Pray for MH 370: Sofuan Ibrahim

I wrote this piece on behalf of my friends, to those who have known Sofuan Ibrahim personally and have been touched by him in many ways. To those who wish they could pen their feelings for him in words. And to those who have kept him in their prayers.

I first met Sofuan when we were seven years of age. We were classmates in primary school for six years and I have not met him since. It has been twenty years.

I will always remember him as a kind hearted and spirited person. Time has stolen most of my memories of him but it has left me the essentials. Even at that very young age he was brilliant and his maturity belied his age. He was one of the best students in my class and a gifted public speaker. Blessed with the ability to lead by example, he was also the head prefect of my school. And we all loved him.

Sofuan contacted me some time ago. I was still working in Sabah and he had visited our home town. He mentioned that he never gets to meet his old friends whenever he is in town. He still remembers all our names and was really looking forward to meeting up. I gave him my word that I would contact him once I am back in town. I never did.

There are very few things in life I truly regret and this is one of them.  We are often swallowed by our commitments and it leaves us drained of everything else. It keeps us away from the things that really matter.

I wrote to remind us never to keep our search for comfort and financial security away from those we care and love. If you think of someone who means a lot to you, call now. Don’t wait. If you have not told someone how much they mean to you, say it now. Never hesitate. Go forth. Steal that kiss, hold that hand a while longer or hug someone a little bit closer for you may never know when you will see them again. Time is cruel to those who keep love and friendship locked within.

Live your life for those who matter. Burn those petty arguments. Cast your ego aside. Mould your life the way you want it to be, rather than conforming to the perceived standards of others. And live in the present for that is your gift to the future and a treasure for your past. Only then will you have truly lived with no regrets.

Please pray for MH 370. Pray for Sofuan Ibrahim. If you cannot pray then hope. If you cannot hope then believe.

I am often reminded of a quote by Albert Camus;

In the midst of hate, I found there was, within me, an invincible love. In the midst of tears, I found there was, within me, an invincible smile. In the midst of chaos, I found there was, within me, an invincible calm. I realized, through it all, that, In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’€™s something stronger, something better, pushing right back.

We are waiting for you, Sofuan. And we will keep praying. I hope to see you soon my friend. God bless MH 370.