“A ukulele?” squeaked Aaliyah with astonishment after opening the parcel. Lying between the strings was a tiny letter which read:
“Dear Bob! I can’t get over the melody that used to wake me up every Sunday morning. I still cherish the evenings of the family gatherings where you were the star performer and we were the awestruck audience. Here’s hoping that you get back at it once again. Happy Brother’s Day!”
-With Love, Liz.
“This is so adorable! Such a loving sister you have Bob.” expressed Aaliyah. I was speechless, Liz got my childhood hobby back. “You know Aaliyah I was only seven when I had got my first ukulele as a birthday present from dad,” I said. “Will you play something for me now?” asked Aaliyah all excited.
After years I was at it. Trying my best, I played the first stanza of Bob Marley’s iconic number, “No Woman, No Cry”. Playing it after so many years had invoked a mixed feeling in me. Aaliyah looked impressed.
We called up Liz, “Hey Bob! So got your present? How did you like it?” she asked. “Liz, only a sister like you knows what would touch my heart,” I said. I invited her for a cozy Brother’s Day dinner at my place. “Glad that you loved it, will see you for dinner then,” she replied and we hung up.
Usually, I am the one who makes sure that the people around me are always taking out time in doing whatever makes them happy but this time I overlooked my own areas of happiness. Liz could feel the absence of the rhythm in my life. I can’t thank her enough for doing that. Since our childhood days, she has always made a point to let me know how much I mean to her. Such a blessed brother I am!
Ever felt like going back to doing things that once made you happy? An old hobby? Varied thoughts like how to start it all over again and time factor clog our minds. Keep those thoughts at bay! Reconnecting to an old pastime feels good. It has a great positive impact on our day to day life as well. No matter what the age is, it serves as a way of expression and catharsis. It paves the way for steady healing. A relaxed mind and body, in turn, helps to stay calm and perform better in every sphere of life. Above all, it gives us inner peace and joy.
It’s time to recharge your soul. Get back to your old hobby once again!
World Turtle Day®
May 23, 2019
