Although unplanned, coming to Malaysia has been absolutely perfect. Bill and I haven’t been here for ten years. He worked in Malaysia for five years as a young adult, and you might remember that we used to visit here (and the rest of Asia) often in the early 2000s.
Needless to say, Bill always enjoys returning to the places he remembers. Many have since changed. He is pleasantly surprised to rediscover old haunts that have miraculously remained the same, and proudly dusts off his Malay language skills whenever possible. The locals get a kick out of the surprise when he quite unexpectedly breaks out in the local tongue.
Even for me, Kuala Lumpur (KL) has changed drastically since we were last here. The city center has morphed into a metropolis, spreading out into the rural areas, cementing over earth, claiming more and more green and blue.
Those not financially benefiting from development seem either upset and out matched or totally oblivious to what is sprouting up all around them. Super air conditioned shopping malls in the sky, amuse and distract. Some see progress, others mourn.
Langkawi, on the other hand is an idyllic retreat just a short flight or day’s drive to the coast. For those who can afford to holiday outside of KL, this is indeed paradise. And apparently, many can, and do; joined by sun worshipers from around the world.
This is not the only area in which to vacation in Malaysia. Penang and East Malaysia are also popular destinations (among others). Thailand is a short ferry ride away.
But this week has been spectacular. The tropical weather, nature, food and people here are all a joy to experience – it’s springtime and Easter.
Oh, and there are monkeys! But they know I’m not a fan, so have kept a respectful distance.
Although thin and easily fatigued, Ruth seems to be faring well on her new chemo therapy regimen. She appears to feel stronger as each day passes. This week is one of two before the next infusion. And then the cycle repeats – every three weeks, indefinitely.
We’re all sort of precariously walking a thin line between health and wellness, what is known and what is not. The unexpected looms large and despised, all around us. Although attempted, total denial of the truth is impossible. All we can do is move forward, take one day at a time, and follow her lead.
In the meantime, Bill and Ruth have been having an absolute ball, reminiscing about the past. They delight in each other’s company. While I walk or sit on the beach, they gather in our villa to talk, read and laugh for hours on end. That then was a happy time in their young lives. I’m glad they can reclaim it.
This may be the last time that we get to see her. If it is, we sure are glad that we made it happen. Especially, Bill – desperately unprepared and not ready to say goodbye to any of it.
