March 18, 2006
I have been arguing whether or not it’s appropriate to write about the loss of a family member in my blog. I initially felt rather strange to think of sharing such personal details with the outside world through this outlet. The transparency of blogging allows for readers to see multiple dimensions of the author if he or she is so willing. I never intended for my blog to be focused on specific themes like Technology or Music though I could probably write about those and more all day.
So I choose to share another dimension that exposes the personal detail of our recent loss. I don’t ask for condolences because those have a unique way of being especially awkward even when made in person, but I ask you to consider my grandfather’s selfless actions even in the face of the inevitable.
My grandfather was a great human being and hopefully I can learn a thing or two from him. I would be a better person for doing so. Sadly, he passed away on March 16 in Pondicherry, India.
Even while enduring intense pain towards the end of his life, my grandfather insisted that my family members fetch the necessary consent form required for him to donate his eyes for purposes of corneal grafting. About 1/4 of the total blind population of the world lives in India and there is a severe shortage of donor eyes for corneal transplant. He filled out the form and signed his name in the same bed in which he died.
I was incredibly moved when I heard of his simple act of kindness. To provide someone with the ability to see even when facing his own demise moved me to tears. But it shouldn’t have been a complete surprise considering his modest living and his philosophy of giving to the poor and needy.
Self-examination after hearing of such incredible acts is hard to avoid. I had to ask myself, “What do I worry about?” I think I need to concern myself with the eyesight of my fellow man more than I have.