8. Journal

  I almost shed a tear last night while correcting a squabble my two boys got into. I am constantly amazed at how well they take to my lectures, and how much they listen and understand. Most of the times I can't even be sure if they are lectures, because they are more like conversations, where there will be a sensible exchange of words and opinions.
  I am #$%&'ing beyond words blessed with very smart kids. None of them are dimwits who are void of commonsense. As a father who wants nothing less than the best for his kids, when I see progress and developing passion in any skill it makes me know that it's worth it all.
  On one hand, I melt and no longer want to say a single hard word when I see personal initiative in my kids to exceed in a particular skill, be it reading, shuji, or soccer. On the other hand, it makes me feel all the more that I need to be the strong father that encourages them and gives them the needed shove when they are weak.
  Parenthood is tough and a constant sacrifice, and I would push it on no one. It's often thankless, can feel unending, and comes with a constant flow of new problems. If you aren't earnest in knocking them off as they pop up you'll find yourself with a mountain of problems too big to handle. Apart from that there is the responsibility of it all that falls on your shoulders that can feel at times overwhelming.
  Having said that, if you can manage to be a consistent parent through it all, the rewards are incomparable, I mean unbelievable, and immensely satisfying.

Happy Valentines!

This little munchkin has been the cause of much joy and hardship combined, at times more hardship than the former--but we love him too much to complain. 

Happy Valentines to the one I love--have loved, still love, and will always love. Due to your hard work and strength of personality, we have done wonderfully well. Thank you for being strong in difficulty and for not throwing in the towel even when tempted. 3 kids is a handful to take care of as nationals of this restricting country, but we have done it this far, and I'm confident we'll do great from here too.