Be it the pinnacle of success or the dooming sense of failure or rejection, the glory of exaltation or the utter isolation amidst the 'dark unfathomed caves' of misery or grief, one thing stands apart and that is Family-solid, strong pillar of strength, rock like support, guiding like the 'Light House' and the 'Pole Star'. Literally it holds like the center when things fall apart. The grace of God Almighty, his pure and serend 'kripa' unfolds itself in the affection and protection of family. The seasons of mists and fog or dark thunderous clouds and rain, of sunshine and spring , of chilly cold winters and scorching heat may come and go and come but like an all weather friend, it stands always in good stead, embalming and caring, covering and eneveloping, saving and serving silently and surely.
The words are failing and choking when I think of my father whom I lost four decades and my mother nine years ago. What an epitome of grace and depth, purity and strength of character they were! Even amidst the sverest of penury and worldly hardships they stood strongly with us and behind us inspiring and motivating, encouraging and boosting, cheering snd energising, mentoring and guiding always to be humble and bold, strong and dignified; teaching by precept with their abundant forbearance and resilience that pain is never a valid reason to stop and one must go on, move ahead. My sisters, too have imbibed their spirit and looking back and at present objectively with 'drishta bhaav' I feel how very enriching this journey has been being part of the family !
We look up to spiritual Gurus and mentors for showing us the path to follow but with all humility and reveredness I feel Pitaji and Ma were the real gurus who put us on the way to gyan, bhakti and karma; they showed us by their own way of living how important it was to feel positive as an Indian and dedicate all our mite with blood, sweat and tears in building it, nurturing and serving it with mind without fear. They were the first and the most revered teachers who taught humanity, kindness, humane ness not just for neighbours and the kin but also for the bezubaan cattle, dogs, birds and even ants!
The family not only makes us feel safe, secured and cared, it also accepts us unquestioningly as we are; unconditional is its love. It is the greatest blessing to have a family and be a part of it, evolve amidst its aura and be grateful for all that it represents-goodness, positivity, affection and respect, the feel of divine grace and benevolence, pride in it and being proud of it.
