Prashant T Verma's Blog

The Greatest Christmas Gift (2)

2009-10-11T05:28:00.000-07:00

I narrated the entire incident and the conversation I had with the young boy and his grandmother.

"I would take you to the hospital" said Ron and drove me to the hospital. Ron said he would wait for me outside and I went to look for the ward number where Anna was perhaps breathing her last. I found the room and as I peeked into it I could see that the room was all full of people probably her near and dear ones. There I saw the young boy resting against his grandmother. A lady whom I presumed her mother was sitting beside Anna. She was gently moving her hand slowly against her hair.

I took a deep breath and with a smiling face entered the room with " Ho Ho Ho " sound. Then I realized how difficult it is to fake. How difficult it is to bear a smile when you actually are broken deep within.

The young Anna surprisingly busted out the word "Santa" instantly. She wanted to break open the mesh of pipes and machines all over her body and run up to. But could not. She was too weak to even stand on her own forget about running. I ran straight to her and gave her a nice bear hug. She resembled that of my own daughter Jenny.

As I hugged her I could feel her bones .She was pale and weak and had bald patches on her head but on the other hand she had a beautiful gift of God which very few people have "The Blue Colored Eyes”. They were so beautiful and hypnotically.

Seeing her condition my heart melted and I had to nearly choke myself from crying out.

I picked up the young angel and started talking to her. She was too sweat and opened her heart out to me. I asked her what she wanted for Christmas and she gave me a long list of her wishes on the assurance of being a good girl.

While we were chatting I could see rest of her family members whispering. Anna's mother approached and whispered "Thanks Santa". But this was the least I could do.

It was getting too late and doctors advice rest for Anna, so we all huddled around her bed and sang Christmas Carols. Everybody had tears in their eyes, tears of joy, tears of pain, and tears of hope. I took her small hands and said to her authoritatively I do not want to see you on bed the next time I come at the Christmas. You need to give in your best and get well soon". I knew I was asking for something which is a little too much. But I had to. I had to give her no toys, no dolls, no colors but the gift of Life, the Hope to Survive.

She agreed and said "Yes Santa, I would come a meet you next year for sure”. I could see the determination in her Blue eyes. I could see the seed of hope in them.

As I could not hold myself anymore, so I bid the young girl good bye and came running outside.

As i reached outside the room, I saw Ron standing outside the ward. We saw in each other's eyes. I could no longer control my tears and cried unashamed.

The Young boy came out with his grandmother and thanked me for my visit and hugged me.

An year later, when I again posed as Santa during the Christmas season one day a girl came up to me. She wanted to sit on my laps and talk.

She started off by saying “Hi Santa. Remember me?” As every child wanted to be felt special, I lied “Yes my darling I remember you very well”. This was the secret to be a good Santa. She continued by saying that “ You came to meet me in the Child Hospital”. I was pleasantly shocked. Tears filled my eyes to see the Miracle. I immediately recognized those Blue eyes and hugged her tightly to my chest and said "Anna".

She was all dressed like a fairy with silk blond hair and rosy cheeks much different to what I saw her in hospital. I could then see Anna's mother standing on one side wiping her tears. My hands and eyes immediately rose up to the sky and I thanked God. Certainly almighty is great and his generosity cannot be ever measured. He is kind enough to listen to honest prayers and wishes. He dint only gave new life to Anna but also in a way me my lost daughter back..

Years later, when I had aged a little, it was the first Christmas of my life when I could not go and pose as a Santa as I was gravely ill. I had lost hope in life and was sure wont survive this ailment, Doctors had also lost hope and so did I, On the Christmas day I was taken to the operation theatre and for the first time on a Christmas day I wore a green gown that patients wear instead of the red white Santa dress. The doctor came in and someone hold my hand. The face was covered but the eyes were similar. I said to myself I know these eyes. The Doctor said” Hey Santa don’t worry, I and god will surely make you well and smiling. “

You are great, I said in my heart… The young girl who was on verge of death year back has now become mascot of life for me. I dint want to live for myself but for thousands of children who wait for me every year as their Santa.

When I came out of Operation Theatre, in semi conscious state I thanked god once again.

Almighty is so great, instead of coming himself on earth he chooses we the human beings. Once I saved Annas life in gods disguise and this time she saved mine.

That was the best Christmas gift I ever had in my life "The Greatest Gift on Christmas.”

The Greatest Christmas Gift (1)

2009-10-11T05:23:00.000-07:00

This is another Heart Touching Story. Do remember to send in your Comments.

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The Christmas season was around the corner, still few days to go but the market places and shopping malls were already decorated with lights. The celebration had already started. There were twinkling stars and glittery atmosphere everywhere. People were all set for the gifts, decorations, greetings, food and drinks. Carols and prayer were filling the silence of the winters with serene warmth. I was all set to distribute gifts and blessing to children as “The Santa Claus”. Dressing up like Santa was my favorite pastime, not because I used to get good money in return, but because I loved doing it. I use to see my daughter "Jenney" in every child that used to come to me for gifts. Seeing children happy made me happy.

My daughter died when she was just 10 years old. I tried every bit I could to save her, pull her back from the death, but everything failed. She was hit straight on face while she was playing at school.

One day while I was sitting at the Mini Shopping Mall, a young boy must be 3 years old came to me with a lady who I presume was his grandmother. This boy came up to me to sit on my lap. I notice he was carrying a picture of a young girl in his hand.

“Who is that girl” I asked anxiously. “Your Girlfriend?” The boy said No. “Your Sister?” I again raised the question as I was curious to know. The young boy straight nodded his head vertically. “It is the picture of my Young Sister” said the young boy. “She wanted to come but is badly sick” said he sadly.

I looked at the Grandmother who was standing near to the Christmas tree wiping her dabbing eyes with a napkin.

“She wanted to come with me to see you dear Santa. She wanted to” exclaimed the young boy. “She missing you very much” said the boy with softly with a smile.

I tried to act cheerful and encouraged the smile on the young boys face. I quickly change and picked up a new topic to talk on. I asked “What do you on this Christmas from Santa?”

When the young boy finished off with his talking, the grandmother quickly came over to help the child get off the lap. I could see her eyes. She wanted to ask me something.

"What is it that is bothering you?" I said warmly.

Grandmother quickly shoo this grandson towards the area where the Christmas gifts were kept and started off “I now, it is too much to ask from you..But the girl, Anna, whom you see in this picture, is hospitalized. She is at the last stage of her cancer”.

“As per doctors she is not even expected to live till Christmas” she added with tear filled eyes.

“Her last wish is to meet Santa, This is all she is asking for, so is there any way you can come over and meet her” said grandmother.

I tried to swallow the hard truth and asked the lady to leave her address and contact details. This hard truth had made my old memories alive. Memories of my young daughter.

“What if my daughter asked for it. Wouldn’t have I fulfilled her last wish” I questioned myself.

I knew what exactly needed to be done.

I retrieved the address where Anna was admitted from one of my helper and approached my Manager. I asked him "Ron, How do we go to Child's Hospital?" Ron was surprised for a second. With the puzzled look on his face he asked me "Why do you intend to go there?"

[To be continued...]

The Funeral (2)

2009-10-02T21:05:00.000-07:00

As I was in the balcony I could hear one of the neighboring informing the other that the procession was scheduled for next morning.

I did not want to hear this because I knew I would be in a dilemma whether to go or not. I had some important work to be done in the office next day, so I said to myself that I visit their home and pay condolences for the loss rather than wasting the complete day by attending the funeral ceremony.

I could hear my neighbors asking each other about the procession. Everyone making one or the other excuse for not attending it. My decision of not going to the funeral was further solidified and I coolly started cooking dinner. After finishing off with the dinner, I opened my refrigerator and unlocked the beer can. As I was sipping in beer I realized how unpredictable can life be. A man so health like Mr. Banerjee suddenly got stomach pain and now he is no more.

This gave me the lesson to live each day. I do not know when did I went to sleep but was again woken up by the milk man. After taking milk I stood outside the balcony and I could see Mr. Sharma already reading newspaper. I anxiously asked him, are you going to the funeral ceremony to which he said “No”.

He said he has some urgent work which needed to be done so he would not be able to make it. This is ho life is. These were the people who took every damm advantage of Mr. Banerjee when he was alive and now they do not have any time. Soon I started hearing the procession going by. There was hardly anybody who had gathered. I saw around 600 to 700 people attending Mr. Banerjee son's wedding and now when the family needs their support the most, there were only handful now. This is the truth of present times people would share your happiness but no one would be there in trying times.

I could see the bus conductor guiding the driver so that he could pass by easily. Some 9 odd women were standing on the other side of the road all dressed in white sareers. Soon the procession passed by. I could not stop myself and went running down the stairs to attend it. How can I be so selfish? I knew Mr. Banerjee‘s son so I had to go, I said to myself.

I joined the profession to the funeral ground. I could see some 20 people waiting. Some dressed in formals as if they would go to office after the funeral. I could have done the same, if I would not have come in blue rubber slippers. People started to pour in cars, taxis and scooters. I could see a long parking queue outside the cremation ground. The chauffeurs were chatting with each other along with waiting for a signal from their masters. I even heard one of the chuffers asking for a cigarette, to which I objected.

I could hear pain and cries all around. It was really a depressing site. The pyre was ready. Mr. Banerjee’s Son lit the pyre and no time it burnt and the body was back into soil and, air I could see Mr. Banerjee‘s Son standing motionless.

As soon as half the pyre was lit, people started moving and leaving. The chauffeurs without wasting any time went into the cars and started the engine and waited for the signal from their master to drive to the main gate. The funeral came to an end.

The Funeral (1)

2009-10-01T22:12:00.000-07:00

Some people have all kinds of complaints with life and I am one of them. I sometimes feel I cannot ever get enough from life and this makes me rush every minute after the lust of getting more. And in my same attitude of garnering more I have spent years running and working as a relentless robot and somehow the driftness of life has taken away my emotions too. The usual mornings the same nights and same years- my life has became devoid of emotions.

It was the Monday morning of June and I was woken up by the sudden door ring. It was the milk man at the door. I slept late last night so I found it hard to get up. But I had no other choice. The milk man would not stop ringing until I would get the milk. He acted as my Alarm.

I was walking lazily towards the door and as soon as I opened the door I was amazed to see a group of neighbors gossiping. I called milkman in and started enquiring. He told me that the Mr. Banerjee living next door was taken to the hospital early morning.

I was surprised as I saw him heal and heart when I was going to a nearby Bar last evening. On further enquiry the milk man told me that he had severe pain in his stomach early morning and had to be rushed to the hospital. I took milk and closed the door. As soon as I closed the door I heard the sound of the door opening. A Sikh family lives next door and I could hear the Sardar ji uttering something in punjabi. I was too far to understand what he was saying, so i came closer to the main door. I could see the Sardar ji in a white vest and pajamas through the magic eye of my door. While enquiring about the incident he was busy applying fixo to his beard.

Then came his wife with his two children dressed in school dress. She rushed her children down the stairs as they were already late and their school bus was waiting for them.

I too started with my daily routine and preparations. I went in the balcony to brush my teeth. I could see the Chhole Bhature wala parking his cart. He was always at his place by 8:00 am. One of his companions had already washed the plates to serve the freshly prepared Chhole Bhature. He was famous for his pickle which the served along with the Chhole.

It was a regular sight for me, seeing people waiting for him to start off so without paying much attention to it I went straight into the room to find out what was ready to be worn. I saw nothing.

And I also knew the reason. I did not have my iron repaired. I had to do that last evening, but I forgot.

With little hesitation I opened the door to borrow it from the Sikh family. I rang their home bell and Sardar ji came out while tying his turban. I greeted him and asked for the iron to which he smiled.

He handed me the electric iron and softly whispered "Did you know what happened this morning". I like a small innocent child said "No". To which he asked me to come into the house. I had no way to go, so I entered.

Soon after I entered I saw Sardar ji's wife packing lunch for him. Sardar ji started off by describing me every minute detail as if forcing me to go to the hospital to meet him. I did not wanted that so I quickly and cleverly changed the topic to food. Sardar ji was a foodie and talking about food and dishes was his favorite topic.

As I was getting late so I sought his permission and stood up from the sofa. I quickly ironed my clothes and went to work. I came back in the evening I was informed by the guard that Mr. Banerjee died in the hospital. I felt bad and closed my eyes a recited a short prayer. He was no doubt a good human being and helpful person. This elder son was my good friend. He was also elected as the president of the society and there was almost everyone who knew him.

But to my surprise I did not saw many people who had gathering outside his flat to pay condolences. I quickly entered my flat and closed the door. From my balcony I could see Mrs. Sharma asking Mr. Sharma as to which sareer to wear.

An Unusual Day in Delhi Metro (2)

2009-09-26T04:20:00.000-07:00

As I was holding my office bag in my hand I feel straight onto the next passenger. I had nothing more to say except for Sorry. Almost everyone standing felt the jerk of sudden braking.

I could read the same question on everyone’s face “What was that?” Nobody had an answer to it. Then came an announcement which said “There has been a technical fault and everyone is kindly requested to evacuate metro at the next station”. It amazed every body present in the metro. Some were worried to reach office on time while some discussed and decided to wait until the metro starts to function again.

I too was getting late to my work, so thought of talking a bus this morning. Finally the metro moved after about 5 odd minutes. As soon as the next metro station came, I could see a heavy CRPF men standing with dogs. It did not took me long to understand something somewhere was wrong. I has never seen so many police many at the metro station. I was more curious about the beautiful and silent girl whom I usually see in the same train with a somber yet empty silence on her face, she never listens to music like other college goers nor does she talk on the phone with her boy friend or husband. It had been while since I wanted to talk to her but she seemed too closed to talk. Unlike other girls she is little mysterious and that is what attracts me towards her.

God knows where she must be, stuck in the horrendous and chaotic situation that has risen today and none of us is prepared. Don’t know when we will be getting the next train.

While I was trying to figure out where she must be, a serene face emerged in the confused and irritated ones, It seemed she had no hurry, no worry to reach her place.

I just tried to talk to her, but dint get any response in first place. She seemed to be more concerned about when the train would arrive; she gazed at the display and then sat on the seats by the station.Well Finally after a lot of waiting I decided not to wait for another metro and catch a Taxi for my Office. I hesitated initially but then dauntingly asked the girl whether where she was going. I knew she wont answer but o my surprise she said: Connaught Place. After a little discussion, we finally decided to share a taxi as it was not safe for a girl to travel alone as there may be some tension in the town.

It was strange for me, to share the taxi with a girl whom I had seen for so many months but never got courage to speak. I would definitely not let go off this great opportunity. Who know this day ever comes again.

The journey continued in silence.

And I , was getting fidgety.Why was not she uttering anything? She’s got a sweet voice but why don’t she speak up?

“Can you play some music?” I asked the taxi driver.

The music played but she suddenly spoke?

”Where are you going?” she asked.

“I am going for a meeting. I said and asked her “What about you?”

“I m going for an important assignment in a Five star Hotel” she said.

“Ohh Some high Profile Exihibition or a conference I suppose?” I asked.

“Hmmm, you may say so” she said.

“Anyways are you into marketing”I asked again

“Yes” she said.

“So which products do you sell?”

“I sell myself she said:”

“What, you are joking?

In a sardonic tone she said no, and offered me a cigarette from a pack of expensive striking.

“Do you smoke?

“No, I don’t but some of the clients do”

I was miffed for a while, though could easily make out what she intended to say, I ignored.

Well in all the conversation I discovered that this beautiful girl who caught my attention all the while was actually a sex worker forced into it through his husband. She ran away from her house to marry him but he turned out to be a traitor. Even though she wanted to come out of this web she couldn’t because she had no meeeaaans tttooo keep up her 5 year old son.

I was suddenly shocked by the tyranny of life, I tried to help her out and offered some money.

Over the past few months I had noticed a void in her face and emptiness in her eyes. I knew she was hungry of true love and affection but she got only lust. She dint take the money initially and said that she would never sleep with a nice man like me even if she also gets pleasure. I asked hew why and she said “ Time will tell you”

Well she took the money later as she failed to go to one of her clients and this would result in a loss which meant her child would not be able to go to school.

Soon we reached the place where I had to leave for my office, but I asked where she would go. She said that there is a car to escort her. A driver stopped the car exactly in front of the taxi and she slipped in it without any delay.

I asked the taxi driver to follow it but suddenly the car stopped. She came out to talk to me.

Why are you following me?She said

I want you out of this., I want to help you.” I said.

No one can help me, If you want to help please save my child.

She gave me a photograph with an address on it and tried to rush.

I felt as if the love is slipping off my hands. So I hold her tighter and said “We will take care of the child, I will marry you and everything will be fine. “

“ I wont want you to die after marrying me”

Instead of saying nething else she gave me a doctor’s report and said don’t ever do to anyone else what my love did to me,

I hurriedly opened the envelope. I could not understand what god was doing to me.

The reports in the envelope clearly stated that Rosanne Rogers was HIV positive”. The family photograph showed a beautiful lady and the handsome man” The man who drove the car in which Rosanne just moved. I was shocked to discover that her husband turned her pimp. ‘

I could not decide what to do and for a while thought life is not that beautiful.

I boarded a metro way back home.

An Unusual Day in Delhi Metro (1)

2009-09-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Society has myriad shades and the best part is that we all live collectively in a togetherness which is both sweet and salty. I got to meet people from different professions and moods in the metro train daily. Though each face is new and strange somewhere I find a resemblance of my own persona in each of them.

Everyday I travel through this train which has slowly become the identity of this already vivid town. It was winter season and I as usual I took my bike and started off to my work. I was all geared up with jacket and gloves and covered from head to toe. I used to park my bike at the metro parking and then take a metro. It was so cold outside that I needed to kick my bike several times so that it’s engine heat up. The fog was too thick today, I said to my mother. My mother used to come to the balcony to bid me every day.

I could hardly see to a feet. I drove at a slow speed so as to avoid any sudden braking.
I reached the metro parking in about 15 minutes which usually takes about 5 minutes. As I was parking my bike I saw some people wearing jackets and mufflers standing at one side of the road near the Chai stall. The chai wala had setting up his cart. He was cleaning utensils in which he serves tea. I wondered what they were doing there as chai wala had still not completed with setting up the cart. To end my curiosity I went to see. They were actually beating the heat with cigarettes. The cigarette smoke from their mouth was nearly invisible in the thick cover of fog.

I went straight inside the metro station. I was greeted by the metro security staff. As I was early than my usual time, I preferred to strike a conversation with him. He too confronted that it was chilly outside and told me that the temperature was just going to go down further, as per a daily newspaper.

I went into the metro station.
I still remember the days the Delhi metro ran for the first. Thousands of people gathered to take its first ride and today 5 years down the line, people hardly care about it. You can see all sorts of sign boards on metro station warning people to behave.

But, who the damn care? You can see this by the paan stains across the walls straight beneath the bill board which says “Do not spit”. I used to take metro from Rithala metro station, as It was the starting point of the metro and thus I usually managed to get a seat.

A Sardarji was sitting next to me in the Delhi Metro. He was discussing about the sensex with one of his friend. I too had invested some money in Share Market, so I started paying attention to their talking, in order to get a tip of a profitable stock to invest. Soon at the Pitampura metro station I saw an elderly lady entering in the metro. She must be around 75 years old. I could guess her age as she had white hair and could hardly walk straight.

The IVR constantly announced “Please give your Seat to the person in Need” but nobody bothered to. Everyone was busy in their own world. I would have to get up, I said to myself and I stood up and offered my seat to the old granny. She sat and blessed me. I was happy to seek her blessing early morning. As it was office timing, I could see a lot of people waiting outside the metro station so I quickly took a corner of the compartment to stand. A group of young girls entered the metro and fortunately in the compartment I was in.

They were all teenagers and must be 5 or 6 in number. All dressed fashionably trying to look different and more beautiful than other. I could see them catching attention of almost all men present in that compartment. Actually they were laughing and gossiping so loud that they unintentionally caught the due attention.

The laughing and gossiping sound was suddenly broken by screams and sudden brake noise.

[To be continued...]

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2009-09-20T02:07:00.000-07:00

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I Believe, Would You

2009-09-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

We were too bored by the vicious monotony of life and badly needed a change from the monotony that had warped in our lives. The simple trail of our lives had been really annoying and had disdained all of us, so to add some spice we decided to move out to an exciting place for a holiday we finally decided to go and I along with my friends went to northern portion of Navada for a mini vacation. We started of our journey in afternoon with the diesel filled tank with the intent of camping. Throughout the journey we had a lot of fun talking about the college days and the teenage tiffs. I noticed Ron was trying to hide something and I asked him to show me his bag but he persistently hid it and did not allow me to check what was in it.

After reaching the campsite which was approximately 4 miles from Highway 374, we parked our vehicle. We all were tired because of the long distance which we had covered. After taking some rest, we all stood up to help each other to prepare supper before it got dark. The weather was cold so we lit fire and started to chat along with sipping soup. The sky was clear and stars were clearly visible. While we were sitting in the fresh and serene atmosphere, Ron brought out his bag and took out a shinning new telescope from it. His father was an astronomer and he had secretively pulled it out from his room and brought on the vacation. He also had a star watcher map. As I too was fond of stars so I started to watch them along with my friend Ron.

It went on for a while and then Ron felt sleepy so he went inside the camp to sleep with my other friends, while I continued watching stars.
Suddenly a bright white light approximately the size of the Jupiter planet disturbed my view. I had no idea what it was. It was relatively moving in a zigzag pattern. It moved from east to west and then from North to South. The light was moving very swiftly and I even noticed a fainter light trailing it.

I kept on watching the light source and then I realized that I should capture it. I rushed in to pick my video camera. But the light had disappeared over the hills by then. I could not make out the exact shape of the light even in the full moon night. I could not see any other light except the ‘Strobe’ Light. However strobe light definitely had a circular or elliptical shape. The sight was magnificent as if there was a kind of amazing fireworks show put up exclusively by the outer space, what it was, am still unable to recalculate each and every moment. The scene was so mesmerizing that I could not believe my eyes in the first place, everything that happened afterwards was magical.

Another notable feature was that there was absolutely no sound from the flying object which further strengthened by believe that I just watched an Unidentified Flying Object or a UFO. I guess the whole episode would have just lasted for one and half minute.
The object must have travelled 5 times faster than any aircraft of today. I woke up my friends and told them about my UFO sighting. We became anxious to know more about it and about the place.

While googling we found about Area 51 and Highway 375.
“Area 51, what is that” said one of my friends.
“Area 51 is known as Groom Lake and it is a secret military area located 90 miles (approx) from North of Las Vegas. The center of this area is located the secret United States air base” replied Suzy, one of my friend.
“This area is selected because of its remoteness and presence of dry lake bed.” Suzy further added.

On further research we found that Area 51 is also known as the “UFO Capital of the World” and the “Nevada State Highway 375” is referred to as “Aliens Highway”.

We realized that we were just few miles away from the Nevada State Highway 375.
“We came so far from the main city” said Ron.

I waited outside the camp in the cold night with my camera and telescope hoping to see and capture some evidence of the Extra Territorial Objects.
But I failed to see them again. We had to go back to the college on Monday so early morning we started our journey back to our home.

I don’t know what I saw. I just saw light in the sky. I am certain that it was not the light from any of the aircrafts or helicopter but was it really UFO. I trust this in all rationality still I won’t force my belief on you. No matter how illogical it may sound, I am sure I saw the UFO that day. So it’s up to you if you think UFOs are true. “I Believe, Would You”

The Magical Letter

2009-09-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

I have tried to write this story in a new writing style called Broken Sentences. Do send in your comments about it.
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This is not a fictitious story. It is real. It is true. It is heart touching. It is an incident that happened to one of my neighbor. She had two sons. Jim, a 5 year old boy and John, an 18 years adolescent. Her husband had died. In a plane crash. Three years ago.

John was the sole bread and butter owner of his family. Only supporting member. For 2 lives.

John was on work. He got a phone call. His young brother Jim was hospitalized. He ran. For his young brother. For his mother. Doctors told Jim had to be operated. Condition was unclear, he further added. Suzie, his mother further enquired. Will my son be alright? When can I meet him? See him. Doctor said "Not now" and went.

The next day doctor gave the news. The unfortunate news. Jim had cancer. He was
on the last stage of leukemia. No one believed. What they heard. How could they. They did not want to believe. But truth was far away. He was going to die. Jim will soon die, added agonizing mother, Suzie.

Jim's condition started to deteriorate. He started to vomit blood out. He could no longer bear the pain. The agony. And few days later. The surgeon operating him came out of Jim's ward. He is dead, said he. I am Sorry. We tried our best. But could not save him, he added remorsefully.

Why do little children get cancer?
Where is God? Why does not he help them? Care about them. Suzie screamed.
The surgeon asked. Would you want to meet him? Your son -Jim.

She said. “Yes” and went in.

She wiped tears from her eyes and went in. She moved her hands in the thick hair. Lovingly. For the last time. John had to support him. So he controlled himself and went in.

Surgeon then sought their permission. To take the body. To the University. As Jim wanted. This was his last wish. Suzie never wanted this. But Jim wanted to donate his body for research. To help another child. Spend a single more day with his mom.

No doubt Jim had a golden heart. He thought of others more than himself. Suzie further added with tears flowing from her eyes.

John and Suzie went out of the hospital. Taking Jim's belongings. Everything they could. Except Jim. Except his body.

It was harder to drive back. But Life had to move on. So they did.

Suzie straight went to Jim's room. Where he used to live. She sat on his bed. She hugged the pillow. He wanted to feel Jim's touch in it. She felt something. Perhaps an envelope.

A letter kept under the pillow.

She was surprised. She just cleaned the room. As usual. Before going to hospital. Where the letter came from? She was puzzled.

She opened it

Dear Mom,

I know you would have already started to miss me. I also. But don’t worry. I know one thing. I would not be able to forget you. Even if you do not say. I Love You. I know you do. Always.

With tear filled eyes. Suzie continued. To read. To know.

It does not hurt anymore here. The cancer is all gone. I am glad. I can run and walk independently now. God could not see me in pain. Not anymore. So he sends his Angels. To get me here.

Do not sweep for me. This is a cool place. I met grandpa and grand ma. They showed me the entire place. It's too big. Too large. Angels too are pretty.

What’s more surprising is that Jesus no longer looks the way we picture him. He took me to God.

I had a lovely time with the God. I sat on his laps. And told him. My Mom would be worried. Can I write to her? He thought for a while and then. Gave me his magical pen and paper. I am writing from it. Isn't it cool?

God would send his angel to deliver this letter to you.

One more thing. It's written with magical Pen and Paper. So only you could read it. For everybody else. It's a plain. Blank white Paper.

God wanted to give an answer. Answer to your question. Where was God when his children need him? He replied. He was there with me. At the same place. When his child Jesus was crossed. He is always with his children.

One last thing before I return his pen and paper. You can adopt another Boy or a Girl. You must be all alone. So I would not mind. If you give my toys, my belongings. To another child. I really do not need them any more here.

I am sure we would meet. Meet some day. We surely will have fun. Till then.

Yours lovingly,
Jim
----------------------------------------

Suzie was shocked. She could not believe what she read. She knew what to do. She went to the St. Louis orphanage. Adopted a child, named it junior Jim. The Junior Jim is so sweet. He plays with Jim's toys. He rides his bicycle. He loves Suzie like Jim did. John loves him too.
Suzie is a happier person now. She now feels she never lost Jim. Love filled their family. Filled the void that came in when Jim died.

[This story may sound familiar to many, but the emotions in it inspired me to present it differently]

The Liftman (4)

2009-09-16T08:38:00.000-07:00

While I was conversing with Ganga ram, a policeman came walking in, he said that they are inquiring about the Car number and would definitely reach the culprit. I had some relaxation that Ganga ram would be getting justice. The police men occasionally uttered the number DL-2R 0007.

I could suddenly not believe my ears this number as of the car which I and Aayush had jointly bought when we had some money after doing a short project. It was our first possession and this car was dear to us. I moved to US but Aayush still drove it occasionally. Since I had taken this number with assistance of my minister uncle to flaunt myself with pleasure of having a VIP number, I was shocked it’s the same which had become the identity of Ganga ram’s son’s misery.

I could not understand the relation between the number, Aayush’s illness and Ravi’s accident. I knew whom to ask- Only she could tell. So after a lot of search I called Meenal and this time from Aayush’s cell phone.
Meenal was our best friend and Aayush’s girlfriend for past few years. I was still confused why she was not around when Aayush is so ill.
Finally she picked the call and the moment she heard my voice she burst in tears and cried hurriedly. She told me that two days back. She and Aayush were driving back from a party which they arranged for few friends so as to treat them for being engaged. Aayush who never used to drink was forced by the friends and she still hates herself for being amongst the people who forced them. While they were coming back in their excitement and bit under the influence of alcohol Aayush drove fast and accidently over run somebody. They stopped to look by and a boy was badly injured. Aayush wanted to help him but then Meenal got so scared she forced pushed the almost unconscious Aayush in the car and forcibly drove herself to home.

She then added that when Aayush come to his senses he cursed me for this and was curious about the injured person. Someone told him the boy had died and this made him restless, shocked and full of self hatred He simply loathed her and decided not to see ever again as he thought she was heartless. She kept the phone and left me baffled.
Now I knew what the connection was. Aayush being burdened by the guilt of killing a guy was disdained and so much upset that he had heart strokes. He needed to know that he can still mend his mistake by helping the boy with money and save his life. I dint utter anything in front of police men and simply sympathized and went straight to the doctor who was operating the young boy. Doctor told me that the boy needs to undergo an operation as soon as possible so as to lead a health life.

I did not know what to do. I wanted to help that man and his son but how? I was completely blank.

I could not sleep the complete night. The sight of a young skinny boy covered with pipes and machines disturbed me. I prayed for a child, a father I knew little about and also wanted to save my friend who I know was a very kind and true person. I went straight to the hospital next morning after visiting the nearly temple as I recalled my Grandfather saying that prayers with good intentions are always answered

After reaching the hospital, I knew what I had to do so without much delay I pressed the lift button. As usual Ganga Ram was doing his regular duty as a liftman. He greeted me with the same smile as he did to others. I wanted to enquire about the health of his son, but like a through professional at work, he ignored. I understood he did not want to talk about his personal life at work, so I stopped.
I went to Aayush room and silently moved towards his bed, since he was semi conscious by now I embraced him and slowly told him that the boy is still alive but struggling for life. I could see a smile in his eyes. As if he was happy to see me and also listen to the news.

I went straight to the doctors' cabin that was operating on Ravi. I presented him a cheque so that he along with his team can operate upon Ganga Ram's son as soon as possible. The doctor smiled at me and said that the operation had already been done last night and the boy is now out of danger. I was pleasurably surprised. I could just utter. How?

Doctor told me that a lady has already paid all the expenses for entire treatment, I was shocked who has given such a hefty amount. I saw Ganga ram on the other side with hands folded and expressions of gratitude on his face to a petite girl.
When I closely reached there, I could easily recognize she was Meenal and she had helped them and completed the required formalities. I was revealed. I waited until the lift man finished off his duty and when I meet him in his son’s ward, he was a relieved father.

The Liftman (3)

2009-09-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

I could not even sleep for a single second and after trying several times, I knew what I need to do. I woke up and drove back to the hospital to find answer to all my curiosity and anxiousness.

I reached the hospital and pressed the lift button again hoping to be greeted by the same liftman. I was fortunate to find him. He greeted and enquired as to which floor I intended to go. I said Seventh and he pressed the digit seven on the lift board.

The lift started to move upwards.

I could not hold myself and started a conversation by asking the liftman's his name. He replied, Ganga Ram, sir!! I felt a little confident and comfortable after breaking the ice. I wanted to ask him as to why was he crying in the afternoon but as soon as I started off, the lift reached the Seventh floor and the doors opened with people flittering by. I had to step out. I got down and meet Aayush and his family. One of his neighbors told me that doctors came in for the test and said that Aayush was now improving. There was a much calm and less tense environment this time in and around the ward where Aayush was admitted. I had brought a flower bouquet and a Get Well Soon card, which I gave him.

After meeting and enquiring about Aayush’s health, I wanted to quench my innocuous thirst for knowing the about the liftman and the Child ward. After spending about half an hour with Aayush’s family I moved towards the lift to reach fifth floor where the Child ward was there.

This time Aayush’s mother accompanied me to the lift. The lift came but was going up; I stepped in. I was greeted by the liftman, but this time the voice looked much different. I looked at the face of the liftman more clearly and to my surprise the liftman had been changed or perhaps he was done for the day.
I was disheartened and wanted to ask this liftman about Ganga Ram. Something stopped me, may it was hesitation and thus I remained silent this time. I asked the liftman to go to fifth floor.

As the lift bell ran at the fifth floor I stepped out and went straight at the ward where the liftman was crying. I saw a Boy lying on the bed covered with mesh of pipes and machines all over his body and Ganga Ram, the lift man sitting beside him.

I enquired with the ward boy and he told me that the boy who is being operated is the son of the liftman. He also added that the boy was operated as he had been rushed down by a fast moving car on the highway when he was trying to cross the road. His both legs were totally crushed and there was little scope of recovery as he needed multiple surgeries. The guy who did this mishap did not even bother to stop and take the child to hospital. I turned pale and yellow. I was filled with a sudden question. How can God be so insensitive and cruel?

I was filled with anger and resentment at the same time; I asked the ward boy if they had any clue that the person was by whom Ganga ram’s son had been injured. Ward boy was clueless but then said that their son had told a vehicle number which police had noted. I asked him to complaint to police.

I wanted to know more about the liftman and his family to which the ward boy answered hurriedly. “The liftman works to keep his son alive”. He has no money left to operate his son and thus was working in the hospital as the liftman.

I could not stop anymore and went straight into the ward to meet the liftman Ganga Ram and his son Ravi. Ganga Ram broke into tears when I enquired about his son’s health. He stood up and started walking out of the ward. I followed him.

He told me that doctor say they need money to keep his son alive which he didn’t has. He also told me that his background as a farmer. He had already sold all his land and was working day and night to collect money to fill pockets of the traders called Doctors, so that they do not stop his son’s treatment.

As we were talking, I noticed a new pair of shoes outside the ward where Ganga Ram’s son was admitted. Ganga Ram noticed me and told me that they were of his son. He said that Ravi loved this pair of shoes a lot. I could read the question in his eyes. This is the tyranny of life, sometimes we don’t have things and sometimes we don’t have the kismet to use them. As his son was half paralyzed, he doubted would his son ever be able to stand forget about walking with this pair of shoes. For a while I doubted whether my success is worth what I have spent for it. I was suddenly disdained with helplessness of human race. I now realized the depth of old saying “I cried that I had no shoes until I saw a man who had no feet”. In college days we used to laugh at this verse now it seems to be a bitter truth of life.

[To be continued...]

The Liftman (2)

2009-09-15T18:25:00.000-07:00

I took a direct taxi from the airport to the hospital as I wanted to reach before it was too late. The flash back of the old days came live as I passed each lane and street and in no time I realized that I reached the hospital. I boldly took the first time into the hospital compound. I knew I had to go to seventh floor so I pressed the lift button. I could see the lift coming down slowing from the top to the ground floor. I was eagerly waiting to meet my friend.

The steel doors of the lift opened and I entered. The liftman greeted me and asked me the floor number I intended to go to. I responded and the lift stated to move upwards. I could feel the fight between life and death as I reached the seventh floor. There is so much pain in this world and we humans fight endlessly to survive.

As soon as I reached the seventh floor I was searching for the ward where Aayush was admitted. One of his cousins recognized and approached me with a hand shake and a casual smile. I responded.

I was eager to go into the ward to meet my friend but was denied by the ward boy at the door. On enquiry he said the doctor was doing some critical tests. Outside the ward room I could see his mother and father and the tense look on their face further shook me. The Pain, Grief and Sorrow know no address.

I soon realized the intensity of the situation by their facial expression. I gained some courage and approached them. I touched their feet and greeted them and they blessed me.

I was curious to know how all this happened. He was an active smoker and it seems to be the reason said one of his family members standing outside the ward in response. He further added saying that doctors were still carrying on some tests to reach any conclusion. The next forty eight hours were critical said the doctor when he came outside after the check up.

I could not stop myself and showed my curiosity to meet him. I was taken in by his cousin. I could see Aayush’s face covered with a mask. He was conscious and could see me. He tried but could not utter a word, but I could read his eyes. I could see how happy he was to see me and I too had the same feeling.

When nothing seems to work people take the shelter of God and so was what Aayush’s family was doing. I came out and I could see his mother's hand folded and tears falling from her eyes, as if she was praying to God for his son.

I went and wiped tears from her cheeks. She hugged me and broke off. I consoled her and made her drink water. She gulped in the complete glass of water as if he did not have anything since last night.

Suddenly I heard the scream from one of the ward and after that there were cries, pain and grief all over. One more life lost the fight to survive. That scream shake and broke me. My breath started to choke and I was filled with depression. I could not stand anymore their so I decided to go and come after a while.

I took permission to leave on the pretext of coming in the evening. I was too tired from my fourteen hours long flight from United States. I decided to go by stairs to exercise my leg muscles which were by now jamming.
I started to walk down the stairs one after the other. Soon I reached the fifth floor where there were children wards. There I saw the liftman standing and crying outside a ward. I was totally blank but as I could not stay in such a depressing environment anymore, I continued to go down.
As I reached the fourth floor I heard loud child screams. It was horrifying. The sudden thought of God as the protector came in my mind and I do not know how and when I started murmuring Gods name. As I reached the ground floor I saw a small temple at the entrance of the hospital.

I bowed my head against the same temple and came out. The sun was shining too brightly and it was a hot afternoon. I drove back to my house to meet my family who were waiting impatiently for me.

No doubt I was anxious to meet them too but those child screams somehow were not getting out from my head. I reached home and met everyone. I was served my favorite dishes by my mother. After having lunch I thought of taking a quick nap to get relax. Those screams and the sight of liftman crying outside the ward continuously disturbed me.

[To be continued...]

The Liftman (1)

2009-09-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

Life is a vicious circle and at times it brings us back to the things which we leave behind. The trail of our lives is in a way circular so the people and the incidents we leave behind come to us in a strange manner. As I am traveling back to India the pictures of the lovely college days are flickering in my mind. I have traveled a lot of times in past to meet my dear friend Aayush.

But this time everything has changed, time changes everything I suppose but only thing which remains untouched by time is the ties or true friendship. It has been about 2 years since I have seen him and now when I am going towards him am not sure whether I would be able to see him talking.

God is gracious still he turns callous at times. Aayush has had multiple strokes and I still do not know what he must have undergone that he had such a grave illness. All his family knew was that he came two days back in quite a deluded mood and dint speak to anyone.

By morning he was a lot upset and asked everyone not to disturb him. His mother questioned him but he didn’t answer. After a day he complained of severe heart ache and was rushed to Hospital. All this news was given to me by Arnav, his younger brother on a phone call.

I was sitting in my balcony and reading the newspaper when suddenly the phone rang. I picked up the phone and there was a shaking voice at the other end, greeting me.

I got nervous and responded. It was Aayush’s brother and he gave me unfortunate news of my college friend Aayush being hospitalized. It took me some time to come in terms with the fact that he is on his death bed.

For a minute I could not stand straight and leaned against the wall. Aayush was my old college friend and I could hardly believe the chakra of time took such a quick turn.

Being neighbors, I got an opportunity to get close to him and know him better. Like all young and ambitious guys he also had dreams to conquer the world one day, but he did not have only dreams he surly had talent to back it. We shared similar qualities and thus in no time we became very good friends. He was an intellectual as well as a good sportsman and the love for sports brought us closer. But soon after I completed my college, I went to United States to pursue my Masters. I still remember how much I tried to persuade Aayush to come along and complete higher education there but he had other principle. He wanted to be an educator and not a corporate worm. .So separated by our aspirations and ideologies we moved on the respective paths of our life, Paths which suddenly met in a traumatic situation.

After receiving the disheartening news, I could not anymore hold myself and I took the next flight back to India to meet him, or to put it more appropriately meet him for the last time.

All throughout the flight I had mixed emotions. I was happy to come back to India and at least meet him and on the other side I was sad, sad to meet him this way. It would have been great if we would have meet at a more comfortable place but you do not get everything you desire and that was the hard truth of life I was coming in terms with.

[To be continued...]