I (Yoko) have two daughters—my eldest, Miyuki (28), and my youngest, Aya (21). My husband passed away ten years ago, and raising them on my own was never easy. I often leaned on Miyuki and probably placed a heavy burden on her, while Aya was always the easygoing, obedient child. Now both of them live independently, and nothing makes me happier than when we can all come together during Obon or New Year’s.
Raising my daughters on my own was never easy. I may not have been the perfect mother, but I did my best to face them with all I had. Seeing Miyuki as a mother now, and Aya growing into a fine young adult, fills me with happiness. We once spent every day together, but now that they live apart, we only meet once in a while. That’s why I looked forward so much to the day we could reunite and laugh together again… Yet Aya’s reply was a blunt “I can’t come home,” followed by the shocking words, “I quit being your daughter.” Is this some kind of late rebellion…? I can’t help but be troubled.