Here I am, sitting on my couch on a gloomy Monday morning, staring at my work laptop to catch up on emails. Little did I know in the beginning of this decade that I will be half way around the world when it ends. Undoubtedly, this decade gifted me some of the unforgettable mementos of my life. Well, I don't say it 'My Life' anymore. Because, I am just not me now, It is "Us".
My journey into this decade started off quietly from the laid back night scene of our little bachelor pad at the AECS layout of the Brookfield area in Bangalore. By the mid of 2010, there were talks about an upcoming project role in the US office of my client. Many of my colleagues, who are seniors to me, were considered for that position. Some were not interested to make a move overseas, some unfortunately couldn't break the red tape of the agonizing visa procedures for the US work permit. Luck played a trick in my case and I was the chosen one - To travel to an unknown land for work. I landed in this nation as an alien on Feb 19th, 2011 and continue to stay so even today. I was suddenly shifted into a lifestyle that was very different from my upbringing. The day to day life taught me new things. Months passed by quickly; I got accustomed to this nation's way of living. It affected everything including my habits, my thoughts, my perception to life.
It was in the year of 2012 that I fell victim to the conspiracy plans of my family. There were discussions of getting 'settled' in life. Although baffled at this very idea of marriage initially, I went on to nod an approval for the process of matchmaking. In not much time, I realized that I found my partner in crime - Uma - A rock star who seamlessly shape-shifts into the roles of a Wife, Mother, Professional, Dancer, Motivator, Teacher and at times a teeny-weeny Annoyer (PS - I Love You 💖 ! ). We talked for few days initially, soon realized mutually that we were able to communicate in ease - the very essence of a companionship. We got engaged and married in a matter of 6 months - Jun 9th, 2013 was our big day - A day that changed our life forever. It was like a confluence of two separate streams - thereon agreed to flow together until eternity. The most memorable days of our life - I must say. Life blossomed further in all its glory. A year's journey took us to a crossroad with a marker which had 'Parenthood' written in it. There was no going back. Our dear Kunjibi came into the mix - Needless to say, she made it more flavorful - Mar 14th, 2015 !
As years passed by, we were setting up the life fortress without even realizing it. Some achievements came along our way, Uma got her Master's in the summer of 2018. I have fulfilled the dream of a full time job in a reputable company. We moved from Bay Area to the much calmer Phoenix (in all terms). Uma also gladly accepted the offer of a job that came along her way from the same company. Thus we decided to settle down in the desert - The landscape that gives you evening vistas to behold for a lifetime. A new dwelling was another major milestone we achieved in this decade. We are filling our fortress with memories and moments - Both happy and sad.
Kutty turned into a married woman from the little child I used to nag every now and then. Achan entered into his retirement life, Amma soon will follow the path. Two of my dearest people attained eternity this decade. Muthashi - My first roommate, if I may put it casually ! Mid toddler days to early adolescent years, we used to sleep together. One thing I still carry with me, which she taught me in those tender years, is my bedtime prayer. Even though I don't say it out loud, somewhere in the corner of my mind it echoes during my initial seconds into the bed every night. Now a days, it feels more of a discipline than few lines of chants. Then there is Muthashan's memory parade - The man whom I idolized for his relaxed way of living. Top of the line memories of those grand Yezdi rides to his special sessions of Kesari making to the coconut harvest sessions in the summer holidays😄
The last few years taught me many things - To be a better human being, to be a better husband, to be a better father, to be a better son, to be a better brother, to be a better cook, to be a better crier, to be a better writer, to be a better reader, to be a better professional, to be a better believer, to be a better listener, to be a better friend and to an infinite set of 'to be a better'. All I can see when I look back is Gratitude. It's a religion that I believe in, now a days. Offering our gratitude to those who remember us often, who love us unconditionally and who keep us in their prayers. Now, My mind is time traveling to many places, fondly retrospecting the wonderful moments the journey offered so far - Thank You for the memories !
When the new decade is opening the door for us, we don't know what all it has in store. But I am sure to take all that I gathered and learned in the past years and use those to thrive the wondrous journey called 'Life' 🙏