Losing A Brother...

Dear All,

Today is a sad one for me. I have lost a very close friend of us, I have lost my big brother.

I have met Akbulut family in 1976. They were our first neighbours in Istanbul. We had been newly married and as a young teacher I was trying to adopt myself to this huge metropolitan city_Istanbul_ after the peaceful atmosphere of Izmir. I had just started teaching in Tuzla High School and the cheerful voices of the children of my neighbours were just a stress treatment for us after our tiring days. As a sensitive family they were not calling in, for we were newly married. According to Turkish culture, it was rude to disturb the young. Then, one night an earthquake made us meet closely. I had rushed out my flat to see the results of the earthquake and I met five wonderful people.

Later... I feel like sisters and brothers with them, even closer! My brother Lutfu, sister Saadet and their two daughters and one son. From the birth of my daughter to the retirement of us we were all together. They had taught us the keys and golden rules of a "Happy Marriage". They were defining themselves as each half of a big apple. They have led a very peaceful life from their relationship with their children to their neighbours, as well.

My dear brother Lütfü Akbulut had been ill for some time. Yesterday when I learned his death, I have become upset. My sister was crying after her husband saying; "I have lost my half, Hayal!". I could not utter even one word. This was the essence of life. Birth and death! Today, there is the funeral ceremony of him. We will hide him to the earth (Aegean people say like this) this afternoon. I am so sorry for informing my all friends about this. I wish healthy and long lives to the remaining of the Akbulut Family.

Hayal KÖKSAL