Three Inches of Heaven

Well, my dear, let me take you on a journey back to the good ol' days of faces, when I was just a springtly young peanut like you, Squirt. Imagine a time when phones were attached to walls and the internet was something out of science fiction. I remember those sunny afternoons, when my friends and I would gather in the park. We didn't have smartphones to keep us glued to screens, so we'd spend hours playing tag, racing each other, and sharing stories that felt like treasures. There was something magical about the laughter that echoed among the trees, as if the entire world was celebrating with us. One sunny afternoon, as the golden rays streamed through the windows, As plopped down in the couch next to her Grandma Kiss. And the sunsets painted the sky with warm hues as they sat by the fireplace, the crackling flames casting a dancing glow. And her house was always filled with delicious aroma of freshly baked cookies, and her laughter could be heard echoing through the rooms. With a glint of mischief in her eyes, she asked, "Grandma Kiss, can you tell me another story? Just for me?"

Grandma chuckled softly and reached for a worn photo album on the coffee table. She opened it to a picture of a much younger version of herself, standing with her arms around a group of friends. "As, have I ever told you about a time I learned that people wear different faces?"

"No Grandma Kiss, tell me that story then please," As pleaded again, eyes wide with anticipation.

Grandma Kiss smiled and patted the couch next to her, inviting Squirt to sit. "Alright, dear. Let me tell you about the magical world of faces."

As's eyes lit up with excitement. "Faces? Like masks?"

Grandma Kiss chuckled, her smile reminiscent. "Not quite, my love. You see, just like the flavors of ice cream you love, people have different sides to them. Imagine, if you will, that we have three flavors of ice cream – just like the different sides of ourselves. There's the 'family and friends' face, the 'world' face that we show to everyone, and the super-secret 'for-your-eyes-only' face that's just for ourselves. But wait, there's another hidden flavor, like a mystery taste - the face even we don't see."

"Like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry?" As asked.

"Exactly!" Grandma Kiss nodded.

"We've got the 'family and friends' face, where we show our love and care. Then there's the 'world' face, when we step outside and meet others. And the super-secret 'for-your-eyes-only' face, where we keep our private thoughts."

As's leaned in closer, intrigued. "But wait, Grandma Kiss. You said there's another hidden flavor?"

"Ah, you catch on quickly," Grandma Kiss said with a twinkle in her eye. "The hidden flavor is like a mystery taste, a face even we don't see – it's as stealthy as a ninja! It's like a ninja face, so mysterious that we don't even know it exists. Sometimes, As, we get so caught up in showing the world certain faces that we forget to look within."

"Wow, that's cool," As said, captivated.

Imagine having the "family and friends" face, like when your grandpa and I used to share secrets under the apple tree, or the "world" face, when I would put on my Sunday best and explore the bustling streets of our town. And oh, the super-secret "for-your-eyes-only" face, reserved for those moments when I'd steal away to the meadow to watch the butterflies dance.

But oh, my sweet, there's a hidden face in the mix, a flavor so enigmatic that not even I, with all my years of wisdom, could fully grasp. It's like that extra scoop of ice cream you'd sneak when nobody was looking, a mystery waiting to be unraveled.

As pondered this for a moments before asking, "But Grandma, what happens when people say 'blood is thicker than water'? Does that make us family superheroes?"

Grandma Kiss chuckled warmly. "Ah, that saying! Many believe it means family bonds are stronger than anything. But you know, my dear, it's not about being superheroes. It's about the unique dance of relationships. Sometimes it's like a wacky sitcom, and sometimes it's like a hidden flavor you can't taste yet. What truly matters is that we treasure the relationships we have."

Now, sweetie, people can be quite puzzling. They'll gobble up your kindness like it's the sweetest treat, yet some will whisper that "blood is thicker than water." Does that mean family is like a team of superheroes? Well, sometimes it's more like a circus act, full of surprises and acrobatics!

"Like flavors in an ice cream shop!" exclaimed As.

You see, every person has their own journey, just like you're embarking on yours. Some say growing older means growing wiser, while others swear it's just an excuse for more gray hair like myself. Should we try to rekindle friendships like old fires? Well, that's a decision only time and heart can truly make.

And honey, let's talk about confidence. It's like wearing an invisible suit of armor that shields your heart from doubts and fears. Life can be a wild adventure, with moments that make you question whether you're a hero or a villain. But remember, every story has its twists and turns, and it's okay not to have all the answers.

Now, I want you to hold onto this thought: "Just because you lost me as a friend doesn't mean you gained me as an enemy. I'm bigger than that. I still wanna see you eat, just not at my table." What a legend! Isn't that a lovely way to say, "We may walk different paths. And to never cross in 2 parallel line."

Life is a buffet of experiences, my dear, and mental health is a journey that's uniquely yours. The Asian community faces its own set of challenges, like spices in a recipe, but remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

And oh, my little one, there's a tale of a hidden face. It's like we're standing at a crossroads, unsure whether to keep going or to turn back. Oh, and let's not forget about the ice cream truck! It would roll into the neighborhood, and we'd rush over, clutching our precious coins, trying to decide between a classic vanilla cone swirl of colors that could rival a rainbow. But you know what truly made those days special? The faces of our loved ones. Back then, we didn't have these fancy three flavors of ice cream: the "family and friends" face, the "world" face, and the super-secret "for-your-eyes-only" face. No, we had real, heartfelt connections, where each flavor of ice creams have its own story to tell. We laughed together, cried together, and stood by each other through thick and thin. Imagine having the "family and friend" face, like when your grandpa and I used to share secrets under the apple tree, or the "world" face, when I would put on my Sunday best and explore the bustling streets of our town. And oh, the super-secret "for-your-eyes-only" faces, reserve for those moments when I'd steal away to the meadow to watch the butterflies dance. But oh, my sweet, there's another hidden face in the mix, a flavor that's like a mystery taste so engmatic that I, with all my years of wisdom, could fully grasp! The hidden face from the trio is the face that even you can't taste. It's like a ninja face, stealthy and mysterious. It's like that extra scoop of ice cream you'd sneak when nobody was looking, a mystery waiting to be unraveled.

There's something to be said about the bonds we formed. They weren't shaped by pixels or emojis; they were carved out of shared experiences, whispered secrets, and countless shared adventures. We knew each other's quirks, dreams, and deepest fear - there was no need for secret "for-your-eyes-only" faces. We were real with each other, through and through.

Grandma Kiss continued, "But here's the twist, my dear. Sometimes, life feels like a buffet, and people choose from our 'faces' like they're picking dishes. We offer kindness and care, just like an endless feast."

As nodded, absorbing all her grandma's wisdom. "So, Grandma, should we try to bring back old friendships, or just let them rest then?"

It's pretty funny how people treat those different "flavor of masks" like they're picking dishes at a buffet. Now, love, people can be quite puzzling. You're dishing out tons of kindness and care, like an unlimited feast. But you know what, my sweet? They'll gobble up your kindness like it's the sweetest treat, yet some will whisper that "blood is thicker than water." Because many folks claim "blood is thicker than water truly" - we're all family, brothers, and sisters, right? But do you really believe that?

"Remember, 'blood is thicker than water,' they say, making us family superheroes. But, sweetie, that's not always true. Sometimes it feels more like a wacky sitcom twist!" It's like grabbing a triple scoop of ice cream, but one flavor's totally invisible! Well, it meant more than just words. It was a promise we kept, a commitment to stand by our family's side no matter what. We might have had our disagreements, but the strength of our bond was unbreakable. Does that mean family is like a team of superheroes? Well, sometimes it's more like a circus act, full of surprises and acrobatics!

"Like flavors in an ice cream shop!" As exclaimed.

You see, every individuals have their own journey, just like you're embarking on yours. As I look back, I realize that life was a bit like a grand feast. We had our flavors of happiness, challenges, and even a few surprises. And even though time has marched on, and we're in the age of gadgets and gizmos, I can't help but feel grateful for those simple moments that shaped me into who I am today. So, my dear, as you navigate through your own adventures, remember the magic of real connections. Embrace the laughter, treasure the stories, and don't be afraid to put down your phone and dive into the world around you. Because trust me, the stories you create today will be the ones you share with your grandkids someday.

And that hidden face from the three? You're absolutely right, that hidden face is like a secret flavor you don't even get to taste yourself. As for what no one sees, it's like an enigma waiting to be unraveled.

You cannot judge people by your pace of flavors to their. Some said to grow and evolve but you're not yourself or compassion comes with age. The others say growing older means growing wiser, while others swear it's just an excuse for more grey hair like myself. But sometime we might outgrow some people or we don't, but should we leave the dead remain dead other debated. Should we try to rekindle friendships like old fires? Well, that's a decision only time and heart can truly make. So yes growing up doesn't guarantee wisdom or automatically make you wiser—sometimes it just delivers more gray hair and confusing emojis. 🧓 And hey, do we really need to resurrect those zombie friendships? Maybe some should rest in peace. Or not? And about resurrecting those zombie friendships? Well, maybe some should just peacefully rest. But then again, who knows? It's quite the conundrum!

Grandma Kiss smiled and ruffled As's hair. "Sometimes, dear, friendships need their own kind of mystery. It's like trying to resurrect a memory that's had its time. But hey, who knows? Life's like a jigsaw puzzle pieces, and we're all trying to figure it out how to put it all together by finding that piece."

So by the time you're in your 30s or 40s, we are told that we should follow our happiness, but what if our happiness hurt another? It's great place to be when you put yourself first. Now, at the age of happiness, they say "follow your happiness." But what if your joy involves interpretive dance at 3 AM? 🕺💃 Happiness with a side of consideration is the menu special.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the room, Grandma Kiss continued her story over the room, "Remember, As, happiness is like a dance, but sometimes we need to consider others too. True confidence is like wearing a heart-shaped armor, and negativity? Well, just hit CTRL+ALT+DEL on that!"

And honey, let's talk about confidence. It's like wearing an invisible suit of amor that shields your heart from doubts and fears. To be or not to be, so be at peace that you'll be a villian, or a hero in someones' else story. Life can be a wild adventure l, with moments that make you question whether you're a hero or a villain. Sometimes misery love drunken company truly, so CLTR + ALT + DEL. Confidence, my friend, is like wearing a heart-shaped armor. 🛡️ Whether you're a hero or a villain, you've gotta find your zen. And remember, when negativity knocks again and again, just hit CTRL+ALT+DEL on that nonsense! But remember, every story has its twists and turns, and it's okay not to have all the answers so control yourself, alter your thinking, and delete negativity.

Now, I want you to hold onto this thought that Tupac once said, "Just because you lost me as a friend doesn't mean you gained me as an enemy. I'm bigger than that. I still wanna see you eat, just not at my table." What a legend right? Lol Agree? So don't think that it's a lovely way to say, "You're not at my table, but enjoy your meal! And we may walk different paths."

"Exactly!" Grandma Kiss beamed. "And just like life, relationships are unique dance moves. Sometimes they're long, like a giraffe's neck, and sometimes they vanish like a magician's trick."

As giggled at the thought of hitting keys to get rid of negativity. "And what about judging others, Grandma?"

As the fire crackled, Grandma Kiss's eyes softened and leaned in and whispered, "You see, As, it's important not to judge others, and to focus on making people feel heard and appreciated. We're all unique dancers in the grand ballroom of life. Focus on being the best dancer you can be, and sprinkle understanding and appreciation around like confetti!"

That's a superstar move right there, like offering a high-five to a rival. So who are we to judge how people live their life? Focus on yourself. Make people feel heard, seen, and appreciated. Time for a reality check—don't judge, just adult like a pro. Let's sprinkle understanding and appreciation like confetti!

As 's eyes widened with realization. "I get it, Grandma. Each person has their own flavor, and we should respect that."

Grandma Kiss gave As a warm hug. "That's right, sweetie. And as we journey through life, let's remember to choose our flavors how we wanted to be treated, embrace the ones that bring joy, and let those that no longer bring us joy be."

Life is a buffet of experiences, my dear, and mental health is a journey that's uniquely yours. The Asian community faces its own set of unique challenges, like a spices in a recipe, but remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. And the mental health occur due to generational trauma, cultural pride, the pressure of maintaining appearances, etiquette, dealing with grief, and being overly critical but it shouldn't be look as an "illness." Finding the right approach for yourself is crucial – seeking help from counselors, visiting websites like asianmhc.org, mysahana.org, or asianinny.com, or even exploring resources like "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" by Mark Manson can be helpful. Remember, it's important that you do not force-feed beliefs or try to shape or mold them into something they're not. Mental health is like a personal buffet, where each individual chooses what nourishes them.

And oh, my little peanuts, there is a tale of hidden faces. The hidden face that I heard the most is:

We've stopped at this place, afraid to go any farther. 
Not allowing sorrow to make an appearances. 
On the next page, the goodbye you hand-wrote. I cannot refuse. 
We've walked this path too hastily. 
To embrace is not what I'm am truly longing for. 
It's too late.
I could not wait anymore to look back and appreciate. 
The scent of magnolia cannot protect against wounds.
Don't look anymore,
At the sunlight peeking through the clouds 
Don't search anymore 
For the heaven we had decided upon 
Don't sigh anymore 
You said it yourself that humans are transient
Unable to get three inches of daylight 
Don't look anymore  
We've stopped at this place, afraid to go any farther. 
Not allowing sorrow to make an appearances. 
On the next page, the goodbye you hand-wrote.
I cannot refuse.
We've walked this path too hastily. 
To embrace is not what I'm am truly longing for.
It's too late.
I could not wait anymore to look back and appreciate.
The scent of magnolia cannot protect against wounds.
Don't look anymore,
At the sunlight peeking through the clouds 
Don't search anymore 
For the heaven we had decided upon 
Don’t sigh anymore, 
You said it yourself that humans are transient
Unable to get three inches of daylight
That place where I love you beary much.

It means that it's lIke we're standing at a crossroads, unsure whether to keep fudging or to turn back. The pages are filled with handwritten goodbyes, like echoes of the path. Some paths we walk too quickly, other we hesitate to embrace, but in the end, it's all a part of our story. So when we're at a pit stop, but refusing sorrow entry. On the next page, it's a handwritten goodbye party that nobody RSVP'd to. Embrace the past? Nah, let's embrace teddy bear instead. So to have a grounded relationship, treasure it. Because every relationship (family, friends, or partner etc) is different. The days might be long but are short as well. So you know what? Cherish each relationship, dear, for they're like a unique dance move. Even if the days are longer than a giraffe's neck, they're as fleeting as a magic trick. Because some days might stretch longer than a summer afternoon, while others slip through your fingers like sand. But every step is a part of your unique journey, and I'll be right here, cheering you on, with stories to share and love to give.

As the evening grew darker, As snuggled closer to her Grandma, feeling the warmth of her love and the richness of her stories. And so, in that cozy house filled with love, laughter, and wisdom, a grandmother and her granddaughter shared a timeless tale that would forever shape Grandma Kiss' granddaughter As's perspective on life's many flavors and faces.

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