Emotions

The past 5 years have presented many different challenges to us as a family. I was indeed very shocked when I first heard of Mum's cancer. It also shocked all the people around her. She was always healthy and active; hence we never expected it to happen to her.

That time was one of the most challenging in my life. I remember it was the year 2000. Many people at that time were full of joy and celebration as the world embraced the New Millennium. I started the year grieving over the passing of my beloved grandmother and trying to recover from that loss. Then, some months later, Mum broke the news to my siblings and I that she had to go to the States for medical treatment.

That year, whilst in the care of my relatives, I questioned God. "Why is all this happening to the people in my world?" My heart was full of frustration and sorrow then. I was not able to overcome these emotions for some time.

When I heard Mum had started painting whilst in the States receiving treatment, I was indeed surprised since I had never seen Mum paint or draw before. I had always thought that the artistic side of people is something one is born with. Most surprising is how Mum has managed to develop this talent in just 2-3 years! I'm sure this is a big surprise to most of the people who know her as well.

To me, the collection of paintings in this book reflects Mum's continued determination to overcome the difficult times with scenes of life. Personally I have drawn tremendous inspiration from some of them and they always remind me never to give up no matter the circumstances and to look at the bright side of life. Looking at them sometimes brings back memories of those years and I can see how far we've come. Frustration and sorrow have gradually turned to happiness.

Thanks be to God.

Kevin Ong YW
May 2006