Ladies and gentlemen, today we gather here to honor the life and legacy of a truly remarkable man, Sinnadurai Ariaratnam, a father whose unwavering courage, boundless love, and enduring strength have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the incredible story of his life—a story defined by sacrifice, resilience, and an unshakable commitment to his family.
Sinnadurai Ariaratnam was a man of quiet determination and unyielding principles. Born in Sri Lanka, he faced unimaginable challenges during the tumultuous years of the civil war. Yet, even in the face of adversity, he stood firm as a protector and provider for his family. It is no exaggeration to say that he was a hero—not only to his four sons but to all those who witnessed his extraordinary bravery and selflessness.
The civil war in Sri Lanka was a time of great uncertainty and peril, particularly for Tamil families like ours. Amid this chaos, my father made the impossible possible. He risked everything to ensure the safety and future of his sons, navigating through danger with a clarity of purpose that can only come from a heart filled with love. He shielded us from harm, often at great personal cost, and made countless sacrifices to keep our family together. His courage was our anchor in the storm, and his wisdom guided us through the darkest of times.
But my father’s heroism did not end with our survival. He dreamed of a better life for his children, free from the fear and limitations imposed by war. With unrelenting determination, he worked tirelessly to secure our passage to Canada, a land of peace and opportunity. The journey was not an easy one, filled with obstacles and uncertainties, but my father never wavered. He believed in the promise of a brighter future and was willing to endure any hardship to make that promise a reality.
Upon our arrival in Canada, my father continued to embody the virtues that defined his life: hard work, humility, and an unwavering commitment to his family. He built a new life for us from the ground up, ensuring that his sons had access to education, opportunities, and a chance to thrive. He instilled in us the values of perseverance and gratitude, teaching us to honor the sacrifices that had brought us to where we are today.
As I stand here today, I am struck by the profound legacy my father leaves behind. His life was a testament to the power of love and sacrifice. He showed us what it means to be truly selfless, to put the needs of others above your own, and to face life’s challenges with unwavering courage. His strength and resilience have shaped the men we are today, and his memory will continue to inspire us for the rest of our lives.
Sinnadurai Ariaratnam was not only a father; he was a mentor, a protector, and a guiding light. His love for his family knew no bounds, and his actions spoke volumes about the depth of his character. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the lessons he taught us, the values he instilled in us, and the love he gave us so freely.
Today, as we say goodbye, let us also say thank you. Thank you, Appa, for your sacrifices, your courage, and your unwavering love. Thank you for giving us the gift of a future, for showing us the true meaning of strength, and for being the foundation upon which our lives are built. We are forever grateful, and we will carry your legacy forward with pride and honor.
Rest in peace, dear Appa. You have fought the good fight, and your journey is complete. But your love and your memory will live on in our hearts, guiding us as we continue the journey you began. Until we meet again.
With heartfelt love,
Kagusthan Ariaratnam
Featured image: Provided to Project O Five
I’ve been following your blog for some time now, and I’m consistently blown away by the quality of your content. Your ability to tackle complex topics with ease is truly admirable.