A little more than a year ago, in a defining kind gesture,
an ex-colleague connected me to my present colleague. I was unaware of the
impact a simple phone call could lead to. In the months past that opportune
moment, I have had a profound realisation of the remarkably privileged life
that I lead. The call led to an exposure to substantial experiences hitherto I
was unaware of or never imagined true for me. I also, and most fortunately,
came to work with set of four thoughtful, compassionate, generous individuals, and who, I along with them, were known
as Vini - 6 School Team.
Over the years, I have observed quite a few teams, who just
simply moved together, all the time. I envied those teams. And in the course of
the last year, I became part of one. Occasionally, I pause to observe their contemplations,
the lines of their faces, their smiles and wonder how our paths interlocked. In
the treacherous/ transformational fellowship journey, these four became my
home, nothing short of that.
After about years of running from one thing to another, from
one city to another, from many relationships to several, I am home. A place
where I am forgiven for mistakes big and small. A place where my stories are sought after. With them, I
can turn into an annoying child and escape without being chided. They allow my
words to stay with me, they are most comfortable with the comfort I am accustomed
to. They know the words unsaid.
When around them, I am less anxious, I am a joker, chatter mouth,
a little more responsible, shameless. This team's company and also its
memory is a refuge, especially for a runaway that I identify myself to be. They are witness to the darkest and filthiest
versions of me, and they still are kind. With them, I share my fears, my tears
flow easily. With them, I am nurtured and loved.
I also wonder if I will ever be able to repay the kindness in one
lifetime or more. Meanwhile, for the last few months we are physically
together, I will continue to rejoice, in my good fortune.
