Births and deaths.

Births and deaths.

"She is a brave girl" she told my mother, after i obediently filed out of her bed and room, after my first check up.

I never knew what made her call me brave. But of course i was thrilled to punch, nonetheless.

She had inquired about any morning sickness the third month, and i had confidently said. No not that . I m spared there. Its the evenings that i am usually sick.

silly girl, that cause u cook in the evenings. she chided sternly though not unkindly.

The remaining months were non eventful. Except maybe the seventh month where i lost weight instead of gaining some.
No excuses. another stern moment. Next time, u r not walking in through this door without some extra weight. ( i had to secretly binge eat on sweetmeats to meet the target btw).

Sadly during my delivery, which was a week earlier than scheduled, she was on her weekly annual vacation.

She did a little hop when she heard i had delivered. I had thought so! She had chuckled, clapping her hands lightly.

Somehow after that i never got to see her .

I could never really predict whether it was vast her rich experience that guided me, or whether i was one of those naturally lucky ones, but i had a fairly easy breezy delivery.

It must be great to be a part of a profession where people remember you with the same awe and respect that was aroused by you 25 years ago.

Today's TOI obituary carries the news of her demise.
K Shankari age 93.

Thankyou maam, thankyou and May your soul rest in peace!