The Colorful Portrait

Sitting across from me, the little girl introduced herself with a clear and confident voice, her demeanor brimming with both innocence and quiet strength.

I had the privilege of interviewing this third-grader from Tangwan Elementary School, whose story revealed a delightful blend of joy, resilience, and a deep connection to her roots.

The little girl playing Piano with her friend

"If it rains in the morning, my parents drive me to school. If the weather is good, my mom takes me on her electric scooter," she shared. Her mother, who works long hours at a cold storage company, always prioritizes her daughter’s needs. "Mom loves me very much. Even when she works late, she helps me with my homework." While their family may not be wealthy, it is abundantly clear that their home is rich in love and warmth.

At school, her days are filled with laughter and the occasional moment of mischief. She recounted a particularly funny memory: “In first grade, I accidentally ran into the wrong classroom after the bell rang. I couldn’t find my name on the tags, and everyone was staring at me, so I dashed out—so embarrassing!” Her vivid retelling brought the moment to life. School life for her is colorful, with games like jump rope on the playground and playful competitions with friends, creating a sense of camaraderie and joy.

But not all moments are lighthearted. Her voice took on a note of indignation as she recalled, “Once, when I was selling ice cream, someone took my toy without paying me a cent.” Despite her frustration, her resilience emerged: “Next time, I’ll make sure to get it back!”

When we talked about her hometown, her expression softened. “Shanghai offers a good life, but I actually prefer my hometown,” she said earnestly. Born in Anhui, she spoke with longing for the simpler joys of life there—celebrating birthdays with her younger siblings or running together in the park. Her family’s deep bond, marked by warmth and laughter, is a cornerstone of her identity.

She also has a passion for art. “I love drawing because it lets me express my thoughts,” she shared. From traditional crafts like ink painting and clay modeling to sketches created at home, art provides her with a creative outlet that mirrors her vibrant world.

When I think of her, I’ll remember the sparkle in her eyes, the effervescent energy in her voice, and the stories she shared with an open heart. Her journey is just beginning, but it is already painted with resilience, love, and a bright curiosity for life.