An old advice that mattered just now...

We fight like cats and dogs. The words we spoke cuts through within and leaves scars unmended. It rekindles sadness and pain every time.

Twenty five years of being alone, finally she spoke to me and for the first time her words mattered and were appreciated. This afternoon, she walked in with an unsolicited advice. Not like the usual practice of a sermon, which I dare not listen to most of the time, this time what she said felt comforting. It’s the most comforting advice I got from her that made me understand the reasons behind why she won’t stay and why she seemed aloof in divulging her emotions.

The words that pierced through before suddenly became comforting. Yes, she made a good explanation stressing her points. I couldn’t look at her because I know at any time I would cry and I don’t want her to cry. I sit still on my bed with teary eyes, quietly. She said, “Whatever you’re going through right now, be thankful. Be thankful for a nice place you’re staying in, for a good work and for the reason that you are alive. As much as I would want to think of you everyday, I am also helping those who have helped me before. The blessing that I got is because I know how to remember and look back and give. If I think of your condition, I would be crying everyday. But I am old, I’m not even sure if I will go pass my fifties.”

She just had a lump removed month’s ago. She told me she was diagnosed with another today. And I know she will be going through another operation one of these days. Just formulating I think that she has the “C.” Last Sunday’s message from the pastor was about cancer. He said, “Lucky are those who have been suffering because they know how to appreciate things in life.” All that really matter is that we are here and there are lots of things to be thankful for.

Thanks, Mom…In the end I know it’s still gonna be us.