Letter to the Past

Dear Grandmother,

This is the 1st time I have ever written to you. It feels very strange as you do not really understand English, and for me to even send a letter to begin with. But, Since you left us, we have many things to tell you.

Firstly, it’s about me and my brother’s results for the O levels and PSLE respectively. I did quite well and got into the 1st choice of my course. As for my brother, he scored 251 and got into his 1st choice too, ACS Independent. Looks like our studying really paid off. But because we were too busy, we did not have time to visit you every Saturday like always. It’s really too bad that you would be able to see our joyous faces, and you beaming back, praising us.

At the moment I received the news that you had passed away, I left my classroom immediately and rush to meet mother, Yvonne. I ignored my teachers  It was heartbreaking to see you lying on there hospital bed, with your eyes closed.

Even though you don’t know this, but I always been an atheist. All those prayers that you prompt me to do were in vain. I never pray, worship, or grace to anything or anyone. But during your funeral, I prayed. Just for you.

There’s also a random stranger who came to your funeral. I heard from the other relatives that he also kept loitering around during the night. It was like he was trying to steal something. True enough, he took the pouch which contains $700 left by the organiser of the funeral during a ceremony. The organiser was also my father’s friend. At that time, the relatives and I had had it with that guy. We tried to search for him, but to no avail. How dare he took advantage of your funeral to commit thievery.

When the funeral was over and the place was packed up, my cousins bumped into that guy after a final family dinner. ALL of us rushed there to apprehend him. All as in all of your 7 children and grandchildren. The relatives were glad and commented that you have aided them to catch the thief… So he was sent to jail, and was bailed out by some prick. Turns out that he was a neighbour of yours!

I wish there was more to write about. My current school is fine, and I should be coping well. I love you.

Ian