With the birth of Akash, in his sudden, perfect presence…
““With the birth of Akash, in his sudden, perfect presence, Ruma had felt awe for the first time in her life. He still had the power to stagger her at times--simply the fact that he was breathing, that all his organs were in their proper places, that blood flowed quietly and effectively through his small, sturdy limbs. He was her flesh and blood, her mother had told her in the hospital the day Akash was born. Only the words her mother used were more literal, enriching the tired phrase with meaning: "He is made from your meat and bone." It had caused Ruma to acknowledge the supernatural in everyday life. But death, too, had the power to awe, she knew this now-that a human being could be alive for years and years, thinking and breathing and eating, full of a million worries and feelings and thoughts, taking up space in the world, and then, in an instant, become absent, invisible.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Ruma’s awe of her newborn son reveals how ordinary life can feel supernatural, while mortality reminds her of life’s fragility.
In simple terms: Birth and death create profound awe
Key Takeaway
Cherish everyday moments and their impermanence
Themes
family
life cycles
existential awe
Mood
reflective
poignant
Type
literary
existential
When to use this quote
- parenthood
- hospital experiences
- philosophical reflection
Key Concepts
mortality
miracle of birth
human vulnerability
Questions to Reflect On
- How does awareness of death shape appreciation of life?
- What rituals help you honor both birth and loss?
A Different Perspective
Grief can overwhelm the joy of new life