Shengliver’s Note: This member of the fresh generation feels strongly about the way her gran showers love upon her.

Born after the year 2,000, I have a lot of ideas that are at odds with my grandparents’.

Last week, to observe the Lantern Festival, the city organised a lot of activities. Although fireworks were banned, the town was still painted “red”.

As soon as I got home from school, Gran greeted me enthusiastically at the door. She invited me to go with her and see the festivities to be held at the Central Square. Tired of crowds and noise, I refused her. Immediately Gran accused me of caring little about Chinese traditions. I rebutted her accusation by saying, “Of course I love Chinese traditions, but I don’t think taking so much trouble to see the show amid the crowds is the best way to show my respect and love.” We ended up with a fierce long debate.

Later at dinner Gran forgot all about our quarrel, but she started to bother me in a new way. She kept filling my bowl with the delicacies. Whenever I was close to finishing what was in the bowl, she topped it up. I was close to tears. I begged her, “Stop please, Gran. It is more than enough.” My pleas falling on deaf ears, Gran still played the role of a serving robot. I almost lost my temper.

My parents encourage me to relate to my grandparents. Both of them in their 70s, they love me. But their love is too much to stand. It feels as if I were being smothered in it. I hope they change a little the way they behave towards me. I am old enough to make my own decisions and choices.