Where Faith And Life Intertwined

Religion to them was much more than a church-going experience

They were keen to be a voice to the voiceless

There is much that I can recall of Irene and Jubal — their simplicity and humour, and the unfailing responsibility that they showed as parents to their sons Daniel and Dwayne.

But perhaps what stands out the most about them is what I think could best be described as their “ardent spiritual journey.” Religion to them was much more than a church-going experience.

Their spiritual journey took them beyond the confines and security of ritualistic religion to a spirituality that challenged them with the unfamiliar. In their search for meaning, they strove to connect faith to everyday life, which among other things, led them to an explicit and implicit dialogue with peoples of other faiths.

Personal spiritual transformation and growth seemed to be their focus in the initial years. Their faith-experience became a source of sustenance, especially in very difficult times, particularly when Irene suffered from a suspected brain tumour.

But they were never easily satisfied. Their spirituality impelled them into a  time of social consciousness. Social transformation gradually became a preoccupation. They were keen to be a voice to the voiceless and to be involved in issues which many avoided for fear of the consequences and reprisals.

Jubal became a member of Aliran, and went on to serve as an executive member for many years. Irene was a solid support to Jubal and she was equally vocal on the social issues of the day.

There were times when they shared the great challenge of trying to balance marriage, family life, their careers and social activism. They made mistakes along the way, but they had this great sense of humour that enabled them to laugh at themselves and funny side of life.

In recent years, both Jubal and Irene continued with their exemplary lives in their workplace. Jubal finally got to do what was closest to his heart: he became a motivator, enhancing the lives of many with the very zest for life which he himself was noted for.

Irene was well respected in her job as HR manager and later director in the hotels she worked for. Many of her former colleagues and those whom she last worked with have shared profound memories of her fairness, kindness and efficiency at work.

Daniel and Dwayne have every reason to be proud of their parents — who have no doubt left a great legacy behind. The tears of the immense crowd made up of friends from all walks of lives and faiths who turned out at the funeral service bear testimony to this.

Martin Jalleh
A close friend

Now e-mail us and tell us what you think.