosis by doctors, Grandpa was diagnosed with severe muscle atrophy and cerebrovascular disease.

This news devastated Congcong, leaving him heartbroken and devastated. He stood by his grandfather's bedside, looking at his grandfather's pale and haggard face, tears streaming down his face.

He held his grandfather's hand tightly and said, "Grandpa, you have to take good care of yourself! I can't live without you!"

Grandpa slightly opened his eyes and looked at Congcong, saying, "Good child, don't cry... Grandpa knows his physical condition... Grandpa has lived enough... I just can't bear to leave you behind..."

Hearing his grandfather's words, Congcong felt as if his heart was being torn apart, and tears streamed down his face. He choked out, "Grandpa, don't worry! I will definitely try my best to be a successful child!"

Grandpa's life has come to an end.

He slowly closed his eyes and peacefully left this world.

……