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Ravi

Live in the present is a Mantra we have been hearing since childhood. It has

now become second nature to me as the past has disappeared from my memory.
But there are some things that stayed with me. One such leaf, is my memorable

stay with you and Athimber for over 2 years around 1993. I remember the
day I landed in Madras (It was not Chennai that time). I walked into the Poes

Road house with a bit of awkward feeling as this time around it was not for a
short holiday but a long stay. But you and Athimber were so welcoming and

made me feel at home from the word go. The room was ready, the cupboards
had been emptied for me and a quick run through of “To do” and “Not To do”

list made it clear that you are not going to let me go. I shelved the idea of staying
separately for good, one of my best decisions. Lots of pleasant memories but

what I cherish most is that you took care of me like a mother would.

You shielded me from everyone including Athimber, you scolded me when I

went astray. You knew my favorites and specially made it for me (Like
manogaram). You took care of me when I was sick. You gave me all the advise I

needed especially about health. I guess the only thought going around in your
mind above everything else was – What else can I do to make my kid brother

happier. You indulged me.

I remember our trip to Papanasam, the long bus journey and the temple visit

where we had to take a dip in the river right next to the temple. You had to cook
at the temple premises with makeshift arrangements. What a delicious food

that was, I can still feel the taste of it. There are more experiences slowly
coming out of my clogged memory, I will work hard on it and pen it another

time.