The day the light of our home faded away

Cryshanthie Nilmini Wijewarnasooriya

August 5 marked the 10th anniversary of your sad and untimely demise recalling fragrant memories of our dear Nilmini. The light of our home faded away suddenly bringing grief and misery to family, relations and friends far and near. Although I feel that the “Call” was too early it was perhaps God’s wish that it was you who could fill that void in that far and distant land blessed with golden shores. The sweet memories of you shall linger in our hearts though we neither see nor hear you.

Could I ever erase that lovely past as a bundle of mischief, your sweet smile and chuckling voice that made us all happy.

As the years rolled by, you turned out to be a pretty civilized lady and a beautiful brilliant young scholar who won many an award at H.F.C. Kalutara. Later you were selected as the best Science student at Holy Family Convent, Bambalapitiya and awarded the Ratnayake Memorial Shield for the best performance in 1984, entering the Colombo Medical College at an early age of 18 years.

As a student your cheerful and unassuming character won many a friend. As a student vocalist you played a prominent part in all cultural events at the Medical College. As a doctor you stood for duty and compassion. As a loving daughter and sister you discharged your duties to family members and were at their beck and call.

Your untimely death at the age of 32 is an irreparable loss to me, your father, two brothers and only sister. You were considerate and ever so affectionate even to the most helpless regardless of their status in life. You never drove a car in your life, flew in a plane or went abroad, but were deeply respected by everyone. You were devoted to your parents, enjoying and sharing the successes and sorrows to the very end of your life. Till we meet again to hug and kiss your lovely face with gratitude for your good deeds, enjoy what you richly deserve in Paradise.

So goodbye darling Nilmini. May the gracious Lord in his infinite mercy grant you eternal happiness and may you rest in peace.

By Amma, (W. S. A. D. Wijewarnasooriya).