By Ananya S Guha
We often use the expression “ good human being” to denote personality traits of a person. R.G. Lyngdoh or Bob as he was popularly known was not only that encompassing in the word “ good” virtues such as a very affable nature and suave qualities, but also human compassion, a rare quality seen nowadays.
Often addressing people as “ bro” meaning brother Bob was the epitome of softness springing from his human heart, ready to help the needy at the slightest notice. Always forthright he spoke candidly on his views on education and politics.
A multifaceted person, poet, musician, politician he was above all a humanist who saw goodness in every one. His death is a personal loss to me. I will miss his reassuring voice, his light banter and above all his desire to help when it was required.
His last poem a few days before his death, expressing his desire to be cremated rather than buried in a “ claustrophobic “ coffin expresses beautifully his desire to be mingled with Mother Earth, the air and water and Nature.
It is a poem which expresses gratitude to Mother Earth for having bore and reared him. For that was the man: full of gratitude, love and compassion. It is also an expression of his sublime creativity.
Rest in quiet slumber dear friend. We will miss you so.
