Mom, Oh, Mom — I Miss You Everyday

A legacy left behind of love, comfort and artistry.

Throwaway picture of my Mom (from archives)

Life is a surprise - sometimes shocking but pleasant.

None of us expect it to end, especially not so suddenly. Not even those facing the most brutal battles can truly anticipate their time.

We imagine we’ll have more weeks, maybe even a year, but the end, when it comes, always catches us off guard.

We imagine we’ll have more time, perhaps another year, but it always catches us off guard when the end arrives.

It’s a moment filled with tears for some and a puzzle for the kids who can’t quite comprehend the concept of farewells (thankfully).

My Mom’s passing was no different. It was even more unexpected.

She left us when I was 35, at an age when we usually expect our parents to be there for the critical milestones in our lives.

My mother was a remarkable woman (like all our Moms).

She was affectionate, caring, and a multi-talented artist. She deeply loved theater, performing in dramas on All India Radio, television shows, and on the stage.

Her love for acting was only rivaled by her passion for cooking, and she was renowned for her culinary skills.

She adored hosting get-togethers, where her delicious dishes would bring people together, just like her warm-hearted personality.

But my mother had her quirks, too.

She had OCD, which, on a positive note, translated into an unwavering commitment to cleanliness and organization.

Our home was always spotless, with every item in its designated place. Her meticulous attention to detail reflected her loving care for our family.

One of my fondest memories is resting my head on her lap. It was a place of comfort and solace, not only for me but also for my sister, Toolika Gupta.

. In her gentle embrace, we found peace, warmth, and reassurance.

Oh, how I miss her presence!

I wish she were here today, with Toolika and me, celebrating our successes and offering solace during the rough patches life throws our way.

In the depths of our souls, a flame does burn,
A love that persists though you’ve taken your turn.
You nurtured our spirits with tenderness rare,
A mother’s devotion beyond compare.

With each passing day, your presence is still felt;
in memories cherished, our hearts gently melt.
Your laughter, a symphony, we’ll hear,
In our recollections, forever held dear.

Through stormy nights and skies so gray,
Your love illuminated our darkest day.
Your gentle guidance, a compass so true,
You shaped our lives as mothers do.

With every word of wisdom, you shared,
You instilled in us the courage to dare,
To reach for the stars, to follow our dreams,
Embracing life’s journey. However, it seems.

Though years have passed since you’ve been gone,
Your spirit lives on, forever strong.
You reside in our hearts, eternally near,
Guiding us onward, casting away fear.

But, as I sit here, reminiscing about her, I find myself wishing for one thing above all else — I want her to be happy and healthy wherever she is now.

It’s the most heartfelt wish that transcends the boundaries of life and death.

My Mom’s love and care remain etched in my heart, guiding me through each day.

In a way, she continues to be my guiding star, illuminating my path with the lessons she taught me through her kindness, her passion for the arts, and her unwavering love.

I may not be able to rest my head on her lap anymore, but her love and presence are forever with me, comforting me in times of sorrow and rejoicing in moments of joy.

I wipe away my tears and clutch my Mom to my heart, grateful for the extraordinary gift she left behind — HER LOVE AND A LIFETIME OF LESSONS.