Appreciations

A wonderful mother

Beatrice Amerasekera

I had wondered many times over my mother's extended illness, how I would ever make it through losing her. It was only with the help of God that I was able to get through Mum's death and funeral. It is as though He has put a shield around me so that I don't feel the full brunt of the pain. I still grieve for her. But I know I am not alone, my Lord is with me always. He is my rock, my high tower from the storm and I will grieve holding onto His hand. 

She was with me at my birth and I was there for her at her death. We had some very special moments in the days before her death and I know I am blessed with a legacy of courage. I am sad and angry and I weep now for the pain and suffering she endured. Selfishly, I wish she were here so that I could massage her legs, comb her hair and hold her hands. She had lost so much weight but in death she looked like the beautiful young woman she had been. 

She has always been such an important part of my life. I remember so many special moments. I recall long chats with her on the phone, going out for a meal with her and then sharing a trip to the shops. 

We were all told how to cope without her. We found written instructions from her. She had even written her own obituary notice. We showered her with unfailing love, care and comfort and obtained the best medical treatment for her. When she was working at the cancer homes and even at the Cheshire Home many people received her unstinted support. Those who associated with her simply loved and adored her. 

It was remarkable how she endured her illness for four months. She was calm, unruffled and cheerful to the very end. We are sad that she is no longer with us, but glad that her suffering is over and that her last days were mostly peaceful with little pain. 

God made a wonderful mother; 

A mother who never grows old; 

He made her smile of the sunshine

And He moulded her heart of pure gold; 

In her eyes He placed bright shining stars

In her cheeks fair roses you see;

God made a wonderful mother

And He gave that dear mother to me. 

Thank you darling Mummy for all that you were to us and did for us. You helped others and expected nothing in return. You never counted the cost. May your soul rest in peace. Farewell Mummy, till we meet again. 

Lila 

Friend of all, enemy of none

Ronnie Abeysinghe

My friendship with Ronnie dates back to 1957. I met him at the Polytechnic for the preliminary selection of physical culturist for 'Mr. Superman'. I was adjudged the winner and Ronnie the first runner-up. Ronnie never forgot this and whenever I met him at functions he never failed to mention it to the others.

Later Ronnie joined the Parliamentary staff and rose to be Sergeant-at-Arms; a position he held with aplomb, dignity and decorum. He can be described as a 'gentle giant', the way he discharged the task of removing MPs from the House, at the behest of the Speaker. A combination of brain, brawn, savvy, wit and tact, enabled him to be a friend of all and enemy of none. His charisma was such that he held the top slot of many prestigious clubs and associations.

Ronnie, I will miss you. I extend my heartfelt sympathies to his wife and children. May he attain Nibbana.

Paul Gunawardena

You treated everybody alike

H.A.P. De Silva

The service you rendered to the people of Kurunegala as a Justice of Peace is also beyond description. You treated everybody alike, without any discrimination.

You were a strict disciplinarian to your children. It made us climb the ladder of higher education. Thank you, dear father, for you made us what we are now. You took pride in our achievements.

I also remember the smile which lit up your face when you went through the progress report of your grandson whose hearing is impaired. You encouraged him to do his studies well. The help you extended towards his further education in addition to the duties you fulfilled, would accrue merit and shorten your Sansaric journey.

We cannot erase the golden memories you have left behind. Every day we think of you and lovingly kiss your photograph, dearest father. We will love you forever.

Shanthi De Silva