My Mother -My Goddess

" Those who serve others selflessly with love and dedication, Those who constantly smile through all trials and tribulations, Those who lead a life of near perfection, Yet are humble in disposition, Of God, they are a personification. Such persons are worthy of emulation!" _____________________________________________________________ Who are God's and Goddesses? Figurines on which we have faith, To whom we go for mental peace, Or with a begging bowl, for fulfillment of wishes, Or to atone for our sins. Never seen God or Goddess before, Not sure about them, But some people are akin to them, They are god or goddess to me. My Mother-in-law was a living Goddess , She was really an inspiration to me. She was 88, had many ailments, Arthritis, skin problems, frozen shoulder, Corns in legs, body pain, dry cough and, Acidity to name a few. She kept her woes to herself, Bore it all silently, She would only spread happiness, Smile in her face never faded. She would wake up 4:30 in the morning, Make her own coffee, She didn't want to disturb anybody. She not only did all her chores, but served others till the end. Her life was a saga of selfless service, She never expected anything in return. She would stay awake full night, When someone was ill or coming late, Yet be fresh enough to work whole next day, She could go on like this for many days. She was an epitome of wisdom, Cooking, festivals home remedies, She knew all about all of them. She was perfect in each of them. She read books,solved kakuro and word search, She knew the importance keeping mind busy. She would often say, this way I avoid negative emotions. Impeccable in her dress, Perfectionist in her work, Ever cool and calm , She had tons of inner strength. I remember her last day, She had fever, I told her wake me up for morning coffee, "Don't think you are disturbing me." She smiled and said, "I will not have it", Oh! The divine smile, still vivid in my memory. She passed away next morning, Like the way she wanted, Working till the end, Without troubling anybody. She was like a banyan tree, Vast in wisdom and steady, She would always amaze me. I wish I was like her, But I can't, I am nowhere near! She had God like qualities. Even now when I have a problem, Or am struck up not knowing what to do, I close my eyes and pray to her for help, My problem gets resolved instantly. She was verily a goddess in human form!