Appreciation

I come from a very subtle family. I don't receive much appreciation for my accomplishments, nor do I face significant punishment for my failures.

Mainly, my dad never made a big deal out of my successes or failures. When I achieved good grades in exams, he would simply say "good," without any grand celebration or acknowledgment. Likewise, if I failed, he would calmly reassure me, saying, "It's fine, you'll have another chance next time."

On the other hand, my mom's reaction was different. If I did well, she would congratulate me, but if I failed, she wouldn't hesitate to discipline me.

I was an average student until my first year of graduation. However, when I failed in my second year, it hit me hard. From that moment on, I vowed to never fail again.

Now, having completed my post-graduation with the highest grades in my class, I shared the news with my dad. His response was the usual "good."

However, a few days later, while I was at my dad's office, something unexpected happened. A lady approached me and congratulated me. Confused, I thanked her, assuming she knew about my rank in the TS EDCET exam.

But then she mentioned that my father had informed her that I had achieved the highest marks in my college. I was stunned. It was rare to see my dad express such pride in my accomplishments, especially to others.

It was the greatest appreciation he had ever shown me.