Ever since my early childhood I have felt as if I was flying a kite against the wind. I was brought up by grandmother so my childhood was different to that of most people.

Although my granny is illiterate, she managed to send me to a top primary school in the city. Like most Chinese parents, she made sure I had a deep respect for traditional values. I was seldom allowed to stay out for long after school and was not permitted to simply do what I wanted.

However, my life changed when I had to become more independent. I am thankful that over the years my grandmother has helped me overcome many “hurdles.” More often than not, however, I have tried to get out of my comfort zone and fend for myself.

Although I am successful by societal standards, I feel there is something missing. In becoming independent there is much that I have lost, and it has made me question whether I am adequately repaying the sacrifices my grandmother made for me.

Now that I am older I have become more mature. Life’s too short to be wasted. I have learned that ultimately, one should never regret pursuing one’s own dreams.