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