Fragrance of Remembering: Celebrating Mom

About Mom

Mom had her own brand of intuition and wisdom. Her biggest gift was her ability to love all her four children absolutely equally and unconditionally. The most valuable gift she left us, is the ability to love life, to see joy and beauty in every thing. To sing, to explore, to experience. To make friends and welcome people into our lives and hearts, unconditionally, non judgmentally.

She taught us the value of humanity. Ours was a secular home. Every one was welcome and no one was an outsider. We celebrated every festival, we prayed to no one God. We simply lived good lives.

Moms amazing feat was that she called every one for their birthdays, anniversaries, special occasions year on year. She never missed it. People young and old, from all walks of life looked forward to that call. People will miss that call.

Instead of a funeral we celebrated her life of inclusivity. No ceremonies. Six different people from diverse communities said a short prayer each. We shared stories and sang all her favourite songs. We dressed her to look beautiful as she wanted to. We cut her cake and sang happy birthday. As her ashes flowed away into her beloved Arabian sea, we sang Abide With Me, a hymn she loved. Mom went the way she lived. Smiling, caring, living. I am grateful to the universe for this blessing.

I celebrate the long life Mom lived through these memories. I hope to give comfort to those who have lost loved ones. Many much too early. Many in difficult circumstances during Covid. Thank you to friends and family and to Mom, who ensured that we all stayed connected, leaving us with a legacy of love.