Happy Birthday Amma!
I always tell my mom that I love her but not so much on how amazing she is, what I learnt from her and how grateful I am to her. This is my note of thanks to her on her birthday. “Happy Birthday Amma and Thank yo so much!”
My mom’s life story can be fit in the novels of Ambai or Balakumran. She hailed from a broad minded middle class family. Married in another middle class family, she was one of the two financial wheels along with my dad. As a first generation working woman, she defined the standards of balance - adopting an outlook required for work and at the same time follow the traditions of a conserved Brahmin family. She figured so much early that along with work , raising me and my brother, her own hobbies are important too. Even in my generation I see so many women who sacrifice all their interests for the family and finally be frustrated about it. However, she was prudent and always figured as much time for her hobbies - be it reading or drawing kolam or watching movies. Who said 3D games are for boys. The personal computer purchased for me was mostly used by her for playing games. When my college classmates were talking about the levels in The Wolf gang, she was there winning level over level and finishing the game. Road rash , Super Bike 2000- Yup those too!
I think that a good life is all about the people we have in them. One of the things that both my brother and myself are blessed with is our ability to connect with people. We have made a lot of friends and acquaintances, have experienced emotional strength and distraught through them. This was possible because of the environment she provided us with. My mother and grand mother have always happily and kindly hosted our friends. Their touch of kindness is a powerful lesson for us.
In a recent get together with newly acquainted friends, when the topics gradually shifted from food, kids to politics all the women left the discussion. I was the only woman debating about policies and impacts. One of the male friends mentioned that it is very much difficult for men to handle such a mature political conversation like I did. When I look back, I remember heated political discussions that my mother had with men in the family and neighborhood. A Brahmin woman supporting CITU unions and Dravidian party, you can imagine the courage this requires. No doubt my independent thinking, ability to express them, all came from her.
My mom was always content with what she had and most importantly knew to live a life. When she felt that the financial responsibilities are over she quit her job and pursued her passion- Travel. In five plus years of retired life she made close to hundred travels including the visit to the Himalayas, Srilanka and the Andamans. Best part, she did not compromise her interest because the interest was not in common with my dad. She didn’t wait for anyone’s company, and just did it.
When I stood as an achiever in school, she was there with all her support,
When I kept messing up in college, she was there with all the support,
When I was shattered with broken heart and failed ambition, she was there with all her support,
When I had to struggle balancing career and my son, she was there with all her support.
Everything that I am is because she is there with all her support.
Thank you amma! Happy Birthday to you!
