With the lockdown situation continuing,as a family, we have found us a routine. Every evening the 4 of us- in laws, Mr. and I play carrom. We are all extremely competitive and forget all relationships while playing against each other. While I try to hit a follow coin after red, they start making comments that make me laugh. They would say simple things like, she will surely not hit it or say it is easy shot and invariably I would miss my chance. We then end up laughing until our stomachs hurt before playing again. Carrom is a game that is bringing 4 people from 35 to 75 together. 1 hour of pure entertainment, away from our devices, away from any complaints we have against each other, away from the pandemic that we are currently facing. My mother in law has a nerve damage that impairs her vision to some extent and she is the best player out of the 4 of us. It brings out her most beautiful smile and laughter out that is so wonderful to witness. Almost a childlike enthusiasm. She tries to mimic my shouts of joy when her team wins. All of this a reminder that we all enjoy the company of others and take joy in small things in life. I hope everyone takes a pause and remembers moments like this when we grow older in life. What we are going through as a society now and what we will go through economically, will not be easy. We need to hold on to moments before they pass. They will give you tremendous strength to go through the future.
My Father-in-law was not the typical FIL who was distant and would not interact with his daughter-in-law. Well, initially he was like that and then he warmed up to my presence and opened up to me. Over the last few years, as we spent a lot of time together, as we were all living in the same home, he became my close friend, mentor, guide and my biggest cheerleader. He was born in Shimoga, grew up in Amrutur with his aunt, started his family in Sagara and eventually retired into Bangalore. 80+ years, he has had the most enviable life. Don't mistake it for a rosy life or a life with no issues or problems! He was one among 11 - 6 boys and 5 girls. He was the 2nd child and as his mother had more children, she needed help raising the kids and so she reached out to her sister in law to take care of him in Amruthur - a farmland. He grew up under the care of his aunt and love from his cousins, who were all girls. He would eat fresh food from the abundance of the farm and also drink milk so...
Comments