A God given mother It was on July 28, 1997, 21 years ago when a wife of noble character and a mother far more worth than rubies, left a void in our hearts and departed to the Father’s home.
She was ‘Charlotte’ to all those who knew her and “Charlie” to my dear father. They shared forty years of happy wedded life, caring and sharing the burdens of eight children. She courageously faced the deaths of my father, all four sons, a son-in-law and two grandchildren and lived to the ripe old age of ninety one. She was a generous lady helping so many in her village without the knowledge of those around her.
Many were the words of love and gratitude spoken by those at her demise. To me, she was my rock and a tower of strength all my life. In my loneliness, in my achievements and in all instances, she was there for me and I still miss her. She loved the children of the world as she loved her own, and helped them in whatever way she could. She was a religious woman who was a daily communicant until she was not fit enough to walk to church. She was never a burden to me, and was with me to the end.
She had a peaceful death. All her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren gave her a fitting farewell.
Relations, friends and neighbours bade goodbye in sorrow to a life well lived. I thank and give glory to my God for the loving gift of this wonderful mother. Mummie darling rest in Jesus till we meet at his feet.
Ivy Dissanayake
Negombo