Being a father to a lovely child is the greatest pleasure and privilege to me. My little girl, the apple of my eye and the music of my life, is now eight years old.
It seemed like just yesterday that I held her tenderly in my arms and laid eyes on her for the first time – a pinkish bundle of joy with red puckered lips. That was the most cherished moment in my life; it touches the core of my heart each time I reminisce about it, and I thank God for this greatest and most precious gift.
After work each day, I would rush home to hold her tightly and gently swing her in my arms. I would just hum a tune, offer a prayer, and watch her closely until she dozed off. Truly, she lives up to her name, Czephyrene, a French name with Greek origins meaning “the soft and gentle zephyr that caresses my heart, touches my soul and inspires my life”. Her middle name (in Spanish), Jovianney, means “majestic beauty and source of inspiration” in Latin. She is all that to me and my wife. We are blessed and honoured to have her in our lives.
I’ve enjoyed every moment with my daughter, especially our walks together in the gardens, lakeside, playgrounds and shopping centres. She would tell me her newfound experiences and daily encounters.
As the days and years passed, our relationship grew closer and deeper. Every day, whenever possible, I would help her with her Chinese school work and we would catch up on each other’s progress.
We also enjoy going to the movies or playing indoor pool, or just going for outings together. In return, she teaches me how to use iPad applications and other modern gadgets.
By nature an introvert and quiet person, I love her company as she brightens my day and enlightens my life. She has much to share with me and I really enjoy our cheeky conversations. She loves to joke and poke fun at me; she’s witty, playful and mischievous.
There is never a dull moment with a child who’s amazed by all the things surrounding her. In her eyes, there are not just seven wonders of the world but seven billion!
I relish the time we spend doing things together or just being in each other’s company. There’s something just so nice and therapeutic about strolling along the walkway, under an umbrella, with my lovely daughter beside me. It’s pure bliss, peace and joy.
In fact, when I am with her, even saying nothing or just speaking nonsensical stuff is a pleasure none can compare. And when I hear encouraging words or innocent feedback from her, it feels both great and inspiring.
These moments together enrich my soul and fill me with immeasurable gratitude to God. It makes me smile and warms my heart just thinking about them.
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