* A reflection for the "My favorite book" column

In modern life, with technology and artificial intelligence advancing, people are constantly busy chasing time, work, and study. We strive to acquire skills to keep pace with social life. However, amidst this rapid pace, we sometimes forget to create quiet moments for self-reflection. In such times, books become special companions, helping individuals find peace.

For me, "One Liter of Tears" by Kito Aya, translated by Trong Duc, is a book that repeatedly left me speechless.

Previously, I was not an avid reader; the number of pages I read in a year could be counted on one hand. On a day I felt depressed and aimless, my highly respected teacher gave me "One Liter of Tears". Initially, I read it simply to pass the time. However, the more I read, the more I found the book to be a companion, sharing its thoughts with me and pulling me out of emotional emptiness.

"One Liter of Tears" recounts the extraordinary journey of Kito Aya. At 15, a pivotal and vibrant age for a student, Aya was unexpectedly diagnosed with cerebellar degeneration, a cruel disease that gradually caused her to lose motor function. Instead of surrendering to fate, Aya chose to confront her illness. She kept a diary, each page filled with sincere confessions of anxiety and fear, yet also brimming with the hope of a young girl striving to live each day with immense courage.

At 18, Aya experienced a major turning point in her life. Her health deteriorated, preventing her from continuing her studies at a public school. She had to transfer to a school for students with disabilities. Once a beautiful, intelligent, and active girl, Aya had to adapt to using a wheelchair for safety and easier movement.

Confronting the severe illness, Aya did not give up. "Before, whenever I wanted, I could walk very fast. But now, even if I want to, I cannot be fast." This simple statement alone allows readers to feel her helplessness and, simultaneously, her acceptance of fate.

What makes Aya's story special is not just her illness, but her choice of how to live. Despite facing a severe disease, Aya maintained a positive outlook, loved life, and always expressed gratitude. She did not give up, continued to care for her family and friends, and still tried to do small tasks herself, such as cleaning her room, bathing, or practicing slow steps. For Aya, every passing day was precious, an opportunity to live, be loved, and hope.

Cover of the novel 'One Liter of Tears'. *Photo: Nha Nam*

"One Liter of Tears" contains many profound lessons on resilience and faith. Through Aya's diary entries, readers realize that happiness is not always about grand achievements but simply appreciating the present. Life always presents difficulties and challenges, but if one chooses to face them with optimism and courage, everything becomes lighter.

Before learning about Aya, I often easily fell into negative states, constantly complaining about minor misfortunes and daily setbacks, always believing myself to be unhappy. Even a small incident, like tripping on the road and scraping my knees, would immediately make me feel unlucky. Or simply arguing with friends could lead me to overthink and deem my relationships terrible. However, upon reading Aya's story, I suddenly realized that the difficulties I once complained about were very small compared to what Aya endured.

For me, Kito Aya is like a friend and a teacher, sharing sincere thoughts, lessons, sorrows, hopes, and the simple, innocent dreams of youth. I realized that life's difficulties and challenges diminish significantly when one chooses to live with continuous effort. Ultimately, Kito Aya's message is that no matter how terrible life may seem, live strongly, love, and cherish every moment, because each day lived is truly precious.

Phan Minh Kiet

Grade 12 - Hy Vong School