You know it is the ultimate truth. You know you will face this situation one day. But when the moment comes, it hits you hard, like a bolt out of the blue. Philosophy/religion does not prepare you. The feeling is indescribable.
My sister’s call still echoes in my mind. “Come over. Despite all her tests being normal, Ma is not responding to the best medical treatment.” Last night she was joking with us on the video call, and now she was on the ventilator! My senses froze, my brain fogged, and my tongue glued to my mouth. My friends at college, my workplace, counselled so lovingly, packed my belongings and dispatched me home with care, hope and prayers. The journey home was frenetic, with phone calls and a travel itinerary.
At that juncture, there was a role reversal. Kids were at the helm of affairs. From packing my bag, digging summer clothing from the closet, documents and web check-in, handy cash. All the while assuring me and even cajoling me to eat a little and have a sip. Throughout, they kept a tab on me, tracked my movement and time and again dropped loving messages. Cautioned to stay hydrated, to stay strong, to look after my siblings and Papa. A web of silken, heartwarming affections wrapped around me. My rock-solid emotional anchors in taxing times.
We lost Ma. We stood holding hands, shocked, at a loss, coming to terms with the sudden turn of events. Cousins and friends called to offer condolences. Each one seemed to have been hit hard by the news. It was a flashback moment, so many memories to recall. Everyone shared a different trait of her persona. She seemed to have touched so many lives!
Relatives, friends, colleagues, and neighbours all attended her Prayer Meet. So many anecdotes were exchanged. It was the first exposure for the children in the family. They attended and performed all the rituals with piety. All her life, Ma had been a role model, and she seemed to have united us once again. Every moment we missed her and shared our experiences.
Little did I realise the treasure trove of friends the benign God has bestowed on me! My friends came home and made regular calls, offered me solace and encouraged me to come to terms with life. I really appreciate their warm gesture, their support in my grief, acknowledging my pain, sharing memories, standing by me in difficult times, checking on me and comforting me.
My faith in humanity was restored. Relationships and ties score over everything, even today. Friends and extended family offer a sanctuary in life’s challenging moments. Their safety net offers a profound sense of comfort and guides you to navigate through life’s ups and downs. Their presence soothes the weary soul and eases the ache. I will never forget the love and warmth offered during tiring times. Loss and gain are flip sides of life.
Life moves on, memories cling forever.
Suruchi Kalra Choudhary
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