Today is Daddy’s 97th birthday.. I write “is” and not “would have been” because although his physical presence has moved on.. he’s very much “here” among us and in the nicest possible way even today!
It is thanks to him and his gift for words that I am
able to think the way I do.. and string my thoughts together somewhat
coherently to be able to write the “morning magic”!
It is thanks to his goodwill and respectful
connections that so many doors open easily for me today.. all difficulties and
challenges are overcome and managed smoothly.. only because he has extended the
same courtesy to so many in his lifetime..
It is thanks to him (and my mother) that I was made to
believe that it was good to be “rough and tough and ready for anything” as a
child and so able to enjoy a number of adventures!
It is thanks to his empathy that I was made aware of
how lucky I was to belong to a family blessed with abundance.. sensitized and
learned to share with and give to the less fortunate..
It is thanks to his firm but loving discipline that I
am borderline OCD and my cupboards and drawers are in “apple pie order” (most
of the time)!
It is thanks to him and his words of wisdom that I
grew up with a fantastic work ethic.. he said “when you are in a position of
responsibility and leadership.. you can choose to be efficient or popular.. I
hope you choose to be like me – a happy combination of both!” I tried my best..
It is thanks to him that I understood that the staff
we have at home leave their spouses children siblings families and friends in
the village to come and work for US.. and therefore WE have to be “family” to
them.. and always to grant them leave happily!
It is thanks to him that I learned how to talk to the
people who serve us at any and every level.. to “connect” with them and speak
with them nicely and respect what they do.. cleaners waiters and everyone..
It is thanks to his foresight that I have a support
system of FOUR incredibly wise very clever and caring “solid” people he
entrusted me to.. Pravin Porus Deepak and Manish! Super blessed to have you
guys and thank you for always looking out for me!
It is thanks to him and his careful teaching and
explanations that I have an idea about investments and finances.. and am even
able to ask some significant questions sometimes!
It is thanks to him that I understood that girls are “as
good as smart and as capable.. if not more so” than boys! That really built my
confidence in my own capabilities!
And last but definitely not the least.. if I am living
alone.. with courage and no fear.. if I am living a good (no.. actually great)
life without “needing” anyone to come and take care of me.. If I am making my
own decisions with a clean heart and a clear mind.. it is all and only thanks
to everything you have taught me.. shown me.. and “led by example!
Just to reiterate.. am so blessed to have been born
your daughter and will do everything I can to be the person you always wanted
me to be!
Happy birthday with the biggest hugs and all my love
to you wherever you are.. and thank you for being with me.. and guiding my
footsteps.. always!! Love you hamesha!!
Thank you for reading and do please share your name at
the beginning or end of your comment (should you choose to write one)!
Daughter and father always like best friend
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday to a special man & Blessings to his special daughter.
ReplyDeleteEvery daughter should be lucky enough to have such a father
ReplyDeleteSuch a lovely tribute .. My pranam to Uncle who I never met, but know so well through his principles instilled in and manifested by his daughter ..the legacy continues... May it shine always 🙏
ReplyDeleteWe are molded by our parents, some turn out great, like you, and some not so great, but good any which way.
ReplyDeleteNavaz
I was just eagerly waiting for your write up on your father and I very much like the way you said today is Daddy's 97th birthday and not would have been. We are all moulded by our parents though we choose not to follow some of the things they taught us as they don't fit into our lifestyle and there's no harm in that. Hugs to you Pallavi and may your father continue to live with you in mind and in spirit as he does now.
ReplyDeleteI have tears. My father, over the recent past years, and I have developed an unshakeable bond. The reason your post has moved me so much is because I sometimes forget to be entirely grateful for our relationship today. The way you have expressed your gratitude and love for yours is incredibly powerful. Always an honor to know you, hear your stories about your parents, and learn so much in the process. Lots of love!
ReplyDelete-SK
Dear Pallu, your Dad was a very intelligent and thoughtful person. You have walked on his footsteps. He is always going to be there with you. Happy Birthday to Uncle. Hugs to you.💕VS.
ReplyDeleteSuch a beautiful tribute..!!!
ReplyDelete