Dear Bapuju (Grandpa),

It’s been 13 years and a little over 3 months since you left. I remember I was walking on the treadmill downstairs watching TGIF. I hadn’t quite turned 18 yet. We dropped you off at the airport a week or so earlier so you could fly to UK and then India to go see your son and daughter and all your grandchildren. I remember when mom, dad and I went to see you off at the airport and you asked me what I wanted. You smiled when all I wanted were cool, decorative boxes. The flight attendant said it might be easier for you to sit in a wheelchair as it might be better for your knees. You went along with it, excited for the trip that lay ahead.

When it was time for us to say goodbye I gave you the biggest hug and kiss on the cheek. I can still feel your beard on my face. When she took you to the plane, for some reason I looked back and a thought crossed my mind for some reason, that I still to this day cannot understand: this is the last time I will see you again. How I so wish I was wrong.

While I was on the treadmill, the phone rang and it was your son in England. I answered and he asked to talk to dad; nothing unusual. About an hour later, I go upstairs and ask my dad what uncle wanted. Dad was quiet, didn’t say much and I left it at that and went to bed. I woke up to the sound of my mom talking and crying on the phone. I ran upstairs and heard the news that would change me and my family forever. You, the most wonderful Grandpa a person could ever ask for passed away. Thirteen years later and it still feels as fresh as that moment.

I wish I could have told you how much I adored and loved you. I loved your smile. I loved you warmth. I loved how much you loved me. I wish I could tell you how amazing your son (my dad) is and that he is a total reflection of you. I am the luckiest person in the world to have had you in our life and even more blessed that you lived with us for so many years up until the end.

I could feel your presence at my wedding last year when my husband and I got married at the temple you helped build. I know you were there, I looked over to the place you used to sit and felt all your love and support throughout all the functions and really my entire life. I know you were telling me that I was a strong woman and I was going to get through this. I did, and I am so happy.

Please know that I will never forget you, that I never took you for granted, and that I hope to live by your example. I love you, I love you, I love you.

I am and always will be honored to be your granddaughter.

Ameeta, age 31