I received the sad news that an older gentleman in my hometown, who had been so kind to me since I was a little child, has passed away.

He wasn’t one for many words, but he loved fishing as a hobby, and whenever he caught a lot, he would share some with our family.

Whether I was riding my bicycle with training wheels or walking to school with a school backpack that felt much too big for me, he always waved me off with a gentle, steady smile. His wife, too, was an exceptionally kind and gentle person (she passed away several decades ago).

I heard that recently, it had even become difficult for him to breathe.

Hearing that, as I looked up at the sky, I couldn’t help but think: “Right now, he must be reunited with his wife, talking endlessly and catching up.”

Adults who quietly watch over us and support our growth during childhood—they are like a gentle “scaffolding” for our hearts.

Thank you so much for supporting our family so peacefully and for always sharing your warm smiles. I hope you and your wife are resting happily together now.