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wrote to him from Canada detailing the reasons for his leaving the society, Abraham was
devastated. He replied to him in a poignant letter, comparing himself to the crucified
Christ, saying that his four sons were the four wounds on his hands and feet, but that
Joseph had now pierced a lance through his side. As for his youngest son, he too
completed his college degrees, became a teacher, and settled in Kalluvelil. But Abraham
had lost any trust in his children and continued to be skeptical about their future. He
insisted on managing his youngest son (and his wife) and their salaries. In 1969 when
Mathaikunju and family decided to go to Canada, he was in two minds. He understood
the desire of his son to do well in life; however he felt abandoned. He did not spare any
opportunity to condemn and castigate his sons. While generous with praise to friends and
strangers, he hardly ever praised his own, lest that would go to their heads. As for blame,
he had no qualms in dolling that out.

Abraham’s relationship with his brothers changed over time. For a very long time, the
“trinity”, as they were called, enjoyed each others’ company. Chewing tobacco,
occasionally exchanging a word or two, the three of them could spend hours in silent
communion with each other. But the bond savored from time to time. Small incidents
were sufficient to bring up Abraham’s ire. But Uthup did not keep any grudge and would
come to his younger brother for reconciliation. It was with Thommy Placheril , with
whom he was spiritually and intellectually close, that he fell out for a long period.
Abraham’s eldest son and Thommy’s eldest son started a retail business in Neendoor
with financial help from Thommy. The business floundered. Thommy demanded his
initial loan back. Luka did not have the money to repay. Abraham averred that he had
warned his brother not to lend any money to Luka. The dispute lasted a very long time. In
1960 when the children wished to celebrate their parents’ fiftieth anniversary, Abraham
refused to allow it unless his brother would grace the occasion. It was Naithy’s mother _
Chathyamma as all lovingly called her - who took Luka to Placheril, made him apologize
to his uncle and brought Thommy to Kalluvelil for a modest get-together. Apologies and
reconciliation speeches were not followed by actions or compensation. At least the two
brothers resumed their relationship, albeit with reservations. In 1961 when Thommy died
Abraham wept loudly and mourned the passing away of his brother and mentor.

His daughters were of greater consolation to him. The eldest was married to Chamakala
Chummaru Kutty in Kaipuzha. She was a source of comfort especially to Naithy. Others
were given in marriage to prominent families. Annamma was given in marriage to
Thomman Kutty Thenakara, a renowned family. Achamma had joined the Visitation
Congregation, and though she had to struggle through her studies, became the artist after
her father. Theyamma was married to George Madayanakavil - an extremely well
educated person and the most eligible bachelor in his time. Pennamma, the youngest of
the daughters was married to Philip in Kallara and was teaser, who lighted up his life.
Abraham’s daughters loved their father and knew how to show their love. He enjoyed
their company and had fun-times with them.

As for Naithy, he took her for granted. Abraham did not let go off any occasion to make
fun of her or playfully set her up against her children. Constant dinting that she was
intellectually inferior did not help in their relationship. As we shall see in a subsequent

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