Hutsai
My father and I call each other Hutsai. It's a term of endearment that we share between us. In Chinese, Hutsai is a rough translation of "good food." Now, you may ask why do we refer to each other as good food?
Well, my father has been a good provider so it's okay for me to make that allusion. But me? Well, today I'd like to believe I am.
However, when we started calling each other that, I was not earning yet. I remember, my mother (whom we also call Baliling---this is another interesting story) one time served us her new recipe, and we (my father, brother, and I) all agreed that it was super delicious. Papa then blurted, "hu-tsai!" The expression stuck with us through these years.
Hutsai turned 72 last Wednesday (November 7). When we asked how he would like to spend his day, he said that this time, he wanted some peace and quiet with Baliling---no party, just them together.
Later that day, I asked them again how they spent their day together, Baliling said that they went driving around (yes, at 72, he still drives) and just talking. Reminiscing maybe. It warms my heart to know that after all these years, they still seek each other's company and find refuge in each other. And they still have a good conversation, and yes lots of laughter, too, going between them.
I carry their joy and love with me wherever I go, and because of that I have lots of joy and love to share, too. I know my brother feels the same. I pray that they continue that way, and that Hutsai remain a strong inspiration in our family for always.
Again, happy birthday, Hutsai. We love you very much!
