[Jackie07]

After spending nearly a month in the hospital suffering from 2 pneumonias and depending on a breathing tube for 2 weeks, my father finally left us. He had known the inevitable since early May when he gave clear instructions about his funeral and attempted to leave the world peacefully while doing meditation...

Instead, he had to endure the ulcers and pain caused by the breathing tube (which he had agreed to while gasping for air) and the nightmares in the dying process...

I was never an advocate for 'unatural' passing. But now I understand why some of those who are familiar with the process would push for the practice of 'pulling the plug' (or, in my Father's case, pulling the 'tube'.)

My Mother had the final say about ending my Father's suffering. But neither she nor my Oldest Sister would consent to hastening the process. They used tradition/religion as excuses to allow my Father's body to decay in front of their eyes...

Father had wanted to die at home - 2nd Sister's son, a medical doctor, had suggested to keep him on oxygen until he's transferred to his own bed at home before pulling the breathing tube. But 2nd Sister is the 5th one in the 'chain of command'...

According to the Chinese tradition, a passing at my father's age is considered a celebrated event. Instead of the traditional black/white color for mourning, my family members will be privileged to wear a red flower/ribbon.

But there's also a tradition deterring one's living relatives from hastening the death...

The older I get, the more I understand the theme song of 'Fiddler on the Roof'. Tradition, tradition! How many unnecessary sufferings have been induced in thy name!