Journey

It's more than just the distance between Mumbai and Lucknow. It's more than just the two hours spent on the flight. It's more like a journey from one me to another me. Like a journey going down a fourth dimension. Like a warp-zone that sucks me in, and spits me out in a different world.

I close my eyes as the plane takes off, and I can see my whole world - my whole self - fading slowly into scattered insignificant dots as I fly higher and higher into a lifeless, colorless place. Images of a two-bedroom flat, a loving friend, a secret hiding place, a jogging park, apple flavored soda, McD's happy meal toys, chocolates in a drawer and lists of completed and incomplete tasks flash before me. It fills my heart with pride. This is what I have built for myself.

Just before I land, I strain to look down at the city lights shimmering far below. I feel a rush of sentiment. I anitcipate the smell, the feel of my home, the warmth and safety of being with family. I sit excitedly in my seat, barely able to contain myself. I can't stop myself from smiling as I think of the face of my white-washed house, the creeky, ancient double bed, the kitchen garden, the old servants. It fills my heart with love. This is the foundation of my world.