In the short span of nine days, I experienced Life's extremes - Saying goodbye forever and a newborn. We really shouldn't speak of them in a single breath, that's why it was such a mentally and exhausting two weeks. But truth is, both events actually have a common thread - a power to bring families together, even if it's just temporary. For instance, if it wasn't for the time at the wake, I wouldn't have gotten to know D's maternal cousins better at such an incredible rate.
Ah Ma is in a better place, with no sickness and no suffering. It's painful thinking that she couldn't make it to meet her first great grandchild even though we know she's watching over us. It was my first time at Mandai saying goodbye... Ironically, the sense of guilt is so strong saying that I was "impressed" by the high-tech process that somehow helps ease the pain a little. And when one talks robots and machines, it requires less emotional investment. The whole process was quick, "neat" and with no delays because of the machines. The full cremation schedule, the Qs to pick the bones reflect our rapidly ageing population and make you come face to face why we need to replace our productivity effectively. Which means... death is inching closer to someone we know better, as we grow wiser but older.
Thankfully, C came along and now all attention's on him. We're might still in the mourning but self-denial stage because we didn't have time for the grief to fully sink in yet, but no matter. The baby's innocence is undeniably comforting. Word of thanks, thoughts of appreciation for this precious one, and prayers for his good health. We are glad to have you in the family. Even a sleeping you makes a difference to my day and brings a smile to all of us. :)
