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| The statue of Our Lady of Fatima lying in this grotto in Jerry's garden |
On April 14th 2021 was the third
anniversary of the statue of Our Lady of Fatima coming into my possession.
The events leading to the recovery of the statue have
always been in my memory.
On that day three years ago I somehow got a strong
urge to visit the Horley Road flea market or known locally as Pasar Karat in
Ipoh.
I rarely visited it because I am not a antiques
hunter. But I could not resist the urge, so I was there that afternoon.
As I entered, my eyes were fixed to a brownish object
about 14 inches in length lying on the concrete floor among some old rusty
spanners and metal tools.
I picked it up and immediately recognized it as the
statue of Our Lady of Fatima with the crown about to detach.
Suddenly an inner voice told me to take it home and it
would cost only RM5.
I then asked the vendor how much, and he quoted the
exact amount the inner voice had mentioned.
Without any hesitation I paid for it although I knew I
could get it for much less. I left for home as soon as I had it bundled.
When I returned home I gave the statue a good wash and restored the original colours.
Now
I realised that I was drawn to the fleas market for only one purpose, that was
to get the statue.
Later I built a small grotto beside my fish-pond and
placed the statue inside. It has been there ever since.
I strongly believe the statue had come to my house for
a good reason. And, I am proud and honoured to be given the opportunity to
rescue it from the flea market.
by Jerry Francis
