Skip to main content

The other day in the Delhi Metro

 "So, I have more than 20 years work experience now." The man was boasting to a his companion and fellow traveller about his work. The speaker was short, plump and wore a shirt that might have been in fashion in the 1970's. I suddenly woke up from some thought as I realized my station was near and in this crowded train I found this story interesting.
The man went on, "So in Secundarabad I was working in this PSU years ago, when they offered me VRS." Now VRS is the voluntary retirement scheme offered to employees to take some money and retire.
The listener was a young man, in polos and jeans and was simply awed by this elder personality.
" And after a year or so, I got hired back to my old post." I was amused at this. Retired and back. "But how could they hire you back? After retiring you I mean?" And what happened to that money you took for VRS from govt coffers? I wanted to ask him. The man just gave a sly smile. His oiled moustache suddenly looked bigger. " Anyway I worked for few years, retired again and moved into the private sector. Been here ever since. " The young man simply nodded perhaps like me wondering about his own career path. As if to puncture such thoughts, the man spoke again "20 years now, I am 57 or 58 now." It came down more as a question than a statement.

One of the good things about Delhi Metro is the continuous announcements. So as soon as the lady announced that my station is next I got up from my seat in a hurry. And tried my best not to look back at the grey and black haired man and think of my life in middle age

Comments

Post a Comment

Also read

Cutting people off isn’t strength—It is a trauma response

Your ability to cut people off and self-isolate is not a skill you should be proud of—It is a trauma response Cutting people off and self-isolating may feel like a protective shield, but it is often rooted in unresolved or unhealed trauma and an inability to depend on others. While these behaviors seem like self-preservation, they end up reinforcing isolation and blocking meaningful connections. Confronting these patterns, seeking therapy, and nurturing supportive relationships can help break this unhealthy cycle. Plus, a simple act like planting a jasmine plant can symbolise the start of your journey towards emotional healing. Why do we cut people off and isolate? If you’re someone who prides themselves on “cutting people off” or keeping a tight circle, you might believe it’s a skill—a way to protect yourself from betrayal, hurt, or unnecessary drama. I get it. I’ve been there, too. But here’s the thing: this ability to isolate yourself is not as empowering as it may seem. In fact, i...
Post a Comment
Read more

Financial Minimalism: How to create abundance by needing less

Feeling stuck in the cycle of wanting more yet never feeling rich? This guide to financial minimalism shows you how to create soulful abundance by needing less. Through emotional budgeting, spiritual wealth practices, and minimalist finances, learn how simplicity is power—not poverty. Unlock sovereign wealth from within and reframe money as a tool for inner peace and outer purpose. Introduction: Why silent strugglers deserve a new kind of wealth I once sat across from a man who looked exhausted—not just physically, but spiritually. He wasn’t poor in the traditional sense. There was a Rolex on his wrist, designer shoes on his feet. But in his eyes? Hollow space. A quiet, silent struggle most people miss. Society focuses too much on the loud winners: the flashy entrepreneurs, the influencers, the news-worthy success stories. But what about the invisible strugglers—the underdogs quietly wrestling financial, emotional, or spiritual breakdowns? People for whom abundance feels like a far-o...
Post a Comment
Read more

Pin-drop silence: When prayers don’t work – block or divine redirection?

  Ever found yourself staring at the ceiling after a heartfelt prayer, hearing nothing but pin-drop silence? You’re not alone. This isn’t spiritual ghosting—it might be a reroute. Learn to decipher if it’s a block or divine redirection, why your manifestations aren't working, and how sacred stillness could be designing your soul’s next chapter. First Published on 15/10/2008 17:49 Second revised edition - Published on 09/07/2025 14:15 Feeling unheard isn’t always abandonment? I remember sobbing on my bathroom floor at 2:17 a.m., whispering a prayer with every ounce of desperation I had left. And then... nothing. Just silence. No sign. No comfort. No cosmic nudge. It felt like even the universe had put me on "Do Not Disturb." If you've felt that deafening pin-drop silence , where prayers seem to vanish into a black hole—know this: feeling unheard is not always abandonment. Sometimes, it's sacred space being carved for what needs to grow. We’re conditioned to be...
Post a Comment
Read more