Life is unpredictable

This 2 weeks, I met ex-colleagues who have relocated overseas. One to Hong Kong for a much better work opportunity and another to US with her husband. Both like it very much at their new found land and seem to live very well there too. Their faces beam with happiness and joy at the new directions of their lives. Feel very happy for them.

I always feel a tinge of sadness saying goodbyes and seeing people leaving. I remember reading somewhere we should also celebrate those staying behind. Just like mothers, they stay behind in the house while the children go to different places to work for better living. The children are always reassured that their mum will be there waiting for them at home upon their return.

I guess the below quote sum it all.

“They who go Feel not the pain of parting; it is they Who stay behind that suffer”
--(Henry Wadsworth Longfellow 1807-1882)

But maybe suffer is too strong a word. It takes quiet courage to stay behind too.

On a separate note, I call up another friend today to check up on her. She told me she may have a second relapse of cancer. I am praying that it is not true as the final result is not out yet. From what her doctor is telling her, there is a possibility. Life is really unpredictable. Just when you think you have surmount it and overcome it after suffering so much, nature seems to have another mind of its own.

Is a test of strength and will. I admire her for the strength and she seems to take it in her stride. She did not ask 'why me again'. Probably she has seen much more in life. And at this point in time, her concern is still on the Cambodia little gal that she has helped in one of the homes. Asking me whether I know anyone who is going to Cambodia that can help her check on the gal.

For a while now, i already know bad things do happen to good people. As much as we cannot control the ending, we can decide on our journey. No matter what happens, i guess we can dictate how we want to live it. To live it with a positive attitude and be a positive force to others or to wallow in self pity. Life is really unpredictable, and my hope for myself is to live it well and treasure each day of my life. Will have to constantly remind myself. Life is a gift!