Most people have experienced death in, at least, some remote way. We see death on the news all the time, but every now and then it hits close to home. Perhaps a loved one dies, forcing us to think about our own mortality. Claudio Masai Arap Kilach was one of those people who was full of life. He was always moving, always loving, and was one of my biggest fans. In the late 70’s he used to cheer me when I demonstrated my literacy skills at such an early age. His face was continually wreathed in smiles, and he was never without something good to say. Claudio had energy and joy that spilled out and made everyone around fill feel cheerful. He called me his daughter. He kept saying my AIC church then was lucky to have me as an example to the youth. When I left home, he kept asking after me from Mom and Dad. When I came back from Brussels after 6 years he came home to toroch cheptanyu (‘welcome my daughter home’) . I still remember the warm tight hugs that told me about the love and sacred relationship we shared. When I joined LDS church he was one of the very few people who sought to understand this new undertaking rather than condemn like most.
When he got sick, he no longer moved a lot but whenever I am home I would go visit. Despite the toll the illness had taken on him, Arap Kilach never lost the light in his eyes. And I was always emotional that he was getting weaker. I wore this mask that somehow kept me from pondering his Mortality.
But last evening I was sitting in my study table working on translating conference talks. When I picked up my brother called me, we talked a bit and he told me about the loss. I quickly and tried to find my voice. I couldn't believe that joyful, friendly old man had departed. The overwhelming weight of sudden grief hit me.
His death was so shocking it has sent a tremor through our community. It was frightening. If he could die so could I. If such a wonderful, joyful person could fall surely anyone could. Its given me a new realization that nothing lasts forever. Not that I didn’t know, but the people who walk beside you could be gone in the next heartbeat. It made me appreciate the life God has given me and the lives of my friends and family all the more. I will never forget Arap Kilach. His Passing will forever serve as a reminder of my own mortality. RIP Mzee.
