In Asian culture, traditions and religious ceremonies such as prayers and funerals can be really important, especially towards the elderly community members.
But with traditions becoming less and less of a priority for the younger generation, where do we draw the line?
Recently, a Malaysian took to the XUAN Play Facebook page to anonymously question how important it is for them to attend their father-in-law’s funeral when they had booked a trip to Europe long before their father-in-law had suddenly passed away.
This image is for illustration purposes only.
The person wrote, “Is it really something of significance to miss a funeral? I bought a ticket 6 months ago to travel to Europe for 2 weeks. I booked all the hotels and arranged all the itineraries, but my father-in-law was hospitalised a week before the departure.”
“My father told me that my father-in-law’s condition was bad and asked me not to go abroad. I don’t understand. He won’t get better if I stay, so why should I stay?”
Ultimately deciding that they were still going to proceed with their trip, they received a call while at the airport.
This image is for illustration purposes only.
“I didn’t listen to him and decided to fly out because I thought my father-in-law would be fine. But, things became really dramatic. I received a call from my father while I was at the airport, saying that my father-in-law had passed away and asking me to come home,”
“I sat at the airport and thought about it for half an hour, and finally decided to fly abroad as planned. Firstly, I didn’t want to waste the money that I had saved for so long, and secondly, I felt that the funeral was just a ritual. The most important thing is that I was filial (while my father-in-law was alive),” they explained.
But now, while travelling through Europe, they can’t seem to shake the feeling that things are going to be tense when they return home.
“I am still travelling around Europe now. There may be changes at home when I return. I don’t know what to do. Can anyone help me explain to my parents that I did nothing wrong (by skipping the funeral)?”
Netizens have since shared their opinions on this matter, believing that there is no right or wrong.
“If you have been filial then it’s okay, your father-in-law will not mind your decision.”
“It is not about right or wrong, but how deep your feelings are. Whether this is something regrettable or not, everyone will have different opinions.”
“This basically showcases the extent of your relationship with your father-in-law. There is no right or wrong. It’s just that some things, once missed, can never be returned.”
“This depends on how you and your family views it. There is no right or wrong.”
Do you think they should have just let their trip to Europe go after spending so much money? Or should money not be an object when family is involved?
Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.
Also read: M’sian Parent Bashed for Condemning Teacher for Going to Paris During Schooling Period
