The harsh reality of life that many people are unprepared to face is witnessing their loved ones confronting life and death.
The most brutal truth that shattered my world abruptly was when my mother was on the verge of death. Cancer!!!
In my mind, my mother had always been an unstoppable force, exuding extraordinary strength. Despite marrying at a young age, happiness eluded her. Our family life was plagued by financial struggles. My father labored away from home, granting himself a meager two weeks of respite each year. He had a volatile temperament and frequently indulged in revelries with intoxicated friends. The earnings he accumulated were recklessly squandered on these joyous pursuits. Upon his return, disputes erupted, sometimes escalating into physical abuse against my mother. During those brief moments of togetherness, she endured unimaginable physical and emotional torment. There were instances when she felt overwhelmed, convinced that she could no longer bear the trials and contemplated the release of death. However, she tried her best for the sake of us, her children, and persevered through this challenging journey. She ventured into various occupations, tirelessly striving to secure our livelihoods and guide us into adulthood.
Life carried on, and gradually, my father underwent a transformation. Recognizing the magnitude of his past mistakes, he embarked on a path of redemption. A blissful smile appeared on my mother's face. Eventually, each of us established our own families. Naively, I believed that after enduring months of toil, my mother would finally find solace and enjoy the tranquility of her twilight years.
Yet, fate cruelly intervened, casting a shadow of deteriorating health upon my mother. She sought medical consultation, only to receive a grave diagnosis. Lymphoma had invaded her body, necessitating immediate treatment.
Perhaps, the time remaining for my mother can be counted in mere months or, at most, a few short years. When I heard the news from my father, shock rendered me speechless and weighed heavily on my heart. Tears streamed down my cheeks uncontrollably, akin to a helpless child.
I had always envisioned a fairy tale ending for my mother, where her relentless suffering would give way to a life filled with joy and good health. Reality proved far harsher than my optimistic daydreams.
The aforementioned is an example from my own experience. A lesson learnt for myself is to be open-minded and learn to see things in life from a broader perspective and of course be prepared.
There are others brutal truths about life no one wants to admit: