I live on Canada's west coast, and my older son lives on its east coast. We have paid frequent visits to each other. 1 , because of covid-19 travel restrictions(限制，管束) and the long distance between us, my wife and I haven't2 our son in person for more than two years.
Then, one day, there was a3at the door, and when I opened it, in walked my son, carrying a pot of flowers. He hadn't told us he was coming, and seeing him was a shock and wonderful 4. It has been years since I last5 about anything, but when he walked in, I was in tears.
I think that as parents, we always think of our children as being young and being in need of our6, even when they have reached adulthood. Somehow, though, the 7 appearance of my son and his month- long visit that followed let me see him in a whole new light.
My wife needs much support these days, and our son8to help. There were some repairs needed around the house and he saw them and helped me to make them9. He helped to prepare food, to help his 10get comfortable when she had to move around, and in general, he took from me a load( 负 担 ) I hadn't fully realized I was11. I found in some cases that I was working under his12. Somehow I still want to guide his way through life. I'm not used to having the benefit of his broad13 and knowledge to help me to deal with the situation I face.
My son left recently for his home. And again, I was in tears, but it was14. When he left, I shed tears of pride and joy that such a strong,15and wonderful person is my son, and he honored me by calling me "dad".
