What makes a good neighbor?
Aanshi hurriedly ate the remaining rice on her plate. Her mother reminded her once again that she should not hurry while eating and take her time. Aanshi glanced at the clock; she had to leave for college.
She washed her hands and rinsed her mouth. Then she took a peek at herself in the mirror observing her attire. Her mother gave her a small bottle of water which she would have otherwise forgotten. Aanshi wore her shoes and checked her purse to see if she was carrying sufficient money. She put the purse in her bag along with her smartphone and off she went after bidding her mother farewell for a temporary period of time.
Aanshi walked on the road outside her house. She passed the houses of her neighbours
Some of them had neighbours outside busy with their daily chores. They lovingly enquired Aanshi’s well being, as well as the well being of her parents. Then they wished for her safe journey to college and back home.
The town Aanshi lived in was on the outskirts of the city. The neighbourhood was somewhat distant from the complexities of city life. Many people retained a unique sense of innocence and feeling of togetherness. The differences which came with qualifications, employment, money and stature had not been able to penetrate the society here quite well and I hope it never does.
Aanshi resumed her path and before turning at the bend of the road she looked with utmost satisfaction at her neighbourhood. She had lived here her whole life. She knew everyone here and everyone knew her. The entire neighbourhood was like one large family. They enjoyed the festivals together and shared each other’s pain and sadness. There was never a moment of isolation for anyone here. People were always ready to help in any way possible.
Aanshi was very happy to be a part of it all and for her it was the perfect neighbourhood with the perfect neighbours.
Written by Anuran Chatterji
Early Morning Memories 