Balbir Kaur Nayar Sodhi | 03.17.1940 - 12.12.2015 | She immigrated twice; She worked in a factory; She ran a restaurant; She raised a family; She lived. I want to tell you a story about the day I realized that my Dadi is the bravest person I know. It was the day we went jet skiing in Key West, Florida. We all paired off into groups of two, I’m riding with Dadi. We strap on our life vests and guide her up onto the seat, I grab the front spot to drive and gently move us out into the water. Out of nowhere, everyone else takes off. They're going 40 MPH on their skis flying into the deep ocean. I go a little faster, Dadi squeezes my vest a little tighter. "Uh oh,” I think. At this point, I’m pretty worried that we were pushing her too far. I hit the gas more and we follow the pack a ways behind, I’m avoiding every wave at this point. After a while, I turn my head around to ask her how she’s doing - expecting this to be the end of our journey. And, before I say anything I see her smiling - EAR TO EAR. She grinned at me and just said, “Go faster.” ***** That story IS my Dadi. She was brave because she had to be. She never wanted to be left out, never wanted to prevent anyone from having their fun. She wasn’t brave like the movies where soldiers wield swords, instead she wielded world-class chicken curry, incredible thoughtfulness, and unconditional love. I know she faced many challenges in her life - things I cannot fathom in my own. She never complained that life was unfair. She used the lessons from her circumstances to be even more compassionate to those around her. That was her personal brand of Bravery. While it was inspiring to have a role model as proud and strong as she was, what I have learned through the process of losing her is that it is important to ask for help. And it is essential that you look out for those who are especially guarded. Dadi could not bare to be a burden to others. This selflessness was so admirable in her life, but it also disguised her health needs. At the end of her life, my Dadi suffered from loneliness and depression in addition to her complex health concerns. It breaks my heart to think that few knew that and few were there to help. I am grateful to have a role model as brilliant as my grandmother. She has a precious place in my heart, and the heart of so many others. I will carry her grace and love with me always and wish her a peaceful passage. | Lessons Dadi Taught Me: |
Sikh Prayer for Peace
God adjudges us according to our deeds, not the coat that we wear: that truth is above everything, but higher still is truthful living. Know that we attaineth God when we loveth, and only that victory endures in consequences of which no one is defeated.