She was one of those unfeted, unsung women
Swarnakanthi Mendis’s life ended tragically at the age of 58 through a freak road traffic accident on May 5 this year. She was married to my cousin Sunil, an accountant, who is disabled from poliomyelitis in childhood. His mobility is restricted and he works mostly confined to desk and computer. They had two lovely daughters –Shanika, 22, and Shehanthi, 17.
The key words to describe her life are devotion, enterprise, selflessness and godliness. She had a tremendous capacity for empathy and sympathy. In Sunil’s words, “she was not only a devoted and loving wife, but his dearest friend, sister, daughter, and mother all in one”. Wherever he went, she was there like a shadow, helping and encouraging. She also assisted with his computer work. They enjoyed a rare and wonderful ‘togetherness’.
Equally, over her children she spread wings of love. She saw to the meals and snacks they had to take to school or workplace. She picked them up after tuition if it went on till late.
She saw to their clothes and every night had long chats with them about the day’s events and other news. What she did for her family she did caringly and with absolute joy. She sustained them. She was the pivot of the family.
In addition, she found time everyday to visit her bed-ridden mother and feed her breakfast, lunch and dinner and to spend some time in Bible study and prayer.
The world often lauds the achievements and contributions of professional women. However there are millions of women who go unfeted and unsung though they undergo war situations, strife, widowhood, difficult family circumstances and numerous other problems in the belief that there will be a better tomorrow at least for their children. The contribution they make to society, especially to the lives, hopes, progress and stability of children is immeasurable. Swarnakanthi was one of them.
Quite understandably Sunil and the children in the first flush of grief questioned why God snatched her away so soon. But was it God? Is it correct to think that God is some super being who can swoop down and intervene in such an accident? Is it not more reasonable to believe that He can transform such tragedy to victory? In such circumstances, are there not God given opportunities for others to step into the void created?
Gradually, Sunil and the children have decided that they should face the new challenges with courage -- the same cheerful courage and fortitude that characterised Swarnakanthi’s life. Where necessary their kith and kin are stepping into the void created.
May Swarnakanthi’s soul rest in peace in the knowledge of these positive aspects that have developed after she was called to rest.
Professor Lalitha Mendis