From Dora Huang Zeping in Hong Kong

A warm heart, a bright smile

On my way back to Hong Kong from my parents' place, I received a message from Isabella, which wrote "hope this message finds you and your family well" in the first line. I perceived something upsetting or unhappy had happened, but had no sense of how bad it would be. Then "Fawzia" popped up in the second line. Something bad must have occurred to Fawzia, I was afraid, but tried to think in a positive way. It couldn't be that bad; perhaps she just got hurt or injured. With hope, I continued. "She died yesterday in a car accident which happened three days ago in Sri Lanka". She DIED? I rubbed my eyes and read it again. No! I couldn't believe it... Yes, she died. It was true, cruelly...

Jesus Christ. These were the only words murmured on my mind all through the way back home. Tears burst out down along my cheeks. This was the first time I experienced an unexpected death of a friend. In the past, the persons I knew and loved passed away were my grandparents, but they were gone naturally at an old age. Fawzia was the first friend who had left me out of the blue.

I remember her smile, her bright and warm smile. I remember the first time I knew her. I was nearly late for a meeting with my supervisor Prof. Braine. When I told him I just got back from the hospital, he was surprised and worried, asking me why I went there." To have my breast lump checked." I said with ease.

But Prof. Braine was concerned and replied seriously, "You should be careful about this. My wife also has this problem. Maybe she can help you." With these words, he called her and arranged an appointment for me with her, Mrs. Braine. This was the name I addressed Fawzia when we were together. She warmly gave me advice on how to prevent breast lumps; later introduced me to an international church in Hong Hom and her friends Isabella and Mark there. I become friends with them.

I remember the last time I saw her. Fawzia invited us to the Christmas Banquet. I sat beside her. My memories of her are still vivid ones--- her genuine joy like a playful kid whenever she got a correct answer in the quiz; our casual talks about her work and plans for Christmas during the dinner; saying " Good bye, see you next year" before we parted. Hardly believe our adieu last time is a farewell forever!

Though she has gone with God, we will be missing her presence. Trust she is as happy as she's always been. Fawzia. May you rest in peace.