Thank God for a leader so loyal and brave

Jeyaraj Fernandopulle

Honourable Minister Jeyaraj Fernandopulle,
Whether it was party man or foe, you never said “ille”,
You won over all, going beyond all tongues, “isms”, castes and hues,
You have won the race and gone to your heavenly dues.

Thank God for a leader so loyal and brave,
Agent who always outsmarted the rest,
Adored by folks near and dear,
Honoured by great men all over the sphere.
Prominent and benevolent in action and words,
Courageous and victorious as fame would reward,
What irony to see a corpse so soft and meek
And recall the virile voice you possessed
As you grew to be a hero of the nation.

Thank God for a father and husband so dear,
A son, a brother, an uncle so full of cheer,
Never failing to share his time with all
Who came to tell tales of woe and perplexity.
With your powerful demeanour and virtuous behaviour
You would have abided by the precept that
“Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure,
A blessing of duty and love".

Now that he is gone into the presence of the Lord,
All we ask with humble hearts
Is to grant eternal rest to his soul,
Comforting and anointing his family and kin
By placing thy blessed hand above them, Oh Lord!
Throughout life’s journey and forever more.

By Satya Fernandopulle