If We Hold On

Out of the blues, I remember this song by Diana Ross - If We Hold On Together. I was first introduced to this song during the preparation course for MPIK-UK Twinning Programme 19 June 1995. It became kind of a 'theme' song for 1995-1997 batch.

June 1996, the first summer break for me. I returned home from Nottingham. I was married then and my husband was transferred to Sabah in November 1995. My two children were staying with my parents in Jerantut. So, on reaching home, I took them on a flight [first time for them] to see their father in Ladang Permai Lahad Datu Sabah.

The whole week there, I kept singing and listening to this song with the family [it didn't make much impact with the father though]. The meaning of each line became so profound because of our separation. The lines of the chorus were as though imploring us to hold on in getting through the temporary separation.

Don't know how to explain it but the shadow of doubts started appearing. Although we crossed the oceans to be together, there seemed to be a distance between us. I was hoping that the children could stay with their father while I was away but the father gave many many excuses. Few 'concerned' people tried telling me something but I didn't listen. I was too full with the song and the 'hope' it carried.

Don't lose your way,
with each passing day
We've come so far,
don't throw it away
Live believing, dreams are for weaving,
wonders are waiting to start
Live your story, faith hope and glory,
hold to the truth in your heart
***Chorus
If we hold on together
I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us thru to forever
Where clouds roll by
For you and I
Souls and the wind
Must learn how to bend
Seek out a star
Hold on till the end
Valley mountain
There is a fountain
Washes our tears all away
Words are swaying
Someone is praying
Please let us come home to stay
When we are out there in the dark
We dream about the sun
In the dark we'll see the light
Warm our hearts
Everyone
If we hold on together ...


It turned out that he was having an affair with a Philiphine GRO. He married his lady love later. No wonder he wasn't happy to see us then.