What Mrs. Kamla Taught Me

Before there was Kamala Harris, there was Kamla Mody. She was my paternal grandmother. I never had the privilege of meeting her, but, since childhood, I have heard plenty about her. The stories usually revolve around her delicious food, generosity, and wit. From these stories, I acquired guiding principles that I apply to my life today. They have proven to be invaluable, so in this week’s newsletter, I share those gems with you. Use what you find worthwhile. More importantly, take some time to turn to your life and your ancestors where you will find a treasure trove of inspiration. We do not need to look far and wide to feel stirred and enlightened. Typically, those elements are within us as remnants of our forefathers.??

I have learnt the following from my knowledge of who my grandmother?was:?

Be my values: I have yet to come across a single person who had a negative experience with my grandmother. I find it baffling, because we live in a world where criticizing anyone – living or dead – is second nature to us. She left behind this legacy of welcoming everyone with open arms and treating them kindly. I do my best to channel this gift of hers as it has the most meaningful impact on others’ lives. When all is said and done, others will only remember how we made them feel time and time again. When we act according to our values, we show up wholeheartedly in this world. When we only act according to our power, wealth, and status, we show up soullessly in this world.???

Honor my truth: From what I know about my grandma, she danced to the beat of her own drum. She had no difficulty setting boundaries and coming to her own conclusions. She was notorious for whipping up tasty meals and snacks for anyone who walked through the doors of her home. Above all, she was fair and virtuous towards others regardless of the ongoing family drama. And there always was and is drama in the Mody household! I come nowhere close to her hospitality, but I try to honor my truth every day. I do so by following my heart and believing in myself enough to know that I can make my dreams come true. I accept myself for who I am even on the days when I am incapable of loving myself. I work on the rough edges and scars even when I want to give up. I admire that both fear and courage can reside in me, and I stand up for the woman in me even when the rest of the world tells me to remain silent.???

Embody wellness: The story of my grandma’s demise is one I have heard many times. As a diabetic, she did not care for herself well. Her health was fragile, and she left this realm much sooner than expected. My father was barely 18 and the youngest of the Mody clan when she passed. It has been almost fifty years since her departure, and she is still deeply missed at family celebrations and milestones. She is one of my many reasons for pursuing holistic wellness as a lifestyle and as a profession. I am not in full control of my destiny, but I am capable and willing to make decisions that positively affect my wellbeing. Besides eating, moving and sleeping well, these decisions include healing old wounds to better love myself and others.??

Plan for tomorrow: Although my grandma was not around to see some of her children married, she did plan for their future families. This preparation was done much before her unexpected passing. My grandma was conventional. As per the rituals, she welcomed her children’s spouses into the family with traditional gifts. She did the same for the significant others she never met. It was essential for her that all her children and their families be treated equally, so she planned accordingly. I am far from a traditionalist, but I have embraced her ability to think long-term. Living in the moment is a special experience, but there is something to be said for planning for your future. Striking a balance between the two can reap immense rewards. For me, I plan for my overall wellbeing, which includes finances and my health.?

Choose love: As I shared already, my grandmother was a phenomenal cook. The people that knew her still rave about this talent of hers. I am frequently reminded that she made food with much love and passion. She found a deep joy in feeding her family and anyone who showed up at her doorstep. These tales always remind me that no matter what I choose to do with my life, there is no substitute for passion and love. When I give my whole self, including my vulnerabilities, scars, and trauma, to the people and profession I love, I am following in my grandmother’s footsteps. There is no replacement for genuine transparency and acceptance.?

Like all humans, I am certain that my grandmother was imperfect in several ways. Yet, she is remembered so fondly by family, friends, and acquaintances. She is a legend in our household for being a loving mother and a profound human being. Undoubtedly, that opinion is significantly biased! Regardless, she still has a huge presence in people’s hearts, including mine. I shared?the lessons I derived from her life with you; what are some of your life lessons? Who in your world inspires you to meet and exceed your potential? If you look closely, the inspiration is not too far away ???

As always, I am here to support you all the way. If you need help with any health-related goals, schedule your free consultation at www.imperfectbodies.com. If you enjoyed this information, then please share it with others.?

10 Ways to Overcome Stress available here: https://fierce-originator-1156.ck.page?

Check out this week’s wellness video content on YouTube: Life Lessons for Success, Positivity, and Growth?

All the best,?

Chaitni?