Over the years, I have had the opportunity to know some of my friend's parents, and gosh they are the most supportive bunch of people I've seen. Sometimes, as parents, it is difficult to let your child make decisions that you do not agree with; however, it is imperative that you have that trust built between you and them to ensure that they grow from the choices they make.
One example would be X, a good friend of mine. He did decently well in his university and decided to craft a career overseas. It was a huge move I must say, and pulling away from your family and friends at such a tender career age, you are stripping yourself of all emotional support you have. However, his parents tried to understand his thoughts and view the choice made from his perspective. and subsequently gave him the fullest support in his endeavor.
Another example would be Z, another good friend of mine. A few years back, he shocked (I would be shocked if I were his parents) his parents by coming out to them. Being the only son, it is definitely a hard thing to do, since Asian traditions are all about passing on the family name generations after generations. However, his parents' reactions were the most heartwarming you would think of, not only did they accept him, they also accept his partner as their own child!
Drawing parallels back to myself, sometimes I really wonder if I am even part of this family. My characteristics and personality is just too different from them. Ranging from small things such as spicy tolerance; all the way to doing well in studies and logical reasoning, I just feel the stark difference all the time. On top of that, no one seems to value my presence and input ever, to the extent that whatever I do is a burden to them and whatever I say is an annoyance to them. With such boundaries, I don't even want to get started on trust issues. I admit that I may have made some mistakes here and there in the past, however, that doesn't determine any possible future scenarios that may come. People do grow and learn from their mistakes, but this is one huge point that my parents don't see; and after all these years, I have already lost my patience to explain to them and can't be bothered much anymore. It may just be beneficial to everyone if I shift out once and for all, but with my current meager salary after CPF, that doesn't seem financially feasible.
I guess I just have to make do with what I have now, and continue to find the place where I belong, where I can feel comfortable to keep my heart and soul.
P.S. They don't even trust me to travel alone. -.-
