Dear H & A,

Today, the news featured a story about Derek Ong, a 35-year-old entrepreneur who owned numerous restaurants. He was well-regarded in our local community. A young man, full of potential and accomplishments, he passed away, reminding us all of the unpredictability of life. While I didn’t know him personally, his photographs portrayed a warm and affable individual.

What’s heartbreaking is that such stories aren’t isolated events. Recently, a 22-day-old baby lost their life in a bomb raid in Ukraine. Each day, countless individuals face the finality of existence, reminding us of the transient nature of life.

In this ever-changing tapestry of existence, if there’s one message I want to embed deep within your hearts, it’s this: Every morning that you wake up, every opportunity you get to see and greet the ones you love, is a gift. We all have days that test our patience, resilience, and spirit. But the essence of life isn’t in avoiding these challenges; it’s in cherishing the simple moments that make everything worthwhile.

It doesn’t matter how much money you amass or the fame you achieve. At the end of the day, what truly counts is the love you give, the memories you create, and the lives you touch. In the words of the late artist Avicii, “One day you’ll leave this world behind. So live a life you will remember.”

Always remember to live fully, love deeply, and to treasure every moment.

With all my love,

Dad