Of Ties that Bind. Posted on 14 May 2012

Over the last five days and nights, family, relatives near and far, friends and colleagues of the family, old neighbours, and many others from times past, gathered together to bid a sad farewell to a man who has left a rich legacy behind.

There is the only son, stoic and composed, a pillar of strength and support. The daughter-in-law, gentle, gracious, like a flowing stream, unassuming, but impactful. The three daughters, each so different in personality and type, but beautiful in their own way. The sons-in-laws stayed in the background,and with invisible hands, provided the necessary emotional and administrative assistance The five grandchildren, ranging from youths to young adult, stood out with their maturity and devotion. C, with his band of brothers, did the watch for two nights, offering much needed rest and sleep for the more senior members of the family. It was a sweet gesture, full of heart, a tribute to his beloved "Kung Kung". M's best friend came by every night to stand by her. There are ties that run deep, albeit by blood or relationship.

There were relatives who made their way from Johore Bahru, KL and Penang to pay their respects. Distance and travel are small inconveniences, compared to the genuine desire to say goodbye to someone dear. Other relatives grief privately and silently, careful not to intrude into the delicate space of the family, but just being there.Those who believe, pray; others offer kind words of comfort. It is enough for the family to be encouraged and know that many do care.

Among the faces in the crowd, I saw my nanny, who looked after R and I while we were very young. She is now an indulgent grandmother, but she made her way back here. There were childhood play-mates from Balam Road, all grown up now, but they came, remembering "Uncle"

Life is transcient. What continues to live on are the seeds sown by each individual life into the lives of others; and of the ties that bind.

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