A tower of warm humanist fire

In this world of narrow and selfish interest, Romo Mangun was a tower of warm humanist fire. His loss to the world and to Indonesia is the loss of an valuable gem that no economist could enumerate.

The term "Renaissance Man" to describe his talents and interests is somewhat lame in a world that cares increasingly for singular and sectarian interests, power and wealth. We should all weep for his loss at a time when Indonesia needs his voice so badly.

I had hoped to meet him one day. Now it is too late. Perhaps I shall hear his voice where the winds meet the sea, or where the trees dip to meet the earth or where the voices of children sing beyond the hum of expensive cars.

MELODY KEMP

Ubud, Bali