Tale of Connection and Embracing Emotions..

I’m not someone who grew up captivated by fairy tales and adhering to a conventional definition of love. As I’ve matured, observing my surroundings, I’ve come to realize there are numerous people I can rely on, and who can rely on me, all bound by a singular connection — love.

I never believed in love as a one-time event; for me, it’s a journey — a journey to embrace my human emotions, for both myself and those around me.

For instance, when I don’t feel like eating, just half a roti from my mom’s hands makes me feel like this is love. Returning home and indulging in gajar ka halwa made by my 90-year-old grandmother — though aged, it’s her love that eagerly awaits my arrival.

When I crave dancing to loud music and my brother, who wants to study in the same room, pauses his work to let me dance — that, to me, is love.

Even when my cousin isn’t keen on taking pictures, even at his wedding 😂, he willingly poses to make me smile and happy — that’s the love I receive.

Some friends message me when I remove my WhatsApp profile picture just to check if I’m okay — yes, I may be a bit of a drama queen still.

Some people hold a special place in my heart, regardless of how much time has passed — a continuous stream of love surrounds me.

And I can’t forget my grandfather; though we lost him, he visits me in my dreams to bestow love upon me.

I know you, too, are surrounded; perhaps you’re just not looking with the right eyes. I consider myself fortunate, and perhaps you are too.