A. Wilton de Zoysa:

My father, my inspiration

Thaththa, 12 years have passed since our last farewell. I must confess that I am at a loss of words when it comes to pen my appreciation of you since my thoughts are far too many and crowded with emotion.

I am certain that the sentiments I felt are that which are felt by any child or adult who has lost a parent. As such this is my humble attempt in capturing essence of a man whose presence I could never limit to words on a page.

Over the past years, I have not felt his absence because I realised that everyday I continue life as his daughter being true to all that he taught me in life, he continues to live.

The debt we owe you cannot be measured in human terms. You gave us everything a child could wish for. As children we sought your advice and guidance to help us find happiness in life. As adults, we walked beside you and found happiness in your love and understanding.

Thaththa had a profound sense of belonging to the family and to his place of birth (Balapitiya). He was a source of inspiration to us and the whole of my maternal family. He always stood by his principles and what he thought was correct. To me the first emotion at his death was a profound sense of personal loss as I was the closest to him.

Thaththa was my mentor, confidant, advisor and friend. I laughed with him, cried with him, argued and even fought with him because we were so close and fond of each other. Honesty, integrity and confidence were the hallmarks of thaththa's personality.

He dealt with every situation relating to family, relatives or at school with utmost honesty and transparency. I am yet to meet someone who outshines thaththa in honesty.

He earned lots of friends from all walks of life and treated each and everyone with same respect.

Thaththa, you said learning was the foundation which no one can take away. You always told me to do my duty with dedication, commitment and integrity. This was but just one lesson that we repeatedly say. We grew up with your values and we are glad we did as it has proved beyond doubt what life can give.

We note with gratitude and love to you, the positive comments of others of our ability to go through life with zest, honesty, responsibility and accountability.

You were always there to listen, love and defend me in everything and you were my strength. In my triumphs you were always proud and happy. I wish you were alive to share my success in whatever I do. I know you would have been so proud to see what a content person I am today because of your guidance and advice.

I miss your voice but most of all I miss you just being there. I will always hold on to the last conversation we had and how you never failed to let me know how much you loved me. Your spirit and what you have given us will always remain and make us better people for having had you as a great father.

Thank you thaththa for giving me life, a wonderful and caring childhood and a sound education. If only I could turn back the time I would have never let you go. I salute you for surviving the difficult times and holding yourself together as you put us on our feet. You helped us take pride in our place in life.

You were not just a father but also my guru and the biggest champion in all our endevours. When thinking about his efforts together with my mother (who was the live wire) in imparting a sound education to us both Thaththa and Amma being a devoted school principal and an English trained teacher of yesteryear. Although, your demise has created a big void in our lives for the present, you left us with sweet memories that we will cherish right through until we meet.

However, the thought that we are on a short journey on this Earth brings us comfort. We know you will be looking over us from where ever you are and pray that you will always be with us.

As practicing Buddhists, we are all aware of the impermanency of life but to this day I cannot believe that my father is not alive as his voice, firm advice and imposing figure still haunts me.

He did his duty to the utmost and made us comfortable in every way. Though not in extremes, he lived accordingly to the Buddha's preaching with the least of wants and I strongly believe that you will be with me forever until I am gone. However, my sincere hope is that his sansaric journey be shortened and he attains the cherished goal of Supreme Bliss of Nirvana.

Damitha de Zoysa