A Tribute To My Father (Part 3)

On the way back, she shared with me a story that touched my heart.

My Ma told me about the special friendship between Papa and her brother.

It was a relationship that I never knew about, a bond that few have ever experienced in their lifetime.

It was a friendship that would seem strange not only to me but also to many others.

I could not comprehend how they could be so close to one another – two men with different upbringings and living in two different countries.

They hardly have the chance to meet one another, let alone spend quality time together.

All I could remember was that on the rare occasions when my Uncle dropped by my home, Papa would welcome him with an affection that was beyond me.

They would usually go to Papa’s favourite Bak Kut Teh stall and order a steaming bowl of soup. Then, they would pour their hearts out to one another.

Their laughter still rings in my ears.

On 17 March 1990, Pa passed away suddenly.

He had a heart attack and collapsed at the Changi Airport to the shock of many airline passengers.

My Uncle came for the wake, crying literally like a baby.

My family had to watch over him throughout the funeral ritual for fear he would do something untowards to himself.

After returning to his home, my Uncle continued to be in deep grief.

He missed Papa so much that he was virtually in a daze throughout the day.

He tried to drown his sorrow through alcoholic drinks but his mind would give him no relief from thoughts of Papa.

The friendship and affection that they shared overwhelmed the healing power of Time.

Perhaps I should say, my Uncle never gave Time a chance.

Two weeks later, my Uncle passed away.

Uncle, thank you for your deep friendship with my Papa. May you rest in peace.

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Reflection

When I thought over this story, I couldn’t help but be touched by the friendship between my Uncle and Pa.

If you have been reading my blog, you would know that my father had many friends.

He was a friendly man and a person whom many could count upon for help.

I am proud of this legacy that Papa left behind for me, an inspiration to cultivate more friends and to strengthen my friendships throughout my life.

Once again, thank you Papa.

When the sun rises tomorrow, I will continue your legacy.

I will be a true friend and will stretch out my hands of friendship to others.

Go4It!

By the way, I have also recorded other reflections.

Visit my Inspiration blog at http://liewinspiration.wordpress.com/

For my opinions on social affairs, please visit my Transformation blog at http://hsrpatrickliew.wordpress.com/

Please read my reflections and continue to teach me.

Life is FUNtastic!