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.