In January of 2019, my mom who was then 82 was diagnosed with colon cancer (Stage IIIA).

She underwent surgery on February of the same year, but refused to undergo chemotherapy. She said that she was old already and did not want to have to struggle with ‘quality of life’ issues. We actually had bookings for our trip to Tokyo in March of the same year. A month after her surgery, she struggled to make it with us to the trip.

It’s been five years (and more) since her surgery, and it’s been a roller coaster ride of having to deal with health issues. With the love and care of her family – my niece, nephew, sister and my partner – we were able to manage through several speed bumps on health.

I’ve always believed in the power of prayers. Sometimes, when we ask for those small miracles, someone up there listens to us. As a man of science, I believe that we are only instruments of God.

On a balmy Maundy Thursday in Tokyo, my mom wanted to visit a church. Unfortunately, we could not use the PWD lift because there was no one around but the Tsukiji Catholic Church (https://tsukijicatholic.org) was open. We spent 30 minutes there in meditation, thanking God for the extended journey in her life.

Unlike our trip last year where we stayed in the hustle and bustle of Ginza, this time around was a more reflective one. (Did I not blog about how reflections killed my Apple Watch?)

We spent more time bonding and enjoying each other’s company. At my age, I began contemplating more on what my mom’s journey was and how my journey of accepting struggles and resilience brought me to where I am today. No complaints. No regrets. Just pure acceptance.

Because love, is what pulled us through those difficult times.

Love, was the miracle.

The first Apple Watch Series 1 came out in 2016, I was one of those who flew to Tokyo to grab one.

There was that fascination over, yes, owning a watch that synced with your phone, apps and all!

Over the years, the Apple Watch evolved as technology advanced as quickly as the iPhone.

As quickly as the phones changed, so did the watches. And the other digital devices.

A few years after the launch of the Apples Watch, many other brands came out with their own versions of the “smart watch”. And smart phones.

I have nothing against technology. In reality, I am one of those who embraced the craze.

On our recent trip to Tokyo, one realization struck me when my Apple Watch died on me. Yes. It literally lost power several times. And I knew this 5 year old watch (yes it was a series 4), was ready to retire.

And while I was looking at my “dead” watch at Shinjuku, the realities that struck me were:

1. The watches had no resale value. These smart watches had a life span. They don’t last like the phones and no matter how expensive