Coming to think about it, it is so uncanny, the deep revelations the deluge brought to the observer. The vanity of things that we hold dear in our lives, futility of a life time of effort, the need for true friends and so on. On contemplation, the disaster prompts us to reconsider our priorities in life. Wouldn’t it be better if we rebuilt the society without walls that separate and imprison us, throw away that ‘trespassers will be prosecuted’ sign from our egocentric lives and open up to be a loving and interdependent society that stays united in spite of all the differences.

I have always been in love with rain. Growing up in Kerala, where more than one-third of the year is soaked wet, my childhood is filled with beautiful memories of downpour. We children used to play in the rain. We used to make paper boats. Some unfortunate ants were also assigned as sailors on the perilous voyage in the turbulent flow of rain water. After the rain, when the trees would be still dripping, we would plod through the cold and damp soil bare footed. Nothing created a stronger feeling of connection with nature. It was great fun.

The ‘time machine’ has been around ever since I can remember. It was there to welcome me when I was brought home as a newborn. It witnessed me running and playing around the house as a child. It was with me through my laughter and tears, my hectic exam schedules, through my graduation and other important moments in my life. Feeling ashamed that I am so ungrateful to such an old friend, I decided to know more about this antique and started enquiring about it. The more I found out, the more I became impressed.

Looking back, this was the best split second decision that I have ever made. I wanted to have a pet ever since I can remember. After so many years of waiting, my dream was coming true. It was pretty exciting that I am getting a Labrador retriever. I still remember seeing him for the first time, Just fifty days old, with his fluffy white coat, curious big brown eyes, big paws and short little tail, anyone would melt away at the sight of him….