i occasionally do volunteer translations for a charity—letters from sponsored children to their sponsors in germany and vice versa. i have to quote from this letter from China (translated by a Chinese volunteer into English). it’s so sad but lovely.
“Dear Mrs S.
How are you. Thank you for your letter.
I am happy for receiving your photo. You have golden hair, brown eyes, red mouth and white skin. You are pretty.
I have many troubles recently. My friend had a quarrel with me. I don’t know what I did wrongly. I don’t know how to deal with it. The teachers give me much pressure in study. I seldom speak every day. The final exam is coming, and I am worried about it. I have to get a good score to prove I have ability to my parents.
It is a lucky that I have many good friends.
I like star and moon. I talk with moon and star when I have unhappy things. I share my happiness with them too. Maybe you will ask what I should do when there is no moon or star at day. I will talk with sky and ask sky to transmit my words. Their light is answer to me.
Please see the sky or star when you receive my letter, and they are my gifts to you.
Please take good care of yourself even if you are busy with work.”
ooooooh, bless!
