A Solitude Journey (Short story - 17/07/24)

 

A Solitude Journey

I hv written this short story to be a work of fiction but its themes resonate with poignant truths that are deeply rooted in the realities of life. The emotional depth and experiences depicted in this story is not merely confined to the realm of fiction; they reflect aspects of human relationships and the profound emotions that accompany love, loss, and the enduring bonds that shape our existence beyond the pages of imagination. This story may strike a chord to some in general particularly to those who are married for 10, 20, 30 or even 50 years and more.

*****

A Solitude Journey.

Seng a digital editor was married for 55 years. One morning his wife, Lin was in the kitchen clearing the dishes, suddenly, she had a heart attack and fell. Seng tried to resuscitate her with the best CPR knowledge he has. When she failed to respond he hurriedly picked her up as best as he could & carried her into his car. At full speed , without respecting traffic signs, he drove her to the nearest hospital.

When he arrived, it was unfortunately too late, she was gone.

During the funeral, Seng who is usually chatty hardly spoke even he has many good friends who came. He looks visibly lost and would gaze blankly at times. He hardly cried, he remembered Lin's word saying she don't live a life of regrets as she has always done all the best she could in her ability as a daughter, wife, mother, friend, subordinate, etc . She had indeed lived her life morally, uprightly and righteously.

As the time arrived for Seng to deliver his eulogy, he took a moment to gather his emotions and composed himself. With a deep breath, he began to speak, his voice filled with profound love and admiration.

"After 55 years of marriage, I stand here today to honor and celebrate the true essence of love. True love is not merely about the grand gestures or the passionate moments captured in movies. It is about sharing a life with a partner, hand in hand, navigating the ups and downs with unwavering commitment."

Seng paused, reflecting on the journey he and Lin had embarked on together. "It is about standing by each other's side, through sickness and health, in moments of joy and sorrow. It is finding solace and strength in each other's presence, knowing that together, we can overcome any challenge that life throws our way."

He continued, his words filled with wisdom and insight. "True love is not about stifling each other's growth, but rather, it is about supporting and encouraging one another as we evolve. It is about honoring each other's individual journeys, while still creating a safe space where we can come home to and be vulnerable, expressing our deepest feelings without fear of judgment."

Seng emphasised the importance of companionship and shared experiences. "It is a journey of growth and transformation, where two souls intertwine, enriching each other's lives and sustaining one another through the passage of time. It is finding comfort in knowing that no matter what storms may come our way, we will face them together, hand in hand."

He then spoke of the significance of faith and prayer in their relationship. "And above all, true love is about finding peace and comfort in our shared faith. It is about seeking solace in prayer, lifting each other up in Christ's love and finding strength in our spiritual connection."

Seng's voice softened, his words resonating with the depth of his love for Lin. "True love is not always expressed with grand declarations or extravagant gestures. It is often quietly professed in the hearts of two committed souls, woven into the fabric of their everyday lives."

Now that she's gone, I'm happy, do you know why?

Because she left before me. She didn't have to go through the agony and pain of burying me, of being left alone after my departure. I will be the one to go through that, and I thank God. I love her so much that I wouldn't have want her to suffer in solitude..."

As Seng concluded his eulogy, there was a collective silence in the hall, you could even hear a pin dropped, as the profoundness of his words settled in the hearts of those present. It was a reminder that true love transcends the superficial and embraces the beauty of a lifelong partnership, grounded in mutual respect, unwavering support, and a deep connection that withstands the test of time.

That night after the funeral was over and Lin was buried, his children and grandchildren joined him at home. In an atmosphere of pain and reminiscence, they remembered all the beautiful anecdotes and moments they had with Lin. They also came to understand what true love is; It is far from romanticism but rather it is linked to working together to overcome difficulties, to complement, to care and being selfless. Above all, to true love that two committed people professing in their hearts quietly".

Early the next morning in the quiet stillness of dawn, when the world was still draped in a gentle haze, Seng found himself drawn to the peaceful grounds where his beloved Lin rested eternally. The weight of her absence hung heavy in his heart, his grief consuming every fiber of his being.

As Seng approached her grave, the sight of the simple tombstone adorned with her name pierced through his soul, reminding him of the void that now existed in his life. With trembling hands, he knelt down, his fingers sinking into the cool earth beneath him. It was as if he sought solace in the very ground that held her.

Tears streamed down Seng's face, his heartache pouring out with each sob that escaped his lips. The rawness of his emotions echoed through the air, mingling with the soft whispers of the wind. In that moment, time seemed to stand still as Seng bared his soul to the one who had been his anchor, his confidante, and his truest love.

With every clump of earth that he grasped, Seng felt a connection to Lin. He imagined the warmth of her touch, the tenderness of her embrace, and the comfort that her presence always brought. The earth slipped through his fingers, symbolising the fleeting nature of life and the fragility of the human heart.

In that solitary moment, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the cemetery, Seng found solace in his vulnerability. His grief became a testament to the depth of their love, a love that transcended the boundaries of time and space. Though broken-hearted, he held onto the memories they had shared, cherishing every precious moment they had been blessed with.

As the sun began to rise, casting a golden glow upon his face, Seng rose from his knees, his heart still heavy but filled with a newfound sense of strength. In that sacred place, he had found a connection to his beloved Lin, a connection that would guide him through the days ahead.

With a final glance at her resting place, Seng whispered his love to the wind, knowing that his words would reach her wherever she may be. And as he walked away, he carried her in his heart, forever grateful for the love they had shared and the eternal bond that death could never sever.

In that morning pilgrimage to Lin's grave, Seng had not only honoured her memory but had also discovered a resilience within himself. And though his heart remained broken, he knew that he would continue to carry their love with him, finding solace in the cherished memories they had created together.
And as long as he walk close to God he knew he will meet her again.
This time for all eternity.