The scorching sun’s rays penetrated the Earth’s surface, dispelling the darkness of the night. The birds perched on the green branches, singing their morning melodies, and the lush green grass glittered in the sunlight. Walkers strolled along the park’s paved paths, sharing stories, and cracking jokes, and their laughter echoed in the crisp air. Eventually, they all met at a common point. They lived a retired life in the suburbs, away from the regular hustle and noise. It was quiet, serene, and full of greenery.
Three friends were regular at the park. They walked and shared stories, they were good friends who loved meeting each other, every day, without fail!
One Day:
Mr. Rao smiled and sang lines from a Telugu song while explaining the meaning of words to his dear friend, Ghosh Babu. Meanwhile, Ghosh Babu recited poems from Ravindranath Tagore’s famous book, ‘Geetanjali’, and his boundless love for literature and poetry enlivened the atmosphere around him. Dr. Fernandes watched his two friends with enchantment as they sang and recited. He had news of the nation to share with them, including election campaigns, voting, and polls, which became hot topics.
Mr. Rao, amusingly enquired, “Who is trending in the voting race?”
“What difference will it make in the governance, don’t all parties have an inner hidden personal agenda?”, answered Ghosh Babu.
Dr.Fernandes quietly said, “Only some phases of the polling are over, let’s see”
During the discussion, Dr. Fernandes shared some insightful observations. He expressed his belief that politics, polls, and power, all play a significant role in democracy. However, what fascinated him the most was the unfolding drama of the different political parties who competed against each other, claiming to improve and change the lives of the poor. Yet, the question remains unchanged; have they succeeded in bringing the desired changes? That’s a different story, altogether!
Every evening, he watched the political circus, sipping the black coffee that reminded him of his late wife, Catherine, whom he missed dearly. The air of the room, once filled with the jokes, chuckles, and bubbly voice of Madam Catherine, was now replaced by the aroma of coffee. Madam Catherine was a school teacher who taught drama and fine arts in schools. Her love for acting, music, and creativity was evident in her teaching.
Her liveliness added a fresh dimension to their relationship, and Dr. Fernandas found solace in it, after a hectic day in the hospital, her smile and the black coffee rejuvenated his soul.
Together they walked in the park, sharing the trivial anecdotes of the day, the fragrance of the jasmine flowers enchanted them, and the ochre-red hues of the setting sun shaded the sky in a unique color, the chirping of birds, the bustle of children made their hearts happy.
The love between the couple never faded, even as they grew older. Dr. Fernandas was a well-known gynecologist in the city who was considered by many to be a ‘Messiah’. He had a magic touch that blessed the wombs of women. Mothers would come to him with their children and thank him for the gift he gave them.
Dr. Fernandas and Catherine were unable to have children. Despite his power and knowledge, their home remained childless and empty. Catherine had two miscarriages due to complications. After this, they decided not to take any further chances, later, upon joining the school, she remained busy teaching children while Dr. Fernandes attended to his duties at the hospital.
They had many wonderful moments together and enjoyed each other’s company. However, tragedy struck when Catherine passed away due to injuries sustained in an accident on her way home from school.
This event left indelible marks of sorrow in Dr. Fernandas’ heart. He severed all ties with the world and lived an isolated life, mourning the death of his beloved wife. But life had to go on in an even rhythm.
Hence his ailing heart sought refuge in the camaraderie of Mr. Rao and Ghosh Babu. Somewhere, the friendship rekindled his zeal to live life and walk through the rough terrain of life.
He keeps himself up-to-date with the latest news and reads the newspaper regularly so, that, he can discuss it with his friends the following day.
The Momma Clan 
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