We are living in a world where no one is immortal. We are all going to die one day — that’s the reality.

But when it comes to our loved ones, I often feel like the time we have with them is never enough. That’s how it feels for me whenever I lose someone I love.

My Papa was sick with diabetes for years before he died. He passed away suddenly from a heart attack on July 7th, 2021. I still remember the shock when it happened, because just three hours before he passed, he called me to complain about the AC in his room being broken and asked me to find a technician to fix it. I was often his go-to person whenever he needed something.

After Papa died, I struggled deeply — it was so unexpected. But there was one thing that gave me some solace: knowing he wasn’t in pain anymore. For years, he had to endure daily insulin shots, strict diets, endless doctor visits — which was especially hard for him because he loved good food. In those last months, he really suffered, and I hold on to the comfort that he is finally free from that pain.

What helped me through those first months of grief was the support of close friends, journaling, and constantly reminding myself: Papa isn’t suffering anymore.