Colour of Time: From Great-Grandmother to Great-Grandchildren: A Bridge of Four Generations

Six months had passed since our last visit to my see mother-in-law in April this year (Read here). Our recent trip to Batu Pahat, from 9 to 13 October 2025, was made more special as we were joined by Sam and his family from Singapore.

This visit held particular significance because it marked the first meeting between Maddie, my youngest granddaughter, and her great-grandmother. For Livvie, it was a joyful reunion - her second encounter since their first meeting in November 2018.

When Livvie and Maddie were brought to the care home on the morning of 11 October 2025, my mother-in-law’s face lit up with recognition. The moment she saw Livvie, she exclaimed in Chinese, “She is my old friend!” Clearly, she still remembered their meeting seven years ago in Kuala Lumpur, when Sam’s family visited their cousins there.

As for Maddie, the moment was simple yet touching - a gentle handshake marked their very first meeting, bridging generations in a tender gesture of connection.

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Livvie seemed to share a special bond with her great-grandmother. Even during their first meeting in 2018, at mealtime, she insisted on being fed by her great-grandmother - a touching gesture that reflected their instant connection. Back then, my mother-in-law was still physically strong enough to carry and cuddle her great-granddaughter with ease. Now, though age has taken away that strength, the affection between them remains unchanged - felt deeply through smiles, gentle touches, and unspoken warmth.