TWO WOMEN : THE CONTRAST AND SIMILARATIES

 

TWO WOMEN: THE CONTRAST AND THE GLARING SIMILARATIES

This is a tribute to one and a hug to the other , both women, one who passed away few days ago and another waiting, by her own admission, to accompany her. Two women from different parts of the world, of vastly different status and different cultures. One a queen for over 70 years another my mother. Both of almost the same age. The departed Queen 96 and my mom just a year older.
The queen ruled Britain and the commonwealth as a monarch, shouldered huge responsibilities of guiding a nation and carving a moral pathway for it. She had to, all by herself, face tumulus times and challenges. This was all enacted in the public domain.  A deeper look at the life of both and the similarities are visible. Mom, played the role of a mother to her kids, a bread earner and a care taker, all alone. Her responsibilities and challenges far outweighed her training and background. Her world, hardly a score and twenty near and dear ones and then her work place. She was the teacher, the moral guide and support to the tiny world she influenced.
The queen travelled to over 100 nations and met several dignitaries. Memories of which. as she had narrated, was pleasant and fulfilling. Mom, on the other hand, knew India and the world through her reading. She experienced the thrill of meeting, during their public appearances, many dignitaries, prior and during independence,   like Gandhi, Nehru, Indira and, many left leaders, memories of which she cherished as much.
Both women were proud yet humble and committed. Resolved to face traumatic challenges but yet never exposed the inner fears and struggles.
Both, in the last few years, had minor mobility issues. The queen still had to be in the public eye and played a role. Mom retreated, interest in worldly affairs, political developments both national and international, faded.
Two women of contrasting lifestyles and status but similar and deep personal experiences. Successful in many ways.
When informed about the queen passing away over phone, mom after a long pause said " a good regal lady, of my age.  I remember the day she was coronated. Her father   the King died, uncle abdicated and Elizabeth made the queen ". In failing voice, I heard her say “Hope she calls me too”

As if both had nothing more to do here in this mortal world. 

Salutations to the one who dealt with nations and another with a family but both having a profound impact on the lives of those they touched.

 For me, both were Queens