Dear soldier.

So it's been 2 years and 3 days since I last saw you.

3 days

because I remember the two of you came to the camp on Sunday.

You left on Wednesday.

Sunday to Monday, Monday to Tuesday, Tuesday to Wednesday.

3 days.

Just the night before, I felt compelled to recite Surah Yaasin.

Usually it's done because we have to, or I want to

but that night, it felt because I - alone - have to.

It's fine. I was already 18.

Things have changed so much since you left.

By 'so much', I mean.. A LOT.

Not just me. Well, you know, everyone. Everything.

I never regretted the day you left.

Not even teeny tiny bit.

It is a blessing in disguise.

Well, all I can say is that now I feel a little less protected.

Never mind, I can try to protect myself for the moment being.

And Allah is always around.

Father,

please wait for Mum; one day, she'll be home with you

for eternity.

I wish for an infinite bliss - for both you and Mum - in Jannah.

Forever gone; never to return

but the love remains; it never dies.

Al Fatihah.