MOTHERS' SOUL

Though the last rites for mother followed that of Buddhism, we were nevertheless influenced by Taoism believes and customs. Cantonese believe that a desease' soul will return home on the seventh day. So it is tonight. Janet and Sis had taken the trouble to bring yummy food to place at mother's house so that she had something to eat when she "returns home". I had bought her a lipstick to be placed at her dressing table as she was always well-groomed when she was well. Over at my place, I had placed a cup of coffee and some biscuits at the coffee table, in case she "drops by". Though the preparation is not as elaborate as in the past, this practice still has its value in that it helps us adjust to the departure slowly, lessening the pain.