“We must see life in true light. It is an instant between two eternities.” – St. Thérèse of Liseux
I had the privilege of knowing Muruthappah Naganathan (Nage) in this instant of time – from the day he married my close friend Malini. For me, that day was the beginning of a beautiful friendship with a couple so closely knit together.
As a single woman I know how hard it is for an unmarried female to survive (especially in a country like Sri Lanka), unless you have the warm assurances and sound advice of sincere and caring friends, such as I enjoyed through Nage and Malini. In time, all Nage’s friends became Malini’s friends. Their home and their hearts were open to me and my friends. They would listen to our problems and try to solve them.
Together, probably without their being aware of it, Nage and Malini nurtured many beautiful friendships, and although Nage is no longer with us, the friendships continue.
Nage and Malini clearly had immense faith in God. Small wonder, then, that the fruits of their relationship overflowed into the lives of others, like myself.
Most people are aware of Nage’s extraordinary capabilities, and his talent as an accountant. He was also a good sportsman – a Rugger Lion, no less. I experienced his sportsman-like spirit on the rugged field of life.
I am deeply grateful for the help and advice he gave me in financial matters. When I returned from Zambia, I might have spent my savings if not for Nage’s sound investment advice.
He was truly a trustworthy and upright man, and I was not alone in benefiting from his wisdom. When, for instance, my sister was facing serious problems, Nage and Malini helped me to guide her. I could give many other examples of their generosity and kindness, but neither space nor confidentiality allow me to do so.
Nage was blessed with a God-fearing, genial and sociable wife, to whom the words of Solomon apply:
“The truly capable woman – who can find her?
She is far beyond the price of pearls.
Her husband’s heart has confidence in her.
From her he will derive no little profit.
She will do him good all the days of her life.”
These words aptly describe the solid bond that Nage and Malini shared. Just as their home was named Shangri-La, so their relationship provided a place of rest and recuperation for many weary travellers along Life’s Way.
While I miss Nage’s laughter, mirth and comradeship, I triumphantly celebrate his life of caring, sharing and his commitment to God’s values and God’s people. I conclude my fond farewell with the words of the great English poet, John Donne:
“Any man’s Death diminishes me,
because I am involved in Mankinde;
And therefore never send to know for Whom the Bell Tolls; It tolls for Thee.”
Farewell dear friend. May you have eternal happiness and peace in God.
Rita Saverimuttu
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