January in Jaffna. Mum, Dad, baby Tim and I were visiting Aunty Rajes and family, at their home. I was having a fantastic time, playing with my three cousins, who I had never met before. We decided to head downstairs to the road and devised an exciting game of stone throwing. The essence of the game? A daring challenge to hit a passing car! Of course, being competitive, I really tried at this game. Unfortunately, I won, smashing the rear window of a passing Van. It shrieked to a halt and the driver ran out. Shiromi, Manju, Chrishanth and I ran upstairs as fast as we could to hide. The Driver angrily banged on the front door. I can vividly recall Aunty Rajes, her demeanor unwavering, as she calmly swung open the door, providing me with refuge as I cowered behind her and rather than apologising to the Driver, she shouted at him! How could he possibly blame a young, innocent 5 year old for such an unintended mishap. It was an accident. She fiercely defended my innocence, and refused to back down. What a warrior! The man fled.
I was very pleased with myself and in awe of my Aunt. The scolding came later and I spent the rest of the day, or at least what felt like a day, locked in a room whilst Aunty and my family prepared my 5th birthday celebrations. I still remember my Rabbit cake.
Aunty Rajes never lost her fighting spirit, fiercely loving and tenacious guardian of her family. Her departure has left a hole in our hearts, yet in our minds, she forever resides, with an abundance of cherished and loving memories.
Thank you, Charmaine.
Thanks you Charmaine, ti remember something from when you were but a toddler, is testament to what she meant to all of us.