13th Grave Apa (Arfa)

 *13th Grave*

Apa (Arfa)

After laying her to rest, I untied the knot of her cofen from head end.

And before placing the last wooden plank to roof her cell, we pulled rest of the cloaks with koranic verses inscriptions, and I recalled laying my parents to rest before her; father in 1991 and mother in 2019.

It was 11th moon of Jamadul-awal in islamic calendar on Jan 17, 2019 when mom passed on. Coincidentaly it was again 11th moon of Jamad-ul-awal this 13th Nov 2024.

Until the rest of wet soil was plastered, and soil dragged to mound in grave shape, I sat beside the very first grave of my grandmother in that yard back in 1983, and now we have 13.

Countless are rested in this cemetery since 1790 AD, but in this particular yard within; it was 13th grave.

I was present in all the 13 burials, but today's vibes were different. 

It was so peaceful and soothing in the early winter cold mist of November. The wings of dragon flies hovering with her spirit glittered in flash of light.I didn't want to leave even after the final collective prayer. 

I sat overseeing tombstones of parents, gazing at flower petals on her, wondering who is next!!!

Today as I was just looking at this click from yesterday, quick recalls of her half shut eyes with still a sparkle and bit of smile, after her last ghusal  (bath) flashed to my heart listening to Apal's (Mumtaz) voice note of condolence.

"Hello Inam!

It was very sad to hear about your sister Arfa. Allah will bless her with best place than here.

The poor girl hadn't seen much in this life and just left.

Innocent, pure and sacred.

Allah will bless her with everything in Heaven.

Will keep her with her parents

May Allah give you peace and patience on this loss,

I am sadend, and you can't do anything. It's God's will. And we have to accept it.

All of You and Arfa, are  in my prayers. Allah will listen to the prayer. Amen"

I witnessed her first ever seizure, when I was only 5, I still remember her rapid eye movement from that day, and mother's restlessness, crying out calling God for Help.

It was first time today  we had seen so many flower petals on her, like a lass as bride.

May she walk tall in Heavens and welcomed with a pride.

Amen.