seven-years

by mayjin

In recent months, I noticed how much mom and Aunt K has aged. Aunt K has been staying with us for just over a year, and we’re glad to have her with us in our family home.

On one of the days when I was talking to them (mom and Aunt K), I noticed lines on their face in places I had not noticed before. How long has it been there? Each line was ike a strike across the calendar, marking their age. At other times, I noticed how they have slowed whether physically or mentally. It’s not a sharp decline, but a noticeable one.

Seven years ago, I made the difficult decision of coming back to Malaysia. I was comfortable in Adelaide, so comfortable that coming back brought grunts of resentment. There was no doubt in my decision to come back, it was difficult but a decided call.

Once I’ve settled home, it became the most natural place to be. And over the years, I’ve learned to love my country more than I ever had before; I formed new friendships, deepened old ones and saw myself change as a person.

When I look back on all those years, I am so glad I came home. I never thought dad would leave us so soon, but since he did, I appreciate my time in Malaysia even more. All those additional years I got to spend with him, each day counts.

I don’t know how many years more I would get with mom and Aunt K, or whether I would beat them home; and even if I don’t, I can’t be sure I would spend all of my remaining days and years by their side. Even so, I thank God for bringing me home seven-years ago.

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