Move Over

Hello world. Time to reconnect. 

M and I have just returned from our bumpy ride into the era of ridiculous. We were offered a new job in an old metro and after careless consideration we decided to move bag, baggage and belongings into the maximum city. Only to scuttle back home in three weeks. If you've ever tried piling your home and life into crates and boxes twice over two weekends, you can imagine how very grumpy I am at this stage. Tread with caution. 

Shifting house is never easy. Having gone through the experience nearly ten times since the age of sixteen, one might think I've gotten used to it. But the process doesn't get any easier. Sure, the entry of movers and packers in India has helped a little. But, the physical and mental strain doesn't really seem to diminish. I do however, have a higher level of respect for the families of those in the armed forces or in transferable government jobs. I just wish I had the energy. 

On the plus side, I think I've learnt how to strike a friendship with any city a little better than M. The secret lies in not trying to impose yourself on the place and its people. What's the rush really. Granted, certain experiences might even prove to be scary. But you really do need to take a step back and let the city happen to you. It needs to know that nothing's changed now that you're here and soon, it'll start opening up to you as well. People will begin to emerge from its inner lanes and surprise you with their warmth. The traffic will make room for that one extra car and incidents will begin amuse you with its absurd local flavours. 

I always find the best way to acquaint yourself with a city is by public transport or on foot. Not that I like to rough it out. I am no ardent walker. But a rickshaw ride has the power to reveal many interesting secrets of a place. Things that you'd normally never spot from within the air-conditioned interiors of your vehicle. 

And if you're eager to meet new people, knocking on your neighbours' door (if you're lucky enough to have one) is still not out of fashion. Or, you can always sign up for that workshop you've been dying to attend and meet a roomful of people with similar interests and often similar stories. 

The point I'm trying to make is that you can't ever expect to feel at home without making yourself at home.

Well, that's my two cents worth of gyaan.  If you need to move, just do it! Life loves to throw surprise parties once in a while so don't throw cold water over its sentiments just because you're unsure. It's worth taking a risk every now and then. At best, you have a story to tell. But if you're changing house because of a change in job, I suggest you check yourself into a hotel before you check your luggage out of home. 

Grumpily yours.