Mama 'Farida'... A Life of Giving
When some people depart, they take with them a piece of the warmth of their place and the details of life that we had grown accustomed to finding more beautiful because of their presence. This was Mama Farida Maaref. She was my friend’s mother, the widow of my uncle Abdul Samad Maaref, and she passed away a few days ago, leaving behind many memories of love, “joy,” and life. She was not merely our friend’s mother; she was close to us, woven into the fabric of our days and lives, offering us the warmth of affection. She carried love wherever she went, loved life in all its details, loved people, gatherings, laughter, and joy, and knew how to turn ordinary occasions into moments with a special flavor. She was naturally sociable, present in the lives of those around her, asking, checking in, sharing, and bringing everyone together. Connecting with others was an integral part of her nature.
Anyone who knew Mama Farida up close knows that, by nature, she placed others’ comfort before her own, dedicating time, effort, and love to ensure those around her were well. Most importantly, she did so simply, without making others feel the weight of what she gave. For Mama Farida, giving was her essence. She was generous in love, kindness, and authenticity, and she raised her children on these same values. In every aspect of their lives, you can find traces of Mama Farida’s character, her love, and her respect for others. She nurtured in them integrity, goodness, and love from an early age, teaching them to give, as she always did.
Perhaps she was fully aware that the most beautiful legacy a person leaves after death is their impact, and she passed this test with her kindness. She left a good impression in the hearts of everyone who knew her, leaving behind children who embody her upbringing, and friends whose hearts are filled with memories of her. She left behind joy, love, and a life that she spread through the details of each person who knew her.
My friend Salma tells me, her voice heavy with grief over her mother’s passing, that they found in her prayer place, may God have mercy on her, a list of names of deceased relatives, friends, and acquaintances. Mama Farida used to donate the rewards of Quran recitations to them. The list contained 170 names. I am not surprised; this was the extent of Mama Farida’s generosity and giving, which extended to both the living and the deceased among her acquaintances.
Mama Farida has departed, but the love she distributed throughout her life did not leave with her. May God have mercy on Mama Farida, the woman who knew how to live life with love and how to make the lives of others warmer and happier through her presence. She was unique… in name and in impact. Secrets of the essence of life.
