Just got back from a funeral service for a colleague. No, I did not cry my eyes out, but to be honest, the service was very moving, and, as at other funeral services I have attended, there were not many dry eyes by the time all the eulogies were delivered....
Which made me think of a Chinese literary giant of the 20th century who left clear instructions for not making a big fuss over his passing. Something to ponder over this upcoming holiday weekend: How would I like my funeral to be handled if I were to drop off/check out without prior warning (I am not yet of the dying age yet, but who knows, anything could happen these days)?
一、不能因為喪事受任何一文錢——但朋友的，不在此例。
Funeral is no excuse for accepting charities – donations from friends excluded.
二、趕快收殮、埋掉、拉倒。
The sooner my remains are prepared for burial and interred, the better – no need to fuss over formalities.
三、不要做任何關於紀念的事。
Thanks, but no memorial activities, please.
四、忘掉我，管自己的生活——倘不，那就真是糊塗蟲。
Forget me; carry on with your own life – otherwise, you are a true fool.
五、孩子長大，倘無才能，可尋點小事情過活，萬不可去做空頭文學家或美術家。
When the kid is grown, if he lacks talent or special skills, encourage him to make a living by leading an ordinary person’s life; avoid at all costs becoming a sham literati or artist.
六、別人應許給你的事物，不可當真。
Don’t take others’ promises too seriously.
七、損著別人的牙眼，卻反對報複，主張寬容的人，萬勿和他接近。
Steer clear of anyone who attacks others yet advocating tolerance by striking a pacifist posture.
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