My father, thou art in heaven

I remember the piggy back rides I had ,the innumerable stories concocted just for me,the rare but wonderful picnics,the cab rides to show me the X'mas lights,the small ,very small admonishings to correct some of my follies,the gentle guidances when I was muddled in my thoughts and did not know where to turn to-you walked with me a very long distance.I knew you would be there when I turned around for help,you would pick me up if I fell.

There were a million falls.Each time I got up because I knew you were there to steer me clear of troubles and set my path right.In all this,I forgot the intervening years,I forgot that both of us had aged and the roles were reversing and that you needed my support more and more.I did it too with a satisfaction that I was now able to give back something to you though I know I can never repay what you have given me

And then you were gone!The days I tried to nurse you back into a semblance of your former self,how frail you had become,not understanding your situation,not able to do the things you enjoyed doing,not even remotely the brilliant person you always were.I then understood the futility of all our hopes and dreams,all are mirages.All relationships are on shaky grounds and that the best also end quite abruptly.

Appa,I know you have had a purposeful life.You gave your best to everyone who crossed your path.You added value to my life.I donot know if we will ever meet again but I desperately hope we do.Bye,bye,appa!