It was just another weekday morning as I woke up from the sound of my phone’s alarm. As I groggily snoozed my alarm, I was confused at the large number of notifications I received from my dad and some brethren so early in the morning. As I read my dad’s messages, I realised to my horror and grief that my grandmother had passed away peacefully in her sleep that night. After the initial grieving, I started to recall many memories I had with my grandma. I believe that I am who I am today is mainly due to good upbringing from my grandma as I spent my formative years with my grandma. She has always taught me 3 very important principles to be a good person in life.
Even though my grandma only became a Christian in her later years, she had passed down very important values to me. She had always told me that in everything I do, I needed to give my best even if no one was looking. She might not have known this, but it is also a biblical principle recorded in Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. This statement has always been the principle of whatever I’ve done since young, be it studies or work.
My grandma had always told me that she prefers her grandchildren to be kind rather than successful. My grandma always reiterated that it is more important to sculpt our attitudes and temperament as this is what people will remember us for. She was echoing what was recorded in Ephesians 4:23, And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. My parents also tended to ask the teachers on Parent-Teachers’ Day if I was a kind friend or student rather than if I was a good and studious student in class.
My fondest memory with my grandma is talking to her about some of the tough times I faced in school or work. She always advised me to be determined and persevere through tough times as those will serve as good experiences in the future. The apostle Paul also faced many challenges, but he could make this profound statement as recorded in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing. Perseverance and determination were of utmost importance to my grandparents. They named both my brother and I with the Chinese character for “Perseverance/determination” so we will remember this value for life.
Although my dear grandma has gone to be with the Lord, I have held her teachings and values close to my heart. I also want to use this opportunity to thank the brethren who have sent me messages and checked in on me during the period of grief. I will always miss Ah ma dearly and uphold her teachings and values she has ingrained in me.