Reflections

 

Funerals are one of those times that remind us that life has a purpose and that our lives should make a difference. Although we may not understand why we are destined for a certain path, we should accept it and live each day as if it was the last.

 

As I was sitting at the funeral services, I was thinking how eternally grateful I am for having Uncle Dit Nam in my life. It was he who thought to introduce me to his lovely niece, Elaine, some thirty years ago. Not only did I gain a soul mate, I also gained a lovely and caring family. It was he who thought to sponsor Elaine and her family to the United States for better opportunities. It was he who had the foresight to see that working long difficult hours would someday pay off, not for himself but for his family, community and humanity.

 

I also had a flashback to a time way back when my father tried to convince Dit Nam it was his time to be President of our association. His response was he thought he wasn’t able, but through encouragement and support he accepted. My father knew Dit Nam’s character and his involvement would make a difference. As faith has it, shortly after 9-11, I got a call from Uncle Dit Nam. It was he who thought it was my time to get involved with this association. So I did. Hopefully I can follow in his and my father’s footsteps to make this association and society a better place. I am sure there are many countless stories how Dit Nam has touched their lives. He truly had a well-lived life even till the end.

 

And now, as so many people came to pay respects to Dit Nam, one can only speak volume of the respect and admiration people had of him. The tributes and services were all deserving for such a great man. As we continue to reflect, my wife and I wish to share this touching poem called “I’m Free” with everyone.

 

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free,

I’m following the path God laid for me;

I took His hand when I heard Him call

I turned my back and left it all.

 

I could not stay another day

To laugh, to love, to work, or play;

Tasks left undone must stay that way.

I found that peace at the close of day.

 

If my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembering joy,

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;

Ah, yes, these things I too will miss.

 

Be not burdened with times of sorrow;

I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.

My life’s been full, I’ve savored much,

Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.

 

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,

Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief

Lift up your heart and share with me.

God wanted me now – He set me free!

 

Uncle Dit Nam, you will be missed dearly and remembered forever. May you rest in peace.

 

Frank Yee, NY