A LONE SOUL

A Fresh Start

The days in Delhi unfolded with a mix of challenges and triumphs. The city's bustling energy became a backdrop to my journey of rebuilding, and the pieces of my life began to fall into place. The first significant step was securing a teaching position in a reputable school, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my professional life.

The school, known for its commitment to quality education, provided me with the platform to channel my passion for teaching. The familiar surroundings of the classroom became a sanctuary where I could impart knowledge, nurture young minds, and find a sense of purpose beyond the trials of my past. As I stood in front of eager students, I realized that my role as an educator held the power to shape futures and inspire change.

Outside the school walls, Mayur Vihar became our new home. Renting a place in this vibrant locality brought a sense of stability to my children and me. The cozy apartment, adorned with sunlight filtering through the windows, became a sanctuary where we could rebuild our lives. The kids, initially apprehensive, began to adjust to the new surroundings, making friends in the neighbourhood and day care since all the classes were still going online due to upsurge in covid cases.

In the midst of this transformative period, my friendship with Megha, my colleague, deepened. She continued to be my anchor, guiding me through the intricacies of my new life. Together, we explored the lanes of Mayur Vihar, discovering hidden gems and creating memories that overshadowed the painful echoes of the past. Megha's unwavering support and companionship became a cornerstone in my journey towards healing.

One day, as I strolled through a local market, a familiar voice called out my name. I turned around, and there he was – Zahir. The serendipitous encounter filled the air with a mix of surprise and nostalgia. We decided to catch up over a cup of tea, and as we sat in a quaint café, our conversation flowed effortlessly.

Zahir's presence, once again, brought a blend of comfort and excitement into my life. He shared stories of his own experiences, and we exchanged laughter and anecdotes that resonated with a sense of shared understanding. It was a reminder that connections from the past could shape the present in unexpected ways. He was worried about me being alone in Delhi but I assured him that nothing ever felt so safe and secure as it was now.

He was too busy with his assignments and work schedule that he neither devoted much time to me nor I ever asked for it. One thing that I learned very soon that no one will ever support you or will stand by your side in the crisis situation. I am my own anchor and my own captain......

As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, the routine of work, parenting, and self-discovery became more defined. The scars of the past, though etched into my journey, were now markers of resilience rather than pain. Mayur Vihar, with its bustling streets and warm community, became a witness to my metamorphosis.

One night, I was sitting alone in the drawing room while my kids were asleep in the bedroom. It was almost eleven.......a bike drew near to my house and started blowing horn madly...........i was stirred to my core, I went out and opened the gate and to my surprise there were two people who were having a heated argument as to who will give side to the other vehicle to pass........in the mean time the security guard reached blowing his whistle and the matter between the two subsided. I was waiting for Zahir's call as he promised me to meet that day. Next day was Saturday so I was expecting him to be a little ;late winding off his work. After few minutes I received his call, "I m almost there, sorry for being so late".

"It's ok," I smiled gently.

Within half an hour a car halted in front of my house and I leapt from my place to open the door. There he was, smiling through his hair. I hugged him but he stopped me and checked the neighbourhood. He stepped inside, what are you doing, someone will watch us and it will make a bad impression of yours. You have to be careful since you are staying all alone".

"Thank you for being so considerate". I smiled.

He sat on a chair and looked at me and finally a smile passed through his face lighting it up. "So how's life",

"Good, better than before, I drew closer to him, what about you".

"I am doing fine, I didn't turn up for few months, I thought you shifted in haste because of me. I have a family and I am a father of two, I hope you are not planning anything, do you?"

In an instant I realized that why he distanced himself from me during all these days. Sooner or later, this was going to happen. Now I drew myself at a little distance and nodded, "nothing, I understand about everything. I know about your family and your kids. I was just a little emotional seeing you after so long."

"It's not that I don't love you but there is no future that I can assure you of. I don't want you to get hurt, you have already been through a lot", his voice was softer than ever.

"I do understand, well what would you like to have?"

He refused to eat anything that night. I insisted but he denied even water. I was pretty sure about what was going to happen next. Zahir went back after and half an hour reasoning that he has to attend a function too. I waved him good bye , smiling. I was deep inside somewhere aware of this and hence it didn't cause me much pain. Zahir never tried to approach me physically and was an honest gentle man from the very beginning.

I stopped dreaming about his calls and focused towards my career and job. First six months were really challenging for both me and my kids. My kids, too, found their footing in the new environment. As they still had their classes online but the support system of my professor from whose school my kids were studying provided a nurturing space for their growth, and the friendships they forged in their daycare became a source of joy. As their laughter echoed through the walls of our new home, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for the newfound peace we had discovered. I would never deny the fact how blessed I have been through this journey due to the eternal blessing of God that cleared my path and paved the way for me. My professor and the owner of my previous workplace remained an undaunting support system for me during this period. How I reunited with my school days principal and to what extent she helped me understanding the need of filing a divorce made my thoughts much clear and helped me realise that no one is going to help me until and unless I help myself.

The journey ahead remained uncertain, but the foundation was solidifying. My job, the supportive community in Mayur Vihar, and the rekindled connection with Zahir all contributed to a narrative of hope and renewal. The scars, though part of my story, no longer defined me; they became a testament to the strength that emerged from the ashes of a challenging past.

And as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Mayur Vihar, I embraced the promise of a fresh start, grateful for the resilience that carried me through the storm and hopeful for the possibilities that lay ahead.