My parents are visiting soon!

My parents arrive in a week’s time, 6 days to be precise. It will be almost 2 years since I last saw them and I just can't wait to hold and hug them the moment I see them at the airport.

At the same time, I am a bit skeptical too. Skeptical and apprehensive about how I am going to react when I see them both –tired, old and aged. My father just entered his 80th year and my mom is in her mid –seventies. So they are technically in the last phase of their life. I thought they looked old when I saw them the last time and I am sure they will look much older this time around. My father commented the other day that he is no longer as active as he used to be, has more health issues and that age has slowed him down quite a bit. Honestly, it is quite hard for me to visualize my parents slowing down. They have always been overly active, social people who have contributed immensely not just to their respective professions but also to the local community. It is their drive, involvement and dedication that are keeping them not just physically but more so mentally strong. Both of them are still practicing doctors, one a consultant to a local hospital and other has her own private practice. They still are very involved in the many social and professional organizations they belong to. Often times, when I call home, they are either packing for another out-of town trip or just returned from a conference or event. And when they are not busy professionally or socially, they are spending time with their near and dear ones!
So when my father told me that he has gotten older since the last time I saw him, it tugged my heart! Sometimes I do have problems accepting the realities of life, particularly when it involves my parents and their longevity. I do realize life comes a full circle and to tell you the truth, my parents are quite open and willing to talk about the inevitable, which , by the way is something they do often nowadays, particularly my father. Nothing to be surprised about as that is who he is as a person, direct, practical and down-to-earth. As much as I would like him to NOT broach the topic, I do admire the way they discuss the END, so to speak. Although it may seem that they have resigned to the fact that their days are numbered and life has become even more unpredictable, I think both of them share a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, of cherished dreams and hopes and of fond and lasting memories. They, indeed have a lot to be proud of. No regrets but an incredible and meaningful journey that will someday come to a beautiful end.

I used to get very antsy and uncomfortable whenever my father opened up this topic. But I found that the more I hear him talk about it, the less anxious or heartbroken I feel nowadays. After all, expressing these somewhat morbid thoughts can give away to more positive feelings and can also help in understanding the reality that is often so elusive.

This will be my parents 5th trip to the US and I know for certain that it is probably the last one. I do not see them making this overseas, excruciatingly long trip again. Not because they don’t want to, but they can’t, strictly for health and age issues. Therefore, I intend to make the best of this visit. I hope to not fight with my mother, which is something I often do and can be unavoidable for various reasons, but just enjoy her company in my home with her two little grand kids. I look forward to fondly reminisce some good ole times with them and simply enjoy their mere presence. Four months seem long, undoubtedly would have a few years ago, but not any more. Because every second with them is precious, every minute that I spend will create more heartwarming memories for me to hold on to for years to come!

Maa and Bapi, I like you both very much and I love that I am YOUR daughter!

Now, get over here - fast:-)