XXI

Many years ago someone tapped me on my shoulder at 4 a.m. and asked in a half-scared, timid voice, "Are you asleep?" I could not get over the ridiculousness of the question asked by my little sister who probably needed some comfort but got a tongue lash instead. Today morning at 4 a.m. there was another timid tap on the shoulder and a smaller voice asking, "Mom... are you sleeping?" This time I remembered not to get angry... Life came a full circle!

(Story contribution by Meeta Luthra - a dear friend)