Story by Insha Malik

My deepest condolences on Jolly Aunty's passing. I can't even imagine all the emotions that you both are feeling right now, losing a parent is one of the rawest and most surreal events that we unfortunately have to live through. I hope that you both are able to take the time to grieve and celebrate her life, which was so full and well lived. I will always remember Jolly Aunty very fondly for her larger than life personality, which I absolutely loved, and thoroughly enjoyed at every opportunity that we were able to spend together.

In the years that followed after my dad passed away, I would hear stories from his friends about their childhood, all relayed to me with a fondness that really helped me form an even greater memory of him. I want to share with you both, my fond memories of Jolly Aunty, and a life lesson that she taught me that I carry to this day:
When I was applying to colleges, and was unsure of how I was going to pay for school and navigate the financial aid system, your mom spent some time "educating" me on how to navigate the system. She encouraged me to write personalized emails to universities that I really wanted to attend, but could in no way afford, and she made sure to remind me that there are exceptions to every rule, and that I was compelling enough with my story, "they" would find a way to make it work for me. I really didn't appreciate the value of her advice as an 18 year old applying to school, but I can tell you that over the years I have come to understand what she truly meant, and have carried this lesson and applied this in many many aspects of my life, especially professionally.
I also fondly remember one day when I was stranded in LA and called your mom while en route to your parents house, to be welcomed with an incredible home cooked meal and a few hours of relaxing conversation with your mom and dad in their backyard! Might not sound like much, but at the time, it really did mean the world to me.

Wishing all of you our best wishes during this very difficult time.

Hope we are able to get together soon.