It is amazing how many things we take for granted. We make plans for the day, and don't think twice about how those plans can be taken away in the blink of an eye. I never thought as much about it myself, until I faced with the shock, and undeniable truth of my grandfathers death. I don't think anyone really thinks about tragedy until they are actually faced with shocking news. Of course at the time I was only 10 years old and the word death has never even crossed my mind even once. I remember I never really liked or even wanted to spend anytime with my grandfather, all he did was scold and punish me. However, I realize I will never be the same because after learning about his life, I regret not even getting to know him before his unfortunate death, just 5 minutes would've been enough.
Just thinking back all I could ever remember of my grandfather was that he never showed any emotion; never said he loved anyone, never said whether or not he was having a good time, he showed no emotion whatsoever. Maybe once in awhile he would flash a tiny smile but other than that he never expressed anything. I was always wondering why he always looked so mad, maybe because he is old? Or maybe because he was having a bad day? Three years after his death, after all of my relatives have calmed down, I took the initiative to ask around the family to get to know him. Sometimes I even regret asking that question. Born into a rich North Korean family he lived through 2 eras- the Korean War (25 June 1950- 27 July 1953) and The Japanese Occupation of Korea 19101945. Can you imagine all the suffering and pain? At age 19 he was kidnapped by the North Korean army and forced to fight for the greater good. Without even a notice, a goodbye, or the sight of his parents he was taken to fight, for all he knew that would be the last time he ever saw his parents. Just even typing this essay wants to make me throw up and cry, I can't even imagine all the stress and pain he could have gone through.
