Day 6: Heaven Lies Beneath Their Feet
I am grateful for the mothers in my life – my mom, and my mother-in-law, and my khalas, who love me like a daughter, and all the other mothers in my family, young and old, from whom I continue to hone my own mothering skills.My mom is amazing, and I’ll write more about her in another post. My mom-in-law, “Maman”, is larger than life, in the best sense of the word. She’s someone who sees magic in a cloud-filled sky, hears a symphony in a downpour, and dances to the sound of cicadas. She’s taught me so much about living joyfully, loving unconditionally, and persevering boldly. And her special chicken sandwiches have sustained us through many a hard time.My Khalas are wonderful, each in their unique way. I don’t know anyone kinder, more giving, or more compassionate than Dr. Khala. I can’t remember a milestone in my life, either joyous or painful, where she hasn’t been by my side. And I don’t dare say thank you – that would just upset her. Bari Khala exudes a serenity and peace that makes you feel so calm and comforted and ensconced in her presence. It stems from her strong faith and her gentle disposition. Khala Jani epitomizes determination against all odds, and a resoluteness that’s both caring and spirited. She’s the matriarch of our sprawling DC/MD/VA clan and makes sure we’re all looked after.We lost two beautiful mothers last month. My sister-in-law’s mother – a gentle soul with a huge heart, who would make sure everyone was well fed, even strangers in far off villages to whom she would send money without anyone ever knowing. She knitted little sweaters and caps for both my babies, even for Saanya’s favorite doll. And my cousin’s mother-in-law – such a graceful woman, quiet and cultured with the sweetest smile. Her son told me, “some people lead with their intelligence or their looks or their position, for me it was always my mom. She was the coolest person I knew, and the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen.” May Allah look after them both. Ameen.Day 6; Gratitude 6: Mothers