Blogger: Marutham
Blog: http://paddyfieldprincess.blogspot.com/
It was a beautiful day….. The very sight of THE LIMESTONE HILL ALONG THE HIGH WAY was amazing. It was a very special day! Today, the high way that connects the Kuala Lumpur to Sungai Petani, a small beautiful town -had 3 special people watching this beautiful sight .The Limestone hill had seen so many travelers who pass this way everyday. But many of them fail to even simply turn their heads and take a quenching look at this awesome tall masterpiece of nature. There are hundreds of birds that – do not fail to do that, they don’t waste time on earning money to live happily, but yet live a very happy life. Every morning the limestone hill had hundreds of singers- not the vocalists though- but yes the chirps of the cute birds that live there- even the best of the best orchestra would jaw drop on seeing their beautiful co-ordination & rendering. Anyone lucky enough to hear that- would want nothing in life but to hear that forever! Adding more beauty to the limestone hill was the highways. It looked so much like the hill was given its bow- the Black road, for being the best! And in this strip of ribbon did we have the 3 wonderful people traveling in different vehicles at considerably a short distance between each other. They are related in a strange way but yet not connected until this day! Like the little one’s say- there were 3 cars. Car 1,2 & 3.
Inside CAR 1:
The first one to hit this spot that u see in the picture was the family of a middle class doctor trying his hard to satisfy the NEEDS- needs of his family, work & society – to mark him a happy living man. That is as such a statement. Do you think he was one? Well, only from the outside & definitely not today! His little heart was so much in pain – a pain that even a man who had a fall from Mt.Everest but lying in the bottom ALIVE with fracture in every bone his body has would not be able to explain. It was the pain of losing someone inspite of knowing the fact that the someone – loves him so much & yet is moving away. The ‘someone’ is Shantha- wife of the best doctor in Sungai petani, Mother of the cutest little angel – ‘INIYA’ whose smartness is definitely acquired from her father Shanmugan & the gentle-angelic nature from Shantha herself. The family and each one, sound like the kind in a fairytale, then what could possibly be upsetting shanmugan? Hm… here is the bitter truth, this ride that the family is having is not any fun ride. Shantha was leaving Shanmugan once for all & she was heading to her mothers place. Shanmugan is not a betrayer, neither a drunkard nor a gambler and ofcourse a very loyal husband. Then why -shantha leave him? Well, do we know the term immaturity?
Shantha was gazing at this beautiful sight of the hill while little iniya was singing & playing “Itzy bitzy spider…”Iniya has just picked up few new rhymes. For her age- iniya is an excellent chat box & is so adorably cute when she talks. Before 4 years in the same road, same car – same family but iniya wasn’t born yet. That was the first time Shantha spotted this beautiful sight of “limestone hill”.This was a special spot ,for in the long drive- the first utterance that shanmugan heard shantha uttered was “What is the name of this hill,dear?” And during the long drive- first time shanmugan looked at her eyes & said “ That’s called the limestone hill, Honey!”. Should we call it their honeymoon- alright it was. Shantha & Shanmugan were married that year & they were driving home for the first time. Shantha was an educated and very conservative Indian girl. She loved shanmugan & the passion for his work so much. But until she realized that she will have to spare him for his work too. Or did she even realize that? They had the usual happy couple story until their first anniversary. But then, things started to change. Shanmugan remained the same-the same old sincere doctor, loyal loving husband. And probably that was the problem. Shanmugan is the type of man- who wants to listen to what the wife feels & respect her feelings. But just that sometimes forgets to warn her if it was wrong or not practical enough. He was never harsh on her, even at times when she would act the most stupid way. Shanmugan felt that she would understand and adjust in the course of time. Most men would think the same, but what they all forget to think is that- this tender mold shall take bad shape if not shapened at the right time when they tend to shape into a wrong mold or even take a bad one as their example. Like any other too sweet guy, Shanmugan did the same. But time only forced him to change. In the course of time- they had their cutest little angel delivered straight from the land of good children. The first time shanmugan felt those tender arms in his, he could not relate it to any other feeling- and had tears roll down his cheeks. Having himself been a doctor to attend many delivery cases, it was yet a very special thing for him to hold his Junior Shantha- who very much had the same charm & sweet smile of shantha. They both spent almost all the night talking about what they shall plan for their little angel. Next day- they drove home. And it was this tall figure here- that is standing tall & proud- the very same way even today. It was the limestone hill. Shantha insisted to shanmugan that they stop at this spot & take a snap with their little angel- for this hill was special. You know, why! They lived happily, but just that shantha’s complains kept growing year by year. They even outgrew their love for each other & it was after that- the shake was felt. All that shanmugan was doing is for the family, and shantha did know that too. She ofcourse knows what other men are like- in this world. Some of her friends have even told her that they envy shanmugan for his dignity & loyalty to his wife. But shantha- had this complain- that can never change anything the way shanmugan is. She wanted shanmugan for only them & she forgot to give importance to what his goal in life is & as a loving wife to co-operate him achieve it. Isn’t that what family is for? Shanmugan was a very sensitive & affectionate man. He tried to explain shantha what his work is like & this is how it would be- if they want to maintain this status in the society. More over all his life- this was his dream- dream to save lives & invent new things to save more life. His research work & his duty as a doctor was his foremost duty. He even tried telling her that- other than work all he had in mind was to spend his remaining time with family & he did manage to spend quiet sometime for iniya, who needed daddy’s attention so much. But yes, as a matter of fact the big iniya- yes, shantha almost like a second kid ,but too immature- seem to have wanted even the more attention. And Shanmugan tried to explain things & convince shantha. But every time this topic comes up - it would end in the angry walkout of shantha. And shanmugan at one point was tired of trying & thought she would understand him at some point & reduced the number of times he attempted to convince her.
“Mommie am hungry. Can u give me my choco bar?” interrupted iniya.
“Yes dear! Sure.” And Shantha took her hand bag & took out the bar chocolate & handed it to iniya. She noticed the old picture that was in her handbag always. It was the first photograph, the 3 of them & the limestone hill were all together in.
Shantha thought for a moment” Everything seems the same here Me, Shanmugan-except for the bald and few grey hairs he is developing & Iniya who is now independent enough to eat her food. What has changed? I do not see any change at all other than may be, that I am making a change now- shanmugan would travel alone in this car from now on. Probably the last drive & last time- iniya shall play itzy bitzy in her father’s car,ask question to her dad, and yet he answers all that with his gentle answers & give his ice breaking smile. What am I about to do? What is the problem I have with this wonderful man- who even now is so considerate & loving towards me & his kid when he knows I have made this dumb decision to desert him & leave him alone- in his already bored life! If it was like this for me, what would it be like for him to take so much of stress & unnecessary complains from me. He doesn’t cheat on me or neither is he spending money in the wrong way. Why would I make a dumb move like this, to leave such a lovely man- who is working so hard to save the life of someone who hardly knows him or even spend his time ,to help them recover or atleast survive for few more days or even hours to spend with their loved ones. Am I being too self centered here? Is this me? What has happened to me? Where is the co-operative shantha, who was always happy at making others happy? Has my age changed it all or is it my feeling of insecurity? “
With these thoughts in her mind she once again looked at the limestone hill. It was standing tall & is the support of life for those millions of birds, insects & animals that live there.And there was this sudden blow of wind that seemed like a silly attempt by the wind to cut the hill into two. Shantha turned to look at shanmugan. He was driving with his calm face for the first time so upset & confused. And his eyes – that hardly had any sleep after those hectic night shifts were now looking more pathetic with the pain. Shanmugan noticed shantha looking at him and asked “Honey, are you feeling too cold. Should I stop for a drink?” Shantha thought –‘ Damn! What a fool I am to hurt this wonderful soul for just him not spending enough time with us. After all he is trying to be good. Good as a doctor, good as a father & he is a very good husband. What was I thinking?! ‘
And shantha replied with a soft tone “ Am doing just fine sweetheart. Will you listen to what I got to say?”
And shanmugan replied “ Yes honey, the tickets are all fine. Everything is arranged. And do not worry – iniya will not make a fuss that am not joining. I told her that mommy & iniya are going to get a gift for daddy.So it better be a surprise for daddy. She is fine with it. But you will have to manage her for few more days after you land there with some answer. I still haven’t come up with a better one honey. Do not worry.She is a very good girl…”
Shantha interrupted “ Will you please stop with being too nice a husband to a stupid wife? And…” She gently smiled & gave one of her naughty winks after so many many years. She continued “ I actually want you to spare sometime for me- are you free for that?” Shanmugan replied “ I have no work for this weekend honey, tell me. What is it?”
Shantha said “I want you to come with us during this trip”
Shanmugan said “I wish I could. But you see dear, am not that strong a father. And it would be hell for me when I return alone without you both by my side”
Shantha said “Well, why would you return alone when we are both going to be sitting right next to you? This would just be a visit to my mom to tell her that her big girl is doing just fine & knows her responsibilities as a wife and mother & the responsibilities of her Prince charming- the greatest doctor ever. And also remind her that- it was just a small vacation the family could spare on an old ladies house, for my husband has to get back to his work the next week & I should get back to pack him his lunch. We shall also do a little shopping there at my favorite mall. Honey, what are we going to get special from there?”
Shanmugan with all glee said “We are returning with the HAPPIEST FAMILY…This is the best drive I ever had in this limestone hill highway. This shall be the best day in my life, not even our wedding day was this special! I got back my lost possession- my understanding & loving wife. I love you!! And I love you forever!!!”
Inside CAR-2 travelling at 60kmph:
The music system was screaming,
“There's nothing you can know that isn't known.
Nothing you can see that isn't shown.
Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be.
It's easy.
All you need is love, all you need is love,
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.”
Yes! It was the song by-The Beatles
A very deep voice spoke.
“ Hey lara, look! Do u remember that hill? Come on- you dumbo! It’s the limestone hill.Don’t you remember the last time we were here?You won the panting contest for painting this gorgeous during a sunset.Duh?”
Lara with amusement said “Harry!! You remember that? How could I possibly forget that time, you drove me here & it really took so long for the sun that day to set. We even joked if it had forgotten its schedule. How can I forget the long chat we had that day while waiting for the sun to set? We had even forgotten about the test we had next day. I even remember your mark, you scored a 90, while I ended up in an 89. Just 89! “
Harry with a smile said “And looks like some one forgot that- they also won the first place for that painting contest & with all the cash- planned a grand celebration inside her piggie bank. That was indeed very generous of you- little missy!”
Both Lara & harry had a big laugh. And there was silence after that.
Lara broke the silence and spoke “ Harry, do you really have to go outside of Sungai Petani to pursue your degree? Can you not do it here? Do you think the best college can only provide the best knowledge? I remember you telling me- if you have involvement, dedication, resource & good guidance, where you study does not even matter. All that are here. Why not stay here with us? “
Harry was not actually keen in leaving his home and moving away for studies. The only hope with which he was ready to leave was Lara. Lara is a very close family friend. Lara’s dad & Harry’s dad were thick friends. So were lara & harry. From their childhood they were both together, their first day of school, their first day at piano class. They were all the time together. Both the family- moved very close & they loved each other so much. One day, lara’s parents left her at harry’s place and left for a wedding for it may take a day or two to return. And Lara’s dad said on a funny note “ Do take real good care of my sweetie. And do not let go off her, until we return.” The next day, Lara had her exams so she couldn’t join them. She stayed at Harry’s house that day & the two had prepared so well for the test. But the next day when Lara returned home – she had to hear the worst news. Her parents had died in a tragic accident. Lara felt that pain- the pain in her heart that was like squeezing with thousands of thorny strings. More than Lara, Harry felt it very painful- when he saw his best of best buddy shed tears. Neither was harry old enough to console her, nor did he know how to. So, he stood lost & with tears. Harry’s family was very considerate towards lara that they decided to bring her up.Lara & Harry had a very special bond. And most of all harry’s parents loved lara. And today during the drive along the highways- harrys mobile rang. He picked it up and it was harry’s father in the other end. He said “Harry, how are u? Am calling from Canada now & I shall return home by next month. Are you on your way to the airport now? Well, I just want to remind you one thing before you head to some place with many opportunities & girls around. This could sound too absurd to you right now. But answer me- can u consider Lara as your life partner? This may be too early to ask, but your mom was worried you find somegirl at your college & return home with her. She feels that Lara is the best for our family too. She understands all of us very well. And do not tell me Lara may have something else in her mind. That sweet girl had been in love with you all these years & after you both left home- your mom had found Lara’s diray where she had written all about her love for you. She is too timid to tell it out. So son, remember there is the best girl waiting for you here. I hope you give me a positive answer.”
Harry was so excited for he had the same feeling about her & was only afraid if she may not like it. Harry responded “ What question is that dad?? Definitely, Yes!! And Dad, let me hang up now – I got some talking to do before we reach the airport. Take care dad! And thank you & thanks to Mom”
Harry stopped the car and asked Lara to get down & walk to the side of the road with him. He then picked up one of the smallest flower- the wild yellow little flower from the side of the road & spoke ”Lara! Will you marry me?” Lara- gave harry a big hug & said” Well, why would I say no? Come on now handsome, you got a flight to catch. Let’s drive” They got into the car & Harry with a big smile drove the car to the airport. At this moment, Lara had her heart filled with joy & happiness – and most of all a feeling of security.
INSIDE CAR3:
Inside this car, there was the Warden driving his young student to airport- for the boy to have a vacation with his family.This little boy was Rocky Parker, he was put in a boarding school. Rocky was a very notorious & smart boy. But most of the time would on purpose get into trouble & he enjoys the attention he gets being that way. One cannot under estimate him as a dull headed-notorious one,but an A+ scoring naughty little boy. Every time there was a PTA meeting, all the teachers would stand in a queue to complain to the Parkers. This mostly worried Rocky’s mother a lot. She once even broke into tears for, rocky being a sweet & smart boy- yet always gets the most complains & has a bad impression at school. Rocky remember the last time his mom visited here & during the drive at near this limestone hill, she told him that- by the next vacation- Rocky should have changed into a nice - disciplined, adorable boy. If he has changed into one- she promised that she shall make rocky study there with them and he shall not return to this school where he stays in a hostel, which is almost like a prison-cell. Rocky simply had to prove himself as a good boy.Well, he is a good boy. But only was pretending to be a naughty one- for it got him all attention & made him famous among his inmates. Rocky wanted to be a good son. He just was too playful. This day, Rocky decided to be a nice boy & make his parents proud of what he is going to be. He knew that he had all potential. He was always in top 2 in his class. Rocky has no problem with anything- studies, sports, creative activities, making friends, and ofcourse also being naughty. Ricky thought “If I can be good at all these- I can also be good at being a good obedient boy. And if that is the only thing worrying my sweet mom, I shall change that too. I shall be a good boy from now on & make her really happy. He made this decision & then- when he looked out through the window. Oops… the limestone hill wasn’t there. Not that some one removed it from that place. Rocky looked around and saw the board that read ” The Penang International Airport” ,yes it is the Kuala Lumpur International Airport , they have reached the airport. Rocky got down from the car & followed his warden inside the airport & then to the waiting room. There Rocky spotted this cute little princess playing “Itzy bitzy spider…”. The little girls father & mother seemed busy talking to another young couple. Rocky heard the young man tell the father “ Sir, ofcourse we loved your lectures. And it’s that & your sincerity-which has motivated me to find cure for more disease. And am leaving to seek my higher studies.This is Lara- and we are going to be wedded real soon,sir.”
And then rocky heard the mother say “Lara, this profession our men are into is not an easy one. It needs dedication. And most of all our sacrifice, co-operation&understanding. I hope you do not commit the mistakes that I did. But now as I told you, I have realized my mistakes. I have made the correct move- to rectify it. I wish you & Harry have a great life. We shall meet when we return back.” Then little went towards the little princess- Iniya & started to chat with her. Iniya while playing told Rocky all about their plan, the change in plan & that her father is joining them.Then Rocky interrupted saying “ Don’t you get it. They were both planning to get divorced & now they have decided to live together.” Iniya then questioned “ What is divorce, what does it mean, Rocky?” Rocky said” Na…You don’t need to know the meaning.Your life & your family’s future took a wild turn during the drive you said. You are one lucky idiot.Oops, am a good boy now. Sorry! Let me put it this way— You are a very lucky angel. Atleast my parents dint have any such thought. I shall never be a bad boy again. The best I can give for such lovely parents is being a nice boy.You have fun Iniya, I shall go ring my mom before we take off.Chao!”
And so- the limestone hill did have that special smile for today- it had seen three wonderful people & it had stood there tall & proud to remind them about something- that they forgot offlate. About love, responsibility & pay back.
Blog: http://paddyfieldprincess.blogspot.com/
It was a beautiful day….. The very sight of THE LIMESTONE HILL ALONG THE HIGH WAY was amazing. It was a very special day! Today, the high way that connects the Kuala Lumpur to Sungai Petani, a small beautiful town -had 3 special people watching this beautiful sight .The Limestone hill had seen so many travelers who pass this way everyday. But many of them fail to even simply turn their heads and take a quenching look at this awesome tall masterpiece of nature. There are hundreds of birds that – do not fail to do that, they don’t waste time on earning money to live happily, but yet live a very happy life. Every morning the limestone hill had hundreds of singers- not the vocalists though- but yes the chirps of the cute birds that live there- even the best of the best orchestra would jaw drop on seeing their beautiful co-ordination & rendering. Anyone lucky enough to hear that- would want nothing in life but to hear that forever! Adding more beauty to the limestone hill was the highways. It looked so much like the hill was given its bow- the Black road, for being the best! And in this strip of ribbon did we have the 3 wonderful people traveling in different vehicles at considerably a short distance between each other. They are related in a strange way but yet not connected until this day! Like the little one’s say- there were 3 cars. Car 1,2 & 3.
Inside CAR 1:
The first one to hit this spot that u see in the picture was the family of a middle class doctor trying his hard to satisfy the NEEDS- needs of his family, work & society – to mark him a happy living man. That is as such a statement. Do you think he was one? Well, only from the outside & definitely not today! His little heart was so much in pain – a pain that even a man who had a fall from Mt.Everest but lying in the bottom ALIVE with fracture in every bone his body has would not be able to explain. It was the pain of losing someone inspite of knowing the fact that the someone – loves him so much & yet is moving away. The ‘someone’ is Shantha- wife of the best doctor in Sungai petani, Mother of the cutest little angel – ‘INIYA’ whose smartness is definitely acquired from her father Shanmugan & the gentle-angelic nature from Shantha herself. The family and each one, sound like the kind in a fairytale, then what could possibly be upsetting shanmugan? Hm… here is the bitter truth, this ride that the family is having is not any fun ride. Shantha was leaving Shanmugan once for all & she was heading to her mothers place. Shanmugan is not a betrayer, neither a drunkard nor a gambler and ofcourse a very loyal husband. Then why -shantha leave him? Well, do we know the term immaturity?
Shantha was gazing at this beautiful sight of the hill while little iniya was singing & playing “Itzy bitzy spider…”Iniya has just picked up few new rhymes. For her age- iniya is an excellent chat box & is so adorably cute when she talks. Before 4 years in the same road, same car – same family but iniya wasn’t born yet. That was the first time Shantha spotted this beautiful sight of “limestone hill”.This was a special spot ,for in the long drive- the first utterance that shanmugan heard shantha uttered was “What is the name of this hill,dear?” And during the long drive- first time shanmugan looked at her eyes & said “ That’s called the limestone hill, Honey!”. Should we call it their honeymoon- alright it was. Shantha & Shanmugan were married that year & they were driving home for the first time. Shantha was an educated and very conservative Indian girl. She loved shanmugan & the passion for his work so much. But until she realized that she will have to spare him for his work too. Or did she even realize that? They had the usual happy couple story until their first anniversary. But then, things started to change. Shanmugan remained the same-the same old sincere doctor, loyal loving husband. And probably that was the problem. Shanmugan is the type of man- who wants to listen to what the wife feels & respect her feelings. But just that sometimes forgets to warn her if it was wrong or not practical enough. He was never harsh on her, even at times when she would act the most stupid way. Shanmugan felt that she would understand and adjust in the course of time. Most men would think the same, but what they all forget to think is that- this tender mold shall take bad shape if not shapened at the right time when they tend to shape into a wrong mold or even take a bad one as their example. Like any other too sweet guy, Shanmugan did the same. But time only forced him to change. In the course of time- they had their cutest little angel delivered straight from the land of good children. The first time shanmugan felt those tender arms in his, he could not relate it to any other feeling- and had tears roll down his cheeks. Having himself been a doctor to attend many delivery cases, it was yet a very special thing for him to hold his Junior Shantha- who very much had the same charm & sweet smile of shantha. They both spent almost all the night talking about what they shall plan for their little angel. Next day- they drove home. And it was this tall figure here- that is standing tall & proud- the very same way even today. It was the limestone hill. Shantha insisted to shanmugan that they stop at this spot & take a snap with their little angel- for this hill was special. You know, why! They lived happily, but just that shantha’s complains kept growing year by year. They even outgrew their love for each other & it was after that- the shake was felt. All that shanmugan was doing is for the family, and shantha did know that too. She ofcourse knows what other men are like- in this world. Some of her friends have even told her that they envy shanmugan for his dignity & loyalty to his wife. But shantha- had this complain- that can never change anything the way shanmugan is. She wanted shanmugan for only them & she forgot to give importance to what his goal in life is & as a loving wife to co-operate him achieve it. Isn’t that what family is for? Shanmugan was a very sensitive & affectionate man. He tried to explain shantha what his work is like & this is how it would be- if they want to maintain this status in the society. More over all his life- this was his dream- dream to save lives & invent new things to save more life. His research work & his duty as a doctor was his foremost duty. He even tried telling her that- other than work all he had in mind was to spend his remaining time with family & he did manage to spend quiet sometime for iniya, who needed daddy’s attention so much. But yes, as a matter of fact the big iniya- yes, shantha almost like a second kid ,but too immature- seem to have wanted even the more attention. And Shanmugan tried to explain things & convince shantha. But every time this topic comes up - it would end in the angry walkout of shantha. And shanmugan at one point was tired of trying & thought she would understand him at some point & reduced the number of times he attempted to convince her.
“Mommie am hungry. Can u give me my choco bar?” interrupted iniya.
“Yes dear! Sure.” And Shantha took her hand bag & took out the bar chocolate & handed it to iniya. She noticed the old picture that was in her handbag always. It was the first photograph, the 3 of them & the limestone hill were all together in.
Shantha thought for a moment” Everything seems the same here Me, Shanmugan-except for the bald and few grey hairs he is developing & Iniya who is now independent enough to eat her food. What has changed? I do not see any change at all other than may be, that I am making a change now- shanmugan would travel alone in this car from now on. Probably the last drive & last time- iniya shall play itzy bitzy in her father’s car,ask question to her dad, and yet he answers all that with his gentle answers & give his ice breaking smile. What am I about to do? What is the problem I have with this wonderful man- who even now is so considerate & loving towards me & his kid when he knows I have made this dumb decision to desert him & leave him alone- in his already bored life! If it was like this for me, what would it be like for him to take so much of stress & unnecessary complains from me. He doesn’t cheat on me or neither is he spending money in the wrong way. Why would I make a dumb move like this, to leave such a lovely man- who is working so hard to save the life of someone who hardly knows him or even spend his time ,to help them recover or atleast survive for few more days or even hours to spend with their loved ones. Am I being too self centered here? Is this me? What has happened to me? Where is the co-operative shantha, who was always happy at making others happy? Has my age changed it all or is it my feeling of insecurity? “
With these thoughts in her mind she once again looked at the limestone hill. It was standing tall & is the support of life for those millions of birds, insects & animals that live there.And there was this sudden blow of wind that seemed like a silly attempt by the wind to cut the hill into two. Shantha turned to look at shanmugan. He was driving with his calm face for the first time so upset & confused. And his eyes – that hardly had any sleep after those hectic night shifts were now looking more pathetic with the pain. Shanmugan noticed shantha looking at him and asked “Honey, are you feeling too cold. Should I stop for a drink?” Shantha thought –‘ Damn! What a fool I am to hurt this wonderful soul for just him not spending enough time with us. After all he is trying to be good. Good as a doctor, good as a father & he is a very good husband. What was I thinking?! ‘
And shantha replied with a soft tone “ Am doing just fine sweetheart. Will you listen to what I got to say?”
And shanmugan replied “ Yes honey, the tickets are all fine. Everything is arranged. And do not worry – iniya will not make a fuss that am not joining. I told her that mommy & iniya are going to get a gift for daddy.So it better be a surprise for daddy. She is fine with it. But you will have to manage her for few more days after you land there with some answer. I still haven’t come up with a better one honey. Do not worry.She is a very good girl…”
Shantha interrupted “ Will you please stop with being too nice a husband to a stupid wife? And…” She gently smiled & gave one of her naughty winks after so many many years. She continued “ I actually want you to spare sometime for me- are you free for that?” Shanmugan replied “ I have no work for this weekend honey, tell me. What is it?”
Shantha said “I want you to come with us during this trip”
Shanmugan said “I wish I could. But you see dear, am not that strong a father. And it would be hell for me when I return alone without you both by my side”
Shantha said “Well, why would you return alone when we are both going to be sitting right next to you? This would just be a visit to my mom to tell her that her big girl is doing just fine & knows her responsibilities as a wife and mother & the responsibilities of her Prince charming- the greatest doctor ever. And also remind her that- it was just a small vacation the family could spare on an old ladies house, for my husband has to get back to his work the next week & I should get back to pack him his lunch. We shall also do a little shopping there at my favorite mall. Honey, what are we going to get special from there?”
Shanmugan with all glee said “We are returning with the HAPPIEST FAMILY…This is the best drive I ever had in this limestone hill highway. This shall be the best day in my life, not even our wedding day was this special! I got back my lost possession- my understanding & loving wife. I love you!! And I love you forever!!!”
Inside CAR-2 travelling at 60kmph:
The music system was screaming,
“There's nothing you can know that isn't known.
Nothing you can see that isn't shown.
Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be.
It's easy.
All you need is love, all you need is love,
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.”
Yes! It was the song by-The Beatles
A very deep voice spoke.
“ Hey lara, look! Do u remember that hill? Come on- you dumbo! It’s the limestone hill.Don’t you remember the last time we were here?You won the panting contest for painting this gorgeous during a sunset.Duh?”
Lara with amusement said “Harry!! You remember that? How could I possibly forget that time, you drove me here & it really took so long for the sun that day to set. We even joked if it had forgotten its schedule. How can I forget the long chat we had that day while waiting for the sun to set? We had even forgotten about the test we had next day. I even remember your mark, you scored a 90, while I ended up in an 89. Just 89! “
Harry with a smile said “And looks like some one forgot that- they also won the first place for that painting contest & with all the cash- planned a grand celebration inside her piggie bank. That was indeed very generous of you- little missy!”
Both Lara & harry had a big laugh. And there was silence after that.
Lara broke the silence and spoke “ Harry, do you really have to go outside of Sungai Petani to pursue your degree? Can you not do it here? Do you think the best college can only provide the best knowledge? I remember you telling me- if you have involvement, dedication, resource & good guidance, where you study does not even matter. All that are here. Why not stay here with us? “
Harry was not actually keen in leaving his home and moving away for studies. The only hope with which he was ready to leave was Lara. Lara is a very close family friend. Lara’s dad & Harry’s dad were thick friends. So were lara & harry. From their childhood they were both together, their first day of school, their first day at piano class. They were all the time together. Both the family- moved very close & they loved each other so much. One day, lara’s parents left her at harry’s place and left for a wedding for it may take a day or two to return. And Lara’s dad said on a funny note “ Do take real good care of my sweetie. And do not let go off her, until we return.” The next day, Lara had her exams so she couldn’t join them. She stayed at Harry’s house that day & the two had prepared so well for the test. But the next day when Lara returned home – she had to hear the worst news. Her parents had died in a tragic accident. Lara felt that pain- the pain in her heart that was like squeezing with thousands of thorny strings. More than Lara, Harry felt it very painful- when he saw his best of best buddy shed tears. Neither was harry old enough to console her, nor did he know how to. So, he stood lost & with tears. Harry’s family was very considerate towards lara that they decided to bring her up.Lara & Harry had a very special bond. And most of all harry’s parents loved lara. And today during the drive along the highways- harrys mobile rang. He picked it up and it was harry’s father in the other end. He said “Harry, how are u? Am calling from Canada now & I shall return home by next month. Are you on your way to the airport now? Well, I just want to remind you one thing before you head to some place with many opportunities & girls around. This could sound too absurd to you right now. But answer me- can u consider Lara as your life partner? This may be too early to ask, but your mom was worried you find somegirl at your college & return home with her. She feels that Lara is the best for our family too. She understands all of us very well. And do not tell me Lara may have something else in her mind. That sweet girl had been in love with you all these years & after you both left home- your mom had found Lara’s diray where she had written all about her love for you. She is too timid to tell it out. So son, remember there is the best girl waiting for you here. I hope you give me a positive answer.”
Harry was so excited for he had the same feeling about her & was only afraid if she may not like it. Harry responded “ What question is that dad?? Definitely, Yes!! And Dad, let me hang up now – I got some talking to do before we reach the airport. Take care dad! And thank you & thanks to Mom”
Harry stopped the car and asked Lara to get down & walk to the side of the road with him. He then picked up one of the smallest flower- the wild yellow little flower from the side of the road & spoke ”Lara! Will you marry me?” Lara- gave harry a big hug & said” Well, why would I say no? Come on now handsome, you got a flight to catch. Let’s drive” They got into the car & Harry with a big smile drove the car to the airport. At this moment, Lara had her heart filled with joy & happiness – and most of all a feeling of security.
INSIDE CAR3:
Inside this car, there was the Warden driving his young student to airport- for the boy to have a vacation with his family.This little boy was Rocky Parker, he was put in a boarding school. Rocky was a very notorious & smart boy. But most of the time would on purpose get into trouble & he enjoys the attention he gets being that way. One cannot under estimate him as a dull headed-notorious one,but an A+ scoring naughty little boy. Every time there was a PTA meeting, all the teachers would stand in a queue to complain to the Parkers. This mostly worried Rocky’s mother a lot. She once even broke into tears for, rocky being a sweet & smart boy- yet always gets the most complains & has a bad impression at school. Rocky remember the last time his mom visited here & during the drive at near this limestone hill, she told him that- by the next vacation- Rocky should have changed into a nice - disciplined, adorable boy. If he has changed into one- she promised that she shall make rocky study there with them and he shall not return to this school where he stays in a hostel, which is almost like a prison-cell. Rocky simply had to prove himself as a good boy.Well, he is a good boy. But only was pretending to be a naughty one- for it got him all attention & made him famous among his inmates. Rocky wanted to be a good son. He just was too playful. This day, Rocky decided to be a nice boy & make his parents proud of what he is going to be. He knew that he had all potential. He was always in top 2 in his class. Rocky has no problem with anything- studies, sports, creative activities, making friends, and ofcourse also being naughty. Ricky thought “If I can be good at all these- I can also be good at being a good obedient boy. And if that is the only thing worrying my sweet mom, I shall change that too. I shall be a good boy from now on & make her really happy. He made this decision & then- when he looked out through the window. Oops… the limestone hill wasn’t there. Not that some one removed it from that place. Rocky looked around and saw the board that read ” The Penang International Airport” ,yes it is the Kuala Lumpur International Airport , they have reached the airport. Rocky got down from the car & followed his warden inside the airport & then to the waiting room. There Rocky spotted this cute little princess playing “Itzy bitzy spider…”. The little girls father & mother seemed busy talking to another young couple. Rocky heard the young man tell the father “ Sir, ofcourse we loved your lectures. And it’s that & your sincerity-which has motivated me to find cure for more disease. And am leaving to seek my higher studies.This is Lara- and we are going to be wedded real soon,sir.”
And then rocky heard the mother say “Lara, this profession our men are into is not an easy one. It needs dedication. And most of all our sacrifice, co-operation&understanding. I hope you do not commit the mistakes that I did. But now as I told you, I have realized my mistakes. I have made the correct move- to rectify it. I wish you & Harry have a great life. We shall meet when we return back.” Then little went towards the little princess- Iniya & started to chat with her. Iniya while playing told Rocky all about their plan, the change in plan & that her father is joining them.Then Rocky interrupted saying “ Don’t you get it. They were both planning to get divorced & now they have decided to live together.” Iniya then questioned “ What is divorce, what does it mean, Rocky?” Rocky said” Na…You don’t need to know the meaning.Your life & your family’s future took a wild turn during the drive you said. You are one lucky idiot.Oops, am a good boy now. Sorry! Let me put it this way— You are a very lucky angel. Atleast my parents dint have any such thought. I shall never be a bad boy again. The best I can give for such lovely parents is being a nice boy.You have fun Iniya, I shall go ring my mom before we take off.Chao!”
And so- the limestone hill did have that special smile for today- it had seen three wonderful people & it had stood there tall & proud to remind them about something- that they forgot offlate. About love, responsibility & pay back.
1 comment:
Good one Marutham. I didn't expect the ppl in all the 3 cars would be incidentaly related!
As you said, its little lengthier for a short story!
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