The perfect teacher, principled principal, astute administrator, wise psychologist, diligent worker, dignified person with a broad smile who could hold a pleasant conversation with anyone, regardless of age, cast or creed – that was Mr. H. L. B. Gomes.
Yes, it was on March 24 that our dear principal and father figure bade us his final goodbye. There are no words to describe the grief felt by his near and dear – such was the dimension of loss.
He was adored by those who knew him. This great man who saw trials and tribulations as challenges and who reached the pinnacle in his career was suddenly asked to take up another duty. This uninvited guest coldly hinted that his clock was ticking fast. Our cherished principal had an untimely demise, but as Caesar said: “The brave die but once.” Our Sir lived a magnificent life to the very end.
His competence showed in everything he undertook. Even his superiors marvelled at his amazing abilities. When our dear Sir took over Lyceum Panadura from our headmistress Mrs. Champa Fernando, he said that it was she who had managed the whole show, until he took over. He believed in consulting competent people to ensure that all went smoothly at the school – the hallmark of a truly experienced person.
We were privileged to work under such a great person. During my two-and-a-half years at Lyceum Panadura, I never once saw Mr. Gomes neglect his duties or make excuses, whether he was well or unwell.
One morning, about 9 a.m. I saw Mr. Gomes sitting down to breakfast. I asked why he was breakfasting so late. He gave his charming smile and said that he had had visitors from early morning.
I must place on record the thoughtfulness Mr. Gomes showed for others during his illness. He tried his best never to miss a special occasion, be it a wedding, a function, a match, or a funeral. He made everyone happy and proud with his presence, however brief his visit.
People from all walks of life would head to his residence, regardless of the time. Although terminally ill, he would spend time with them, asking questions and recalling old times. His mind was very alert to the end. His dear wife, Mrs. Annette Gomes, graciously received the steady stream of visitors. I salute her for carrying out her duties so well at a difficult time for the family.
Our principal was a leader par excellence. The large intake of students when Mr. Gomes took office at Lyceum Panadura speaks volumes for his fine qualities. Students and teachers – we all wanted to join Lyceum because we knew we would be working under a quality principal. We held him in the highest esteem. My teacher colleague Shiran Vaz said Mr. Gomes brought the smile back to his face: “He had a gift for sensing the truth and sorting out our problems.”
You would see our dear principal early in the morning, smartly dressed, standing in the quadrangle, a broad smile on his happy face, greeting all who walked in. Thanks to Mr. Gomes, the day always started on a cheerful note for us. He had a majestic walk as he strolled down the corridors of the school. Later, when he took his place in the principal’s office, the room became almost like a shrine, such was the calibre of this fine person.
He took the school cricket team to St. John’s College to play a friendly match. Even though the times were not conducive for such matches, he undertook this great journey with the team to bridge the gap. In recognition of his humanitarian gesture, he was invited to the 175th anniversary celebration of the St. John’s Old Boys’ Association. Both Royal College and St. John’s College played a cricket match for the peace trophy.
We organised a farewell for our dear Principal on March 18. He had handed in his resignation because of his illness. He stood tall as he addressed us. That was his final function. Teacher Tilan Perera also spoke on the occasion, saying Mr. Gomes was one of the country’s best school principals. What a marvellous tribute.
Our principal’s life is an open book. We turn the pages and learn many useful things. It speaks of how to serve humanity and how to earn respect from young and old.
It was heartbreaking to hear, on April 24, of our dear sir’s untimely demise – just six days after we had bade him farewell. As my colleague Lakshika Ilapperuma put it, we had lost a treasure of treasures.
When he passed away, messages of condolence poured in from everywhere, from the President of the country and the ordinary citizens who knew him. The staff of Lyceum Panadura, the Cambrians and the Royalists, along with parents and children, showed their gratitude by attending the funeral in great numbers – testimony to our dear principal’s distinction.
Thank you, dear sir, for all the values you instilled in us and for the guidance you gave us. You were a tower of strength to all of us. You encouraged us always to do good. You will be the kindly light leading us. May God shower you with his choicest blessings and may you enjoy eternal bliss.
Rohini Nagalingam |
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