Farewell Dear Father-in-law

Thursday turned out to be a day of sorrow for our family. Surbhi's father left for heavenly abode leaving us all in tears. His general health had deteriorated in past few months and God thought this was the time to call His virtuous son back to His home.

My only regret is that He didn't give me enough time to be in his company. There was so much to learn from his simple lifestyle. Surbhi and I spent first three years after marriage in US and we saw very little of our family in those years. When we came back his health had already started deteriorating. He could hardly speak. A man who was so active and could walk miles together tirelessly had trouble walking. But even in the midst of all these hardships I have never seen him lose his composure. His face was serene despite weakness and severe restriction in diet and mobility. Even in this weakened state he would unfailingly do the morning and evening pujas and other day-to-day activities. He never succumbed to his physical weakness.

He has taught me how to lead a simple life far away from all worldly pleasures, how to be softspoken and live for others.

I feel he is still very much here with all of us. I will get a glimpse of him every time I am with Surbhi and with all his wonderful family members who are laden with all the virtues of his.

We will miss you dearly, Papa.