Wind, air, soul and eternity.


A friend of mine in Japan who pastors a church E mailed me with a request right before Christmas. It was an unusual request but he asked me to translate a message he wrote in preparation for a funeral. He explained to me that this lady, suffering from a spread of cancer has discussed her wish regarding her own funeral including her thoughts for her loved ones she is leaving behind. The fact that this lady is not that much older than my age caught my attention. Perhaps because I went through a year of the designated status as a cancer patient, I empathized with the thoughts in the message deeply while translating this message. I felt a sense of mission to be sure to express what is written by my friend in English into the most meaningful words and phrases. I gave my best effort for this honor, thinking of her loved ones seeking comfort and encouragement while grieving the loss.

The lady, I will name her Ms.C, passed away on Monday this week. My friend who requested the translation assistance wrote to me about the detail of the services and how the messages were received. He described how the words I chose in translation meant to Ms.C's family and her friends. It was an overwhelming moment to feel that I was there in words although I am here thousands of miles away. As Ms. C looked back at her earthly life, I hope that what she saw was the most peaceful and gentle breeze blowing on her friends and her family members she loves. I know her soul rests in peace in the eternity in the presence of the ultimate Friend.

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