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Don’t ask me how I am


Assalamualaikum people
This is by my beloved English lecturer back in Uniten, 
during my preparation years 2003-2004
She just lost her husband, which I do not dare to ask the reason of his death
All I can do is praying hard and she will be just fine
I know she wont, at least for the time being
But all I know, knowing her, her perseverance will help her to go through this mourn phase of her life
I love you Ms Carole 

Don’t ask me how I am
Don’t ask if I’m okay
What would you have me say?

“I’m not okay”?
Then what would you say?
I would not put you on the spot like that.

“I’m okay”?
That would be a lie.
27 years of memories, bitter-sweet
Do not vanish overnight
                Or in a week
                Or in a year.

So, give me time, give me space
                to grieve.

And when you see me –
                Do not ask me how I am
                Do not ask if I’m okay
So that you won’t be made a fool
                Or me,  a liar.

Give me time, give me space
                to grieve – in private
for that is how I am.

So, how am I?
I know you want to know
So I’ll tell you –
I’m coping, I’m trying.
It’s hard but
I get out of bed each day
I put one foot in front of the other
And, somehow, I get through the day.
Just don’t ask me if I’m okay.

When you meet me, if you should meet me
Give me a smile, a hug
Hold my hand
Stand by me
It is enough, it is plenty – your friendship, your love.
And I will smile back as I always have.

In 27 years
You may ask me if I’m okay.

carole chung
24th June 2012
(Gavin’s 17th birthday)

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