Ecoes of Life... When he was born, some remarked that he bore a striking resemblance to his maternal grandfather. However, they pondered over the mystery of his complexion, as everyone else in the family had fair skin, unlike his darker tone. At the age of 3½, he ventured into the realm of schooling. Teachers often praised his intellect but urged him to rein in his mischievous tendencies. During a visit from a relative, concerns were raised about his underweight stature, prompting his mother to embark on a mission to fortify him with daily doses of milk and eggs, which he reluctantly accepted. His first dalliance with love occurred at 17, only to find that the girl of his affection was already committed with someone. At 22, he faced failure in his second year of B.Com due to his perpetual struggle with accounting. Despite his inclination towards the arts, he remained unable to articulate his desires when questioned by his parents. At 25, another failed romantic pursuit ensued. Eventually, at 27, he found himself betrothed through a matrimonial arrangement facilitated by a WhatsApp group, tying the knot at 28. At thirty-nine, his son mirrored his academic struggles, leading to murmurs of 'like father, like son.' His demanding job burdened him with tasks beyond his capabilities, contributing to his growing sense of discontent. Discord lingering from past conflicts strained his marital harmony, further exacerbating his personal turmoil. As he reached seventy-three, his once-lustrous hair began to wane, and forgetfulness crept in. Family members advised him to embrace the limitations of old age. At seventy-nine, the joy of becoming a grandfather for the second time was tempered by concerns over his health, as fears of diabetes loomed. Suggestions to refrain from excessive physical exertion due to age-related vulnerabilities left him feeling self-conscious and toothless. Finally, at eighty-three, the specter of mortality loomed large as he sensed the presence of the inevitable 'Yamdoots' at his doorstep. He is accompanied by his son, who is disappointed for leaving the business meeting. Outside the ventilator, his wife wept, gazing upon him. As he closed his eyes for the last time, he wondered if in death, he might find respite from the regrets of a life. It was too late when he realised all the things he regret and all the things he wanted and never got , it all happened because he listened to everyone except his own self ©Nitin K. Ravi

Ever wondered about the echoes of conformity in your own life? #SAD #Life #sad_feeling #SadLife #Love