June 1 Death of a Friend (Neil)

A highlight of my annual visits to Hue has been frequent stops at a little streetside cafe, located near the Citadel, owned/operated by a deaf-mute fellow and his daughters. They have always greeted me with smiles and warm hugs. Our much-anticipated visit this afternoon was deflated by the news of the owner's death in March. A daughter led us up several narrow flights of stairs to his memorial altar, where we lit incense. For the remainder of our stay, two daughters sat and chatted with us. Unnoticed to all, Kira returned to the altar to place flowers that she had gathered on the deceased's alter. All present were impressed with her respect and sensitivity. He was 67. And what neat bottle openers he made! The restaurant was started by his mother, also there to greet us, in 1965. I was told that, during the 1968 Tet Offensive, the restaurant was closed. I'll continue to make Lac Thien a regular stop, but it won't be the same. They will make five bottle openers for us, but will not accept even one dong in payment. "My father would not approve accepting money from you", his daughter stated.