An open letter on making memories few days after losing my dadi ❤
Hey,
This is probably the most personal blog I’ve ever written, and honestly, I wasn’t sure if I should. But here it is.
Two weeks ago, I lost my grandmother, my Dadi. Coincidentally, it happened almost the same time as my grandfather, Dadaji, four years ago. He passed on December 17, and she left us on December 20. It's strange how timelines repeat, isn’t it?
Back then, when I was just 20, losing Dadaji felt like my world had ended. I thought I’d never be able to laugh again or feel happy. The concept of time felt so strange — like it was slipping away from me.
But now, at 24, I feel… different. Don’t get me wrong, it still hurts. Losing her is painful, and I miss her every moment. But this time, I’m filled with gratitude — gratitude for all the memories, the love, and the lessons my grandparents gave me.
Four Years Ago vs. Now
When Dadaji passed, life was so different.
- I had no money, no independence.
- I wasn’t a great student and was stuck in a course I didn’t even enjoy.
- The world was gripped by fear because of COVID.
Fast forward to now, life has completely flipped:
- I’ve built something of my own.
- I have a career, independence, and opportunities.
Yet, one thing has stayed the same — their love for me and the love I have for them.
Memories That Stay Forever
The day I got the news about Dadi, I was alone, flying back home from Bangalore. It was one of the hardest days of my life. I had nightmares, and the pain was overwhelming. But amidst that pain, I did something beautiful — I sat down and wrote all the good memories I had with her.
It’s a long list, and every time I read it, I smile with tears in eyes.
- I remember how they’d take us shopping when we were kids.
- And as we grew up, we’d take them shopping instead or bring them little things they wanted.
These are the moments that last forever.
A Life Lesson
Here’s the thing: you don’t forget. You never do.
I still think about Dadaji every day, even after four years. We still talk about him in the family, laughing and sharing stories. And I know it’ll be the same with Dadi.
In fact, I’ve even heard so many stories about my great-grandfather (who passed away 10 years before I was born) that I feel like I know him and feel his love for me. That’s the beauty of memories — they make people immortal.
So, it’s not about forgetting or not crying. It’s about celebrating the life they lived and the love they gave.
My Request to You
If you’re lucky enough to have grandparents still around, here’s what I’d suggest:
- Spend Time with Them: Visit them more often. Call them. Plan a family outing, even if it’s just for a day or two.
- Celebrate the Little Things: Enjoy your moments with them, no matter how small.
- Focus on the Journey: The end is inevitable — it’s out of your control. But the time you spend with them now? That’s what matters the most.
Why This Matters
Grandparents are a blessing. They love us in ways no one else can. It’s a bond that nothing — not even time or their existence — can break.
So, celebrate them. Celebrate their love. Deepen that bond while you can. Because even when they’re gone, they’ll live on in your heart and your memories.
As I write this, it’s been 15 days since I lost Dadi. I haven’t cried today; honestly, that feels like a small accomplishment. My focus now is to celebrate her life more than mourn her passing.
Thank you for reading something so personal. If this resonates with you, take a moment today to call your grandparents or reflect on the memories you have with them.
Take care,
Riya
