Dolly's Sharing

It’s been a year and a half since you went back to the Lord on 24 Nov 2024, and I still miss you deeply, especially during festival gatherings, birthday celebrations and every outing we once shared together.

Not only did you miss the Shanghai trip we had planned together, but while I was on my flight home, you went heaven-bound. I never got the chance to see you one last time, to hold your hand, or even say goodbye. The entire journey home was filled with silent tears – the saddest flight I have ever taken. Somehow, when it comes to parting, history always seems to repeat itself – the ache of no closure, no final words and no proper goodbye.

Perhaps this was the Lord’s way of comforting me, sparing me the pain of a final farewell. Or perhaps it is His gentle reminder that it is never truly goodbye, for one day when He calls me home, I will see you and my loved ones again in His presence. Until then, I will treasure the beautiful memories we shared and keep you close in my heart – Forever Missed, Forever Loved…

Although Dora was my cousin, she was more like a sister to me. We practically grew up together, and she taught me English during my primary school years. In fact, besides my mother, she was the only person who ever punished me. Whenever I made a mistake in English, she would rap my knuckles with a ruler. Those who have experienced it would know how painful it can be, yet it was nothing compared to the pain I felt upon hearing of her sudden departure.

There are countless beautiful memories of Dora – far too many to share here – but I would simply like to share a glimpse of who she was.

Psalm 24:3–4 (ESV) – “Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully.”

This scripture speaks of the one who may stand before the Lord – a person with pure motives, sincere faith, truthful lips, and hands unstained by evil. In many ways, it reminds me of Dora.

Her trusting heart was filled with kindness and compassion for others. Her spirit was gentle and forgiving, never demanding or imposing her ways on those around her. She was humble, unassuming, and self-giving. Even during seasons of illness and weakness, she continued to faithfully uphold others in prayer. Without even realizing it, Dora became a quiet yet beautiful example for many of us to emulate.

Deuteronomy 13:4 reminds me of Dora’s relationship with Jesus: “You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear Him and keep His commandments and obey His voice, and you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him.”

In her childlike faith, Dora earnestly sought after God. She revered and loved the Lord. She chose obedience and, in her seventies, began serving faithfully, holding fast to Him despite the many challenges she faced in life – truly reflecting the heart of a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I also remember how she would often misplace or lose her belongings, yet each time she would eventually find them again after bringing them before the Lord in prayer. God was so gracious to her. She also faithfully attended prayer meetings and Ladies Fellowship sessions, where she humbly learned and grew in the Word of God.

I miss her deeply, yet I also rejoice, knowing that she is now with the Lord, where there is peace and fullness of joy. It comforts me to imagine her delighting in her favourite gift – singing – in the heavenly realm, reunited with Nenek, Gilbert, and her mother.

Till we meet again, Dora. Until then, you will always remain fondly in my memories ❤️

(This one is for you, dear Dora – one of your favourite songs)