As the story unfolded, we delved deeper into the connections built between Rizwan, Avinash, and Sneha. Rizwan gently cleaned the photograph, continuing his narrative and taking us back in time once again. After their initial meeting at the café, the bond between them grew stronger as Avinash started frequenting the café more often, spending increasing amounts of time with Rizwan. For Avinash, the café became a home, offering him the warmth of family, while for Rizwan, Avinash’ s presence served as a reminder of his lost son.
Over time, Rizwan shared the story of his lost son with Avinash and proposed adopting him. Overwhelmed by the love shown towards him, Avinash gently declined the offer, preferring to maintain their bond as it was, without formal adoption. Rizwan respected Avinash’ s decision, and they continued to nurture their father-son relationship informally. Alongside this, their relationship with Sneha blossomed, and they became a cohesive family unit.
During our conversation, Sneha unexpectedly arrived at the interview. We took a break and completed the final part of the interview with her.
As our interview progressed, I asked Sneha, “What made you become a part of this family?” She smiled and replied that she had been devastated after losing her brother and had felt deeply depressed. She never anticipated becoming part of this extended family, but life had taken unexpected turns, perhaps part of a higher plan. Reflecting on her journey, she shared that hope had kept them all moving forward. “We live with unwavering hope,” she said, “hoping to wake up each day and see our dreams materialize. It’s hope that brought us all together.” Avinash had restored her hope after losing her brother, as she saw in him the spirit of her sibling. Similarly, Rizwan had found a son, and Avinash had found a family. She concluded by emphasizing that sometimes, it’s not about achieving greatness but simply being humane towards others. Our presence might fulfill someone else’s wish, unknowingly becoming part of their dreams.
After wrapping up the interview with lots of affection and biscuits at Rizwan’s café, I returned to my room, reviewed the footage, and later went out for dinner. Walking along the street, I pondered Sneha’s words and the twists in their lives. I arrived at a restaurant opposite a church, where I noticed workers fixing a broken light, that was broken by the kids a few days back. As it got fixed, kids started playing joyfully underneath again. In the dim light, I glimpsed a statue of Jesus on the church.
I stared at the statue, struck by a sudden realization. Even in darkness, the statue remained there. Just because we cannot see something doesn’t mean it ceases to exist. Life, too, may seem dark and lonely at times, but it’s not the end. We must keep moving forward, doing our best, until we find our own light. And when we do, we must share it with others. Isn’t that what Rizwan, Avinash, and Sneha’s lives teach us? What do you think?
Regards, Kavya.
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Regards,
Avinash Reddy.
directionless writings 