In August 2018, on my way back to base, I posted this https://bitalks.wordpress.com/2018/08/27/au-revoir-or-goodbye/?preview=true
It turns out; that was the last time I woud speak to my mum/be showered with her prayers.
I got the call on 4th Feb. that she had stopped breathing, so I dropped everything & boarded a flight to be able to bid her a final farewell; but only this time on my arrival, she was no longer talking or excited to see me as she usually was.
As I head back to base again, seated at the gate to board my flight; I am once again in tears, as I know she is no longer there to come back to or even speak to over the phone.
I miss my mum already; despite the short time since her demise. The last couple of weeks have been an emotional roller coaster… but I guess I am thankful that she is no longer in a state where she requires medical attention, is dependent on carers for her most basic needs, etc. Yet, it still hurts…
On my way to the airport, I called my dad; the usually stoic man was in tears as he bid me farewell, with prayers and words of advice! I guess, having lost his companion of more than 50 years, & we kids all returning to our different bases (me being the first to leave) his new reality is beginning to dawn on him.
Such a loss; my darling mum was always like a lion with her cubs; seen & heard no more, but deeply loved & greatly missed.
Al Jannah firdaus Kibitiyu, iya’beji
Originally published under my old blog, bitalks, this reflection followed a farewell I didnāt know would be final. Some posts are moments. Others become milestones.