A daughter’s heartfelt exploration of her father’s past through the objects he carried unveils his journey as a Chinese immigrant, bridging the distance and time between them while inspiring reflection on the significance of familial history and cherished possessions.
In a heartfelt exploration, a daughter delves into her father’s past through the objects he carried, shedding light on his life at 25 and his present self. As a Chinese immigrant, her father rarely spoke about his journey or childhood. Despite the distance, the daughter and her 91-year-old father have established a tradition of weekly conversations, where he shares memories and daily life updates. Through an inventory of her father’s luggage, the daughter uncovers the stories behind each item, including a photo of her father in a blazer and an old camera symbolizing his passion for photography. Reflecting on her father’s passport and English moniker, the daughter contemplates her own experiences. Her father’s cherished dictionary and slide rule represent his determination and precision. The daughter values their bond, regrets not asking more questions earlier, and honors their shared history. Their visits to a museum and encounters with Chinese international students evoke a sense of connection and nostalgia. Ultimately, the daughter acknowledges the profound impact of her father’s journey, as each carried object has shaped the person he is today. This exploration inspires readers to reflect on their own familial histories and the significance of objects in their stories.
Source: https://medium.com/anomalyblog/what-my-dad-carried-to-america-db86c878e28f
