Naomi de S Wijeyeratne three month remembrance

Time flies and life goes on at its own pace. It’s been three months since you created an empty chair, pin-drop silence at home, and the biggest vacuum in our hearts. The hugs and the happiness you brought to our home warmed our hearts with gratitude. The fun times and the laughter we shared during the years will never return. You were the heart and soul of our family and your chirpy smile which put us at ease, we miss every single day.

When we were asked what we would be when we grew and when it came to your turn you said “I want to be a lawyer like Dad”. Naomi girl you were more than a lawyer when we listened to countless stories from those fortunate enough to have crossed your path and how you touched lives in your own simple and thoughtful ways. You transformed ordinary moments into extraordinary memories which we continue to hold close to our hearts. You left an indelible mark on our lives that words cannot entirely capture.

As your siblings, we never took our eyes off you during your journey with us. Similarly, you too were so protective of all your nieces and nephews, especially in the absence of their parents. During party time while the parents were enjoying themselves, it was you who hung around them trying to instill right from wrong. Likewise, when they grew up, you became their adorable Aunt. When you were taken on your daily drives and occasionally saw a little child, your warm heart would make sure that we stopped the vehicle so that you could exchange pleasantries; Such was your true love towards little children irrespective of which socio-economic background they came from.

Naomi girl although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. Yet when we know you are free from all that you were deprived of, we take a bow and try to move forward keeping you with us in everything we do. We hope you can see how precious your memory will always be to us Chuti girl and now it’s your time to rest gently with ease, until we meet again, on that beautiful shore and sing together your favourite hymns.

We thank God for the life of Naomi who epitomized love, empathy, patience, and a life well lived. Naomi girl, we will strive to change the world and look beyond others’ disabilities just like you taught us.

Vinodini Jayawardena