Lessons in Grace & Gratitude: Reflections on an Evening with My Mother

"Kaun kehta hai bachhpan laut ke nahi aa sakta,

Kuch pal ‘Maa’ ke saath guzaro toh sahi"…!

Recently, I had the privilege of taking my 88-year-old mother to our local prayer hall for evening prayers. It was my sister-in-law's idea, and I am glad we did that.?

Despite the distance and the slight discomfort of travelling in the cab, my mother was absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to visit the prayer hall after many months.

As we entered the premises, I was overcome with a sense of deep humility. My mother, with her walker in hand and a gentle smile on her face, walked with a grace and poise that I truly admired. The volunteers who were present were more than willing to transfer her from the car to a wheelchair and make her comfortable.

While my mother was praying, I decided to check out the Blue Nile restaurant that my friends had recommended to me, to see how senior-citizen friendly it was. As soon as I entered, the staff assured me that they could lift my mother onto a chair without causing her any discomfort. This assurance further motivated me to bring her to this restaurant.

After the prayer, we went to dinner together. It was truly heartwarming to see my mother smile as she savored her meal - a delicious Irani Mutton Biryani and a scrumptious Caramel Custard. During the meal, I was struck by the importance of kindness, humility, and grace, and how it can be learned and practiced throughout one's life.

My mother's demeanor, despite her physical limitations, was a constant reminder to me of these teachings. She reminded me of the importance of being content with what you have, being grateful for the present moment, and not constantly striving for more. Her gestures and facial expressions conveyed the impermanence and cyclical nature of life, leaving me in awe.

Never have I heard her speak negatively about anyone or anything. Even if the food was too spicy, she would immediately tell the host that the food was good, but it was her mouth that was extra sensitive. Or while getting her nails cut, if her skin got nipped, she would say her nails were crooked and that it wasn't the fault of the person doing her nails.?

Her kindness, large-heartedness and compassion have always left a deep impression on me.

Spending time with her reminds me of the cycles of life and how we all depend on others at different stages.?

During childhood, we are dependent on our parents, and as we get older and fragile, we become dependent on our children. It is a reminder that our actions and deeds will eventually reflect on us. It is vital that we cherish the time we spend with our loved ones because we never know when we will see them for the last time.

When I got home that night, I felt truly grateful for the time I had spent with her and my sister-in-law. My mother had taught me so much about humility, gratitude, basic kindness and the importance of living with grace and serenity.?

Her presence and wisdom will always inspire me, and I will always cherish the memories of that evening.?