"What is grief, if not love persevering?"
Our friendship began when I handed Tas, my dorm neighbor, a glowstick in the student lounge. Over nearly 15 years, it became something more like family.
We have witnessed each other grow through all the highs and lows, the hardest and happiest times. I was a lucky bystander to see her fall in love and eventually marry Faheem, one of the best men I know. She taught me how to cook. I've held each of her two adorable children since they were newborns. I've slept at her home more than anywhere else outside of my own. I've jokingly asked if she'd host my wedding in her backyard one day. She had agreed and I didn't know she even shared it with Ananya.
I will never be able to fill this void of memories we were never able to make from a life tragically cut so short. But I know I will try to keep all our past memories alive in it. As Nobu and Dhrubo grow up, I can't wait to tell them all the stories about Tas and hope it helps them know how wonderful their mother was.
Rest in peace, Tas. I'll love you forever. ❤️