I was back to office from lunch and received a call from a sister. We usually text each other and to receive a call from her on a working day was not a norm. She told me that she received a text message which informed the passing of a brother whom she knew I was quite close with.
Shocked. Numbed. I was not convinced so I asked her to forward to me the text; maybe that's because I am a word person, I have to read to be convinced.
Shortly after, another sister text me and then another...
Reality did not set in until much later. I could not focus on my work at all. The whole afternoon was trying to recollect myself and discussing with some sisters how we could help his family...
I still remember when I first knew him, he was one of the very few who made me feel welcomed.
Once we were in a gathering at a Pastor's house, and they were playing boardgames. I was standing there alone, not knowing many people & he called me to join the group. Another time I was just standing there after service and he invited me to join the rest for dinner. There was once we had a YA game session and he took good care of me, asked me to follow his car.
There were several occasions he helped me when I needed help by just a call away. In the midst of his busyness, he would spare time for his friends. Once, my Eagle could not start and I was around his housing area, so I called him for help; instead of staying in the comfort of his own home, he came to my rescue.
He gave sound advice and cared from his heart. He told me he cared about my happiness and usually many would say this but would not act on it. He was different, he actually acted on it by introducing someone to me.
Always cheerful, always jovial, always positive....I could not understand but to ask God, why?
"Alice...Alice..."; his voice ringing in my ears :(
We last met in January at a stall nearby my office, having red wine chicken for lunch; and he bought me lunch that day because my birthday was coming soon.
His birthday is next month and it would be my turn to buy him a meal but.... :(
We last contacted each other two days ago because I asked him something about my policy. He had always been a helpful agent and would go the extra mile to assist.
My dear brother, you will be deeply missed :(
