From Ishrat

People often say that I have my mother’s eyes. I’d like to think that I also inherited her vision. She did not see herself, or the world, as limited. Her commitment to higher education, her passion for service, and her love for her family had no bounds. She saw possibilities for her future that no one else did.

She was the original feminist in my life. I was told that her childhood nickname was “beda” (egg) because although she was a soft compassionate person at heart, she had to be quite tough on the outside to achieve her goals. She fought for her right to be treated equally, ignored harassment from people in her own community, and sacrificed her reputation while she pursued her studies.

I remember her as being strong-willed, bold, fiery, and opinionated. I am certain that she would be proud to be remembered as a rebellious spirit. I also remember her as incredibly generous, kind, loving, and protective. By all accounts, she was an incredible nurse and helped many people during her career. She also took great care of her family and friends and made sure that everyone was always comfortable, happy, and fed.

My mother broke the rules to live a life less ordinary. In her honor, I’ve promised to live every day to the fullest. A life full of travel & adventure. A life dedicated to education, art, community, & service. A life blessed by love & family. I hope that her story will inspire you to do the same.

Ishrat Kundawala - Sara's daughter.