Overwhelmed!

The days at home are slipping by, filled with quiet moments and heartfelt conversations. Lin Tianhui, having taken on the role of a patient listener, absorbs the stories and experiences shared by his grandparents. They recount their lives with a mix of nostalgia and pride, while Lin Tianhui finds solace in their presence and the simplicity of their existence.

During this time, Lin Tianhui has also arranged for a comprehensive physical examination for the elderly couple. Despite their advanced age of early seventies, the results are reassuring—their health is remarkably good. This news brings Lin Tianhui immense relief.

As the days progress, Lin Tianhui grapples with a weighty decision. He knows that his grandparents are unlikely to leave their beloved home, a place they've cherished all their lives. They have little interest in the outside world and find contentment in their rural surroundings. Lin Tianhui, deeply appreciative of their dedication and resilience, has no desire to uproot them from their familiar environment. The idea of making them adapt to a new setting would be cruel, especially at their age.

His heart is heavy with the knowledge that his grandparents will never leave their one-third of an acre of land. The thought of their old age, with all its accompanying challenges, weighs on him. Yet, he finds comfort in knowing that they are in good health and that he has time to be with them.

The time comes for Lin Tianhui to discuss his future plans. He gathers the courage to reveal his decision to his grandparents. The conversation takes place over a simple family meal.

"Grandpa, Grandma," Lin Tianhui begins, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "I've decided to give up further studies and pursue a career in basketball. I love the sport, and it brings me joy. I hope that, in the future, basketball will always be a part of my life."

His announcement is met with a heavy silence. His grandmother's face falls, and the weight of the moment is palpable.

His grandfather, normally a man of few words and gentle demeanor, is visibly shaken. "Xiaohui, do you understand what you're saying?" he demands, his voice tinged with frustration. "Your grandmother and I have worked hard all our lives, saving every penny, just to see you succeed. We watched with pride as you excelled academically and earned the chance to study abroad. You were always our pride and joy."

Lin Tianhui's grandfather, overwhelmed by a mix of confusion and disappointment, slams the table and leaves the room. The impact of his words hangs heavily in the air.

"Xiaohui," his grandmother says softly, her eyes filled with concern. "Don't be angry with your grandfather. He's just frustrated, and what he said comes from a place of deep concern. Knowledge has always been our beacon. Your grandfather and I have seen the hardships of life and know the value of education. We worry that abandoning your studies for basketball, something we don't fully understand or believe in, might not be the right choice."

Her words, though gentle, are tinged with disappointment. Lin Tianhui feels a pang of guilt. He understands their perspective—education has always been the path to a better future in their world. Basketball, though a passion for him, is viewed as an uncertain pursuit.

He grapples with conflicting emotions. On one hand, he is resolute in his love for basketball and the path he has chosen. On the other, he is deeply affected by his grandparents' concerns and their sacrifices. Their hopes for him have always been intertwined with their dreams of academic success, and now, his decision feels like a betrayal.

As he contemplates his next steps, Lin Tianhui finds himself at a crossroads. His heart is torn between pursuing his dreams and honoring his grandparents' expectations. The weight of their disappointment and the fear of failing to meet their aspirations are overwhelming.

In this moment of emotional turmoil, Lin Tianhui realizes that there is no easy answer. The love and respect he has for his grandparents conflict with his own desires and aspirations. He is left to navigate the difficult path between following his passion and preserving the happiness and expectations of those he loves most.

In the end, Lin Tianhui must come to terms with the fact that, while he cannot change his grandparents' deeply ingrained values, he must also stay true to himself. This internal struggle is as daunting as any challenge he has faced on the court, and he must find a way to reconcile these opposing forces in his life.