Compassion and Affection

This is a huge huge shock to me as well. I just came back from a conference in San Diego to see this as my first email. I'm extremely sorry to hear about this and my deepest condolences to you, raghu uncle and children, and the whole family. I pray to Swami for her soul and to give you all the strength to get through this period. I know my dad has aptly conveyed what we all feel but I wanted to add a personal touch to it.

Anita aunty for me was a personification of compassion and affection.

I still remember our really nice time we had at San Jose. I wanted to share one specific memory that is so clear to me. One day we went to raghu uncle's house for lunch (incidentally it was also my bday.(we were staying at another friend's house). Although I wasn't much into celebration, Anita aunty ofcourse in her affection realizing this in a short notice, quickly arranged for a small celebration with a cake etc and we had nice fun. But while I was playing with neel, in some topic of conversation, I think I just made a very casual remark that I love donuts especially "krispy creme". Thats it. The very next morning, anita aunty went to a krispy creme's bakery, bought a whole box of freshly made donuts, and drove all the way to our friend's house which was quite far away just to drop off the box exclusively for me!! When the door bell rang, I was so surprised to see aunty at the door holding a box of krispy cremes! You can't imagine how excited I was like a little kid. It was so unexpected. I was so happy that in fact I think I ate the whole box myself!!! And actually that was the last time I ever had "krispy cremes".

That was her level of affection which she showed in this small act. I can never forget this and I will always cherish this memory. I think there are many people (in fact almost everyone) who live through their lives, wanting to do big things, aspiring for things, having ambitions etc etc, but I think the most important thing is how one lives their life and how one is remembered after they leave, as everything else doesn't really matter that much. I feel that anita aunty is a prime example of how she will always be remembered as kind, loving, affectionate person.

Her memories are permanent with us and also she is with us all the time since she is now with Swami.

My best wishes, love and condolences again to the entire family.

Shiva
Feb 3, 2010