A Grand Farewell Or A Constant Support: Which One Would You Like?

During my mother-in-law’s cremation, I realized that my mother had become unusually quiet and withdrawn. I thought it was just the usual pain and profound sadness we experience during such occasions.

However, I was mistaken. A few days later my mother confided that the cremation she witnessed was one of the best farewells she had seen.

Although a short-tempered person, my father was the pillar of support for my mother

There was no mistake as my father-in-law ensured that at least 15 priests and a bishop were present for the funeral. He had sent word about the passing away of his wife. Since he was a prominent figure in his neighborhood and the church, the entire presbyterate along with the clergy were present. Although this meant that the ceremony went on for 3 to 4 hours, he felt he had given her the best farewell. Since my father had passed away almost a decade back, my mother felt that she would not be honored in this manner.

However, that got me thinking about the life my parents lived. My dad always ensured that my mom ate her food before he even swallowed a morsel. He looked after her and our needs with more importance than his own. Although a short-tempered person, he considered us his world. He was the pillar of support for my mother. She couldn’t ask for anything better.

Being there for your better half physically and emotionally while they are alive or bidding them a grand farewell….which one would you choose?

But, matters were very different in my husband’s house. My father-in-law was always more concerned about his needs. He would priorities his strict schedule over my mother-in-law’s needs. He would never ask if she had eaten or had any particular concerns that needed to be addressed. She used to toil in the kitchen preparing all the food and he deemed it her sole responsibility to cook, clean and maintain the household.

But, after the funeral and later on, it dawned upon him that he hadn’t cared for her, enough. He regretted deeply that he had not considered her nor prioritized her needs when she was there. However, I think my father left this world happy that he had been there for all of us.
So, which is important, considering your spouse your better half and being there for them physically and emotionally while alive or bidding thehttps://www.youtum a grand farewell after they are gone? We definitely need to ponder on this before our better halves leave this world!

Image Source: Still from a Youtube Video

About the Author

Mary Binoy

Presently working as an English tutor, a dentist by profession, but a writer forever. Love penning down everything I strongly feel about and create a change in mindset, especially among the youth. read more...

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