**Introduction**

In the poem "My Mother at Sixty Six" by Kamala Das, the poet's mother is portrayed as an aging woman who is physically weak and vulnerable. Throughout the poem, the poet reflects on her mother's mortality and the emotions that arise from witnessing her aging process. One of the poignant moments in the poem is when the poet observes her mother smiling and smiling while traveling in a car. This raises the question of why the poet's mother smiles despite her physical condition and the impending reality of her mortality.

**The Poet's Perspective**

The poet's observation of her mother's smile suggests that there is a deeper meaning behind it. It is a smile that conveys acceptance, resilience, and the ability to find joy in the small moments of life, despite the challenges and limitations that come with aging.

**Expression of Love and Gratitude**

The poet's mother's smile can be seen as an expression of love and gratitude for the presence of her daughter. The poet acknowledges that her mother's smile is directed towards her, as she sits beside her in the car. Despite her physical frailty, the mother finds solace and happiness in the presence of her daughter, which is reflected through her smile.

**Embracing the Present Moment**

The poet's mother's smile can also be interpreted as a way of embracing the present moment and finding contentment in the present situation. As the car moves through the city streets, the mother's smile becomes a symbol of her ability to find beauty and joy in the simple act of being alive. It is a reminder to cherish and appreciate the fleeting moments of happiness that life offers, regardless of one's circumstances.

**Acceptance of Mortality**

Lastly, the poet's mother's smile can be seen as a reflection of her acceptance of her own mortality. The poet describes the wrinkles on her mother's face, which are a natural part of aging, and juxtaposes them with the smile on her lips. This suggests that despite the reality of aging and the awareness of her own mortality, the mother chooses to embrace life with a positive outlook and a smile on her face.

**Conclusion**

In the poem "My Mother at Sixty Six," the poet's mother's smile is a powerful symbol of love, gratitude, resilience, and the ability to find joy in the present moment. It represents her acceptance of her own mortality and her determination to embrace life with a positive outlook. Despite the physical limitations of old age, the mother's smile serves as a reminder to cherish and appreciate the simple joys that life offers.