Early July 2008, I was in Indonesia tracing back my path that was left behind for almost 12 years. No, do not jump to a short conclusion yet. That is not a proud statement. Believe it or not, after so many years, that was not easy for our family.
While in Indonesia, I watched TV, talked to friend and relatives, read some local newspaper and SMS that came in from all over the states. Among them, there is only one event that I will never forget for the rest of my life.
I had chanced to talked in private with former big boss newspaper company in Suharto era. I have forgotten what the communication was. I had received a visit from one of the most highly respected businessmen in West Surabaya, but I have forgotten what the discussion was.
But there was another conversation came from a nearly blinded old woman and I will never forget it, my grandma's sister. She said, “Your grandma had a lot of hopes on you to take care of these big families. Are you going back to Indonesia for good?". I was looking at her and trying to find out what her question is aimed to. I saw a wrinkled face that was clearly expecting an answer. Still, I could not answer her question. And the next minute, I felt something beating on my heart. Seeing me with no reaction, she left me and mumbling, "Have you done anything useful after Alloh give all of these to you?"
Well, I left Indonesia this morning, fly heading to Houston. All of my kids began to say what the plan for next year. I do not know what will happen now. We have got some difficult days ahead. But it does not matter with me now. Because I have been there and I don’t mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long useful life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do what has been written for me. Alloh has allowed me up to this achievement. I have looked over and seen the promised land. I want you to know even though I can reach the promised land, I am still not able to answer the simple question that my grandma's sister asked me earlier.
While in Indonesia, I watched TV, talked to friend and relatives, read some local newspaper and SMS that came in from all over the states. Among them, there is only one event that I will never forget for the rest of my life.
I had chanced to talked in private with former big boss newspaper company in Suharto era. I have forgotten what the communication was. I had received a visit from one of the most highly respected businessmen in West Surabaya, but I have forgotten what the discussion was.
But there was another conversation came from a nearly blinded old woman and I will never forget it, my grandma's sister. She said, “Your grandma had a lot of hopes on you to take care of these big families. Are you going back to Indonesia for good?". I was looking at her and trying to find out what her question is aimed to. I saw a wrinkled face that was clearly expecting an answer. Still, I could not answer her question. And the next minute, I felt something beating on my heart. Seeing me with no reaction, she left me and mumbling, "Have you done anything useful after Alloh give all of these to you?"
Well, I left Indonesia this morning, fly heading to Houston. All of my kids began to say what the plan for next year. I do not know what will happen now. We have got some difficult days ahead. But it does not matter with me now. Because I have been there and I don’t mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long useful life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do what has been written for me. Alloh has allowed me up to this achievement. I have looked over and seen the promised land. I want you to know even though I can reach the promised land, I am still not able to answer the simple question that my grandma's sister asked me earlier.
