RESPLENDENT SALEEPHA KHAN

To Aunty Saleepha - My Second Mom

Saleepha's life and death should impact on this cruel world
Despite adversities, her resilience to overcome, brave and bold,
She possessed eros, philos, and agape, love from above
Just like her Creator, she gave unconditional love

Who in her circle could question that loving kindness in her heart?
Even though, from this world, she surely did depart,
Saleepha's ministrations were mortises of streets paved with gold
With faith in an immutable God, she whithered the storms of this world

Aunty's diadem was surely humanitarian and a giver indeed
From where ever you came, she always helped those in need,
How can one overlook this codicil of goodwill with so much passion?
Is it because she chose the humble path and lived not in a mansion?

From her heart she gave love to all who crossed her path
If we reciprocate, this world can be paradisal rather than wrath,
Lendell is just one child, who Aunty's love quivered like the lute
He will grow up and help change this world, with Aunty's love and truth

Giving birth to me, my mom's life seemed over and done
Aunty interceded, without hesitation, became my second mom,
So how can I ever forget this Aunty, also called Shugs and Juju
Because of your sojourner's walk, Aunty, I will forever love you...

by sheriffgali

Author's Comments:
"When my mother gave birth to me she fell into a coma, the doctors told my family that she would not live. At the same time my Dad was in a hospital on a terminal list. Aunty Saleepha took me, named me Sheriff Gerry Ali and gave me the nickname Lucky, after both my Mom and Dad recovered. She raised me as a baby and during my very young years I lived at her home. Aunty understood that kindness outruns malice and grace was the mother of all caring. She took ill on August 15, 2003 and died a few hours later. She did not suffer, I am sure she is flying higher than the eagle. I believe that this wonderful person throughout her life, her devotion to kindness was permeated by vouchsafed and never labyrinth. I love you Aunty, rest in peace."