Atok K

Assalamualaikum w.b.t

Atok K is my paternal grand-uncle. He was quite cheerful, and very pleased whenever my family and I visit him. He's the one who always asked about our studies. He tried his best to serve us, even blended fresh mango juice for us once. Maybe he love our presence in his house. He loved to travel too, and once he even visited us when my family and I were still in Sarawak. But whatever the reason is, I can't help but be very fond of him since I was a little girl.

Then suddenly he started to fell sick. But yeah, before this, he fought and looked as healthy as he can.

There's a lot of ups and downs. Last time, less than two weeks ago when I was in kampung with my adek, we visited him. There he was sitting still, as skinny as ever, and his eyes were sunken deep. His feet were also wounded, due to the diabetes. I guess his health just got worse. It's a sad sight.

We did talk a little bit. Though the atmosphere did become bitter, he tried to smile.

Once, he asked me, "Kak Irah, how long are you going to be away for your degree?"

I answered,"5 years and a half"

"That's a long time. When you're back, I wouldn't be here anymore,"

I was almost speechless. I don't know how to response. What he said, was unexpected.
So I tried, "It's okay. I'll return home every year.."

He laughed a little. I don't know if I said the right thing..

But whatever it is, in my heart, he's always the young-spirited Atok K, as cheerful as ever. I can't hope that he'll live long or short, as I have no power to know which is the best for him, which will make him suffer less. But I hope he'll live well, till the end, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally, inshaaAllah.

Though things will change, he will still be someone dear to me.




P/s : In my shoes, I could see things changing from when I was a kid. Time flies fast, beloved people get older, small cousins are all growing up. I guess it's a reminder for me. At this age, I should keep myself busy, pushing myself to the limits, and not keep myself lazy. If I am used to procrastination, then once I really start- I might be too old already!

Another Atok K's advice
"If I'm not sick like this, I would travel. Nowadays, the tickets are cheap. I would go to so many places."

Merantaulah anak muda! Bumi Allah ini rugi kalau tak dikembara.
Travel, if you still have the opportunity and strength.