Uncle Harry was cremated today at 10 plus in the morning. Mummy didn't go today as she was afraid she would cry. She didn't tell me but I could tell from her face. After all, they have known each other for 10 over years.
Attended his funeral yesterday at All Saints Chapel. It was the last night before the cremation. Lots of people from SLC made their presence. The small chapel was crowded but Mummy and I were both lucky to find to seats at the far end. From there, I could make out some of the people I knew who came. There was of course, Pastor Khoon Hoe and Aunty Yvonne, Marissa and family, Melissa, Aunty Cassandra, Aunty Joanne, Uncle Samuel and many others I couldn't recognize. But there, in front of the pulpit, was the unmistakable shape of the coffin, made of wood with some decorations of gold. Half of it was lifted up. It was placed behind a photo of him. We started of with some church songs before Rev Soo started a message. The whole atmosphere was heavy and intense, everyone present was so solemn and grave. Seated at the very first row, was of course his 3 sons: Wayne, Bryan and Evvyn and their mother Aunty Pauline.
Bryan sang a farewell song called "Tears in Heaven" while Wayne played the guitar. As I was watching him trying to hold back his tears as he delivered the song to his beloved father, tears welled up in my eyes. Testimonials about Uncle Harry were then said on the stage. Of how he had been a good father, husband and a faithful servant of God.
But the most touching one was by his own wife. Aunty Pauline was definitely heartbroken as she spoke of how she would not be able to share meals with him in the car or do marketing with him anymore. It's rather saddening. The unexpectancy of life.
After the service, we all got to take a last look at him and comfort the bereaved family. As I passed by, I only caught a glimpse of the coffin, but that was enough to scare the wits out of me. Call me gutless, craven or timid but I couldn't care less. The image kept appearing in my mind the minute I close my eyes, thus posing difficulties for me to sleep last night. Just wish I had never been so naive and heeded Mummy's advice.
Anyway, after that eventful day, Mummy and I boarded a cab home (lucky for us). By the time I reached my destination at 11pm, I was so weary and tired. Goodness, and I still have to report to school the next day!!
