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When the writer went to Egypt recently, he saw the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Photo: Thiagan Mathiaparanam
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As time moves by at a rapid pace, I too have progressed swiftly into the “seven-series” of life.
With all the encounters and experiences endured over the years, it feels only fitting to take some time for introspection – to ponder and reflect on the small but significant moments that have marked this journey. Food for thought.
A morning walk in the park brings to my attention the determined efforts of a stroke survivor. This lady faithfully visits the park every day, resolutely sticking to her walking routine with the assistance of a walking stick with a four-legged base. Her unwavering belief that she will one day walk unaided, like others in the park, is deeply inspiring.
Witnessing her perseverance, tenacity, and endurance sends a powerful message: to face life’s adversities with courage and determination in order to succeed. This elderly lady stands as a shining example for every stroke survivor, illustrating the importance of adhering to rehabilitation despite the slow pace of visible progress.
On another note, the phrase “Prevention is better than cure” often crosses my mind. It is a catchy medical tagline I learned in science class under Mr Vijayarajah, way back in Standard 5 in 1965 – more than half a century ago. This simple but profound reminder urges me to prioritise my health today to avoid regret in the future.
Filial piety, a virtue rarely discussed in today’s fast-paced world, is another subject worth highlighting. I know of two sisters who have dedicated themselves to caring for their 101-year-old mother. They attend to her every need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. On occasion, a cousin steps in to lend a helping hand. Their tireless devotion to their bedridden mother is a remarkable demonstration of filial piety in its highest form. Such acts are increasingly rare in a world where many children choose the convenience of nursing homes for their ageing parents.
Now, let us journey to a faraway land. A recent trip to Egypt with some childhood friends left me humbled by the plight of the poor and needy. While on a cruise from Luxor, we disembarked at Edfu and rode a horse-drawn carriage to the Edfu Temple. Though this was prearranged, I was reluctant to partake, as I view such rides as a form of animal abuse.
Our carriage was driven by a battle-hardened young boy, around 10 years old. Poverty had likely pushed him into this trade, forcing him to forgo schooling. The horse, overworked and underappreciated, tirelessly ferried passengers back and forth, enduring whippings from the boy. The sight was heart-wrenching – the innocent animal subjected to endless toil, and the child burdened with adult responsibilities far too soon.
As the carriage moved along, a smaller boy, about six years old, ran beside us, gesturing for food to satiate his hunger. The sight of these children, deprived of basic education and a carefree childhood, was deeply saddening. It made me reflect on the privilege of free formal education back home in Malaysia, where many children fail to appreciate this gift. Instead, some skip school, engage in bullying, or create disciplinary issues – a stark contrast to the struggles of these Egyptian children.
Back on home soil, I am reminded of a touching story of maternal love and resilience. A mother regularly visits the park with her daughter, who, though physically normal, is mildly intellectually challenged. This mother’s acceptance of her circumstances is both admirable and inspiring. She lovingly provides her daughter with freedom and unconditional support, embracing life one day at a time. Her unwavering dedication is a lesson to parents who often focus on trivial complaints about their children.
In retrospect, as I consider the different facets of life that I have observed, it becomes evident that the journey takes many routes, each imbued with its own subtle meaning. Every encounter, every story, carries a lesson, a reminder, or an inspiration – threads that weave together the rich tapestry of life.