God's Gift

The Beginnings of a New Leaf

Sooner than later, my cries turned to sniffles and I ended up getting a headache and red swollen eyes.

Ultimately, I was a mess.

I got up and looked at my parents. Their faces were filled with sorrow and worry for my well being.

" How long do you think you will continue to be like this? It is done Thanzee.. What has happened happened. Now, we have to slowly move on. Why aren't you understanding? You are getting older and need to get married soon... everyone has been talking about your wedding... I-- how..." my mother's complaining turned to sobbs and she cried as well.

My dad proceeded to comfort her along with my sister. She was frowning at me as if asking, 'why do you always have to spoil the environment'

" Mom, I am so sorry ma. I swear I never meant to act like this. I am just depressed that's all. I am trying to slowly get---"

" DEPRESSED? DEPRESSED MY FOOT!! Who are you trying to fool Thanzee? Us or yourself? We have all been sad and shocked about Basahr's death but that doesn't mean we have all sat in a corner worried about him. He is gone and there is nothing we can do.

Are you the only girl in this world who has lost her boyfriend? Tell me. No. People greive for a day or a week then move on. That is the practicality of life. Do you understand me?" lectured my dad

I was dazed and slightly elevated at my dad's powerful speech.

" I am so sorry if it seems like I am yelling at you but it's for your own good."

" I get it pa. I totally understand. I am the one that should apologize. I have brought so much unnecessary sadness and grief to you and mom. I'm so sorry." I said.

" It's ok ma. But do you remember one thing? What Bashar wanted you to promise?" suggested my mom.

" Yea. Sorta." I replied.

" I remember. He said, if you really loved him, he wanted you to marry someone else and live your life to the fullest." recalled my mom.

" Yes, she's right. That is excatly what we are asking of you Thanzee. Don't do it for anyone. Do it for Bashar. You promised him ma. For his sake..." suggested my dad.

I thought about this a good while. I obviously know that my parents mean well and want the best for me.. and Bashar also wants me to live a successful life.. even without him there for me. At that point, I realized that the love that we had is real. For love means sacrifice and respect. And for our love to remain meaningful and true even though we are not together in this earth, I must sacrifice my feelings for Bashar and respect his request for me.. Thus I decided to do so...

" Alright pa, ok ma.. I will get married soon ok? But not immedietly. Maybe a month or so? Because I don't have a job yet and I have to do that and start making money. Is that alright with you guys?" I asked.

" Ok ma. That is perfect." replied my parents.

With that, I got out of bed and went to the bathroom again--- but this time, I promised myself that I will emerge as a new person....