A few months ago, they were just two people united by the twin bonds of hunger and poverty. Although they had managed to complete their 10th standard, their deteriorating family situation had put a complete stop to their studies. Neither had any intention of continuing it amongst the everyday brawl of their drunkard dad’s. They started doing the same work as their fathers which was mostly physical, with a little bit of hurt initially. But time heals everything in its own way.
While one felt that the ancient remedy of one bottle (of liquor) a day was the only way to survive the physical strain, the other decided to think a little bit out of the box.
Ramanan’s decision to study and do his job as part time was laughed at. His will power and steady mind were his greatest assets at that time. He felt that he should quit this split life within a week of starting it. But something kept him going. Some called it ego, guts… He didn’t mind their small talk anymore.
Two years of mockery, insults, pain and trouble had not disturbed his self-confidence. In fact, it grew in leaps and bounds with every single step he took. He had taken the path that was never trod upon and was enjoying all the adventures it had to offer.
That night both the men were celebrating; one at the wine shop (throwing abuses at his ex-best friend), another at his home. Ramanan knew he had done well. Anyhow, the results were inconsequential to him for he had succeeded in crossing the new path, with all its hurdles and thorns, which probably two years back might have been nothing more than a mere laugh.