In the words of Thiruvalluvar, “It is compassion, the most gracious of virtues, which moves the world.” The tremendous outpouring of love and deep sense of loss following the passing of the late Varathan truly reflects a man who lived his life with quiet kindness and compassion. As a young man working at the MPCS in Earlalai, his laughter and sense of joy were infectious. Despite a 15 fifteen-year age gap between us, the age was never a divide to engage with him in a thought provoking conversation. When we reconnected in London in the late '90s, I found him to be not only thoughtful and engaging but also visibly compassionate toward others. Given this, it is no surprise to witness the flood of affection from the Canadian community of Earlalai and around the world. Now, may he rest in eternal peace, having profoundly impacted the lives of many throughout his journey. My thoughts are with his family, friends and siblings.