REASONS

REASONS

~ GIVE THE ONES YOU LOVE
WINGS TO FLY, ROOTS TO COME BACK, AND REASONS TO STAY. ~

- Dalai Lama


“You will always be with us Nan,” promised Ruby, “in Figu’s heart and mine.”

Tears brandished her cheeks as she finished the eulogy for her grandma, Debbie. Following her last wishes, they were burying Nan under the lush sycamore-fig tree on the estate.

This was a special place for Ruby and Nan. From private summer picnics to heartfelt confidences, the two commemorated highs and lows among the branches of their favourite tree – the one Ruby had named, Figu.

It didn’t matter how much Ruby grew up, how far she travelled or how much she achieved – she always drew her strength from her bond with Nan and Figu. The three of them shared dreams, memories and an understanding that no words could express.

One night, a little while after the funeral, Ruby couldn’t sleep. She tossed and turned, but the turmoil in her mind did not ease up.

It had been a while since she had visited Figu. The pain of Nan’s passing had kept her away. But tonight, she felt drawn to the place that always offered her comfort.

Soon she was climbing up Figu’s embracing branches and settling into a familiar spot - a bough that hung out over the nearby lake. Lying down on it, Ruby peered at the silent waters. Moonlight brushed the surface, making it glisten like a peaceful jewel.

As a gentle breeze rustled through the leaves, Ruby shifted her gaze. Looking down at the crisscross of roots at Figu’s base, she rubbed her eyes in surprise. But no, she wasn’t dreaming.

There, outlined by the roots was a portrait of Nan. Ruby had been right. Even in Figu’s heart, the three of them would always be together.



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