I've loved my mother's desk since I was just tall enough to see above the top of it as Mother sat writing letters. Standing by her chair, looking at the ink bottle, pens and white paper, I decided that the act of writing must be the most wonderful thing in the world.
Years later, during her final illness, Mother kept different things for my sister and brother. "But the desk," she said again, "is for Elizabeth."
I never saw her angry, never saw her cry. I knew she loved me and she showed it in action. But as a young girl, I wanted to have heart-to-heart talks between mother and daughter.
They never happened and a gulf opened between us. I was "emotional (易动感情的)", but she lived "on the surface (表面)".
As years passed, I had my own family. I loved my mother and thanked her for our happy family. I wrote to her in careful words and asked her to let me know in any way that she did forgive me.
I posted the letter and waited for her answer. None came. My hope turned to disappointment then little interest and, finally, peace — it seemed that nothing happened. I couldn't be sure that the letter had been sent to her. But the present of her desk told me, as she'd never been able to, that she was pleased that writing was my chosen work. I cleaned the desk carefully and found some papers inside a photo of my father and a one-page letter, folded and refolded many times. It was my letter.
Give me an answer, my letter asks.in any way you choose. Mother, you always choose the act that speaks louder than words.
—"Rome was not built in a day." You should try to give it enough chances to become strong.
① have a list of phone numbers to call for help, such as 110, 119 and 120
② play computer games while boiling some water
③ keep the door locked
④ pay attention to the gas, water and electricity
⑤ let anybody in immediately when you hear the doorbell
Hi! Liu Ming
I'm so sad. Angela is a close friend of mine. This morning she wanted to borrow some money from me. If I lend her the money, I'm afraid she won't pay me back. I don't know what to do. Do you have the same problem? I need your help.
I'm looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Yours,
Alice
Hi! Alice,
I am glad to hear from you.
I hope what I said …!
Yours,
Liu Ming
Dear Mary,
I'm sorry to hear that you have a big problem. I have some suggestions for you. I think you should study hard first and (给你父母一个惊喜). And then you should talk about your problems with your parents and (告诉他们你的想法). At last, you should tell your parents that there is something important except learning. (如果你那样做), I think your parents may understand you.
Yours,
Anna
