"Children grow up watching their parents’ backs."
— Lung Ying-tai, Seeing Off
Mia’s childhood resembles a sapling nurtured by sunlight and rain. Her family provided fertile soil, offering endless warmth and strength. From birth, her parents wove a cocoon of love, allowing her to absorb security and beauty.
Mia’s mother, a university professor in fashion design, never imposed artistic pursuits on her. “She never forced me into anything but supported me in discovering my true passions,” Mia recalls. “She bought me art supplies and let me explore freely. As a child, I drew characters from My Little Pony after watching the show. When my mother noticed my initiative, she praised me endlessly, fueling my love for art.”
Her curiosity stemmed from her father’s influence.
“Once, I asked why horses need horseshoes. Instead of a simple answer, he showed me pictures and even took me to observe real horses,” Mia shares. This patient guidance nurtured her confidence and courage to explore.
Mia’s parents answered every “why” with action—whether stargazing at planetariums or studying ants in parks. When she asked why leaves turn yellow, her mother picked up an autumn leaf and explained, “Trees rest in winter, storing nutrients for spring.” Mia whispered, “Leaves have homes too.” Such moments taught her to observe the world and let imagination flow.
They also prioritized spiritual growth over mere skill-building.
During a beach trip, Mia crafted a mosaic from shells and stones. When her mother asked why, Mia replied, “These are gifts from the sea. I’m painting its story.” Her parents smiled: “Her heart holds poetry.”
In this nurturing environment, Mia learned gratitude and the art of finding joy in details. Her parents taught her that life’s beauty lies not in perfection but in embracing each unique experience. It was here that her dreams took root.