Script: “I Have a Problem” with my dad Mr.
Li (His Arthritis at a Restaurant)
*Please Note* The translation of this conversation is from Cantonese.
Setting: Emily and her dad, Mr. Li, are sitting together at a cozy Chinese restaurant, waiting for
their food to arrive. The atmosphere is calm, with soft music playing in the background.
Emily (You): Dad, while we’re waiting for the food, can I ask you about something you’ve been
dealing with? Can you share a problem that’s been on your mind lately?
Mr. Li: Sure… well, my arthritis has really been bothering me. My knees hurt so much, even just
walking in here was painful.
Emily (You): So even simple things, like walking into the restaurant, are becoming painful for
you?
Mr. Li: Yes. Some days I feel like I can’t do much at all. It’s frustrating because I used to walk
everywhere without thinking about it.
Emily (You): It sounds like losing that ease of movement feels discouraging. How does that
affect how you feel about going out?
Mr. Li: Honestly, it makes me want to stay home more. Sometimes I don’t even want to go to
family gatherings because I know my joints will hurt.
Emily (You): So it’s not just the physical pain—it also keeps you from being with people you
care about?
Mr. Li: Exactly. I feel like I’m missing out.
Emily (You): What kinds of activities or routines do you miss the most?
Mr. Li: I miss gardening and walking in the park. Even just cooking without my hands aching.
Those small things gave me a lot of happiness.
Emily (You): So it’s more than chores—it’s about losing things that brought you peace and joy.
What do you think could make daily life feel a little lighter, even with the arthritis?
Mr. Li: Maybe finding easier hobbies or ways to still enjoy being outside. I don’t want to give up
on those things completely.
Emily (You): That makes sense. So if you could still enjoy nature and hobbies in a gentler way,
you’d feel less discouraged?
Mr. Li: Yes, I think that would help.
Emily (You): Thanks for sharing that with me, Dad. How did it feel talking about your arthritis
while I just listened and asked questions?
Mr. Li: Honestly, it felt good. It’s nice not to be interrupted or told what to do. I felt like you
really understood me. Thank you Moi Moi. You really grew in maturity.
