A Malaysian woman recently faced a moral dilemma when her grandfather was hospitalized just a week before her long-planned trip to Europe.
Despite her family’s pleas to stay, she decided to proceed with her two-week vacation.
‘Is it that important to attend a funeral?’
She shared her thoughts with XUAN Play, expressing confusion over why she needed to stay, believing her presence would not improve her grandfather’s condition. Convinced he would recover, she boarded her flight, only to receive the news of his passing while at the airport.
“I didn’t listen to my father and proceeded with my trip. However, I received a call from my father saying that my grandfather passed away,” she said.
After a half-hour of contemplation, she chose to continue with her trip, citing her significant financial investment and belief that attending the funeral was merely symbolic.
“I have been saving money for a long time and don’t want to waste it. I think attending the funeral is just a formality,” she wrote.
She also argued that her daily acts of filial piety were more meaningful than a single event.
Now traveling through Europe, she worries about the potential fallout with her family upon her return.
She also seeks reassurance that her decision was not wrong, hoping her parents will understand her perspective.
Netizens divided
The post, which was shared on Monday (22 July), has received over 400 likes and 100 shares at press time. Netizens are divided on the issue.
One netizen commented: “Her late grandfather would understand and support her decision.”
Another wrote: “Just be yourself. This is a decision/choice, not a mistake. Don’t be swayed by others’ moral coercion.”
However, some were critical. One user said, “You still have the mood to travel? You must not have much familial affection!”
Another asked, “Will you be happy while traveling to Europe?”