My papa is not someone who calls me everyday, even though I am miles away.
But when I meet him
He will ask me
if I am happy! How am I! He would hug me!
And that is all I ever need....needed from him.
***
When I came to Hyderabad, during covid..
My balcony faced Uncle's home....
And every morning when I sat there with the kids....play or just look outside....Uncle would wave at us...smile at us.
I think he was the first person I knew without meeting...without talking !
We couldnt celebrate my daughter's first birthday due to covid precautions,
Yet uncle came home for the first time :)
He sat far and had got a little stuffed toy !
He said "I had to come to give my blessings".
I couldnt express the warmth he brought!
Since then, uncle was family :)
He would come home and say it was his daughters and I loved serving him too.
We shared meals.....he loved having tea in a big mug....and his wise words....stories....felt like a weekend with an elderly, far from home.
When ever we met downstairs,
He would always ask me,
"How are you, daughter?"
"Do you take care of yourself?"
And I would nod a yes.
There are so many aunties who love me like a kid...advice me.............yet uncle was the one who always cared.
Even in a group he would call me and ask if I was doing well and that was the only thing he would ask.
He was like papa to me...!
I badly missed you sitting among the other grey haired friends of yours....when I went down today, Uncle!
I hate this part of growing up...of being an adult...showing a bold mature face....
****
I had this thought today....
uncle ...papa...mumma....all the elderly I know....dont have Elders above them...they...might be old...yet every person needs care and love....who would they turn to when they wish to pour their heart!
So they love us....care for us.
May be its time that I start caring for those younger to me.....the generation younger to me....
Just like his kindness filled my heart,
May be me being kind to someone makes them feel home...feel happy too.