Trip for friends

Brother and I gathered before mum's altar with her two very close old colleagues. The two aunties worked with mum for over ten years, and their children went to English lessons with mum brother. They have helped mum so much over the years, and were also witnesses when mum made changes to her will at the beginning of June. Even now, even after mum has passed away, they kept on telling us if there is anything we need help with, we can call them.

Brother and I agreed to tell the aunties about one of mum's life wish when they came to see mum at home (it's customary for family and friends to pay respects at the home of the deceased). Sometime ago, she said she is very grateful for their friendship, and would like me to arrange a trip to Europe for both aunties. "The best time is in Spring. April and May, when the flowers are blooming," she said. Mum may not be able to see the flowers bloom in person again, but she would like her closest friends to go and see it themselves.

Both aunties began crying. Brother's voice wavered as he explained that it is mum's wish, and asked them accept. I too began to tear a little (even now, thinking back to that moment is very emotional...). "This is your mother... always thinking of others..." one auntie said trying hard not to choke on her words.

They aunties resisted at first, but eventually said we can talk about it later. Just as they were about to leave, they stood before mum's altar and prayed. Again, their eyes were moist, for a dear friend has already departed, and yet this friend is still thinking of them, wishing them happiness from the world beyond.