A Letter from Dad to His Beloved Daughter

I love you….
I love you….
I love you….
For the first time, I am writing a letter to my beloved daughter, Jin. No matter how many times I say it, what I want to tell you is simply this: Even if we talked all night, I would still say, "I love you." The thought of writing you a letter for the first time makes my heart race with emotion. As I always say, I am proud that my daughter, Evolution, is my daughter, and I am honored to be your father. Why?
Honestly, if I speak objectively, you are an ordinary girl with nothing to boast about. But why does my heart warm, my mind find peace, and my spirit soar when I think of you? And why does my entire being feel stronger when I think of you? Is it my imagination, or is it the magic of a father's love?
When your mom and I divorced and disagreed, I always felt sorrow for the shock it might have given you as a child. But I am eternally grateful that my strong daughter grew into a healthy, resilient adult. Jin, I am deeply sorry that, because I remarried and moved far away, I could not be there to take care of you properly.
But you must know, my dear, that there is so much to be proud of. Do you remember how brilliantly you played when you were young? One day, when we lived in Yeonhui-dong, you got lost and the whole family searched for you. There were days when you were so engrossed in your interests that you forgot to eat. Even now, when I think about how confidently you expressed yourself, sharing your thoughts in Korean at a kindergarten where the language was different, and then speaking English fluently three months after moving to the U.S., I am filled with admiration for you.
Jin, you know this too: live fully.
First, don’t worry about what others say.
Second, make decisions for yourself in the moment.
Third, believe in yourself.
Fourth, remember that you are the protagonist in your own story.
This is why I am proud of you, Jin. You always think for yourself, judge for yourself, and make decisions for yourself. In other words, you are the author of your life, and you act with intention. I am proud of you for living as the main character in your life. Just as you found your path as a child, you should continue to live with that same determination now.
My dear daughter, Jin!!
Just as I am proud of you, I hope you will be proud of yourself. As the main character of your life and as a unique being in this world, live with pride and confidence. No matter what anyone says, this world is yours, and you are the hero of your life’s journey.
If I, your father, have ever hurt your pride or feelings, I hope you can forgive me. I believe you will understand because you have a strong and compassionate heart, and this brings me comfort and gratitude.
Finally, be kind to your mother, Jin.
I will always love you and be proud of you.
With all my heart,
From Dad.