Small Story207.

Small Story 207. A Bond Beyond Time" Ram had always cherished his morning walks, but today was different. As he merged with his group at the VLS Hotel corner in JPNagar, he felt an unusual sense of warmth. It wasn’t just any group—this was a bond that had spanned two decades, with members aged 65 to 80, all retired and sharing stories of politics, civic sense, and life. For Ram, the group had become family over the past five years, since he moved to the area. The group gathered every morning from 7 AM to 8 AM, and their discussions ranged from light-hearted gossip to serious debates, always maintaining a sense of mutual respect. If one member didn't show up, the others would immediately check on them. Their camaraderie was unmatched, and they made sure no one was left behind, even in times of illness. The older members were especially cherished for their wisdom and experience, and their stories were filled with insight, making every meeting a learning experience for Ram. This particular morning, Ram had a surprise in store. As he opened his bag, he handed out sweet peda to everyone and asked them to guess the occasion. When no one could, he whispered, "Today, I complete Five years with this wonderful group." A wave of applause followed, and everyone appreciated Ram's thoughtful gesture. He spoke about why he was so drawn to the group. "It's the respect you show to elders and the willingness to help each other without any hesitation," he said. "One hour spent here is never wasted; it’s full of learning, kindness, and respect." After the meeting, Ram returned home to a warm greeting from his young grandson, who playfully said, "Today your day started off great, right?" Ram smiled and murmured, "True," feeling content and grateful for the bonds that had enriched his life. K.Ragavan 6-4-25