Time lines of change

I was always taken to those weddings and social get-togethers where my parents were invited. I would not be having my friends and at times no children in the party. My Big B could avoid it by simply saying a no, and he being a big boy could stay alone.

I liked to dress up. Wear those new frocks my aunt would have sent from America. To comb my short thin hair and put 2 red bow shaped clips on both sides. Putting a red bindi and lots of powder on my face. 

I enjoyed the attention the uncles and aunties would give me. "Which class are you in?" "Which school?" "Oh, you have grown tall. I knew you when you were just six months old."

I loved people. Simply liked to be part of a bustling crowd, liked to be known, seen, heard by all. I would sing without hesitation. And accept the adulation and praise without a question.

And here I am today. Wearing a t-shirt which says "The more people i meet, the more i love my dog".

Cynical. Trying to see the words through different layered lenses. That guy is such a chauvinist creature. She speaks words she has no understanding of. Do not believe those words, it is only a way to sweet talk.

The trust, the simple joy of having people around you lost somewhere. From birthdays with the whole class being invited to a birthday spent quietly with a select few. From going home for holidays and spending time with the zillion of relatives to spending it alone with myself.