SmallStory 107 AFather's Choice

Small Story 107. "A Father's Choice" Gopalan sat quietly on the bus, gazing out at the passing scenery as it made its way to Dindigul. The corner seat allowed him to enjoy the lush landscapes, something he hadn’t experienced in years. At 72, life had taken many turns for him. He had retired as a director from RAW, having served in both North India and Italy, and now lived alone in Bengaluru after the passing of his wife due to lung cancer. His daughter, Reshmi, a bank manager, had urged him to come and live with her in Dindigul, where she had settled with her husband, Swamy. Despite his deep attachment to Bengaluru, Gopalan decided to visit her. After reaching Dindigul, Reshmi and Swamy greeted him warmly at the bus stand. Gopalan, despite his age, was in good health, a result of his disciplined routine and daily walks. They drove to their home on the outskirts of the city, a lovely place with a well-maintained lawn. Reshmi’s dog, Tomy, a small, well-behaved European breed, immediately bounded over to greet him, reminding Gopalan of a child. The next morning, Reshmi prepared his favorite breakfast—Ragi dosai and Kesari. As they sat together, Gopalan couldn’t help but feel content in their presence, though a part of him longed for the life he had shared with his late wife. He admired Reshmi’s devotion to her faith, her discipline, and the honest life she had built with Swamy. He also noted that their life was enriched by Tomy, their pet, whose behavior and size were more like a child than a dog. Over the next month, Gopalan grew closer to his daughter and son-in-law, but the call of his own routine and independence remained strong. One afternoon, as they sat discussing the future, Reshmi once again urged her father to stay with them permanently. “Dad, I want you here. We need you,” she said earnestly. Gopalan, with a smile, replied, “I love your idea, my dear daughter. You’ve made a great decision by adopting Tomy, and I can see the joy he brings to your life. As for me, after losing your mother, I’ve learned to accept the will of God. I have my own routine and way of life. As long as I’m healthy, I want to continue living independently, though I will always be here for you whenever you need me.” After a month, Gopalan returned to Bengaluru, greeted by his like-minded friends, who appreciated his ongoing commitment to community service. Though his visit had been brief, it reminded him of the precious bond he shared with his daughter and son-in-law, as well as the importance of living life according to his own terms. K.Ragavan 27-12-24