What I Learn from My Daughter

My daughter, H, has a remarkable talent and passion for drawing. She began drawing even before she could talk. One day, she showed her rough drawing to my brother Ibrahim and his wife Nurfika, and said, “Elpen.” At that time, H was about three years old, and we were staying at my parents’ place after my divorce.

“Elephant?” Nurfika asked, trying to understand.

“El-pen!” H repeated, slightly frustrated that nobody seemed to grasp what she had just drawn.

“El-pen,” she insisted.

Misunderstanding to Mastery

Despite her efforts, nobody understood her. After a while, she said, “Kapa tobang,” which made everyone laugh because it is our state’s dialect for an airplane. My brother later told me they were almost convinced it was an elephant she was drawing, mistaking the airplane’s wings for big, flapping ears.

From that moment, H became determined to improve her drawings and ensure everyone could understand them.

Drawing as a Daily Ritual

Drawing is the first thing H does when we arrive home every day. She draws as if it were her job, not just at home, but everywhere and at any time. We always bring pens and paper for her, whether we are at a restaurant, in the car, or attending events and wedding ceremonies. It’s also the first thing she asks for when she’s feeling moody.

“H, tell me, what do you want? Do you want milk? Biscuits? YouTube on my phone?” I would ask.

“Annah nak yutis,” she would respond (Hannah wants to draw).

And with that, she would be fine.

Passion and Consistency

H is a shining example of passion and consistency. Her dedication to drawing, regardless of where she is or how she feels, is truly inspiring. As her parent, I realise that I have much to learn from her. Her commitment to her art teaches me the importance of pursuing one’s passions with determination and perseverance.

In observing H, I am reminded of the value of finding joy in our pursuits and the importance of consistency in achieving our goals.