We gather over your mortal remains
The coffin contains your frail frame
Of that once was a mighty stature
Loving husband, affectionate father,
Compassionate friend and faithful comrade
We honour you, we salute you, we bid you adieu
Your only son Apao, will miss your supporting arm
Where will Aneng, Alhing, Achin, Akim, Achong and Ahoi,
Find the comfort and love you gave
And what did mum said as you stared at her
That day when you took your dying breath
she said-”go first dear-and- i will follow you
And as you walk along heavens lonely lane
Pick some pretty flowers for me dear
And wait for me at heaven’s gate
And call out my name with open arm
That i may find solace in your embrace”
A statesman, a poet, a teacher,
A philosopher and guide – roll in one
With wisdom he counseled the elders
And with intelligence he guided the youth
He was an embodiment of collective wisdom
And like the star in the fermanment
He steered our community and nation
Like the captain of a sailing ship
Through trials and tempest
To its goal and destiny.
Can we find words good enough to express
Our solemn grief and deep sorrow
Who will fill the void to lead us tomorrow.
Today his mortal remains lie frail and mute
If he could, he would still tell us endless tales
But his life is an open book for us to read
He left his footsteps on the sands of time
Some weary pilgrimes and shipwreck brothers
Seeing may take heart again.
His ending journey though silent and lonely
Could still provide the needed light
Like a flickering candle in the wind
As he takes his final journey from home to the tomb
With tearful farewell and final salutation
We pray that his soul may rest in peace:
Earth’s lost is heaven’s gain
For the old order has borne the most
We that are your shall never see so much-nor live so long
T. Haokip
Commissioner Custom & Exise
Farewell To Pa Paokhohang
