REGRETS

By Henao Lister

This is an experience was shared in the office by an officer who attended a funeral in her village. This village is in the Central Province, Rigo District. Its about 45 minutes’ drive outside Port Moresby.

Actual account:

A woman aged 85 was widowed for 35 years. she was illiterate and having no form of formal education manage to bring up her children in a humble together with her late husband. She came from a very unfortunate family from Lebogoro  village, a remote inland village of Rigo. Her late husband from Saroa village where pioneers of a very successful vibrant business that was involved in the transportation and retail business back in the 70s and 80s. Though this was so after the passing of her husband the business took a gradual fall and they lost everything. My husband was part of their family during his teenage years and continue to do so to this day. 

Son looks on his mothers casket

Though she had eight children life was not as comfortable as it seems. Having lost her husband she also witness the passing of one of her daughter. Disaster seemed to have no ending in her life. Her youngest son which she reside with until her passing didn’t show much affection of love towards her which he would later admit with deep regret. At times when she had an argument with one of her children she would be out in the village square sitting in the late nights between 10 to 12pm confused and dishearten

Though she may have nothing in the end one thing she continue to show and give to her children and everyone in her life was love. This was highlighted later on by her own dear son. Every morning before he wakes up his cup of tea was already being made by her. Every afternoon when he returns his mother would give him the best treatment as if a VIP was entering her house. The simple gesture of saying morning, bye and hello was what she showed day in and day out. She would even unleash his shoes when he’s back home.

The son admitted when he read her eulogy that he was so sorry for mistreating her mother. His deepest regrets was never reciprocating the love that she always showed to him. He openly wept in front on the whole congregation as he gave a sound advice to those that still had their parents around. He mentioned to never mistreat your parents when they are alive because his case is an example where he will live with great regrets for the rest of his life.

One sound advice is that love is something that money will never buy. Our parents, partners, loved ones do not need money or gifts from us but our presence and time. Taking time out to visit or giving them a phone call to check up on them. This simple gesture speaks volume.

For those who still have parents around, never take them for granted coz their time on earth is winding down and its only a matter of days, months and some years before they depart from us.

Sharing this to you all

Acey