The Meaning of Lost

Getting off the cab one morning, I was waiting at the garage of my student's house when I heard a familiar voice.  "Kat, please take care of your teacher and listen to him," her dad said.

Kat's dad was ill at that time, having been to the hospital for an operation and then recuperating at home.  That morning, they were to go to the hospital leaving me and Kat's brother in their house.


That same day, I received a phone call saying that her dad passed away in the hospital.  I came from the market that time but I cannot help but to cry.  I was astounded, for her dad was just 40 years old.


Last Thursday, something was disturbing me.  I wasn't sure about the news so I sent my student's mum a message.  Yes, there was indeed bad news and that her husband passed away.  I cried since I have known the family for their generosity and faith in me. They even planned to see me for lunch that day, to keep them updated of my teaching and personal life.  And for four years, I would see the dad coming in to school with a smile.  He was 44. 


Both men died due to heart failure and the saddest thing is the families they left behind. Both families have young children, as I am a preschool educator, you could imagine what their ages were and are. 


I am being selfish, for some of my posts were about death and dying, not of other people but of mine.  That even to this day, I am just willing to surrender in due time.  When some lives were taken abruptly, here I am thinking of taking mine.  Forgive me, it is a recurring thought, a sign of weakness and surrender but a very bad thought.


I will pray for the families of my two students while I will also promise not to be selfish and hateful of uneventful things. Life goes on for those who stayed.  Four happy thoughts for everyday: the students that I teach, the remaining family members I have, the people that I love and, the one who loves me most.




Comments

Twilight Man said…
This is so sad to hear them departing at 40s which is just near their prime age. That is way too young to leave their families and young kids. I would be very sad and lost if my dad had passed away that young when I needed him most.

Perhaps you could bring much comfort and reliefs to them by offering your attention from time to time. Trust me, they would appreciate your calls and concern when they are feeling their lowest. God Bless You Jonathan.
Clayman said…
Gone too soon. :(

I agree with Twilight Man's comment.
Rix said…
Awts... I thought your talking about your dad. But this post is sad
jonathan said…
Hi TM,

As always your words of wisdom are much appreciated, will do your suggestions.

I cried because of the young children they both left but I knew that they are still in good hands of their capable mums.

And today, my message to the children on the board was, "I love my mum and my dad." for them to learn how to read.
jonathan said…
Yes, clayman, so soon.

That's why we need to live life like there is no tomorrow, and appreciate things that happen along the way.

To say our thanks and show our gratitude now rather than late.

Thanks for the visit.
jonathan said…
Hi Rix,

I had made closure with my dad though there are times I still about the bad and the good ones. I need to let go so my heart will be more loving of others.
Twilight Man said…
You always have sad posts for me to wash my eye balls. Next time I must put a tissue box ready.
Clayman said…
As the line from my fave musical goes, "No day but today." :)
I'm sad for the loss of your students Sir. I do hope that some time, somehow and some where, they'll find peace. Life is precious and I loathe myself that somehow, I don't value it enough and instead of celebrating what it gives me, I tend to think of how unfair it is and look at the blind spot.
Thanks for always teaching and inspiring us Sir! :)

love lots,
Tin

mypoeticisolation.blogspot.com
jonathan said…
Hi TM,

Will be sending boxes and boxes for your tears. Remember that crying makes us feel better. :)
jonathan said…
What a great thing to remember, no day but today, thanks Clayman.
jonathan said…
Hi Cristine,

I am still like you, looking at what had happened and what have not transpired, which makes me sad.

However, the recent passing of my student's dad woke me up. That I should be more thankful of my life and be thankful of what I have.

Today, someone asked me of the dad's photo from my school files, and I cried, still, as it reminds me of his smile and joy when he comes to school.

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