Invaluable Relationships

By Umashankar Jayakumar:

My most recent travel was in April to my home in Nagpur after 2.5 years. It was with mixed feelings that I planned this trip; on one hand, happiness to meet my parents and ascertain their well-being with my own eyes (our parents are notorious for telling us that they are fine even when they have some concerns) and trepidation regarding all the covid regulations which are in a constant state of flux. Another worry was to avoid contracting Covid myself during travel and putting my parents at unnecessary risk. As I was traveling to my childhood home this time after a longer duration, my thoughts turned inward to my early experiences, my school escapades, bickering with my cousins, idyllic summer vacations and the usual growing-up pains. My anticipation to meet my parents was palpable by the time the plane landed, and I took a taxi home, looking out the window at the changes for better and worse along the well-remembered roads. They were waiting anxiously at the door, both us looking for the first glimpse with blurry eyes. The week passed by in its usual frenzy, eating my favorite foods made lovingly by my mother and listening to my father’s world views which have not changed in decades. Soon I was on my way back to Singapore, my mind at peace; it was a much-needed break.

As we grow older (and wiser) we realize that contentment and joy lie within us and cannot be acquired by material manifestations. In this fast-paced world, the only things that matter are the invaluable relationships we build with our family, friends, and colleagues.