A Memorable Day in my Life
The day was hot and sunny. I was lying in the front yard on my back when my mother called me inside to have something to eat. Here I’m telling this story. I just could not tear my eyes away from the empty chair in front of me. It was just too difficult to concentrate on the task in front of me – my Chemistry examination. So much has happened in just twenty-four hours.
Twenty-four hours ago, Charles was sitting in front of me, struggling with the History examination. He was so relieved when the examination was over. We went to our usual hangout with the gang. He brushed it aside as ‘exam fever’. Little did I know that it would be the last time I would see him alive.
Later that night, I received a call from Aunty Grace. She told me that Charles had been admitted to the hospital for suspected dengue fever. Then, she paused for what seemed like ages and said in a tearful voice, “Charles has left us. He slipped into a coma and never regained consciousness.” I do not recall how I spent the rest of the night. I only remembered calling our friends and we went to Charles’s house.
I looked at my friends who were writing furiously and I wondered whether they were struggling like me. I glanced at my watch and realized that it was already 10.30 in the morning. We would be going for the funeral service in about an hour. How was I going to say goodbye to my dear friend, my mentor and my counselor? He was there for me when my father passed away three years ago and he had always been like a big brother to me. I could still hear his jokes, his clowning around with us after the exam. How could I not know that he was sick?
The examination hall was unusually quiet. Miss Jeya signaled us to get into her car. Tears blurred my vision. I suddenly remembered the last time we were together in her car. We were going for debate and Charles was our first speaker. He made us laugh at his antics till our sides ached.
At the service, Aunty Grace looked calm as we took our places. Then, it was time for my presentation. I took a deep breath. I wanted to say a few words before my song but I choked. Aunty Grace looked at me and smiled encouragingly. Then, I sang ‘Amazing Grace’, Charles’s favorite song. “I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see.” As my voice soared, I knew Charles was listening and I felt at peace, Goodbye, my friend, till we meet again. I shall never forget this day for the rest of my life. I will never forget this day. I got down after four stands. I have to face this problem every day.
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