How Sweet the Sound

A mini memoir on my family's journey with religion, rebirth and reconciliation.

Welcome to Letters From Heidi, a refuge for truth seekers, deep-feelers, and the homesick searching for Eternity.

I am Heidi, an Asian-Australian woman who writes at the intersection of life, faith, pop culture, and the immigrant family experience. Subscribe to never miss a post.

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Dear Reader,

This letter contains a mini memoir and core memory from my 21st birthday—the year I became a Christian. In this story, you will get a snapshot of my journey with religion, rebirth and reconciliation, and how the gospel of grace transformed my relationship with my father. To anyone navigating complicated family dynamics or seeking answers to spiritual questions, I hope this story blesses you.

Note: As this letter contains book ideas, it will be free to access for 4 weeks. From the 15th December 2024 it will go behind a paywall so if you’re not a paid subscriber, make sure to read or share this post before the month ends.

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How Sweet the Sound

Dad shuffled towards the microphone, hands in pockets, nerves beating through his chest. It was my 21st birthday and I had booked out a bar to celebrate. As the drinks slowed down and the dance floor came to stand-still, I felt my own chest tighten with second-hand anxiety.

Is Dad okay?

What stories will he share?

Will my friends understand his English?

To celebrate this milestone, I had filled the room with friends and family from all walks of life, but my Dad was an honoured guest. Over the past year, we had experienced the miracle of rebirth and reconciliation, and we were excited to share the story with anyone who would listen.

My entrance into adulthood was messy. Intoxicated by quick love and cheap thrills, my birthdays soon became nagging reminders of my refusal to grow up. Flirting with forbidden fruit and emboldened by naivety, I very soon learned the consequences of dancing too close to flame.

With my heart scorched and broken, I walked through church doors for healing and answers, and was surprised to find myself in the shoes of the Adulterous Woman¹. Yesterday, her lusts were an invisible battle fought behind closed doors. Today, they have become a public spectacle for the masses.