Down memory lane with my Grandfather

During my college days, I made it a point to visit my Grandfather regularly- to gain insight into his way of life. Grandfather's life was driven by spiritual values. His social work and his writings always had a spiritual reference.

He invited Carmelite sisters and Irish Christian Brothers in Vasai. In fact, bringing Christian Brothers in Vasai, entirely goes to his credit. In those days, Christian Brothers had dropped the plan of opening the school in Vasai, due to financial problems. But somehow, Divine Providence worked in a miraculous manner. They were able to sell some of the property, which they had purchased in Asansol ( W. Bengal). And with that money, they purchased the land in Goa and Vasai. My Grandfather's efforts in convincing the landowners to sell their property to Christian Brothers were not wasted in vain.

His work was mainly centred around Religious. He was a Devout Catholic. He had great devotion to Archangel Michael and Blessed Virgin Mary. On account of this spiritual demeanour, Dr. D.A. Demonte, the then President of the "Bombay East Indian Association " had made an offer to my Grandfather, to marry his daughter( Dr. Beryl- who was London educated). She later got betrothed to Frank Moraes, the then Editor of 'Times of India'. ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Moraes)

My Grandfather declined the offer made by Dr. D.A. Demonte, just because he was a true Vasaikar at heart- he was traditionally inclined and thought that Dr. De Monte's daughter may not conform well to Vasaikar's way of life.

Such was the charismatic character of this person, that the British commissioner under whom he was working, had made an offer to make him the commissioner of Karachi. But my Grandfather declined this offer, too. For him, his family, his relations, people of Vasai, were his priority. And he couldn't afford to lose this precious gift.

During the last years of his life, he was troubled by the fact, that he couldn't retire as a Commissioner of Bombay. In fact, he was prevented from being promoted to higher post, by his colleagues- who were jealous of his talents. He was relegated from the post of Income Tax Officer, because he was the only person in the office to solve maximum cases.The politics played by certain Kapoors, cost a great deal to my Grandfather. This hurt he suffered with Christian Faith and retired as 'Income Tax Inspector' ( without being promoted).

May His Soul rest in peace in the Kingdom of God.

We need more people like Mr. Michael M Colaço, to contribute to Christian Faith and well-being of all the people.