Last week reminded me of the fragility of life...that we can have our plans, be celebrating life, looking forward to things, and in a split second that can all change.
Last week Sunday I witnessed my best friend getting married to the love of his life. It was such a joyous and happy occasion. Attending the wedding reminded me of my wedding and made me reflect on my marriage. We left in good spirits. Although I was tired the next day, it was a tiredness that was worth it.
Then the next day after 11a.m. while I was on my way back to my desk my phone started ringing - it was my mother. I told myself I'll call back in the evening when I got home, as it's probably nothing important. But I saw Kevin's number flashing on my phone at the same time and I knew that it meant something was probably wrong.
When I answered Kevin's call I got the grave news that his uncle passed away. I called my mother immediately afterwards who delivered the same news.
In less than 24 hours, I went from a celebratory mood to a somber mood.
Regardless of how many loved ones have passed away, regardless of how many funerals I attend, regardless of knowing that our time will come someday, it doesn't help to ease the pain.
One day we were celebrating a wedding and at a next we were mourning a death.
Last week reminded me again that life is a strange and fickle thing - everything can change in the blink of an eye. It reinforced again on what was really important, especially at the end of our lives.
At both the wedding and the funeral, nobody spoke about anyone's career paths, academic qualifications, or job titles. Rather everyone spoke on the type of person the individuals are and were. In the end, what really matters is who we are individuals. It cemented my decision that climbing the corporate ladder is really not a priority for me - that all I want to do is spend as much time as possible surrounded by my loved ones, creating memories, taking pictures, and enjoying my life to the fullest.
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