“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo.
“So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” – J.R.R. Tolkien
Death is so fascinating … both positive and negative … and in all cases, a reality. Death is a ‘right’ that each one of us will pass, a ‘transition’ onto the next life and a ‘return’ to our creator, our lord.
This Ramadan was exceptionally unique as I lost a dear, young uncle of mine on the 27th of Ramadan, i.e. a couple of days ago. Death, especially of a loved one, brings much reflection and thought. My uncle was one of my biggest “blog fans” who followed and enjoyed my ramadan thoughts throughout the past 9 years and today, this last entry for Ramadan 2014, is dedicated to him.
The first reflection upon his death is that we are all given this short time, and instead of today’s chaos – rushing, pushing, stressing – one MUST find calm and find a way to limit exposure to provision related stresses and focus on what is important long term; faith and good deeds. Death of any loved one comes to put an immediate stop in order to take a moment to look, reflect and ask, ‘am I walking in the right direction?’ and ‘am I doing the best I can in the time I am given?’.
The other reflection is related to how different people’s lives begin and end, and how sometimes it is not what we did that matters, but how we responded, and how we were with others and with god. No one is perfect, but like any precious life, his included a few reflections which I share some with you here.
Some people work night and day to be loved by people by reading self-help books, my uncle had a constant smile.
Some people work day and night to feel loved, my uncle did it by being his old parents’ friend.
Many people work hard in prayer for salvation, my uncle found it in patience while being really ill.
… On family:
“Spend as much time as possible with your family uncle, spend your money on them and travel with them, they are all you have”
… On money:
“Money is important uncle, but only enough. Have a home, have a car, have some savings but spend the rest, for there may come a time where you have money, but you can’t physically spend it or you have money, which does not do you any good”
… On career:
“Career is important as a source of money, but what matters uncle is that you do what you enjoy and do not depend on a ‘job’ to give you that. Find your own way and source of income if you can, but keep it clear, simple and right. Be clear on how you want to spend your days”
… On health:
“Be healthy uncle, but healthy to live well but know, that you might eat organic and still get sick. You might exercise and still get sick. Enjoy your life while you are healthy”
… On time:
“You want to do something? Do it today, don’t wait because the opportunity will definitely go”
Leaving the best advice to last which is my personal favorite … On destiny:
“No one will leave this earth uncle before he or she lives out their complete destiny. Those you think will die first, may die last and those you think will die last, may die first. You never know when is your time but you will live out all that has been pre-ordained for you and you cannot flee it, you just have to live it”
Dear Uncle ….
“I love you every day. And now I will miss you every day.” – Mitch Albom
and most importantly …
God is ever so kind, merciful and generous even during such times
which bring many many many blessings and learnings
Image courtesy of nuttakit / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Ramadan Living™ 2024! Theme … Gratitude 