
[In memory of my mother Atia Salim Kidwai*]
The sun is down, the birds returned home; The trees stand cold as the leaves hold in embrace
The moon is out, the stars dazzle a romance; The night is dark, the fireflies clash in a dance
Shadows stretch, as twilight’s veil descends; A brush of dreams touch the corner of my eyes
Soft night breeze murmurs through the oaks; As constellations weave their ancient design
The hush of the world, a serene hymn or a soft lullaby; Stars peep through the window blinds
I hear symphonies play in the tranquil of the night; As soft whispers of the breeze break in joy
In this moment of solemn silence; My heart finds solace, free of pain, sorrow and regret
The universe hums a celestial tune; As the heavens slowly transcend in a timeless grandeur
As the night quietly unfolds in a peaceful romance; My wishes take flight on a cosmic dance
In the hush of the night’s mystic silence; The stars sparkle to share stories in their celestial talk
My dreams unwind in a tranquil delight; The pretty blue sky blushes softly, a canvas is reborn
As the first rays of the sun bring home a new day; The horizon lights up in a symphony of gold
A promise of wonders in its warm, gentle hold; The night’s silent echoes give way to a new day
As dreams take their bow, and the night fades away; Each dew-kissed rose petal awakens to grace
The sun’s tender fingers caress nature’s face; The breeze hums the melody of renewal, and hope
As the world stirs alive, let ambitions glow; To rise from the past, free to desire, to meet and be met
As I embrace the new morning, chains break loose, eyes twinkle and remind, I have a promise to keep
Dr Samina Salim, Associate Professor Department of Pharmacological & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Houston
*Begum Atia Salim Kidwai was born in an illustrious Taluqdar family of Awadh. She was raised among nobility of barristers and litterateurs, yet her humility was her asset. She will forever remain in the hearts she healed and the lives she touched. She left this world in July 9th, 2024, leaving behind her husband of 64 years Prof. M. Salim Kidwai, daughter Dr. Samina Salim, her granddaughter Saman Asghar and her heartbroken family and friends in Aligarh, Lucknow, Delhi and all over the world. To Him we belong, to Him we return.