Meet Tahira, Zara, and Shazia from Upstate New York and Ohio

Sometimes, the most meaningful moments in life happen by chance. That’s exactly how we came to meet these three extraordinary women whose story is rooted in love, resilience, and the quiet power of kindness. Tahira and her daughter, Zara, live in upstate New York and are of British and Pakistani descent. Shazia is of full Pakistani descent and is visiting from Ohio. Though not Zara’s biological parent, Shazia, was lovingly described as a second mother by Zara. Today they arrived at Howe with a flat tire. As they began to fix it, their jack gave out. It was raining, they were far from home, and resources were limited. What could have been a stressful setback turned into something beautiful. Our attentive, caring Howe Caverns’ team, affectionately known as the “Howies,” quickly noticed the family’s situation and stepped in without hesitation. They brought the necessary tools and their unrelenting kindness- regardless of the mud and rain. Before the family knew it, the tire was fixed and the family was on their way to their cave tour. With gratitude and lifted spirits, their hearts were touched by our unexpected kindness. During the time it took our maintenance team to fix the tire, we had the opportunity to meet these women. In that moment, they shared their spirit of wisdom and grace. Zara, wise beyond her years, shared that her life mantra is simple: “Make sure that your mother is happy.” It’s a philosophy that reflects the deep love she has for Tahira, who responded with a proud smile and a soft laugh, saying, “I’ve fulfilled all my goals in life—my daughter said it all.” Shazia, who is set to drive 11½ hours back to Ohio the tomorrow, lives by an equally powerful belief: “Live and let live”, a motto she embodies with grace, compassion, and a warm heart. When asked what inspires her about the women in her life, Zara beamed: “There is nothing not to love about either one of them. They are both beautiful, kind, and loving women. They are great mentors.” The admiration is mutual. Shazia described Zara as “open-minded, compassionate, loving, adaptable, and resilient.” And Tahira, full of emotion, added, “She’s my best friend. It’s like having a piece of my soul walking around outside of me. I am so blessed to be her mother. She is an amazing young woman.” Before heading off, the women offered a collective message they hope to share with the world: “It doesn’t matter what path you take to reach the divine. You may go one way, and I may go another; what matters is that we all get there—with love, kindness, and compassion for one another. Live and let live.” Their visit to Howe Caverns may have started with a little set back, but it became a moment none of us will forget. It reminded us that compassion is contagious, chosen family is just as powerful as blood ties, and sometimes the best journeys are the ones you don’t plan. Thank you so for visiting! Travel with love!