Small Story 301.

Small Story 301. Bonding Over Birthdays and Beyond Rajan was waiting for his friend Rangan at a restaurant, excited to catch up over tea after nearly two years. When Rangan arrived, his face lit up with joy. "Hey Rajan, how are you?" "I'm fine! How are you and your Mrs.?" "All are fine," nodded Rangan, settling into his seat. "It's been a long time since we met." "Yes, almost two years," agreed Rajan, as he ordered samosas and hot tea for both of them. They sat across from each other, sipping tea and reminiscing about how their friendship began five years ago. It all started when Rajan returned from Chennai. On the train, his neighbor and fellow passenger, Kumar, introduced him to Rangan when they arrived at Bengaluru Cantonment station. Though Rajan was meeting Rangan for the first time, Rangan warmly invited him to his 70th birthday celebration the very next day at a prominent hall in the city. Rajan was pleasantly surprised—a stranger inviting him to such a personal event? He felt both happy and touched. True to his word, Rajan attended the celebration the next evening. It was a delightful gathering, filled with professors and intellectuals, as Rangan was a retired professor from the prestigious IIM. After enjoying a delicious dinner and a memorable evening, Rajan left with the feeling of having made a meaningful connection. They met again three years later, and now, here they were, catching up once more after another gap. Their conversation spanned various topics—politics, stories, films—reflecting the depth and ease of their bond. Before parting, they made a promise: to meet at least once every year, and to stay in touch regularly via WhatsApp. As they bid farewell, both felt grateful for the bond they had formed—a friendship that began at a birthday party and grew stronger with time and mutual understanding. Moral: Friendship can blossom at any age or stage of life when hearts connect with understanding and warmth. K.Ragavan 9-7-25