Arun found himself in an unusual situation, it had been a long time, a feeling that seemed lost somewhere in time.
The usual days of life consisted of long office hours that ended when Arun returned home at 11 pm at night and sometimes later. The weekends passed through a struggle to rest and motivate mind and body to set out for another gruelling week but most importantly the struggle was for life itself.
This Saturday morning, Arun found himself being dragged out of the apartment by his wife Lisha. She had done remarkable work keeping Arun’s life together while managing the household and her own work which was not as demanding.
Arun found himself sitting on the neighbourhood park bench. The park was nearby and he had been here before, but that seemed like something from a lifetime ago. It all felt quite new, the warm Sun, the grass, children playing, people simply sitting and enjoying the moment like him with his wife.
Arun felt the need to have this in his life once again, perhaps the weekends could be spent on something better for a change.
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Written by Anuran Chatterji
Early Morning Memories 
One response to “A Sprinkle of Difference”
This is a quietly powerful piece of storytelling. The simplicity of the narrative makes it deeply relatable, especially the way Arun’s life is shaped by routine, exhaustion, and the slow erosion of personal time. The contrast between his relentless weekdays and the stillness of the Saturday morning is beautifully drawn.
Lisha’s presence is especially meaningful—she comes across not as a dramatic force, but as a steady, caring anchor who gently pulls Arun back toward life beyond work. The scene in the park is tender and reflective, filled with small sensory details that make the moment feel genuine and earned.
What stands out most is the understated realization at the end: the recognition that life doesn’t always demand grand changes, sometimes just a return to forgotten pauses. It’s a thoughtful reminder of balance, presence, and the quiet healing found in ordinary moments. A lovely, reflective piece that lingers with the reader.
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