God’s Will
Age brings not only physical changes but a deeper understanding of life. In life, many paths are shaped by circumstances beyond our control, such as the family we’re born into or the era we live in. Major decisions are often made before we truly understand ourselves or what we want. Life moves forward, and before we know it, we pass beyond moments that can never be revisited.
I’ve worked hard to reach the milestones of success in my life—education, marriage, and parenthood—but the most profound moments have come from the journey itself, the one God has set before me. Growing up, I had little exposure to anything beyond academic knowledge. Books subtly shaped my thoughts and character, becoming stepping stones in my life.
As I reflect on the past, I occasionally wonder:

If I could live my life over again, what choices would I make?

Childhood
My mother passed away when I was young, leaving me with little understanding of life. Her passing was not by choice—no mother willingly abandons her children. After her death, my father raised six daughters on his own, dedicating his life entirely to us and never remarrying.
From a young age, I had one goal: to go to college and study abroad. Although I didn’t agree with—and at times was even frustrated by—the cramming educational system, I truly believed that education was the only path to a better future.

Marriage
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9
I eventually left my hometown after college and came to America to pursue higher education. As a lonely international student searching for a future partner, I based my criteria for a husband on academic success and promising potential. Marriage counseling was rare back then, and divorce was a taboo topic—something no one dared to consider. In those days, if a husband and wife stayed together and lived happily, it was seen as God’s mercy and grace. Over time, we put effort into understanding, respecting, and supporting each other.

Parenthood
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” — Psalm 127:3
In my generation, giving birth was considered a natural part of life, not a choice. As our marriage deepened, so did our roles as parents, bringing with it both the joys and challenges of raising children. Our children were the first generation of typical immigrants, and we faced difficulties in communication and differing approaches. Our days were filled with joy, agony, exhaustion, and helplessness. Year after year, our children grew, and we aged without even realizing it.

A New Perspective – Live with Faith and Purpose

I’ve come to realize that limited choices can sometimes be a blessing. While having many options offers greater freedom and the potential for a better fit, it can also lead to confusion, dissatisfaction, and anxiety. Generally speaking, I cannot choose the family I was born into or the era in which I live. As for marriage, I don’t think it would make much difference.

My husband and I are like Mars and Venus—we’re definitely from different planets. But divorce was never an option for me. Even when we faced many challenges, we worked together to resolve our issues and strive for better outcomes. Raising children was also challenging, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Looking back, I now see that God’s will was always the best path, even if I didn’t fully understand it at the time. I truly have no regrets, as every path I’ve walked has brought me closer to understanding God’s grace.