At Midnight, in Stockholm


Standing in front of security check entrance at the airport, the mother tried to hold back her tears and failed. Her son, who was there to send her off, tried to lighten the mood by telling how much he enjoyed having her over for vacation and how much he was going to miss her. At this point, the mother's tears grew so heavy that her eyes could no longer hold them and seeing this, words failed the son. He embraced her, trying to take away the sorrow that was making his mother cry. For an instant, they foolishly hoped for the moment to sustain forever. But then reality stuck soon enough, she walked towards the gate with her suitcase and he moseyed towards the exit.

The above scene is an attempt to portray the beauty of an overcast July sky on a Sunday midnight in Stockholm. As I walked outside for a midnight stroll, a cool breeze caressed my face and for a moment it felt like I was in an Indian hill station for winter vacation ! Just like the son from above scene, the night sky was trying to hold on to last traces of sunlight, wishing they stayed forever. Few streaks of orange and red adorned the horizon, they looked like a faded crown on top of Stockholm skyline. The weather was wonderfully beautiful over the weekend. It hardly rained during the day, but clouds hung low throughout and threatened to drizzle occasionally, just like the mother's tears.

The whole weekend was very memorable, a long hike (along with really quality talk with a good friend) through unknown farmlands and plantations was followed by a wonderful meal (comprising Elaichi flavored rice, roti and chutney!) in a totally unexpected restaurant. The inexplicable happiness from these little experiences lasts surprisingly long and form very strong memories.

Hoping to blog more frequently these coming days. For now, quite happy to start writing and come out of a block.

Comments

Bel said…
!hank u for this wonderful birthday gift. Bestest !! :)
09 July, 2012 13:47
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