Thank you for being part of our lives

A soul serene, a heart aglow,

A person self-made, whose light doth show, A presence warm, a grace refined,

A gentle spirit, with peace entwined.

A steady gaze, a confident air,

A humble heart that’s free from care,

A voice that soothes, a smile so bright,

A spirit pure, with love in sight.

In all he does, in all he says,

His wisdom shines like break of day,

His strength and grace, a rare bouquet, A lovable person, through and through, they stay.

The above verse describes Athula, my brother-in-law. What a serene self he was. His demise alas, created a void in our family, but he did what he had to do in the life he led in an exemplary way.

He was a member of the well-known Liyanage clan from Sam P. Liyanage Mawatha at Nugegoda, where his paternal residence was. His career which spanned around half a century at Upali’s during the time of late Upali Wijewardana in the 70s, to the company he incorporated later, Henex International where he serviced the industries with niche components, was a journey that he enjoyed and carried to the end.

On a more personal note, he was a man for all seasons – ready to cope with any contingency and whose behaviour was always appropriate to every occasion. Lately he was my partner during weekends and holidays, on a morning stroll exploring walking tracks and new venues in Colombo and the suburbs. That was exhilarating and the small talk during the walks was definitely mutually beneficial.

He was the loving and caring husband of my second sister Anoja – they had a happy abode. Their two sons Dilanka and Rajeev, daughters-in-law Sayami and Kushani, two granddaughters and many more will grieve at his demise. But should not we thank him for being a part of our lives?

May he attain supreme bliss of Nirvana.