2023-01-20

When I was a kid, I had an MP3 player—I think it was a Samsung one. It looked just like a big USB drive. I secretly bought it with my New Year lucky money, but I didn’t dare take it out at home to show off, or I’d get a beating.

I searched for songs on Baidu Music and downloaded them; for better sound quality I would always pick the largest file among the same song.

When I was outside, I’d thread the earphone cable from my pants pocket, through my T-shirt, and out the collar, or just let it dangle—feeling super cool.

At home, it was always hidden under my pillow. At night, I’d take it out and just admire it. Pure love—I loved it a whole lot. I didn’t even need to listen to music; just looking at it filled my mind with joy.

Coming home always brings back these happy memories. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year in advance—may you have simple, focused joy.

• 🧩A piece of daily life