Whispering Shadow

"Much better" would be a great short answer to this question. After a turbulent first three months,  the next three months have been easier and more enjoyable. One thing that hasn't changed is the need for physical and mental rest amidst parenthood and full-time work. Setting process-related goals for our wellbeing has been more helpful than outcome-based goals. (TL; DR) What has made this phase particularly enjoyable is that D has grown to engage and respond to our inputs and her world. She has learned many skills - smiling, laughing, cooing, screaming, using body language, and crying. We have also gotten better at sensing her needs. In my mind, the first three months seemed like just a one-directional service with no rewards, tangible or otherwise. These three months have offered us small joys in return for our sweat and toil. As much as I want to be an unconditional parent, I savour the times I have of happiness, play and laughter as a return gift. These months have al...

It was a typical day at school. After finishing the last lesson and seeing the children off, I went to the Principal's cabin to sign out for the day. When I was there, I realized something was amiss. Two set of parents had been called and there was a frantic hunt on in the neighbourhood for their children. From the conversation between the Principal, parents and supervisor, I figured out what had transpired. One of our kids in a TFI classroom was thrown in the sewage drain flowing behind the school. What was more shocking was that he was thrown in the drain by none other than two of our school's senior students from grade X. While the ones who committed the crime escaped then, they were soon identified and reported to the school authorities. I had reached the scene while this hunt was on. The children guilty of the act were brought to the school by their relatives. The conversation between parents, school staff and these students started on an interrogatory tone. They were...