“When you are born, you cry, and the world rejoices. When you die, you rejoice, and the world cries.”

My cousin who lost her brother in a tragic car accident five years ago stood in front of me, with tears in her eyes, trembling, and uttered these very words. I remember that gloomy day very clearly…I remember when I heard the tragic news…and I remember asking myself, “If I am feeling this unhappy, how must his siblings be feeling?” I thanked God that I had not been put in such a situation and wondered whether I’d be able to muster the strength to handle a similar tragedy. Well, here I am five years later facing the exact same situation with my family and people are wondering those very things I wondered five years ago.

Well, my friends no words can describe the scar placed in your heart but what I can say is the lesson with such an incident is direct and powerful and what you learn is that anything can happen at anytime. Live your life day by day and aim as high as you can because life is a gift and you should value every second of it. Don’t take things for granted and value every precious moment spent with your family.

The Godfather, Mr. Sixties, My Brother, ALI AFIF AHMAD, a Genius at Mind, an Angel at Heart, an Unbeatable Smile, Ready to Conquer the World…My brother was a very determined individual. After passing High School I.B with a 38, he decided to attend UCL and study Information Management. He graduated only two months ago with a strong desire to pursue a career in Diamonds.

After spending two weeks with Darine and I in Lebanon, one week with my mother and younger sisters in Belgium, he decided it was time to go work in Africa with my dad, where he spent his final two weeks. As if planned by a MASTERMIND, my brother was able to give us all a final goodbye. In the end, you are left with a lost sibling and the continued journey of life.

A Respected Adult and a Defined Role Model…those who knew him will miss him deeply, as I will. You always wanted the best of me and your advice was priceless. You are MY BONES, I LOVE YOU…

BY AHMAD AFIF AHMAD