On 13 August 1996, my mother suddenly passed away after a massive stroke. Two weeks later, I had written a brief essay about her and what she meant to me. The essay was posted to an e-mail group I subscribe to.

One of the readers of the group, Minu, wrote a poem to comfort me during that difficult time. It moved me immensely: first, the sense of community and kindness that the act showed, and second, the content of the poem itself.

On 9 September, I received a packet in the U.S. mail from another of the readers of that e-mail group, Kelly. To my very pleasant surprise, I found an image (see below) which Kelly composed for Minu's poem, with a note wishing me well and offering support.

Yet again, the kindness of another person whom I have never met in real life, touched me.

I decided to share it with others.

My sincere thanks to Minu and Kelly, along with many many others, for their support and kindness. It helps.

Chandra S. Balachandran.
9 September 1996.