January 10th, 2009

Dear Cau Nam,

I really wish I could be there for you along with my mom and anh Son, who are coming on Monday. I wanted to write you a letter to let you know about my memories of you.

When I think of you, I think of the trip to St. Louis. I don’t remember the year off hand, but it was when Anh Tan had just left to Seminary School, because chi Da Ua had held on to Anh Tan’s cap because she missed him. I remember playing with my cousins, whom I had just met, and how sweet and kind they were to anh Son and me. I only wish our families lived closer to each other.

When I think of you, I think of your visit to Cincinnati about 15 years ago. I looked forward to coming home because I knew that although the house would be cold in the Midwest winter, talking to you provided the wit and warmth to take away any discomfort from the cold.

When I think of you, I remember coming to Houston for a meeting from Japan, and how you arranged a family dinner at a Chinese restaurant so I could spend time with everyone. I remember visiting with you at your apartment in Belair, and thinking how special it was to hang out with my uncle.

When I think of you, I remember how much love a brother has for his younger sisters especially on a visit to Houston with my mom and sisters in December 2004. We arrived very late to a dinner that you had taken the time to arrange, and after letting off some steam through a big brotherly lecture, the evening ended at Chi Huyen’s house, by catching up with teasing, fun and laughter.

You are a great uncle. You did everything that an uncle should do. You will always be in my heart. You taught me about kinship and life. Life is a journey and may not always go the way you planned… you must continue to march forward …even if it’s just to the next fishing hole J

I love you Cau Nam,
Your spirit will always be with me,
May God Bless You
Your niece,
Tram