of Death, Love and Forgiveness

 

Just received news that my ex-boss passed away on Sunday.  He was just 56 years old.  He was on his way to one of his daughters' graduation ceremony when he suddenly collapsed at the airport without warning.  Needless to say, he didn't get to witness what must have been one of his proudest moments as a father.

While he was alive, he was known to be someone with a fiery temper (at work).  I, too, have had very bad experiences with his 'fire power' before.  It was little wonder then, that he was not a popular personality in his working circle.

When he passed on, my first thoughts were those of shock.  I really felt sorry for his family of four adolescent daughters and one wife.  He may have been a very bad tempered and impatient man at work, but one thing that shone out to all of us as employees back then, was that he never failed to provide for his family and take care of their needs, especially that of his four daughters. I still remember his messy room, and the colourful crayon pictures drawn by his kids when they were very young.  He would ensure they looked their best when taking photos for their passports or visas, insisting they wore jackets to the photo taking sessions.  He would try to coach them on how to read slides using the microscope, even if they were not in the least interested.  On occasions when he was in a good mood, he would bring us out for a treat.  Once, he even baked a cake and brought it for all of us to share in the office.

He may have been very unpopular most of the time, especially when he's in working mode.  But really, no matter how unpopular or unlovable someone is, there is always a place he can find, where he is loved by another human.  Whether by his family, his friends or his sweetheart.  Every human, no matter how imperfect, needs to find a refuge for his soul where he can feel safe and rest.

 

Death, or the prospect of death, does make us think deeper.  About what or who really matters in life.

At the end of the day, does your grudge against someone still grip your heart whenever you think about it?

Or have you forgiven that person long ago?

Am I choosing love or choosing unforgiveness?

Do we comprehend in our hearts that 你是人; 我也不是神?  If ever, there comes a time when a person in your life is in his deathbed, will you find it in your heart to forgive him, or will you refuse to let go?

I'm very glad I've made my choice long before he was hospitalised.

I think Pastor is right.  

We should choose love.

Because that is the only (sometimes difficult) choice that will set your heart and conscience free to meet your Maker one day, without burdens weighing you down.

How can you forgive when you hurt? 

You choose to.