Message from Mark Katsouros

Sukij,

You were such a kind and inspirational person. I’m so thankful that I had the opportunity to work with you, get to know you, and call you a friend. You lived every day with zeal and inspired others to do the same. I was listening to some old music the other day, including this old David Wilcox song. It immediately made me think of you, like so many other things that will undoubtedly continue to cause your friends and family to have “Sukij” moments…

Sunshine on the Land

(by David Wilcox)

I went to see an old friend
Who was soon to pass away.
He said, "My life has been so good to me.
Now I still got one more day."

Now he said that as he watched the morning sun
And then he smiled my way.
Because he said that every morning,
He lived his life that way.

He said, "I am the sunshine.
You are the sunshine.
We are the sunshine.
Help me understand.
We are the sunshine on the land."

He said this day is like a life you live,
It's never here to stay,
Because your time is always runnin' by
Like the sun across the day.

But it's like lookin' at the sunshine from the earth.
The light does come and go.
But when you're lookin' at the earth shine from the sun,
It's quite a different show.
He said it's time you know.

That I am the sunshine.
You are the sunshine.
We are the sunshine.
Help me understand.
We are the sunshine on the land.

Now I'm thinkin' of the things he said.
We're walkin' toward the grave.
And I haven't lived a life like his
But I still got one more day.
Now you could say it's only flesh and bone

The life that's in your hands
But I like to think it's something more
Like the sunshine on the land.

I am the sunshine.
You are the sunshine.
We are the sunshine.
Help me understand.
We are the sunshine on the land.
We are the sunshine on the land.

Sukij, you provided lots of sunshine, and a real sense of thankfulness, in many people’s lives. Rest in peace, my friend.

-Mark Katsouros

Message from Sukij

Sukij wanted to share this poem with all of you. He asked that I wait until he was in Heaven to post it.

To Those I Love

If I should ever leave you whom I love
To go along the Silent Way,
grieve not,
Nor speak of me with tears,
but laugh and talk
of me as if I were beside you there.

(I'd come-I'd come, could I but find a way!
But would not tears and grief be barriers?)

And when you hear a song or
see a bird I loved,
please do not let the thought of me be sad...
For I am loving you just as I always have...

You were so good to me!
There are so many things I wanted still

to do—
so many things to say to you...
Remember that I did not fear—
It was just leaving you that was so hard to face...

We cannot see Beyond...
But this I know:
I loved you so—
'twas heaven here with you!

~Isla Paschal Richardson

Sukij's Star Certificate Has Arrived

We would like to thank Norma Hayward and Jane Manturi for purchasing a Star Certificate for Sukij Yongpiyakul. The certificate has arrived and it is wonderful! Norma and Jane, you are so thoughtful and creative.

Matt will be so pleased to learned that a star is named after his favorite uncle. He drew a picture of stars for Sukij last week, claiming that he loves his uncle as "big" as the universe!

Yongpiyakul Family

Sukij's Memorial Service

A memorial service for Sukij will be held on Thursday October 9 at 7:30 PM, Bangkok time, in Thai.

We are also preparing a booklet and will give limited copies out in the service. We will include parts of your words about Sukij in the booklet. Regretably we can't put everything in, but we will encourage everyone to read this blog. We believe that everyone will be deeply touched by this blog as we are.

It's an honor to be Sukij's brother, to know that you love him as much as we do, and to learn so many life lessons from him through all of you.

With loves and warmest regards,
Chankit Yongpiyakul

Dear Yongpiyakuls

Dear Yongpiyakul Family,

Sukij was a great, great man. As many others have said, thank you all so much for sharing him with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and Sukij.

Though sorrow at his passing is entirely unavoidable and appropriate, it must be said that his happiness, his goodness of heart, his vivacious joy at living is so overwhelming that even in this moment of undeniable sadness our spirits are all still lifted by his example. We hope this heavy load is somehow lightened with the knowledge that he lived such a full life, with such a good heart.

Our sincerest condolences,

The Anderson Family (Eric, Kitty, Isabella and Peter)

And Sukij...may God bless you...

Until We Meet Again

Sukij,

Although I may not know all of the people in this blog, I feel like I do. We all share the benefit of having known you and experienced the wisdom you imparted over the years. We all share the kindness and the encouragement you provided to each of us in our time with you. I also remember the many times when I would talk to you that I could see you pondering my words and then you would say, "have you ever met...?" and you would share their stories with me. Many of the names in the blog are familiar and as I read their stories I remember moments you told me about, that you shared with them. You always seemed proud and thankful for your friends, judging from the entries in this blog, you should be!

I will miss our lunches, but your spirit and your voice still exist in my thoughts. Your enthusiasm of life and belief in me was often what I needed to hear. As a christian, I needed a mentor like you to remind me of the reward of a life committed faithfully to the lord and the importance and value of servanthood. You were always a wonderful role model to me and I would imagine many reading this note. You were one of a few select people that I can remember thinking, "no matter what, I cannot lose touch with this person." I am sure many of the others on this blog know exactly what I am talking about.

Soon you will know (like you could probably never grasp in this world) of the amazing "ripple effect" you had on the world.

I will miss you, but as you said to me before you left for Thailand, we will see each other again!

Jon

Even Angels Wear Glasses

I wonder how many fish Sukij's caught in his lifetime,
or the biggest one he's ever hooked.

How many management classes he has taken,
or First Class flights Sukij has sat in.

How many hundreds of computers he has fixed,
or servers he has tinkered with.

What I do know is that at least one angel wears glasses,
and is looking down at all the people he's touched,
and whose hearts he eternally lives in.

A Prayer for Sukij Yongpiyakul

Dear God,
Thank you for sending Sukij into my life. He has made me a better man, and I want to thank you for that. I have always believed very deeply in my soul that it was your plan to have Sukij be my personal angel, coach, and guide. There was always such a strong power of Christ in Sukij and that is why I know that you sent him my way - and there are only a precious few in this world that I can say that about.

Sukij,
I will strive to live out your legacy and do you proud, buddy. You will always be my brother. Thank you so much for all you have done for me, my wife, my family, and our family of friends. God bless you Sukij. You are the best damn friend a guy could ever dream of finding. As a general rule, men don’t go around baring their hearts, even to their closest of friends. Well, Sukij, you were such a powerful exception to that rule. We truly danced as though nobody was watching and we sang as though no one was listening! I found 2 quotes from Jack Kerouac that seem to sum it all up my friend:

“The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn, like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars and in the middle you see the blue centerlight pop and everybody goes "Awww!”
- Jack Kerouac

“I hope it is true that a man can die and yet not only live in others but give them life, and not only life, but that great consciousness of life.”
- Jack Kerouac

Until we meet again on the other side my brother,

Joelman

To Sukij's family..... Thank you

Thank you for letting us know that Sukij is now safely and comfortably moved on.  Thank you for bringing him into our lives and thank you for being there at his side now.  Thank you for loving him, caring for him, and keeping us all informed.  My thoughts, prayers, and heart are with you.  

Fondly,  Peggy Phillips

God Has Taken Sukij

At 12:33 AM on October 3, 2008, Bangkok Time, Sukij left us to join Lord Jesus in Heaven. His funeral will be arranged on Saturday.

October 2, 2008

Dear friends,

This morning, we have decided to sedate Sukij and started increasing morphine to the level that will keep him unconcious, calm, comfortable, and painless. In effect, Sukij will sleep peacefully, awaiting the time when God calls him home, probably in a few days or so. For the past night, he was suffering from both hallucination and pain, so we have decided to take the necessary measure to ensure that he spends his last few days comfortably and peacefully.

This is a difficult time for us, although we are sure that we will eventually meet again, perfect in flesh and soul, but it is still hard to see him leaving us soon.

For the past few days, he had been trying unsuccessfully to summon all his strength to say good-bye to all of you on a video. We are sorry that you will not be able to see it.


Will keep you updated.

Sukij's Family

Message from Julie Bilinkas

I check Sukij's blog site every day to keep apprised of his health and spirit and because I find it incredibly inspiring to see the impact he's had on so many people. Robert Louis Stevenson once said: "Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant". The blog entries from Sukij's family and friends, reinforce just how many seeds Sukij has planted. They illustrate the magnitude of his kindness, his selflessness, his genuine concern for others.

I was fortunate enough to get a sampling of Sukij's warmth and compassion on a business trip to Denver. Sukij had the ability to turn an ordinary trip into an extraordinary one. When my LAN connection at the hotel did not work, he came to my room and fixed it. When the airline cancelled our flight home (in the middle of the night while we were sleeping) he called my hotel room at 4:00 am to say "if we leave right now, we can catch the last flight home, otherwise we will be snowed in for a couple of days". When we got to the airport, he went to the President's Club and asked that I get upgraded to First Class as his traveling companion. I remember thinking how lucky I was to be taken care of by such a kind man (and wishing I could pack him in my suitcase each time I traveled thereafter). I can vividly remember his sweet voice, his warm heart, his sharp mind and his infectious laugh.

Thank you, Sukij. You have blessed the world with your existence.

-Julie Bilinkas

Weekend in Dublin

It is so wonderful to read all of the stories of Sukij. He has been such a great friend and it is amazing, although not surprising, how many lives he has impacted with his wisdom and kindness. Whenever we are together, Sukij and I always talk and laugh about our experiences during our travels with Avaya.

In Rome we saw such beautiful places and enjoyed visits to the Sistine Chapel as well as wonderful private tours in the Vatican arranged by John Rooney. But we never talked about Rome without a discussion of "the heist". We were all staying at the Excelsior and I commented several times how much I liked the glasses they used to serve everything from juice to wine and I said I was going to try to find a way to buy some. That didn't work out but Sukij showed up at my desk the first day we were back at work and gave me two of the glasses that he had managed to "acquire". We all know how honest he is so it seemed very funny but as he said, he left an extra tip to make up for it. During a visit the following year to the UK we had a great time doing a tour of Windsor Castle and every time we saw a display of china used at various royal dinners, I kept reminding Sukij that while I admired them, I really didn't want them. Of course he managed to find some glasses in their gift shop and when we were back in the office, he gave them to me assuring me he had paid for them.

But the trip we always talk the most about was a weekend in Dublin. With other Avaya friends, we did a tour of the county around Dublin and enjoyed a couple of nice dinner with good friends. Sukij and I also did a tour of the city and after many hours we wanted to find someplace for a little rest and lunch. We thought we'd found a nice place but after being seated we realized it was much fancier than we'd had in mind. We were both looking at the menu and when I looked up, Sukij was looking at me with such a disappointed look and he said, "no fish and chips?" Although we felt a little funny, we tried to neatly refold their linen napkins and we ran for the door. We then found a nice little pub where they had a fireplace and some great fish and chips. Any time with Sukij is special and I'll always treasure our memories. We are all so fortunate to have him as a friend!

Sukij - hugs to you!

Sue Frerks

Message from Pam Lee for Sukij

Dear Sukij,

We met while I was an undergrad at UMCP. You were an unforgettable mentor and friend to me and those in our project group! I remember randomly dropping by your office just to say hello or to share about my (trivial but at the time monumental) trials. You always were encouraging and supportive, always offering to be a sounding board and helping wherever you could.

After I graduated and moved to NYC, we completely lost touch. I wondered how you were and what you were up to...but I knew you would be busy with one project or another...and finally our paths crossed only a few months ago in LinkedIn! ahhh...the wonders of technology. I was so glad to connect with you and catch up with you...and most importantly share with you my ideas about technology, education, china, and spreading the word of Christ. I already knew you would be so excited for me becuase of your passion for technology, education, and God.

Well when the time is right and I do pursue the project...I will remember you as a source of inspiration. I only hope I can be such a mentor to others. Thank you.

I will see you again after we both meet the Big Guy Up In The Sky. You are in my prayers.

Love in Christ,
Pam Mon Lee

Leave a Trail

Sukij...do you remember how many trips we made to Basking Ridge to convince Lucent Technology they needed to hire JTS Communications, LLC to Change the Lucent Technologies World? I believe it was around 11 trips. I added some of our PowerPoint slides from those presentations.

Those trips changed you and I...not Lucent Technologies. Dave Johnson believed the vision and was so supportive. We loved Avaya, as Dave did and wanted to see Avaya fulfil the needs of their higher education customers. I love Dave's quote: "The Future is Possible, but not Given"



Sukij...you really did Invent the Future...you always have and you have lived the quote you came up with so many years ago..."Do not go where the path may lead, but go where there is no path, and leave a trail".



Sukij...you have left a trail!!! and what a trail...just look at this Blog...can you believe how many people you have touched. How many people you have shared the saving knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. I'm convinced that as our Lord Jesus Christ said in Matthew 25:21, He will say to you, Sukij..Well done, good and faithful servant!

Thanks Sukij...for sharing the trail with me, Christine and all the other great friends you have!! --Tom Heacock

A Dinner with Dave Johnson

Sukij wanted to treat Dave a dinner. Since the doctor didn't allow him out, Our family happily took over. We had a very good time, at Bangkok Marriott Seafood Buffet.






Dave and Sukij's Mom



Dave and Matt, Sukij's favorite nephew

Sukij the Professional

There are so many aspects to our friend Sukij and certainly the “cup” of this blog “runnith over” with cherished memories of the love he’s shared and how much he means to each of us, his adopted American family. We all also all know how brilliant that he is!! I had the amazing opportunity to be both his friend and his boss (sometimes we wondered who was leading who) during his years at the University of Maryland and I wanted to share with his family and friends some of his truly amazing professional accomplishments. It was an honor to work alongside Sukij!
--Dorothy Chrismer

The excerpt below is a compilation, taken from several documents on file at the University, that only begin to touch the surface of the tributes he deserves for so many remarkable endeavors.

Sukij had been affiliated with the University of Maryland College Park beginning in 1982 where he began as a promising engineering student. Wanting to supplement his academic experience, he obtained employment in the Department of Communication and Business Services. Although working part-time and attending school full-time, he became a valued employee while remaining an excellent scholar. Sukij was an outstanding employee in the Department of Communication and Business Services (CBS) and an active member of the campus community.

Sukij graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland at College Park. He also had a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics (with a minor in Computer Science) from Columbia Union College where he was awarded Highest Honors. Sukij is listed in Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges for 1986-87.

CBS had witnessed the demonstration of Sukij’s knowledge, capabilities and expertise as well as his professional growth. He provided outstanding engineering and technical expertise in the support of complex voice and data communication systems. His contributions included planning, design, engineering and project management support for the installation of the campus-wide telecommunications system. In addition, he had been responsible for directing the operations of one of the largest, single-sight telecommunications systems in the world! This system was crucial to the University’s research, teaching and academic missions.

Sukij effectively applied his knowledge and skills to utilize technology to serve the University’s faculty, staff and students. He had been instrumental in implementing new media such as video teleconferencing and collaborative software which had been successfully incorporated into academic programs as instructional tools. In addition, Sukij had developed systems to support other important functions of the University. For example, he served as a technical liaison with the University Police Department for telecommunication matters. As a result of his excellent service to the Police, he had been the recipient of several awards such as the Citizen Appreciation Award for 1991, 1993 and 1994, and the Certificate of Appreciation in 1992. His accomplishments were recognized by the Governor of Maryland in 1994 when he was awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Merit for Crime Prevention.

In conjunction with the University’s research mission, Sukij had primary responsibility for several inventions! He was awarded the 1992 Outstanding Inventor/Invention of the Year for “The Connect Family of Innovative Voice Response Applications” from the University of Maryland Graduate Research Office of Technology Liaison. In addition, the University received the NACUBO 1993 Cost Reduction Incentive Award as a result of developments created under the direction of Sukij.

Due to his knowledge and skills, Sukij had earned the respect of his colleagues and peers and he had become nationally recognized as a telecommunications resource. He was often required to represent the University on telecommunications matters and frequently spoke at local and national conferences. In 1995, Sukij served as the Eastern Region Director for the AT&T Global Definity User’s Group. For his outstanding service to the User’s Group, he had been the recipient of numerous awards including the Leadership Excellence Award and the prestigious Eagle Award.

Sukij’s dedication to his profession matched his commitment to the University community. As an active staff member, he was involved in many aspects of campus life. For example, he had served as an Advise 5 advisor for Letters and Sciences for several years. In that role, he was a mentor and friend to college students needing assistance with academic decisions. He also served as host to campus faculty, staff, students and guests who toured the University’s telecommunication facility. In that role, he was an instructor sharing his knowledge and experience.

As an advocate of personal growth and development, Sukij continually strived for self-improvement. He had participated in many campus sponsored programs and completed the Office of Executive Programs’ course in The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. In addition, Sukij had participated in extra-curricula programs to enhance his skills. An example of his many successes is the receipt of the Highest Award for Achievement from Dale Carengie and Associates in 1996.

And so, it was with great pride and pleasure to all of us that Sukij was nominated to the President’s Committee for the Associate Staff Award in 1996! He exemplified all of the qualities specified in the award criteria as well as many other outstanding traits. With his record of exceptional performance, leadership and service to the University of Maryland at College Park, Sukij deserved the honor to be represented by the Associate Staff Award. He was a most worthy candidate for consideration!

--Dorothy Chrismer and Linda Hosey

Great UM Memories

Sukij presenting!


Cutover with AT&T COB Bob Allen, President
Kirwan and Sukij Yongpiyakul


Dave Johnson, Jon Rood, Lori Horton, Dorothy Chrismer
Bill Wahl, Tom Heacock & Sukij Yongpiyakul

Mark Katsouros - Sukij - Dave Johnson on Tom's Boat

Annapolis Harbor with an early cell phone!

Jon Rood, Lori Horton, Karen Varnes, Dave Johnson

Sukij Yongpiyakul and Tom Heacock

Sukij & Dave - Industry Day - Press Box

Sukij and Tom - Awards Lunchon

Rossboro Inn University of Maryland

Your Generosity of Self and Spirit

Dear Sukij,

You are in my prayers and thoughts, and should know that I am sending my heart and positive thoughts your way. You probably don't know the difference you made for me, not only at Avaya, but personally, and I want to thank you for all your support of me and my team at Avaya. You were our champion and I know that you did everything in your power to make us successful because you believed that was the right thing to do for our customers. Your belief in us inspired me to work harder and earn the confidence you placed in us. Your sound advice provided unbiased guidance that is so rare in corporations today, and your friendship continues to inspire me to increase my support to customers, and live up to a higher standard of service.

I will always see your smiling face, full of possibilities, inspiring everyone you meet to work with passion and respect, instilling in all a quiet confidence of success, and knowing that you sincerely support your friends and coworkers, and give of yourself to enable them to really make a difference.

I am so lucky that I know you Sukij and that you have given so much to me.

Thank you for your generosity of self and spirit.
--Adelaide O'Brien

Sukij, sending you love and strength !!!

Hi Sukij, 

You are bringing me face to face with my beliefs.  It is so clear for me that I know you are moving to that spiritual experience that will be filled with love and peace, and that makes me happy.  I ache that you are in physical pain, but I am convinced you are at peace with this transition.  My sadness is selfish and I am challenged to "walk the talk" of believing that we really all are really "souls having a human experience" here on this earth, and that I won't lose access to you once you move on, but indeed will be closer!  Thank you so much for being here on this planet and being in my life.  Thank you for being such energy and light.  

Fondly,

Peggy Phillips

Sukij Yongpiyakul's Star

Norma Hayward and Jane Manturi purchased this star in Sukij's name from the International Star Registry for Sukij. They both felt this was a most appropriate gift their dear friend. He will be forever in the heavens looking down on all of us.

We are quite sure his star will be the brightest one up there because his smile would light up any room he was in.

They will be mailing this certificate to him in Thailand but we thought others who know and love him would want to know the star coordinates so that they can look for his star through a telescope. :)

As stated on the certificate -
"Know ye herewith the International Star Registry doth herby redesignate star number *Perseus RA2h26m54.18s D 56' 50'7.46" to the name * Sukij Youngpiyakul. Know ye further that this star will be henceforth be know by this name * This name is permanently filed in The Registry's vault in * Switzerland and recorded in a book which will be registered in the copyright office of the * United State of America **"

--Jane Manturi and Norma Hayward

Sukij's Update: September 30, 2008

Dear Sukij's friends,

Dave (Johnson) arrived Bangkok and visited Sukij briefly this morning. It did cheer him up quite a lot. He was given blood transfusion this morning.

Thanks for your prayers
Sukij's Family

Message from Laurie Love

Hi Chankit,

Vicky’s note reminded me of Sukij’s most thoughtful idea of initiating a prayer email for her young son who was blessed with a total recovery. Your note reminded me of Sukij’s call the evening of his diagnosis. His one request was to pray for his family, especially your Mother and Father – always thinking of others – especially his beloved family. What a grace that you are together now.

I came across this “Blessing of Comfort” which was written to bring comfort to those who read it. I hope it brings some ease to Sukij as well as to you and your family. I know there are many, many people thinking about and praying for Sukij. Perhaps, we could share this blessing with more of our friends and family and repeat Sukij’s act of kindness.

Thank you,

Laurie

Comforting Blessing

May you see the light in the darkness during these challenging times.

May you feel the loving presence of those who hold you in their thoughts & prayers.

May your spirit find what it needs to sustain you on this journey.

May you discover your inner strength & face all difficulties with dignity & grace.

May you be filled with comfort, love, strength, grace & a lasting sense of peace.

Memories on the Journey

Dear Sukij,

I have been awakened numerous times over the past few nights with thoughts and prayers for you on my mind. Once again tonight I awoke thinking of you traveling back to Thailand – I can vividly picture the trip (thru Tokyo?) with you as I have made the trip to Bangkok twice in the past three years to visit missionaries. (Laurence will be going again in December.)

The sudden shock and surprise of your news has given way to a deep sense of connectedness and calm that I cannot explain.

There are happy memories that have flooded back from over the years. Pictures of Columbia Union College days. Days of deep faith and special friendship shared with you. I still find great joy and meaning in recounting the faith building days of Calculus, Physics for Engineers, Computer Science classes and Biochemistry. I remember one day in particular when all seemed grim and I cowered under the weight of an unknown test result. I met you in a downstairs hallway near the old "computer science headquarters" of the admin building where you read my nonverbal burden and then spoke words of comfort to me. You asked me what the worst possible outcome I felt would be and then after facing this possibility placed it in a lifetime perspective... somehow even the poorest grade faded in significance after you helped me see it in that light and in so doing hope arose within me to carry on.

Then there were the numerous fun outings that you Genny, Charles and I went on. These memories of concerts, walks along Sligo creek, picnics, games, my Thanksgiving at your Uncle's home or just good old surprises for each other are the bright spots in the CUC years for me … Remember the meal David prepared for us out of his closet in his rented room? Coming from an immigrant family myself where close friendships outside of our immediate family were few and far between these friendships were the primer for my course in developing relational ties.

What I enjoyed about our friendship was the way you challenged me mentally and spiritually. I always knew when we met that there would be books to share, ideas to communicate & discuss, and a deeply shared sense of God's presence in our daily lives. This tie through the transitions of life for me was so meaningful... off to Walla Walla, on to Medical School and even through the faith testing years of Residency I knew you were there and our visits together seemed to weave a silken thread of friendship thru the sometimes coarse and broken fabrics of transition.

There were summer trips down to DC / Takoma Park with walks along the towpath and the visit to the little cottage on the bay - you treated me to that delicious meal (I never knew fish could taste so good!). I wonder what that little tree looks like that we planted in front of the cottage those many years ago - what a thoughtful gift you chose. Your days of early employment at the U of Maryland proved how much God had blessed you in knowledge as well as giftedness to work with and inspire those you worked with. You sure amazed me as you showed me the main telephone exchange (please excuse the simplistic terms) that you had invested so many hours and hours of thought and energy to bring to birth. I dimly remember that this brought you in contact with AT&T and their leadership. God was opening the doors for you to impact others with His Love.

Thank you for the many meaningful cards you chose and messages you wrote for birthdays or just to lift the soul. I still have them all tucked away and read them again and again.

Of course there was the fly fishing trip we took down the Green River. What a gift! What a gorge-ous trip! You drew out of me a spontaneous side I had set aside and it was so good to connect with you and life again. To remember that friendships could outlast the years and span over the changes of time. Catching (and releasing) those beautiful fish was truly amazing --- even if it did rain on us and our tents it didn't spoil our trip. Those guides sure knew their river, when & where to flip the flies and how to coach freshman anglers. I still have tucked away the beautifully tied flies that we used that trip. I pulled them out and marveled over them with my kids.

You were there when it came time for me to buy my first computer giving me counsel and setting me on a path for life. I remember the momentous decision it was for me. I waited till I had paid off all of my medical school loans and then with my next Rural Health check I purchased "Lappy" my 520c - the Apple of my eye. How could I know that the 5 grand that I plunked down would be the most expensive computer in all my life but the door to so much more. It was on this little Lappy that I learned to e-mail. Here I communicated with my friends and layed the solid foundation of a love affair with Apple delights. Not only did I court my future husband across the thousands of miles over CompuServe connections--- but I fatefully tempted him with the apple and once he took his first bite he too was smitten with this new love. (I don’t know if I like the whole analogy … but you understand) Now he eagerly awaits Steve Jobs periodic “updates”. He dreams of the day when he can retire his road weary Palm Treo for a sleek new iphone. And He loves me all the more for my introducing him to the apple.

Your presence at my wedding was a true honor. Thank you for coming and bringing your warm love and attention with you. Mom reminded me of your care for Geraldine my Loma Linda friend. Your attention to those who many a time would be set aside sets you apart as so special. I remember those last night jitters that fluttered in my belly. Between having to settle all the floating details, calm the settling truth behind the dreams, and bridge the many different relational gaps I still had to grow through – your presence – a friend from over the years who had seen all those in between times and still loved me with such a deep love – your presence and shoulder was a true comfort.

And so when you requested a chance to say goodbye I felt a deep sense of personal value. Valued as a friend. The amazing quality of friendship that reaches out to others to think of others even in your seeming time of intense personal crisis testifies to the depth of love you know. You have allowed God to move deeply within and I am privileged to be one of the recipients of His Love thru you his servant.

And now He is calling you back to Himself. I must say there is sorrow in the temporary parting but this is only evidence that we were created for more – for life eternal. I know when you awake on that great “getting up mornin” you will be looking into the kind face of your Savior and accepting His welcome. May His smile bring peace to the corners of your soul and light to your eyes in these days of your earthly journey.

You have been a true friend Sukij and I will count you as a priceless treasure for now and for eternity.

Come Lord Jesus come.
Your sister in Him always,

Lois

Message from Linda Hosey for Sukij

The Station
By Robert J. Hastings

Tucked away in our subconscious minds is an idyllic vision. We see ourselves on a long trip that almost spans the continent. We’re traveling by passenger train, and out the windows we drink in the passing scene of cars on nearby highways, of children waving at a crossing, of cattle grazing on a distant hillside, of smoke pouring from a power plant, of row upon row of corn and wheat, of flatlands and valleys, of mountains and rolling hillsides, of city skylines and village halls, of biting winter and blazing summer and cavorting spring and docile fall.

But uppermost in our minds is the final destination. On a certain day at a certain hour we will pull into the station. There will be bands playing and flags waving. And once we get there so many wonderful dreams will come true. So many wishes will be fulfilled and so many pieces of our lives finally will be neatly fitted together like a completed jigsaw puzzle. How restlessly we pace the aisles, damning the minutes for loitering…waiting, waiting, waiting for the station.

However, sooner or later we must realize there is no one station, no one place to arrive at once and for all. The true joy of live is the trip. The station is only a dream. It constantly outdistances us.

“When we reach the station, that will be it!”, we cry. Translated it means, “When I’m 18 that will be it! When I buy a new 450SL Mercedes-Benz that will be it! When I put the last kid through college that will be it! When I have paid off the mortgage that will be it! When I win a promotion that will be it! When I reach the age of retirement that will be it! I shall live happily ever after!”

Unfortunately, once we get “it,” then “it” disappears. The station hides itself at the end of an endless track.

“Relish the moment” is a good motto, especially when coupled with Psalm 118:24: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” It isn’t the burdens of today that drive men mad. Rather, it is regret over yesterday or fear of tomorrow. Regret and fear are twin thieves who would rob us of today.

So, stop pacing the aisles and counting the miles. Instead, climb more mountains, eat more ice cream, go barefoot oftener, swim more rivers, watch more sunsets, laugh more and cry less. Life must be lived as we go along.

Sukij,
You have inspired so many of us to “climb more mountains” and to “eat more ice cream”! But there was one time that I helped inspire you to try something new! We were at my house in College Park with a small gathering of our UMCP friends – I think it was at Christmas time- and I was serving vanilla ice cream in crystal wine goblets with Kahlua poured on top. Do you remember? You were in such a quandary as to whether you should try it or not and when you finally gave in and had some (after I brow-beat you to try it) you loved it! I’m such a bad influence!!!! It brought out the giggles in you and I can still hear your great laugh! When you’re not feeling so good, think of Kahlua, vanilla ice cream and all the love that we’re sending you!
Love & Hugs,
linda

Sukij's Update: September 29, 2008

For the past few days, Sukij is agitated by constant pain and nausea. He manages to short sleeps every once in a while, and is too tired to read this blog by himself. We however read them out loud to him. All the messages comfort him during this difficult time. So, please do continue to post here, your messages will definitely reach Sukij.

Despite his desire to call and talk to all of you, he is now too weak to do that. He said he could feel all the prayers behind him and they certainly helped him get through his pains and nausea. Please keep praying for him; he needs it now, more than ever.

Once again, our sincere thanks to everyone who posts in this blog.


Chankit

Message from Vicky Bliss for Sukij

Sukij,

I am so blessed that our paths crossed in 2002 while working together at Avaya. You touched my life in such a profound way that I will cherish forever. I am eternally grateful to you for the prayer email chain you generated on behalf of my son. Your act of kindness truly made a miracle happen!!

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Love, Vicky

Along The Way by Sukij Yongpiyakul

Along The Way
Collection of Inspirational Quotes & Words of Wisdom

By Sukij Yongpiyakul

Friends,

Some of you have ask me for this link...so here ya go!

Check out Sukij's book release at Blurb: http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/invited/256495/2e41ecf40d75613bcaeb79e2e372ba63
Use "shipforfree" for $10 off shipping under promotional coupons, valid till the end of this month (Sept 30)

Thanks....Tom Heacock

Photos Sukij Took

Sukij, You took the best pictures of our children, and we thank you deeply for doing so. You may still have access to them, but just in case you don't (and as further evidence of your genius in the medium, if further evidence were wanting)...

Now, mind you everyone, Sukij only left us with several hundred photos that weekend, because he had culled-out several hundred other "bad ones," so there's less here to choose from than we'd like (ha, ha).

Truly, the best aspect of Sukij's photography is not its technical prowess (though he is quite good on that score, too), but the way in which he captures the most revealing aspects of his subject matter--whatever or whomever it may be. I'm sure glad you don't have many of me, my friend! I only wish I had had the presence of mind (and heart) to make you turn your camera on yourself during that visit or that we had asked someone else to take a photo of us together. There are so many great photos on this blog site that capture and represent the power of your friendships with so many people! They really are worth many thousand words...

Love & prayers,

Eric, Kitty, Isabella & Peter

Message from Linda Hosey for Sukij

THE SCULPTOR
-Author Unknown

I took a piece of plastic clay,
And idly fashioned it one day.
And as my fingers pressed it still,
It moved and yielded to my will.

I came again when days were passed,
That bit of clay was hard at last.
The form I gave it, still it bore,
And I could change it never more.

Then I took a piece of living clay,
And gently formed it day by day.
And molded with my power and art,
A young child’s soft and yielding heart.

I came again when years were gone,
It was a man I looked upon.
He still that early impress bore,
And I could change it nevermore.

Sukij,

This is one of my favorite poems and as I read it I think of you. I think of you as a child being, “formed… day by day”, by your parents who fashioned you into the wonderful young man that I first met. I think of your journey past and present as you touch the lives of everyone you meet in such a way that they each carry an imprint in their heart, mind and soul that you put there. In our work, in our play, you challenge each one of us to be our best, live to the fullest and at the same time, without either of us knowing, you continue to “impress” …in the most challenging time in your life, you continue to form us. How can we ever thank you?

“Sukij II”…? Something to which I still aspire…

Till next time,
With Love,
linda

Message from Bacho and Peggy Davila for Sukij

Dear Dear Sukij,

Bacho and I have always thought of you like another son. We always knew you had a family and a host of friends but when John brought you to our home you just fit in. Thank you for being John's friend. Thank you for the fun you are to be with, whether it is celebrating March birthdays or fishing all night or coming to a surprise birthday party for Kim that turned out to be a SURPRISE 40th wedding anniversary for Bacho and me. I don't know how they pulled that off but wasn't it fun? Two of the best surprises were you and they even had Branka there. Did you know we can call her Dr. Branka Bogunovic now? Thank you for your committment to the Lord - a man after our own hearts. Such a nice son your parents have raised. Can't imagine how much your family loves you and they must be very proud of you.

Know that we have committed you to the Lord and are trusting Him for His will for your life. Just glad we will all be reunited again in the Lord's time. Also know that Bacho and I pray for you every day as many times as the Lord brings you to mind.

We love you,
Bacho and Peggy Davila

Message from Laurie Love for Sukij

Sukij,

My dear friend – I struggle to put into words the meaning of your friendship. What comes to mind with the greatest of ease when I think of you is the word, contentment. In the words of Frederick Keonig, “We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather recognizing and appreciating what we do have.” You have always so greatly impressed me with this life achievement, making the most out of each and every day.

You have also shown me and helped guide me to understanding truly how important it is to live in the present – and to paying attention to what really matters most. I often refer to a wonderful little book that you gave me entitled, 365 Ways to Live a Simple and Spiritual Life. It’s filled with quotes and words of wisdom meant to inspire and help us down the path of….well, a “happy life”.

The book is just an example of the countless, thoughtful things that you do…nurturing your friendships and helping to contribute to our personal growth and happiness. In reading the notes on this wonderful Blog, I see what I have always known – that whomever is fortunate enough to count you among their friends has been touched immeasurably by your kindness, intellect and tremendous spirit. My heart and mind are filled with so many wonderful memories of time shared with you. I am grateful to call you my friend and praying for your comfort and strength.

Love,

Laurie

Message from Ian Riley for Sukij

There are lots of quotes I like (mostly CS Lewis) but of course no quote is profound enough to guide us through all the challenges we face. That's why my favorite quote comes from Jesus in Luke 9:23.

Being a Christian is so daily, each morning when we get up we have to start over, pushing aside our desires and seeking Him.

Sukij, we only crossed paths briefly that one summer but the example you set on zeal for life in general and living for the Lord always stuck with me. Thanks for the personal interest you took in me.

-Ian Riley

Sukij Update

Hi all:

Sukij shot us a quick note tonight. Each day is getting a little tougher but he's trying to keep his spirits as high as possible. He expressed his thanks for all of your prayers and your blog entries. Please keep them coming. Below, please find a picture of Sukij's doctor and two of the doctor's children who stopped by for a visit.

Song, Dr. Chusak, and Sung

Sukij's Sister-in-law's Mom (Dr. Linda) Prays with Sukij

Please keep praying for Sukij

Drawing of Sukij

Joe drew this avatar for Sukij last week; it does look like him.

Blurb Book

Sukij:
When I saw you in the hospital in Takoma Park, you told me you had made a book of photos and quotes on blurb.com. I have been searching for it but it seems that it is no longer there. I just know that I am not the only person who would love to have a copy of a book that you made. I need your help to figure out how to find it so we can share in it. Any suggestions?

Everyday, several times a day, I sit at my desk here at work and read the entries. Then I re-read them. This blog is filled with such joy that to touch it, fills my heart with love and hope. What an awesome idea this was. But then, you always have ideas that bring people together, get them to share the very best of themselves and fill each with a little bit of sunshine. Thank you for this. I am praying for you and your family. Michael sends his love and Jason, Max and Sam say hello also. My new baby is still growing inside me, he's kicking me in morse-code and said to sends his love to you too.

Fishing Pics, Good Vibes, and Ramblings from California

Here is a cool photo of me, Suki-yaki, and Drew(bacca) from a trip when the "Kennedy Inn of San Diego" was fully booked up with guests. The 3 of us went out fishing on a 1/2 day boat right off the coast of Mission Beach. We instantly landed on top of a MASSIVE school of Sand Bass. Before this time, I was pretty certain that Sukij and I were the WORST fishermen of all time, based on the fact that we had gone surf fishing, catfish fishing, and other fishing - ALL with a ZERO CATCH result. Well, the sand bass basically jumped into the boat for us. We all caught our limit and spent the rest of the time drinking cold cans of Budweiser.

Everyone that knows our buddy Sukij knows that he can turn any time spent together in any place into QUALITY time. I like that. Quality time is important to me. My old man and I used to watch WWF wrestling on Saturday mornings during my awkward Jr. High School years. To the observer it could have appeared as though we were just couch-surfing, but in fact we were forming some really solid bonds that have become some of my best memories of youth - and it meant the world to me, particularly during a time of life that was kind of rough. About a month ago I had to take a day off of work to take my wife to a few doctor appointments. When I told my work counterpart that I had to take a day off with my wife to take her to the doctor, his immediate response was,"Cool Joel! You'll get to spend some quality time with your wife." You know, I hadn't thought of stuff like sitting in a doctor's waiting room or picking up prescriptions as "quality time", but my wise friend's words resonated in my head all day: ANY TIME WITH SOMEONE YOU CARE ABOUT IS QUALITY TIME.

I guess sometimes all we need a gentle reminder to help us see God's beautiful bounty that lies before us. It's an awesome gift when you consciously shift your perspective and realize that ANY time spent with those you love and care about IS quality time. Sukij, I guess we really didn't need to catch any fish on any of those other trips, but to be honest I didn't really care. I just felt honored to spend quality time with you - a man that I deeply respected and admired. Maybe we had already caught well beyond our "limit" in a spiritual sense.

- Joel

Sukij Update September 25th 2008

Friends, I got a call from Sukij last night around midnight and he sounded really good.

He received a blood transfusion yesterday and it made him feel much better. He ate ice cream and congee rice: however he is still tired.

Sukij has asked for prayers for his appetite and the ability to eat.

Please check Sukij’s blog often, and if you hadn’t added your words of wisdom, please do take the time. Sukij reads the blog daily…so let him hear from you!

If anyone needs help posting on the blog…don’t forget you can send it to: Sukij-trained Karen Kennedy or Karen-trained Tom Heacock.

The Nurses Caring for Our Friend

Sukij sent a picture of the nurses who care for him during the night shift:

AM and Van

The Three Musketeers

Two of Sukij's very best friends from Thailand grade school day in Thailand (5th Grade): Yoong, Sukij, Poj.

Uncle Smith just got some diarrhea

messages from Sukij:

Uncle Smith just got some diarrhea (I think from exhaustion and food he ate too much). Please say a prayer for a quick recovery, he is now bed-ridden (I think he was really exhausted from taking bringing me from the U.S. to Bangkok for 24-hour straight). Nothing serious. -- Sukij

Some more photos taken by Sukij:

AM Team that took care of me

Evening Team - they both are God-sent, especially Nong-Karn, she took care of me just about all night with medicine, changing bandage, and just general smiles and encouragement -- Sukij

Sukij and Covey 7 Habits Group

Hi Sukij,

Here's the picture.....There you are with the big smile on your face! And, you seem to have this light around you! Amazing, huh? There are so many things we learned in the 7 Habits; I get the sense you embraced the First Things First concept since you worked hard to honor your own values. I love your smile, Sukij! It appears you still have that same smile in the pictures I see on the blog! Good for you! I hope you keep it up. And your creativity and solutions oriented thinking!!! That's like one big smile too! I have you in my heart, thoughts, and prayers. I wish for you comfort, peace, and love.

Always your friend,

Peggy

Sukij and Dave in Ireland

Sukij and Dave taken at the Avaya SMBS all employee meeting in Ireland. One of Sukij's favorite trips.

Those We Love

This is one of my favorite passages and words I have lived by for years. I believe Sukij also lives by these words.

Those We Love - Marcus Aurelius

"Whenever you feel the need or wish to cheer yourself, think about all of the good qualities of those who are around you - the energy of one, for instance, the modesty of another, the generosity of a third, and some other gift of a fourth. For nothing is ever so cheering as the images of the qualities shining through in the character of those who live with us...Have these images then ever before your eyes."

Four Little Yongpiyakul

From left: Sukij, Oranuj, Chankit, and Ruangkit. This one was taken almost 40 years ago.

Photos (Posted on Sep 24)

These are pictures Sukij asked me to post, point to each picture will show description.

These two were taken by Andre





These shots were taken before Sukij left US








These are taken last night, with Sukij's relatives and the nurses









Evidently, Sukij improvements are drastic since his arrival, and we owe our thanks to Dave, Uncle and Auntie Ho, and the prayers from everyone.

Some Life Lessons

Hi Sukij

Lois and I were re reading some of the great posts and were reminded that you had asked if we would share some life lessons. Here are a few gems that have formed in my heart:

Any fool can love a pretty face or handsome figure but tiz when we stoop to kiss the scars behind the mask that love begins.

We long to be known for who we are and loved anyway.

Salvation looks like relational healing.

It is our own weaknesses reflected and magnified in others that irritate us the most.

We need each other for our strengths and weaknesses. Strength give us lift, inspiration and courage. Weakness provides a mirror and gives love a chance to grow.

To listen deeply is a priceless gift.

The following are not my own. Gems gleaned along the way:

Not to forgive is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.

Loves Gymnasium

Elementary School - To respond to positive stimulus.
High School - To bestow favor on one who is indifferent to me.
BA - To bestow favor on one intent on harming me.
Masters - To bestow favor on one intent on taking my life.
PhD - To bestow favor on one who has taken the life of one I love (Be perfect like your Heavenly Father)

Well that's all for now. We are thrilled you have had strength to visit with family!

All our love

Laurence and Lois

My Partner in Wheeeeee! ☺

Sukij –
Joel and I always looked forward to your California visits because we would be reunited with our “Partner in Wheeeee! ☺” You know that feeling you get when you’re in the midst of doing something incandescently fun and exciting like riding a rollercoaster!? Well, the happy sensation that feeling evokes is “Wheeeee! ☺” and whenever you were around Joel and I would get to bask in it. Do you remember some of these fun adventures we had:

1. Staying up until midnight to line up with the little kids at Barnes and Noble to be among the first to get a copy of the latest Harry Potter book! Racing home and reading until the wee hours of the morning.
2. Playing MarioKart and creating Wii Mii's on the Wii.
3. Tearing open the box to my very first Macbook and kicking the PC to the curb!
4. Relishing our foodie experience at Chez Panisse and Aquarello. Savoring every bite of the best dim sum in LA and Joel’s home cooked meals. Enjoying high tea at the Ritz, drooling over the goodies at the Ferry Building, eating sushi at Ebisu, scouting out the most authentic Thai food, and always ordering dessert!
5. Getting inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit in San Francisco.
6. Yelping, Blurbing, Skyping, Blogging and Twittering! Oh my!

Sukij, you give me courage!

Love,
Karen

Hi from Peggy Phillips

Sukij, 

Peggy Phillips here!  I hoped to post the first Seven Habits of Highly Effective People class picture where you are in the first full row of people.... right behind the person holding up the book !!!  Oh my!  You embraced that information so much!  I will always appreciate your dedication to integrating what you learned into your every-day life.  If the picture didn't work; I'll try again!!  When you see it, you'll see how you always make me smile !!!!

And remember Sukij...... you and I met on several occasions talking through the things you wanted to do with your life?  You actually encouraged me in those meetings; making me feel like I was actually helping you move forward in your life !!!

Sukij, I am so sorry I did not just change my schedule so that I could see you in this past year when Tom Heacock said you were in the area; what a loss for me!!!!  You are such a special person.  I so often think of your enthusiasm for life and how you encouraged me to do more coaching.  It's turned out that my form of coaching has actually been to be a facilitator of groups that are struggling with decisions.  And, I have been successful at that.  And I believe YOU helped me get to that place where I felt comfortable to do this work.

Sukij, you always made things happen and did it with a smile on your face.... Thank you!!!!  I am so thankful you have been in my life and my life is better because of it.  I wish I could give you a hug, but I know your family is giving you lots of hugs.

Thank you Sukij for being you!  Thank you for being in my life!  I wish you the best my friend.... I know that is what you will find.

Fondly and with great appreciation,

Peggy Phillips

Message from John and Kim Davila for Sukij

Sukij,
We just wanted to share these pictures that we had. They are from Peggy & Bacho's anniversary party two years ago. Most of the time you were behind the camera, this is one of the few times you were actually on the other side. Our family was very grateful that a few weeks after the party we received many wonderful pictures put together by you in a lovely photo album. We always have 'good intentions' of taking pictures where ever we go and always seem to forget. Now we will always have a way of remembering that day forever. Thank you Sukij for being a wonderful friend and brother to both of us. Your christian spirit will always be remembered by all the people who know and love you.

Your friends in Christ forever,
John & Kim Davila

Message from Carole Conaghan for Sukij

Sukij,

I am saddened to hear of your illness. You have been a profound influence in so many lives, all who have the privilege of knowing your are richer for the experience. I remember when I followed you as Eastern Region Director, I was so nervous and not at all sure I was up to the challenge. Your support and encouragement meant so much to me. Always knowing when to speak up and when to show your faith in me by stepping back.

I pray that you are filled with the Holy Spirit during this difficult time. I also pray that you are full of God's Grace when you enter the Kingdom of Heaven when God chooses to call you home. I pray for you each day, in the words our Savior gave us....Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, THY will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.
Revelation 21:4 NKJV
One day, God Himself will take your face in His hands and gently wipe away your tears as He reassures you there will be no more suffering.....You can look forward with hope, because one day there will be....no more separation, no more scars, no suffering, no more tears at all.

I will always be blessed by having known you.

Carole Conaghan

Update: Sep 23, 2008 09:42 AM

Dear everyone,

Sukij woke up this morning fresh and peaceful, thanks to prayers from around the world. There were no sign of fatique or tiredness. He chatted with us for about an hour, recounting memories about his friends and his life over there. He seems to live a good life there if you ask me :)

Here are some of the recent photos:

Sukij and his family: (from right) Dad, Nuj (sister), Sukij himself, Mom (back), Usara (cousin), Ruangkit (brother)



Sukij, Finn and Faye -- his Twin nieces



Sukij and Matt -- his only nephew



Sukij and Uncle Ho


Sukij and his Great Aunt



Thanks for your prayers,
Lek

Message from Bob Anderson for Sukij

My friend Sukij,

When we met at Avaya back in 2002, I knew right away that you were a very special person. Your energy, passion, attitude, and kind personable ways clearly set you apart. I enjoyed our conversations and felt that we shared similar philosophical ideas about life and success. I found your ideas and outlook on life to be refreshing and our chats to always be inspirational and motivating.

As we travel through our life’s journey, we are fortunate to meet people that touch our lives in special ways and hold special meanings. Although our time working together was brief, I will always be blessed that our paths crossed. You are an inspiration to me and I will always consider myself fortunate to have met you. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

Your friend,
Bob Anderson

Dream Weaver

Hi Sukij

I have been reading the posts of your family and friends

and it is evident

that you have lived your life

in the hands of the Dream Weaver!

Calling

Mission

Dreams

Your mission has been to awaken us from our sleep,

To open our eyes

To see

To be

To create

The Wisdom that called you

Has whispered that it is from the final sleep

That we will awake

To dream no more!

One Seed

One Dream Weaver

A world Awakened to love

And the circles of your love, His love role out

Renew, beacon, whisper

There is more

For in dying we are born to eternal life!

Thanks dream weaver

Laurence Burn

My Dear Friend Sukij

My Dear Friend Sukij,

I will always treasure the many weekends we spent together over the years. Our many late night trips to the grocery store for ice cream, walks around Centennial Lake, going to the movies, watching TV, eating at our favorite Columbia restaurants - Bangkok Garden and Suski King, and having wonderful dinners at home that neither one of us had to cook.

Your giving spirit has taught me so much about life and keeping everything in perspective.

You will never be far from my mind and will be forever in my heart!

I love you always!

Tina

My Sweet Sukij

Sukij,

It all started with the City of Hastings, our first day working together in on IPO complaints, and there was no turning back. From that point forward we built a friendship, love and respect for each other. We are so lucky to find out that we shared the same values and beliefs. Our common bond showed through our working together at Avaya but it wasn’t until you left that we really got to spend a lot of quality time together. Remember how worried I was that we would drift apart once you left “the company”? You confidently told me it would only get better and you were right. You know how much I love and care about you and I know you remember all the fun things we enjoyed. I’m posting just a couple reminders of your first baseball game and the Cherry Blossom parade in DC. How many of those Legal Seafood rolls did you really eat? You are unmatched in your sincere kindness, support, friendship, advice, presence, and spirit. You will be a part of me and who I am forever. Thank you for being you and sharing your true self with me.

Love, Normie

Message from Cindy Campbell for Sukij

Hey Sukij!!
When I saw an entry that you were trying to read these, I had to write. She-bang, she-bang! Remember the fun we had at Catalyst when you were the star of our SMB support team? I will never forget your energy, your smiles, and your enjoyment over a good joke. You did not want to be someone who just showed up to answer the technical questions - you wanted to be part of the "family" and that's exactly what you were! - a cherished member of the Catalyst family, even still today. In fact, with everything I'm reading on this blog, there wasn't a family any where in the world you didn't belong to at some point! What a great testament to the man you are and your boundless spirit. I consider it a huge honor to know you and lucky as all get out that your path crossed mine. Your journey will not end - you'll just change scenery - and I'll see you again one day!

In prayer for you daily my friend...

Cindy Campbell

Sukij's Update: September 21 - 22, 2008

On Sunday (Sep 21), we intended to arrange for a family service in the morning, but Sukij was too tired so we reverted to just praying for him. He was also too weak to take any visitors. Matt, his favorite nephew, got a chance to see him briefly. They chatted for about 2-3 minutes and took a few pictures. Then Matt left so that he might take some rests.

He woke up this morning and gained some strength. First thing he did, of course, was to read this every single post in this blog. So, please keep'em coming, it means a lot to him. He even complained that I didn't update his situation and posts photos quick enough. He told me that his friends are eagerly awaiting for the updates and photos.

I didn't have all the photos with me right now so please accept my sincere apologies. I will try to get them tonight. :)

He is still in great pain and need pain killers on a regular basis. He is also easily tired and depressed so please keep on praying for him.

Will keep you as up to dated as possible.

Love,
Chankit

UPDATE -- 09:46 PM (BKK LOCAL TIME):

I visited Sukij this evening and he was extremely calm and peaceful. All signs of stress and anxiety are gone. He started telling me his life's mission statement and reciting many stories about his friends in US.

One of his last wishes is to write stories and lessons that he has learned, but he said it might not be necessary now, since his friends have already written many great stories that he wanted to write in great details.

He told me to read not only the posts, but also the comments. Those memories are valuable to him and he was so surprised that you remember them.

Sukij,

I am so glad you made it home safely and I am equally glad I got the chance to see you the day before you left the United States. My visit with you was a blessing and was a moment I will never forget. Your final instructions to me during that meeting to "follow my dreams" were encouraging and hopeful, like many of the meetings we had over the years. I owe you a lot as you were instrumental in guiding me on my way within AT&T to a 20 year career and encouraging me to be "not just a salesman."

As I have told many people, I have a friend named Sukij, I wish you could meet him, when you meet him it is always "about you." You'll leave his presence with more than you came with and you will get an incredible boost of energy and optimism after talking with him. Strangely enough, I even got that after my hospital visit. Very few people in this world, can leave you with a feeling like that in the midst of those circumstances.

I will be praying for you and your visit in Thailand. I know that you will an inspiration to those you meet while you are there and that as always your "ripple effect" will continue to bless those who are fortunate enough to meet you.

Your friend,
Jon Seiniger

Sukij Update: Sep 20, 2008

Dear all,

We have some good news. Sukij had a minor surgery to implant a tube in his neck. The operation went well, without any complications.

He was very tired from the trip and the operation, and managed to get some sleep (about 3 hours) in the afternoon. He is getting much better now. He really appreciates all of the support from the other side of the world, particularly to Dave who made this journey possible.

On behalf of Sukij's family, I would like to thank all of you for your supports and prayers. This blog is one of the greatest things ever happen in our lives. We read every single post many times and so overwhelmed by your love to Sukij. We are so happy to know that you love him so much.

Our warmest regards and thanks,
Yongpiyakuls

Erasmus says: Enjoy the beach!

We can now all breathe a sigh of relief that Sukij has made it home to Thailand!

There are far too many wonderful things to say about Sukij to even attempt to write them all here. I've never seen anything like the outpouring of respect and love for a man as I have witnessed here and lately for Sukij. What a great testament to the impact of his life upon those around him! I recently came across the following lines from Desiderius Erasmus which seem to capture the situation, and the man, well:

Death is not to be feared, nor should we wail when it comes to others...The happiest man is not the one who has lived the longest, but the one who has made the most of his life. The span of life should be measured not by years but by our deeds well performed. Length of life has no bearing on a man's happiness. It is how well he lived that counts. Surely virtue is its own reward.

On these counts, Sukij has already lived a VERY long, VERY happy, and VERY virtuous life. The quote reminded me of a story Sukij recently recounted to me from (I believe) his college graduation commencement. There the speaker asked one of the graduates how long he had been alive. The student answered that he had been alive for about 22 years. But the speaker clarified that he was not asking how long the student had been drawing breaths, but rather how long the student had been REALLY ALIVE, fully present in the moment. That is how I know Sukij to live every moment. That is how I know he wants all of us to live every moment--fully present--for not just ourselves, but more especially for others.

Enjoy the beach Sukij!

Your Journey

Sukij: I am so happy you made it home. And so thankful that your beloved family will have you now. They have shared you with us all these years. Please thank them. I was contemplating your journey the other day and I realized that most of us don't look at our lives as a journey. But when I look at yours, I think what a wonderful journey it has been. You have always pursued your dreams, even now. You have inspired others to follow their dream. You have loved unconditionally all those you have met and shown us a light we never would have seen had you not been there. Thank you for always making me feel special and beautiful. Thank you for always remembering my beautiful daughter and granddaughter. You wouldn't believe how beautiful Rebecca is now at 18 and a senior in high school. You are thoughtful and giving. And now near the end of your journey here on earth you have chosen to share with us. Isn't that just like you! Always thinking of others. I would have been devastated to hear the sad news from anyone else but you. But the way you wrote to me filled my heart with joy and longing to see you and wrap my arms around you and give you just one more big hug. So feel the HUGE HUG I am sending your way. I'll be sending positive energy your way every day and I hope to feel your spirit when it is set free. And be sure to tell your Mother what a wonderful job she did raising you. Way to go, Mom!! Sleep tight my prince and rest softly and quietly. Keep strong and smile each time you think of all of us who love you. We will feel your spirit in our loves forever.
Love always,
Anita

Sukij Arrives Home in Bangkok

Hey Friends...Karen Kennedy just received an e-mail from Chankit (Lek), Sukij's brother.

Sukij arrived in Bangkok at 10:42 pm local time safe and sound. He is extremely tired from the long trip, but he's been all smiles since seeing his family welcome him at the airport. He is now at the Bangkok Christian Hospital.

Thanks for the many prayers for Sukij's strength and safe journey home to Bangkok.

God is so Good...We praise Him for answering our prayers!

Thanks....Tom Heacock

Sukij - visionary, learner, teacher, friend

Dear Sukij

You've been in my thoughts every day since I heard the news. And, as all the happy memories come forward from the back of my brain to the front, I feel so blessed that our lives crossed paths while we were both here at the University of Maryland. And, even more blessed that we got a chance to see each other earlier this year in March.

I found some old email messages in my archives from back when I first came back to the University of Maryland in February of 1995. I helped you facilitate a session in the IBM-TQ Teaching Theater on doing a visioning session to think forward to the future and the affects of technology both in the business world and education. All of our conversations always involve some level of visioning - you are always thinking forward about future impacts of today's and tomorrow's technologies. And, I for one, always loved our conversations about that and always left reinvigorated to find the "next best thing" to do!

You are always constantly learning about new technologies and keeping on top of emerging trends and you've always been a teacher for me when we would get together even though you may have felt I was the one teaching you! I am really not surprised that you were the one who actually showed me how twitter could be used effectively! And, I thank you for all the articles you started sending me after we met in March! All very useful and thought provoking.

When we first met at Maryland, there was this "instant connection" that was really great. We have very similar approaches to customer service and are both interested in learning about new ways to collaborate and to help use technology effectively in the support of teaching and learning. After you left Maryland, we would find ourselves touching base every now and then and each time it felt like we had just seen each other yesterday!

Thank you for your friendship. You have always impressed me with your enthusiasm for life and the important of a balance between work and personal life. As I look back at some of our email exchanges back in 1995, I realize now how you were gently reminding me to not work late and to have time for my personal life.

I am so happy that I got a chance to see you off yesterday at the hospital. I hope your journey back home to Thailand was comfortable.

Peace,
Ellen

CORRECTION: SUKIJ'S CONTACT INFORMATION IN THAILAND

Hi everyone!

Please find a correction to Sukij's contact information in Thailand.

Sukij Yongpiyakul

49 Soi Taksin 6

Thonburi, Bangkok 10600

THAILAND

Chankit, Sukij's brother, contacted me and provided the correction.

Message from Bob Helgemo for Sukij

My Dear Friend,

I was so taken a back when I heard the news of your illness. I was reminded of a time several years ago (at an InAAU conference) when we shared our common faith in Christ and how He had changed both of our lives. People often ask me, how do you know for sure that someone is “saved” through the merits of Jesus and His finished work? I always begin by telling them “that you will know them by their fruit’s”. Well my friend, I have known you, as have many others, by your fruit, and your “others oriented life”. You have truly been a blessing to so many over the years. From your caring concern for your customers, to your contagious laugh, I thank the Lord for knowing you. I look forward to the day when we shall walk the “Streets of Glory” together again enjoying the presence of “God’s light”.

I will pray for you and your family, in Jesus’ name.

Your brother in Christ,

Bob Helgemo

Message from Bill Bingham and Susan Wilson for Sukij

Sukij,
Know that you’ve impacted the lives and livelihoods of people all over this country and around the world, your sweet spirit and soft voice made following your lead a pleasure. Working at AT&T, Lucent and then Avaya, we faced many different processes, products, and performance plans, many of which still send chills up my back - but, the one constant that we had was whenever we saw you or spoke to you, was the warm greeting and smile to melt away the stress we all felt.
Even after Susan and I retired you found opportunities to call and see how we were doing, both in our personal lives and in our careers, you are a true servant leader. I thank God that we were fortunate enough to work with you and remain friends through the years. Sukij, you are a true friend, one who puts others first, is supportive and “real”, not afraid to tell it like it is. We just want you to know that the folks down here in Georgia love you and are praying really hard for you and your family.
It was awesome to see the SMILE on your face as you were leaving the hospital to go “home”, we know that you will enjoy every second of every day with family and friends!
God Bless You,
We love you,
Bill Bingham
Susan Wilson

A Wish Fulfilled! Sukij is On His Way Home!

Great News! Tom received a text message from Sukij at 12:37 pm EST. Sukij is on the airplane. Woo hoo! He asked for continued prayers. Stay tuned for the next update....

His next message will be from Bangkok!!!! :)

Thanks to Tom for getting the message out to friends and family!

Below, please find a picture of family and friends who traveled to Washington Adventist hospital to give Sukij a happy send off back to Thailand!

JTS Communications LLC

Sukij and I launched JTS Communications, LLC in 1997 to do conferences for telecommunications professionals. We decided to include the Lord as a partner, since both of us felt that the Lord was leading us to start a business to help folks. We named it JTS Communications...the T for Tom...the S for Sukij and the J for Jehovah Gira which means the LORD is our provider. We decided to have our first conference at "The Lodge" in Williamsburg and began to plan a jammed- packed 3 day agenda. We solicited the best presenters and soon had a really nice agenda. Our presenters were Bob Gabriel, John Bielec, Mark Katsouros, John Romano, Harriet Carpenter, Mary Wolfe, Jon Seiniger, Clay Gump, Tom Heacock and of course Sukij Yongpiyakul. We worked many Saturdays on designing the brochure with a bright young student named Chris Anderson, and writing the 1001 Tips & Techniques for Telecommunication Professionals that was given to each attendee. We hired the University Printers to print the brochure and excitedly watched the presses as they rolled out thousands of our dream brochures. We hired Reliance Teleservice owned by Cindy Wilson to answer our 800 number and register attendees. The conference was a lot of work but provided many lessons for us both. The conference was a big success, all the attendees raved about all they learned. The JTS Communications venture showed both Sukij and I that we could do other things and that our dreams were not limited. God rescued us during several of our nieve mistakes and showed us that God is still in the miracle business. I remember when our sign-ups were slow and Sukij and I were praying to know what to do...more marketing...more calling.... or had we done enough. We discussed it with my pastor and he said, "you do all you know how to do and then you REST in the Lord". The experience gave me a real appreciation for small business men and women and how hard it is to run a business. I also learned that it was not my calling, but Sukij learned it was his calling. Sukij and I both went to the corporate world of Lucent Technologies, then Avaya; Sukij went on to start other businesses but I was happy to stick with the corporate world. I don't think I ever would have moved to the corporate world if I hadn't had the experience of JTS Communications, LLC which expanded my horizons. Thanks to Sukij and his vison, I had the experience of owning my own company and learning that dreams are possible. Sukij also taught me that after prayerfully considering your course...you must take action...then God will help you with the rest. God can only help you if you take that first step.

Thank you Sukij...my brother in Christ! -Tom Heacock

Message from Alberto, Christy and Marco for Sukij

Dearest Sukij,

We were never able to spend too much time together, but you have always been very dear to our hearts as a family. You were always one of my big brother’s best friends and I thank God every day for that. I love my brothers very much and I always wanted God’s best for them. You see, that is what you are. You have always personified the Life of Christ in all you did. You truly are God’s child.

You are the rare person who understands how to live your life as a conduit, allowing God to use you as a main pipeline to reach those around you with His love and care. You have always beautifully demonstrated dying to self and focusing always on God’s will for you and I appreciate your lessons. Your humility keeps you in the forefronts of our minds as one who realizes the value of living well and reaching out to others.

I try not to have too many regrets in life and I have done pretty well with it, keeping the lessons and losing the rest; however, one regret that will remain is that we were not able to spend more time together just talking. I am so grateful to God that my brother John had that opportunity and I promise to try not to be jealous.

It was so much fun to sit and talk during the 40th anniversary party for my parents a couple years ago. My husband Alberto still asks about you. He always remembers the beautiful photos you took of our little boy, Marco. Mom was just mentioning the other day the fishing trip that you guys went on several years ago and how she had so much fun with you all. It seems that any memory that involves you is a bright one.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for loving the Lord the way you do, and for loving us. God bless you, Teacher, and Godspeed.

Love and prayers,
Alberto and Christy (Davila) Escalante and Marco

Sukij's Contact Information in Thailand

Sukij left the hospital for his flight to Thailand this morning. Many people have asked for his contact information in Thailand.

Sukij Yongpiyakul

49 Soi Taksin 6

Thonburi, Bangkok 10600

THAILAND

Please note, the address above may be temporary, as the house is currently for sale. However, it can be used until further notice.

Thanks to Cheryl N. and John D. for providing the information for this post!

This posting was updated with new information on 9.18.2008 at 6:12 pm PST.

Seeing Sukij Off on His Journey Home to Thailand

Hello Friends,

John Davila spoke this afternoon with Sukij’s Aunt asking if it would be okay and what she thought of the idea if many of his friends came together to see Sukij off on his trip home to Thailand. She thought it was a wonderful idea that so many of his friends would want to do this for him. John explained it wouldn’t be a visit but only to smile and wave good-bye and show Sukij our love and support for his journey home.

• We are planning to meet in the lobby at Washington Adventist Hospital at 8:00 am

• We will be in the main lobby of the hospital (there is also an emergency room lobby)
  

• There will not be time to talk or visit with Sukij and we don’t want take any of his energy away that he will need for long flight home. Please remember that talking with Sukij weakens him.

• Sukij is to be released around 8:30 am.

• Please bring any signs, balloons etc. NOT to give Sukij but to hold and show our support and love.
  

• Please remember we do not want to weaken any strength that Sukij has built up for his difficult journey home. It is his wish that he is able to return to Bangkok to see his family and we do not want to do anything to jeopardize his wish.

• The address is:

Washington Adventist Hospital

7600 Carroll Avenue

Takoma Park, MD 20912

Please keep praying for Sukij and hope to see many of you tomorrow.

-Cheryl

Latest Sukij Update from Tom: Wednesday Morning

Friends:

Sukij’s Aunt Alice (Dr. Ho’s sister) called this morning to give me an update on Sukij. Talking is tiresome for Sukij.

Sukij received a pint of blood yesterday and will receive another today. He is feeling better today, trying to drink milk and ensure. She said he was trying to walk a little yesterday and will again today.

Sukij is still planning on flying to Thailand on Thursday with his Aunt and Uncle if he continues to gain strength.

Please keep praying for Sukij and that he gains enough strength to flight back to see his family in Bangkok .

Thanks,

Tom

Sukij Taught Us To Dream

“I dream, I test my dreams against my beliefs, I dare to take risks, and I execute my vision to make those dreams come true.” - Walt Disney -

I really think that Walt Disney must have gotten this quote from Sukij!


Sukij on High Rock near Hagerstown, MD

Our friend Sukij has blessed my wife Christine and I so much, I can't even begin to list the ways. Sukij taught us to dream. He encouraged Chris and I to do new things, to think of things differently and was always there to support us. We wouldn't be where we are today, if it wasn't for Sukij's advice, coaching and friendship. We have shared many major life changing events together and we will charish those memories forever. Thanks Sukij!

We thank the Lord for Sukij's friendship! - Chris and Tom Heacock

Sukij and Some of His Entourage!

Picture of Sukij with family and friends as he was being discharged from the hospital in New Jersey last Saturday, September 13, 2008.

I was able to visit with Sukij at the hospital briefly on Monday and Tuesday. He was pretty tired on Monday but showed more energy on Tuesday. It was a great privilege and joy to see him and hug him. We have been friends since we met at the Dale Carnegie Training about 12 years ago.

I doubt that Sukij has ever told his friends how famous he became in that 12 week course. Every week there is a vote for the best speaker and at the end there is a vote for the best overall speaker. Sukij won more awards than anyone else and he took the top honor on the final night. When he spoke he captured everyone's attention, his humor was sweet and never sarcastic. His stories were self revealing, intimate, and heartfelt. He was in a word--amazing. I made it a point to meet him and make a friend of him. Which you know is an easy thing to do.

In the course of our conversations this week we spoke of life, mission, and purpose. I asked him if he'd completed his mission, "did you do it? Did you do what you set out to do?" he answered me "Yes, I did do it. I was not perfect but I did my best" He pointed to his Bible on the window sill and asked me to bring it to him. He reminded me of the time we sat and worked out a mission statement for him many years ago. Then he told me that he had a mission statement from when he was young (in high school) that he had written in the front of that Bible. I opened the Bible and read out loud what he had written there:

Lord, I give up all my own plans and purposes

All my own desires and hopes

And accept Thy will for my life.

I give myself, my life, my all

Utterly to Thee to be Thine forever.

Fill me and seal me with Thy Holy Spirit

Use me as Thou wilt, send me where Thou wilt

And work out Thy whole will in my life at any cost now and forever.

By:Betty Scott Stam

He said the author had written it better than he could have said it. I don't know about that but I will say this:

My Dear Sukij, you have lived it better than anyone could have written it.

You are the inspiration and enthusiasm and love of God as alive in one human man as it can be. Thank you for letting me be your friend.

As I promised you: We will all pray you home tomorrow. Sukij's flight will take 24 hrs. He is worried about having the strength to get through the journey. I told him I would pray all day for him so he could borrow my strength and reach his goal. I know all of you will join in that mission on Thursday.

Granmama's Wisdom from Heidi

Dear Sukij,

I was just listening to the story of Heidi and came across this little passage that spoke to me of where you are and those of us who are close to you at this time. It comes from the part of the story just after Clara’s chair has been dashed to pieces. She is in Grandfather’s house and reflecting over the change in plans. Rather than going home she has had to stay longer than she expected and in the meantime has gained strength and even been able to take a few steps.

As the children lay in bed that night looking out at the stars Heidi said “ I have been thinking all day how good it is that God does not give us just what we ask. He always knows of something better for us.”

Clara thought hard and questioned her friend’s wisdom. “That would mean that we should never pray for anything because God knows better than we do.”

I love Heidi’s eager explanation. “Every day we must thank God for everything to let Him know that we haven’t forgotten that it all comes from Him. But you know if we don’t get what we have asked for we must not think that God has not heard and stop praying.” We must say then “Now I know dear Father that you have something better in mind and will make it better in the end no matter what happen now.”

How wise she was – or I should say old granmamma was to teach Heidi such.

May His grace and love support you today.

Love your sister in Christ Lois

Thanks to My Hero and Mentor!

Hi Sukij,

I am so happy to once again have the opportunity to say hello. Though many years have passed since we have been in the same room, my memories have brought you to mind often. In particular, I decided a few years ago to take steps in my career that were consistent with your mantra, “don’t become road-kill on the Information Highway”. As a result, I am now working in Tier 3 supporting all of Avaya’s VoIP products and having the time of my life. This is just one example of the many influences you have had on me and for which I will be eternally grateful. Your touching of my heart among so many others is one of the treasures of my life; one that ranks up there with the touches from my wife and children. My longtime wish has been that someday I can return to you what you have done for me. However, in case that does not come true here on earth, I will do what I can to live your legacy of sharing your life, your spirit, your humor, and your strong sense of love towards others. When we do meet again in the hereafter, I will truly rejoice. In the meantime, you will remain in my prayers and my heart. Then too, I wish you the very best in recovering sufficiently to go home in Thailand and thus be surrounded by family and friends as you prepare your spirit for the next chapter of living.

My very best regards,

Bob Gabriel

Hourglass Sand in Slow Motion

Dear Sukij

Thanks so much for reaching out. We are so very honored that we had a chance to talk with you briefly tonight. Your voice, battle weary though it be, is so rich with beautiful memories. Our sadness is only a shadow of the joy we have known with you. You are loved so profoundly! There is no need to be anything other than what you are! In sickness and in health is the most profound friendship. The whisper of your words and the light of our hope and the call of the promise are the welcome we long for.

I heard someone say recently that for God a 1000 years is like a day and a day is like a 1000 years. I have always understood the fact that God has a perspective that make 1000 years seem like just a day. He is so large and eternal that a 1000 years seem like just a day to him. The other side of this statement is just as profound. For God a day is like 1000 years. God is so fully engaged in the moment that each second passes in rich full spectrum multidimensional hues before Him. This is a picture of God that is so close that each heart beat is shared like it is a full life time. Our moments on the phone with you were like this to us. Seconds cherished as days and minutes as years. Thanks for this profound gift, fleeting yet rich, faltering yet full of eternal hope and love.

Thanks to the One who has concurred death we plan to see you again. We ache for the day we will worship Jesus our Lord and Master together, the day tears will be wiped away, the shadows will pass and the Day will be forever brighter.

We are sending a picture of our little family that was taken at the end of last year. Your love has touched the circle of our lives.

All our love

Laurence, Lois, Ruth and Jonathan.

Wanna be an author on the blog?

Just shoot an email to karenkennedy76@yahoo.com requesting to be added!

The Frog in the Forest

Sukij was the person who originally told this story.

A frog fell in a well in a forest and started jumping and jumping. His frog friends gathered around the top and started yelling to him to give up as it was totally useless. They could see that there was literally no possibility of jumping high enough to get out of the well.

Strangely, no matter how much they told him to stop, he seemed to work harder and even jump higher. So they increased their yelling and said it is totally a waste of time and just to abandon all hope.

Then in one giant leap the frog made the biggest jump of all and landed on the leaves and grass just outside of the well.

The other frogs all gathered around him, amazed that he jumped that high. One of the frogs who was doing much of the yelling said, we couldn’t understand why you kept jumping when we said it was futile.

Oh, said the frog, I didn’t know you said that, I am sort of hard of hearing and I thought you were cheering me on and telling me that you believed in me and that I could do it.

I had doubts, but it was your faith in me that kept me going.
-=-=-=-=-=-=

Great Memories

Great Memories from the University of Maryland

Dorothy and I hired Sukij as a student employee at the University of Maryland in 1986. We are proud to take full credit for that “great hire” and were rewarded (like two mothers) over the years watching him grow in to the brilliant young man that he is today!
During our years together at “TCHQ Headquarters”, I had written several “rhymes” to mark the passing of special dates or events. I thought that Sukij and others may enjoy these.

Happy Birthday to Sukij
March 23, 1989
Once again we congregate,
With another birthday to celebrate.
And although his is only twenty-six,
There isn’t a computer he cannot fix!

“Paging Sukij” you’ll often hear,
As Jon’s voice bellows loud and clear.
And he’ll run next door only to find,
Yet another “rush” project that Jon has in mind.

The aroma from the trailer will drive you insane,
When at lunchtime Sukij chows down on lomein.
But we knew we were in trouble when our decorating theme
Was Apples and IBM’s in “computer cream”.

To keep you around we’ll stop at nothing,
Linda even promises to stop all that singing!
Working without you just wouldn’t do,
Because we all know the limitations of “Sukij II”!

To Sukij from Linda,
Happy Valentines Day
Feb 14, 1992
I received an anonymous Valentine today,
Many wonderful things it did say!
But what was this secret admirer trying to convey?
Does he or does he not want a fiancée??

Could it have been only Monday,
That his attitude was very passé?
Indicating that I was nearly all gray,
And physically ancient in every way?

And now on Valentines Day, I dare say,
Quite a different picture he is trying to portray.
Some what of an inspirational display,
Now he is sending a different communiqué?

And as I sit in my rocker working on my crochet,
And watching as my face slowly starts to decay,
Youth may no longer be my forte,
But this old gal still wishes you a Happy Valentines Day!!

Happy 30th Birthday Sukij!
3/23/93
It’s time for a major breakthrough,
Now that 30 years have accrued.
Sukij’s search for a honeydew,
Needs to be moved up in the queue!

As this romance is long overdue,
Sukij has been instructed to attend religious rendezvous’
And flirt while sitting in the church pew,
To find some damsel to rescue!

My advice would include spending less time involved with G2,
And instead, learning to do all the country dances PDQ!
And after a mental scan of previous offers that have been issued,
He may find that the one who was too old now looks brand new!!!

There is a Hole in the Water in my Bucket!
This title may sound quite unique,
But so is the person of whom I speak!
It is the student Dorothy and I hired in 1986,
Who had a double major in EE and Mathematics!

He was indispensable form the start,
And I’d never met anyone so smart!
I certainly never thought,
The hole in my water would be his fault!

Back in the day’s at Knox Road ,
A certain Director often bellowed!
He had a Merlin “Page-All” habit,
That had Sukij running around like a jackrabbit!

Sukij had an appetite that wouldn’t quit,
As at the lunch table he would sit.
And right before my very eyes,
He could make a mountain of lomein vaporize!

It was soon time to say adieu,
To Key Equipment named 1A-2.
Digital Voice Terminals brought analog to a halt,
And anything that went wrong was “Dorothy’s fault”!

Phase I & II, “one-up” numbers and “cut sheets”,
Not to mention all the adds and deletes,
Had us all on the edge of our seat,
Back in the Knox Road Trailer Suite!

System features Sukij had to tweak,
Had an air of verbal mystique.
As pronounced using “Sukij-speak”,
“Wally Parking” was very unique!

To quote Sukij, when something went wrong,
“Aw Shuck” is said very strong.
Some things were hard for him to express,
He never quite knew where to put the letter “S”!

We almost lost him once before,
To that green card trouble in Baltimore .
But it worked out just in time,
Before he had to marry that girl who was way past her prime!

In Nineteen Hundred and ninety-one,
His career as System Administrator had just begun.
That is when his office décor,
Started looking more like a bookstore!

About that time Sukij had a paradigm shift,
It may have been the flying buffalo’s that gave him a lift,
But ever since reading that Dale Carnegie brochure,
He’s been trying to get everyone to be an entrepreneur!

Sukij’s interests range from computers to fishhooks,
And he keeps all his thoughts in his electronic notebook.
You could just as often find him in a canoe,
As sitting in front of his CPU!

Ok, you’re wondering if I’m ever going to end,
But by this lyrical audio I’m just trying to extend,
If I persist with this maybe Sukij won’t go,
I don’t want to say good-bye to my amigo!

We all knew this day would come,
But, before anyone becomes totally undone,
I don’t think he is going anywhere soon,
He won’t be able to get his office cleaned up till next June!!

But seriously, Sukij, “Thanks for all your helps, you do great works”!

- Linda Hosey

Footprints that Glow

Footprints that glow
Most people leave footprints that are simply an impression that is left either on the ground of the earth or if in a home on the carpet. If one were to inspect on a close level, dust and dirt would be evident on the footprint and on the associated shoes. That is the way it is with most people. There are tracks remaining, but they serve little value and usually need to be swept clean.

But I know of one person who leaves special footprints where ever he walks. The footprints he leaves are surrounded by light. The footprints that this person leaves are like trails for others to follow. His footprints are actually inspirations to others. Of course, I don’t mean literal physical footprints; rather I am speaking of the impressions made by contact with this person.

This person brings value to any conversation and leaves you feeling better than when he came. This person gives you insights and perspectives that helps you in life. This person is honest and lives his beliefs. This person knows that there is more to life than the physical. This person brings his body, mind and soul together. He understands that worldly things have no real value. He sees the bigger picture. He brings joy and help to others. He talks of inspiration and he walks the talk.

Those who know him are very fortunate. By the way, did I mention that his name is Sukij Yongpiyakul? For all who know him, they say clearly that it is their good fortune to know him.

Sukij's footprints serve as pathways, and they glow, because they are filled with light.

- Jon Rood

Adventures

Adventures

Sukij, I would like to share a few of our many fun and funny moments: Canoing and camping along the Potomac River (23-mile trip down stream): This sure was an excellent adventure for all. It was a very dry and hot summer I remember. The river was low but we stroked, rowed and even walked and dragged our canoes down the river. Tony, Astha, Sasha, Mike, you and I persevered and continued...nothing stopped us. I remember looking forward to the "Banana Boats" (bananas split in half and filled with chocolate and marshmallows roasted over the fire) Sasha kept raving about. Those were good. Haha...I remember getting our breakfast ready one of the mornings and you were putting the portable stove together. All of a sudden I heard you say "OH MY GOSH!" Everyone looked up and your head was covered in all this white ash. As you brushed the ash off you said, "My hair was on fire!" Apparently, the gas had leaked and caused a little flare up. We were all surprised you didn't jump into the river to cool off :-)

Fishing: Whether it's surf fishing at Assateague Island, along the Potomac River, Kent Island, at Ocean City, or on a head boat on the Chesapeake we had a great time even if the fish did out-smart and out-wit us. One trip that comes to mind is when we camped out near the beach and surf fished at Assateague. That was my first time using live eels as bait. I really did not enjoy baiting the lines with those squiggly things. But those eels did the trick. We landed a baby sand shark! We dug a hole in the sand near the water and we admired it for a bit until it made its way back into the ocean water. That was very cool. Sukij, thanks for unhooking that catch from the line! We learned a Iot from one another during these trips. The company is what made these trips so special. You instilled more confidence and a can-do attitude in my character, you challenged me with questions about life and setting goals, and you taught me that there are endless possibilities out there as long as I strive for those goals. Please enjoy the attached pictures: The journey down the Potomac in Mr. Apple's canoes. And a picture of one of our catches in Stoehr's boat.

With much love,

Jeff

Message from John Chin

Sukij:

My initial reaction was, "I don't have the words!"

The reality is I have TOO many.

Maybe you realize this (or not), but your "traveling on" is going to be one of the greatest lessons to everyone you've ever touched.  Like me, everyone that knows you is being forced to contemplate what is really important in life...and nobody has as much influence in this regard as someone who has lived like you.  You "see" what others miss.  Nothing around you just "passes by".  And nobody around you is just "someone".

Your lessons will be a continual reminder for me.  So I say thank you...a sincere, heart-filled Thank You.

It's ironic that you requested other people's life lessons.  But, I guess, we couldn't expect anything different from you, huh?

More than 10 years ago, you mentioned a simple personal mission of being Dumbo's feather to others.  You have been that for me, and I suspect, for many, many more.

In the final analysis, you've done good, man.  Real good.  I'm grateful for knowing you.

Your RAVING FAN and fortunate friend,

John

Two Cuties Waiting for Sukij to Travel Home

Sukij received well wishes from his little nephew and niece in Thailand via YouTube.  Click on the links below.  According to Sukij, "One of my main incentives to go home is to see them."

A special message from Matt.

A special message from Tanya.

Sukij: What a Sweet Talker!

Sukij was quite popular with the nurses!  All of the nurses loved him!  The nurses pictured above are Luce and Sunshine.

Questionable Lineup

Sukij

I've got to tell you here buddy, the cops came by today and were asking me some tough questions. They were saying there were some bizarre events that took place in Europe during 2002. I told them I didn't know anything about it and then they stuck this picture in my face. I tried to deny it and say it was Photoshop, but then they started asking me all about the other people in there. I denied everything but you may want to watch out. They had details about pasta, pizza, beer, wine and carousing about the city at all hours of the night that were just about shocking--how could they know about that!?!

Actually, in all reality, this was one of the best times of my life. Iwill forever look back at that time as one of the best ever, with someof the best people I have ever known. One of those few magical moments that is elevated above all others. No big surprise that it's not the city but the people that make the moments special. Thank you for being such a special part of those moments. It's also not a surprise that many others have so many other Sukij stories of how you've impacted their lives.

Hang in there.

Scott

Sukij - my mentor, spiritual guide, and brother

I first met Sukij while working at the University of Maryland back in 1994. We became fast friends and continued our friendship through the years. We love to hike, fish, and travel. Carpe Diem is truly our mantra! Thanks to Sukij's constant encouragement, I have taken the Dale Carnegie course, moved to California, climbed mountains, and so many other cool things. In 2002, Sukij was a groomsman in my wedding. In the wedding, he emceed and conducted a Chinese tea ceremony for Karen and me. It was something that really made our wedding unique, and we loved having Sukij's "footprint " on our special day! Since that time, Sukij has become a friend, motivator, and powerful catalyst for my wife, Karen. Sukij has given Karen a love and passion for photography. We can't travel ANYWHERE unless she has her Nikon D-40X (which Sukij, of course, helped me select for her). Sukij is always so generous with his time, putting his heart and soul into encouraging others to truly LIVE.

Sukij - when we got back to California yesterday I did 2 things that make me feel truly ALIVE - to be true to our shared philosophy. I put on my swim fins and went bodyboarding at Tourmaline surfing beach. During my session I meditated on you and visualized me channeling some positive vibes your way. I couldn't help but smile the whole time, feeling very relaxed and truly in THE MOMENT. Next, Karen and I got a reservation at your favorite San Diego sushi spot. We sat at the sushi bar and ordered your favorite dish - yellowtail with chili oil. Just like you taught me, I cherished each bite and let the flavors coat my tongue, chewing slowly and consciously appreciating the moment. We will always know this dish to be "Sukij's favorite". Karen, Elijah (our sushi chef and personal friend), and I all toasted you throughout the meal. All of our actions are prayers that are intended to channel you the positive vibes!

Your brother,

- Joelman

Sukij update - Sun, Sept 14 (2:34pm EST)

Sukij just called and asked that the blog get updated with a few things:

1) Sukij is going to check in at the local hospital as a preventive measure against developing pneumonia. He will be at Washington Adventist Hospital. They will give him some anti-biotics and nutrition. The plan is to get him strong enough to travel to Thailand THIS Thursday. He will be accompanied on this trip by his Aunt and Uncle (physician). He mentioned this and said "well duh, why didn't we all think of this earlier?".

2) Sukij wanted everyone to know that he has been eating, and his Aunt made him rice porridge (aka Congee). This is the Asian version of chicken noodle soup, or matzoh ball soup (aka Jewish Penicillin). My wife makes this stuff, and let me tell you - IT WORKS!

3) He wanted to thank everyone for their wishes, emails, and calls. He desperately wants to talk to each one of you and thank you, but he is still trying to preserve his strength. He continues to ask folks to send their wishes to the blog.

- Karen & Joel

Message from Scott McLean

Sukij,

To the best friend a person could ever have, there are so many things to admire about you. At the top of the list has been your great Christian faith which has been a great inspiration to me and my family. Your desire to help others grow personally and professionally and always seeing the best in them. And of course, a phenomenal love of children. As you can see from a picture with Erica, Mark and Peter, they all love you tremendously. You've given so much of your life bringing so much joy to them, playing with them, laughing with them, and helping them grow. You have built a strong legacy that will live on.

Your brother in Christ,

Scott

Sukij, Norma, Dave

Here is a photo of Sukij and two of his dear friends - Norma, and Dave. This photo was taken on Saturday afternoon (the 13th) just prior to his discharge, and the journey back to Takoma Park, MD. Sukij shot out a text message saying that he got home ok.

We love you buddy!

Thailand Trip 1999-2000

In late 1999 - 2000, a random group of travelers went to Thailand with Sukij. One of the travelers, Matt Kauppi took some photos and sent them along to share on the blog. For all of us, this was our first trip to Asia. Sukij and his family were such great ambassadors the whole time. The photos were taken in the southernmost islands off the west coast of Thailand. Even Sukij had some tough times interpreting their dialect, making this a real adventure! We stayed in small huts, ate fresh fruit, and went snorkeling each day at remote spots. It was an experience that has really impacted our perspectives on the world. Two of the travelers, Matt & Mike went into the Peace Corp after the trip - I am pretty sure that the journey was a formative one that supported that choice.

Enjoy the photos - such great memories to share!

September 12 and 13: Progress and a Trip to MD

Sukij built some crucially needed strength on Friday. He has started eating full (soft) meals and he did some physical therapy. The stent surgery appears to have been successful, achieving the desired results. Sukij's aunt, uncle (a physician), and close family friend (also a doctor) arrived Friday afternoon and really hit the ground running. As soon as Sukij saw them his spirits were immediately lifted.

This afternoon, his aunt and uncle discharged Sukij from the hospital and drove him down to Tacoma Park, MD where they can care for him and help him build the further strength required to make the journey home to Thailand. Sukij's mom is flying into the states early next week to be with him.

Thanks to everyone for their prayers. Please keep him in your thoughts. He's hoping to travel back to Thailand as soon as possible.

Finally, so many of you have reached out with messages of support. He is so touched. He was so excited to hear that people are leaving thoughts, anecdotes, and life lessons on the blog. If you would like to submit a photo or post your own formal entry, please either:

1.) Send an email to joelkennedy@yahoo.com with the photo/blog entry and we'll post it to the blog.
OR
2.) Send an e-mail to joelkennedy@yahoo.com requesting that we add you as a formal author to the blog so you can post your own photo/entry.

Who's that girl?

Here is a funny (potentially incriminating) photo of Sukij. One of the best things about Sukij is his laugh.

September 11 Update: Resting

Yesterday's procedure was successful. Sukij has been able to eat soft foods like ice cream and drink small amounts of liquids (and keep them down). He remains in fairly good spirits and is smiling but he's extremely tired. He is currently resting and building up his strength. According to the doctors, he is cleared to travel home based upon his own assessment of how he's feeling.

Thanks to those who have left their "Life Lessons" in the comments section. Please keep them coming!

Sept 10 update

Sukij had a surgical procedure performed today to help him out with swallowing.  The procedure went well and he is back in his room recovering.

Don't forget to pass along the blog address to other friends and family that have been touched by Sukij!

A Warm Welcome!

Hi everybody!  Welcome to Sukij's Blog.  Sukij is so thankful for the well wishes he has received and he is deeply touched by the amount of love and support you have all shared.  

As we all know, Sukij is a techie nerd at heart.  To honor that nerdy heart of his, Sukij has decided to provide all of his status updates on this blog.  This will help Sukij to keep in touch with everyone while maintaining his focus on getting stronger.  

Practice your own blogging skills and leave well wishes, comments, and questions on this site.  Sukij's special request at this time is to collect special life lessons from all of you.  So, if you have a moment to share any original quotes, life lessons, anecdotes, please do.  These will form the content of a book that we will work to publish.