There are people of compassion and kindness who serve to uplift, inspire, and create optimism in others. Yesterday, November 11th, 2023, was Mr. Samson Macwan's funeral. He was 95 years old. Not related to many of us, yet everyone affectionately referred to him as "Samson Uncle." Samson uncle as someone said today, was a "Soft, warm-hearted" and pleasant gentleman who was respected in society. He faithfully gave rides to people and took them to church every Sunday, taught immigration and citizenship classes at the local community center and where possible reached out. He embodied the qualities of a beloved individual. He served and supported many people as a paternal and grandfatherly figure, mainly within the Gujarati Christian community and others within his range of influence. Many many people have fond memories and vivid recollections of his persona. Here is my two cents.
During a phone chat earlier this year, Samson uncle expressed both joy to hear from others and sorrow due to the loss of auntie. He communicated deep grief, and shed tears, as he wrestled with the tremendous emptiness experienced by the death of his wife last year. Despite the couple's opposing viewpoints on many matters, Samson uncle adeptly managed to maintain a harmonious equilibrium, being a devoted and faithful spouse, while also actively participating in and providing support to the community. I cherish special memories of Samson uncle's role years back in our family's dire situation.
Sixteen years ago, after losing a job and subsequently our condo, we faced eviction. Our future location was undetermined. It is notable, however, that when I called, Samson uncle listened, consulted his family members, and offered their basement/guest apartment at a reasonable amount on the same day. Additionally, we also volunteered, without being asked, to assist with yard work and other possible activities. At that time, the comradery was mutual.
But at the end of that initial first month at their residence, the summer of 2007, Samson uncle's gracious, out-of-the-norm kind action left me awestruck. To my surprise, just as a dad would, Samson uncle came and gave us an exact cash sum. The objective of this cash was to satisfy the monthly financial commitment to Auntie, Samson uncle's wife. Unknown to me, it was generally known that Auntie upheld a strict policy about punctual payments. Samson uncle told us to pay him back when we got the funds. We paid that back to him in a day or two. But at that moment, my eyes had welled up with tears of thankfulness. It was a privilege to be in the presence of such an incredibly concerned soul.
Our families enjoyed occasional festive family fun times for nearly four years.
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| Mr. Samson Macwan, Photo credit: His Obituary page. |
All copyright reserved@ Kalpana C Sharma
