It was almost torn. Looked tired and exhausted after travelling across the miles. I picked it up and looked closer – I smelt a familiar connection – of care, of giving. The words on it looked faded as if it had been rubbed, scratched or plain mishandled. But I could see through the remains of what was once written on it. It had my name on it in a familiar style –the same length of the ‘K’, the same big belly of the ‘S’ and the huge ‘M’. Yes, it was from him – I could almost hear him call my name. I smiled. It was refreshing to see his mark again, not an email signature but a hand written note. Something more real than this virtual reality.

 Opened it carefully, making sure it didn’t get damaged more than what it already was. Kept wondering what could it have for me. He knows I love this, he knows I love that. What would he choose this time? And yes, he got it right – exactly what I needed…1028 grams of smiles and a perspective. A confirmation that even today in this matrix of ephemeral and fleeting things, there are some things that do not change. The thrill of receiving a personally picked and wrapped gift from the other continent, the comfort of having a friend who will stay no matter what happens and the feeling that in some ways I really am lucky – it has always been so, and will remain.

That’s more than enough to keep me going for now. The rest can wait while I enjoy this moment of euphoria. :)

You know it is for real when you are smiling even when no one else is around.

Chilies,

 Akanksha

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