Missing Home

Tonight, I've just watched one of my favourite TV shows, Modern Family.

Sometimes that show teaches me something about family. Today, I watched an episode when Haley has gone to college and her parents came along to help her settle down and unpack in her dorm.

At first she is humiliated by their presence: her father, Phil, wears a T-shirt that supports Haley moving into a new dorm room. Then her room mate's father sees condoms that Claire bought for Haley.

Even Phil got a book of Phil's-osophy for Haley.

Eager to get rid of her parents and start fresh in college, Haley did not have friends and sat alone in the cafeteria. In her room, she read her father's book on philosophies that he stood by. Missing her parents, she called them up to tell them that she misses them and that she loves them.

We cannot take our parents for granted. What they do to embarrass us, is to show that they love us so much they'd go great lengths for us.

I understand that my parents have kept me on a tight leash for a long time. But I would never forget what my parents have taught me.

Except when it comes to banks and money talk, that's another thing.

What I'm trying to say is that I now appreciate of my upbringing. I learn that even though some people would not treat me well, I should not do the same, for I would be just as sinful as them.

When I watched the ending of the episode, I realise how much I miss holding my Dad's arm whenever we go out. I miss him taking me to parts of the city that Mom and my sister couldn't stand being in. I miss having breakfast with him on most mornings.

I also miss having my Mom around to sew my clothes when one needs a fix. I miss Ate Candy's canton noodles and sinigang and casuela.

Sometimes my parents think that I'm too nice. I do not know what do they mean by that, but I think we should be friendly to all, and not just keep to ourselves. One time when Dad and I were having breakfast in a hawker restaurant, we shared this table with another customer. After we were done, we left the table and I politely greet the strangers, "Have a nice day". My dad was pretty surprised that I am that nice.

I have my own manifesto to live up to, but I won't forget what my parents have taught me. I thank God to have them as my parents.

PS: Sigh. Yes... I cried at that episode.