Of Death and Life

Went for Roland Wee & family's funeral in Nilai today.

It was heart-breaking. The sight of 4 coffins lined up side by side before being buried is something few people ever witness (The grandmother's funeral was at a different site, else it would have been FIVE coffins lined up). The deceased ranged from age 15 to 79, so the spectrum of people who came for the service varied just as much. From young people still in their school uniform, to old uncles and aunties who couldn't walk by themselves. Heart-wrenching.

The survivors, mother, son, and daughter, stuck in a hospital, unable to attend their loved ones' funeral. The 13 year old son in a coma, fighting for his life even as I type.

My parents' old churchmates, all from Bethel church, gathering together. The last time I saw all of them was during my dad's funeral. They told me they used to hang out as youth in their church. Now, all I see them meeting together for is during funerals, as their group gets smaller and smaller. Nevertheless, their spirit amazes me. Despite everything, they told me to push on, to hold fast to God's word, and to be a prayer warrior. One old uncle told me, "It's our time to pass the baton to your generation." I suppose as they meet each other at one another's funeral, they realise that indeed, the battle cannot stop at their generation, because it's a battle that has yet to end.

Everyone remembered me hoping to get into UM the last time they met me, just a week after my STPM results. They looked genuinely happy when I told them I was given my 1st choice, Bachelor of Arts (English) in UM. :) Pastor Johnny (Roland Wee's brother) told me, "God does have His plans eh..." Somehow that comment wasn't assuring me, it seemed to be filled with questions, and Pastor Johnny seemed to be taking assurance from ME that yes, God's plan does work out in the end. He was an amazing pillar of support during my dad's last days, and I'm sorry I cannot be the same to him in this trying time. I really don't know why this family was torn apart in a twinkling of an eye, and it hurt so much to see the deep sorrow and pain in everyone today, from people of all ages. Still, all I can say is, the battle must go on. We have to pick up the broken pieces from life-shattering events and fight on. Casualties have always been part of a war, but we have the amazing assurance that we will meet once again in heaven.

Grim matters aside, I was offered my 1st choice, Bachelor of Arts (English) in UM. :-) I'll be starting on the 4th of July.. a whole week of orientation. They better not mess with me...

Things have been picking up slowly. Today's chat with the older generation was truly a slap in my face. I've been taking things too easily of late. Have to quit resting on my laurels.

God bless,
Jo