When I sat down to write this, I really had no idea of where to start. Ah-bu lived for over ninety years, and I was only witness to a small portion of that time. Her life began in another world and in another age, one so foreign to my own that I couldn�t even begin to understand it. Yet even worlds removed, she was so easy to relate to. There was something universal about her. You feel like anywhere she went, Ah-bu would not just fit in but be feel at home. She was so friendly and outgoing and could strike up a conversation with complete strangers like they were old friends. She went out of her way to help anyone and everyone, enriching the lives of everyone around her. Ah-bu possessed the kindest heart I�ve ever known and if we all had a fraction of that kindness, the world would be a better place.When my brother and I were younger, Ah-bu would often watch over us when my mom went away on business. She would make our lunches, drop us off at school, pick us up, made sure we did our homework and went to bed on time. To some, this may sound like a burden, but she enjoyed every second of it. The two of us were probably quite a handful back then, but she was always patient with us. I can�t remember a time she ever lost her temper.In more recent years, Ah-bu started to lose her hearing, but it never dampened her spirit. It seemed like she faced every obstacle in front of her, including her hearing loss, with unyielding optimism and a big smile. Sometimes, during holiday get-togethers, I could tell she was unable to follow the conversations because of her hearing. I don�t think she ever let it upset her because every time I looked at her, she always had a smile on her face. I don�t think anything made her happier than seeing all of us together. Well, that and Mah-Jong. Seeing all her friends and family enjoying each other�s company made her happy, and there was nothing more important to her than the well-being of her loved ones.So here we are, her friends and family, gathered together. I know Ah-bu would not want to see us sad or make a big fuss over her. She would tell us to stay positive, to look forward to tomorrow, to be thankful for everything that we have and of each other. She would tell us not to be upset that she�s gone, but to be thankful that she was able to live a full and wonderful life surrounded by many people who loved and cared for her. Ah-bu was probably the most independent person I�ve ever known and, even at her age, wanted to do everything on her terms. She hated having everyone make a big deal over her and treating her her age. In her heart, she wasn�t a day over twenty with her whole life ahead of her and for this, we should be thankful. So many people spend their twilight years looking back at their better days, but I kept telling everyone I want to be just like Ah-bu when I�m older, still running around and living life to the fullest. We should remember that she was able to live her life on her own terms, the way she wanted it.Ah-bu was a role model for us all, not just in what she taught, but in her actions; the way she lived every day of her life. We will never forget you, Ah-bu. We love you and miss you and thank you for all the happiness you brought to our lives.##imported-begin##Brian Chung##imported-end##
