the mesmerising calmness, the width and depth of knowledge, pervasive sense of humour and subtle sense seriousness, simplicity and the ability to accommodate contradicting views and still find common are to name but a few of the qualities that stand out when I think of you. I am grateful I had the privilege of associating with you as an inquisitive individual wanting to know what could be done peacefully, to establish and assert the rights of Tamils. I Learned many lessons during the numerous conversations with you and the few projects I was involved in, and the key to all that you achieved is pure dedication to the cause and your ability and courage to look everybody in the eye and articulate your views in simple layman's terms and in specialist speak depending on the audience. During the two decades I have known you in different capacities, I learned, inter-alia, that lop-sided and extreme views do not hold water in the long run, and only relentless dedication to the cause and the ability to address all stakeholders like you always did, is the best way to express our concerns and the most sustainable way to show we care, and win the support of everyone towards a lasting solution. You were a living example for patience, dedication, and a driving force capable of forging ahead relentlessly with limited resources and not bow down, or compromise on the principles in exchange for money or publicity. As a unifying force, a bridge and a strong advocate of human rights, dignity and co-existence, your vision was simple, straight forward and earnest and you tirelessly worked towards that day and night, to the last breath. Personally, the fitting tribute I could pay is 'never forgetting' what you stood for. Heroes get remembered but legends never die!!!