and so 2006 is coming to an end...while everyone is busy ushering in the new year, our family just experienced the death of a loved one. My paternal grandfather passed away at a grand old age of 91 years old on Chirstmas Day itself . Our family members had more or less expected it , the week before, his health was deteriorating, failing eyesight, failing kidneys and lung problems were bothering him. He managed to survive through a similar circumstance a few years back, yet he was unable to pull through this one. I was glad that I had went down to the hospital on Sunday. Although my father didnt want me to enter the isolated ward itself, i could see my ah gong through the glass panel on the door.

I could say this is my first time experiencing the leaving of a closed family member. I wasn't excessively upset but there were times tears welled up in my eyes when we perform the rituals of walking round the coffin, seeing the adults in tears was especiallyheartwrenching.Though it may sound cliche, but this is really the moment that makes me realized the fragility of life. A few weeks ago, my ah gong was still one person, sitting on his chair and responding to us when we called him. Then, he already had difficulties moving. Yet, his mind was still alert, once he knew my sis was going to shanghai for her cip trip, he told her shanghai was very cold and she has to bring more warm clothing . And yesterday, all was left was his ashes...Everone believed that it was ah gong's blessings for which the weather was fine yesterday. For past few days, it has been raining on and off for 24hrs, but on Friday, the skies cleared and the sun was out. It was warm but it wasnt blistering hot, tolerable for us to walk on the road while only wearing socks. My mum says when ah gong was alive, he was a considerate and good person, even after he has left us he still cares for his children and grandchildren, blessing us with such a fine day while we sent him off on his last journey.

this would probably be my last post for the year, till next year then .=)