Dear Diary,

        With all the Thanksgiving and Christmas around, when people remind themselves how far they have come, I was thinking of all the diaries before you. Over the years, I have either burnt them or threw them out. I was too afraid someone might find them and worse, read my diary. But, how I wish now, I had saved those. It's like reading your old self. I think I will save you.
       I had an unusual day today. I was buying some fruits in the evening when I saw an aged couple striding towards the fruit vendor holding hands. They asked the vendor about some fruits.  Uncle and I exchanged a smile. Aunty asked me my whereabouts and work. As any elderly people I meet anywhere, after a small chat, they too asked me why ain't I married yet? Apparently, Indian elders never think it's rude to ask someone about their marriage! I have been experiencing that from a year. As always, I told them the same thing I tell everyone "There is still time."
Uncle smiled at me and asked "How much time do you think you have?"
Hhmmm I did not what to say. I gave a polite smile back. How do you answer to a question like that standing roadside buying fruits.
Uncle continued "Your generation takes everything for granted. They do not respect people, money or time. Do the right thing at the right time."
By now I started feeling little uncomfortable. I was really in no mood of some how-spoilt-our-generation-is lecture.
I said the typical reply politely "Okay Unlce." I payed the vendor and started to take their leave.
Then, Aunty said something that surprised me. She said "We all want to marry someone deep down."
She looked at me and continued "The only task is finding the person who needs you the same way you need them."
Profound, isn't it?
I said nothing. Just smiled at her and said "Bye."


Love,
Prerana