By Gretch on August 27, 2002 for RHGP

“I love you.” These three words may seem simple, hackneyed and clichéd, but in reality, no other expression can compare to the depth and emotion it reveals. Always, always tell these words to those you hold dear to your heart because you will never know when all things will come to an end. You will never know if another window of opportunity to share these sentiments will open ever again.

As a young girl, I was never expressive of my feelings for others. I was quite secretive and kept mostly to myself. One day, as fate decided, tragedy befell and it changed my life forever. Without any forewarning, my father, the pillar of my soul, passed on to a better existence. I was in such a state of disbelief and unawareness. No words could describe the hurt and the pain I was going through. The world, without my father’s constant love and guidance, seemed hopelessly beyond belief. At the tender age of twelve, my greatest regret was that I was never able to really tell him the words “I love you.” I knew even then that all I could do was pray, sincerely and wholeheartedly, for enlightenment and divine intervention. Until now, I have yet to overcome this heartbreak in my life.

At times, saying these three beautiful words of endearment may display the vulnerability of our characters, but then isn’t life all about taking risks? It is certainly better to have shown your true feelings now, rather than mourn over the loss of never having said them at all. “I love you.” Never take these words for granted again.

This experience of mine may not be of glory or of honor. It can neither be boasted of nor taken pride upon. For me, an experience with prosperity is a great teacher, but an experience with adversity is even greater. Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents, which in prosperous circumstances would have lain dormant. I can humbly say that the bereavement of my father has defined me as a person today. It has made me grown stronger and wiser in every aspect of my life. It has taught me the importance of making the best out of everything and valuing those who I hold dear to my heart. Coping with death is not a trivial affair; it is a road filled with hardships that may be overcome with faith and encouragement. Death, as I comprehend it, is not a tragedy but a new beginning. I believe with all my heart that in the end, my father and I will be together again for all eternity.