The Chocolate Cake

The initial days were difficult and driving, I had given up some time back. I started using public transport and within a week, got familiar with the routes and numbers, I could go anywhere without help.

- T. V. Sreekumar

What made it divine?

I never said a "No" to my children all my life but, when it came to my life after retirement, I had to refuse with a polite “No". A loner by fate, the strong demand from children out of love or duty had to be set aside as I had drawn out my own plans after retirement. The refusal, not because I love my children less, but more. Living alone gives me my own freedom, my liberty without strings. Call it selfishness but I valued it much more than anything. Solitude was many a time a companion. Being with children had its advantages but it had to be forced adjustments which I detested. "What about food and other needs?” the children asked. "As long as I am health. I can manage,” I said with confidence.

Thus started my retired life in the garden city which was otherwise known as the pensioner’s paradise. It was paradise earlier but now with all kinds of businesses booming, the city was crowded and roads choked. The initial days were difficult and driving I had given up some time back. I started using public transport and within a week, got familiar with the routes and numbers, I could go anywhere without help. Enrolling in the public library was first in the list and I had it done without any hiccups as my professional stature in service stood as guarantee. The library loaded with books was a paradise by itself. All my favourite authors stacked gave me joy in multiples.