A Good Life

  “Eight and six, eighty-six,” announced Neha, who was conducting a game of Housie at the Senior Citizens Club. The call was greeted with some cheers and some boos! Just as the next number was about to be called, the entrance door creaked and an old lady walked in. “You are late Farida,” said Yasmin, her friend. “I’m so sorry,” said Farida and walked towards the podium to collect her ticket. Neha handed over a ticket to Farida with a smile and said, “let’s go through the numbers that have been called out already, shall we?” “Sure,” replied Farida. “Can you please check for me?” “I will do that,” said Neha and took the ticket back.   “What’s in the bag Farida?” asked Yasmin who was sitting in the front row. “It’s empty, this is why I got late.” “What do you mean?” “I was looking for a hand bag to carry home the gift I’m going to win!” replied Farida confidently. The crowd giggled at her statement, probably at her confidence. But Farida just turned a deaf e...

                       Days Like These On a beautiful night at Everest base camp, Rahul came out of his tent. He was mesmerised by the starry night. He rushed in to wake up Varun, his friend with whom he was sharing the tent. “Wake up Varun,” he yelled. “What’s the matter,” mumbled Varun, barely able to open his eyes. “You must come out and see the sky, right now.” “Let me sleep, Rahul.” Rahul was adamant though and Varun finally gave in. “This better be worth it pal,” he said, clumsily making his way out of the tent. But, as soon as he looked up, he too was mesmerised. He gaped at the sky with eyes wide open.   “Let’s start a bonfire, make some coffee and wake up the others too,” suggested Varun. “That’s a great idea, let’s get to it.” So, the duo lit up a fire and made prepared coffee. “I’ll go wake up the others,” said Varun. “Hey, don’t forget Sherpa Dor...