Bringing Cheer

Banoo Apa (c) got us 'phoren chocolates' today

On a dull and unremarkable morning, Banoo Apa infused some liveliness in the Club by handing out fistfuls of ‘foreign chocolates’. Her sister, who divides time between London and Paris, is currently on a visit to Mumbai.
Banoo Apa though, is not keeping well. She was away for the best part of this week owing to a sudden spike in BP and blood sugar levels. She looked off-color, but still managed to keep us cheerful and upbeat. Such is her nature. Unknown to us, she was undergoing treatment at Breach Candy.
Sadly, we do not keep track of members who suddenly drop off the radar. For instance, Naseem Khan, Geeta Latte and Karuna Waghmare have not been reporting for the exercises for quite some time. In the absence of any communication from either end, we have conveniently presumed they are under the weather.
This is rather unfortunate. We ought to be there for one another, through good times and bad, as we used to in the past. But then, we were younger and more energetic at that time. Moreover, there is a limit to invading anybody’s privacy. Many people, particularly families do not like it.
At the same time, we cannot remain indifferent towards those we have been starting our days with for years. Nothing can be any worse, should this feeling seep in. Meanwhile, let us wish Banoo Apa a speedy recovery.

Lt Col Angad Singh (rtd):
Loneliness is our worst enemy. As senior citizens and members of the Club, we must actively interact with one another. Even small talk works as a tonic and helps in speedy recovery, especially when a person is lonely at home. There should be some delegation of responsibility among members in this regard. In today's fast-paced life it is essential we take time out to listen to the lonely and render help, if need be.