"When's next train to Aluva?" He asked me in a heavy non-Indian British accent.
"Sir it's supposed to come at 6.45. We've to wait for 15 more minutes I guess" I told.
"Hi I'm Sylvester!" He forwarded his hands.
Whoah! What a firm, confident shake hand!
"Have you been to Velankanni?" he asked.
"No sir, I'll once go" I told him...
"Hmmmm!" He sighed. "Shall I tell one story?" he asked.
I became furious but more than that I was curious. "Sure sir!" I smiled.
He told the story-"There was one NRI from Germany who was back at his hometown-Bangalore for winter vacations. He and his family i.e. His wife, his 2 daughters aged 21 and 17 decided to go to Velankanni for Christmas. Thus the pilgrimage trip was planned and they went, spent the Christmas at the church and nearby places. There was a high amount of festive mood in the atmosphere. On 25th night the family-man drunk bit above his usual quota. On 26th morning his spouse and children woke him up and urged him to participate in one march past to be happened in the beach. The hangover made him stay in room and the family left for the program. He woke up at around ten. Went outside and saw that there was water everywhere. It was Tsunami. He stayed in that place for 2 weeks, didn't see them or even their dead bodies. Now he is simply wandering the world, visiting various place and is talking to you right now".
I was able to see his eyes sparkle against the light. I knew that it was due to tears.
"Sir, am sorry." I didn't know how to console him.
"Don't be. I'm giving you a small suggestion. Live your life to the fullest. Live every moment. Because you never know what's gonna happen. You're young blood. You must be having high amount of energy." He told.
"Where do you stay?" I asked.
"Nothing like that. No permanent place and all. The whole world's there to stay." and he let out a big laugh which came directly from his heart.
"I think it's getting crowded. I need some air." He moved to the platform end where there were less people. I noticed his walk. Proud of what he is. Held his head high!
Was just wondering how many more "Sylvesters" are there ....
After the Mullapperiyaar disaster there may be an ascend in the number.
