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My dearest daughter,
I hope this finds you in good health and good spirits.
The Floating Lantern Festival is right around the corner. I remember how you used to love to sit in my lap and watch the paper lanterns float on the water while I combed my fingers through your hair. We would sit like that for hours, you and me and Zuko, until you got drowsy and fall asleep in my arms.
I still remember these moments so clearly. The colors of the sunset melting into night. The reflection of the lights on the water. Your tiny fist clutching a lock of my hair. They are a comfort to me when I think about all the time we have been apart. I hope that if you return when you return, we can be together for the next Floating Lantern Festival and watch the lights on the water the way we used to.
Do you have a memory that is a comfort to you? I hope that you do. Zuko tells me that things have been difficult for you lately. I wish I could be there so that we could talk, and you could tell me everything that is in your heart. Perhaps it is wishful thinking on my part to hope that Mommy can still make everything better.
Perhaps it is wishful thinking to hope that you would even let me try. You were always so strong and clever, even when you were little. You often surprised me by how smart and capable you were. Nothing could ever stop you once you put your mind to it, and I do not think that has changed since I have been gone. Yet, I still worry. Are you safe? Are you warm? Are you happy?
Please be alright, wherever you have gone.
Love,
Mom