Life-Lessons Learned from my Grandmother

What I Learned From My Grandma

My maternal grandmother (nani) was one of the gentlest, most loving ladies I have ever known. Her unmoving faith and belief in God as well as her kind, compassionate and caring nature truly defined her as a person and made her the beautiful human being she was. The oldest of seven siblings, my nani was a pillar of strength for her sisters and every  member of her family.

Not only was she a loving wife and mother, she was also a large-hearted human being who always had a kind word and a giving hand for anyone in need.

During my growing years, I would eagerly await her visits and for my summer holidays when I would go and visit her. Spending time with her always proved to be a learning experience as she recited amusing anecdotes from the Ramayan, Mahabharat, and the Geeta. She would often say that there are many diseases, but there is only one true physician, and that is God. She taught her daughters always to trust in God and his ways.

She was a natural at seeing the good in any situation. Even when her health was deteriorating in the later years, she chose to look at the brighter side of things. She was a true example of an unwavering optimist who would say – this too shall pass.

She believed in simple living and high thinking, and practiced it too. Whenever she had something extra (food or clothes), that she thought she did not need, she would give it away to someone less fortunate, without thinking twice; while wearing a simple cotton sari herself.

Nani loved cooking for her family. She was adept at dishing out tasty Indian recipes. She believed in cooking food with love, and her good vibes always turned anything she cooked into a delicacy.

She cared for people and didn’t shy away from doing something special for those she knew. During her younger days, she often prepared some of her signature dishes and desserts, and sent it over to her acquaintances and extended family members without any desire for recognition.

Unlike most of us today, she never bothered about how others behaved with her. She only concentrated on what she could do for others. She was child-like when it came to the nitty-gritty of life.

Though it’s been many years since she left us, I still reminisce those precious moments I got to spend with her and thank God for them!