Jharoka

I have received what seem to be hundreds of calls from family and dear friends of my mom who have consistently said some form of the same thing – ‘I will always remember her with a smile.’ What a beautiful image to have left with people after your passing.

As a child, every minute detail of my mother’s face is etched into my memory as she is the one that cradled me from when I came into this world. I knew the multiple meanings of my Mom’s varying graceful smiles, as I’m sure many do of their mothers.

A smile is a Sunnah (teaching of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) in Islam. It is one of the simplest forms of sadaqa (charity). A smile is a gift of joy whose substance is received by the heart. The Almighty has created mankind with an innate inclination to gravitate towards those who are friendly. A person who greets others with a smile drives away anxiety and troubles and spreads tranquility and comfort. This was quintessentially my captivating Mom. Beyond just the smile on her face, her eyes smiled just as beautifully. I have such happy memories of her hearty, wholesome laughter and accompanying tears of joy.

May every memory of my beloved Mother be lifted as a prayer and blessing for her and may all the tears she shed throughout her life (both in joy and sadness) become an ocean of blessings for her in the hereafter. Ameen.

If you have made it to this post / page, I would be most appreciative if you could say a prayer for my beloved mother. Thank you.