Your parents and you - Part 2

A friend of mine used to drive back to Jerteh from Melaka fortnighly without fail for a duration of 6 years. His late mother was in total and permanent disability.


'Most of the times, I would go back alone, leaving my wife and children behind. In a way, I save a lot.'

I nodded in agreement. You see, if you have to take care a parent who was in total paralysis, you would be spending a lot of money to take care of your parent. So by leaving his wife and children behind, it means less stoppage along the way. His wife would prepare food for him before each journey.

'I have a sister staying nearby. But , as a son, I must lead the way. I must take the responsibility. I must be in front. Not that I don't have any brothers, but I chose to take charge'


I last met him by chance outside BSN Kompleks Al Azim, end of April.


'How's your mother'? I asked.


'She passed away in November last year.'


'Innalillahiwainnailaihirajiun. It means we have not seen each other for quite sometime.' I quipped. 'So, you are in Melaka all this while.'


'I still go back to Jerteh every two weeks once'


'You are?'


'I don't know why I do that. In a way, my mum's passing bring some relief. But I am still clueless the relief was for my late mum or for me.' His eyes turned red and watery as he said it.


I kept quiet and felt his pain. Soon, there were tears in my eyes.


'You know what, only ALLAH knows. In one way, I am glad that my late mum did not have to suffer any more. As for me personally, it was also a relief. But I am afraid to say it because I didn't want to be regarded as someone who didn't like to be tested by ALLAH. You know what I mean?'


I nodded and touched his arms. 'Is that the reason you still go back to Jerteh?'


'You can say that.'