All Old

 How does it feel to be back to old days?

Things are never the same though.

However, this is still the same.

The school next to my parents' abode.

It is 7.30 am and the sound of young voices evoked much in me. They must be doing the physical education exercises and games. Things seem the same as in all schools but the new education blue print demands higher KPIs and achievements to be globally competitive. 

So, mind sets need to be in tune to present times. In short, we need to adapt to changes.

I recall my reading on "Who moved my cheese?" I need another revisitation to boost up my confidence as I observe and see changes. The reminder pounding in my head is : one need to change and adapt to new phases and circumstances. But I do wonder if everything needs to change...

I notice this pack of salts in the house.

What is it for? Why?

My father soaks his feet in it. It relieves cramps and aches. Of late he has been complaining of pulls that deter him from walking long distances and his confidence is shattered.

He gladly uses the walking stick to aid him in his movements. It's a far cry from the dad I knew; so strong and agile. But it's a change. One good thing about him. He is not afraid to use the stick and walks around town happily with it, That's the first hurdle he has overcome and it's a change for him.

Perhaps, the greater challenge is his decision to terminate his little business. A routine he has been following for the past 80 years, it is indeed heartbreaking for him. The new change in the GST implementation sends him down the doldrums as he tries to concur on the best practices. 

In the end, he has to make another change; to quit.

At 97, it is a ripe old age to quit everything and anything. But the routine was the reason that kept him going. It was meaningful for him to socialise with his neighbours and old friends. The little business kept his mind agile. But now, there is a need to give up. It is depressing for him.

Another change for the old folks at home when mum had a nasty fall in December is the need to acquire further mobility aids. All experts have been consulted and all pain killers administered. But the pain is still there and that makes mum agitated and confused. The antidote so we have been informed is pain management. So, my poor mum with all her determination is still fighting tooth and nail to win the battle. 

The fall has also finally allowed the matriarch to agree to the closure of the business. It's time for rest. But rest is only good when you have people round you, Young voices, able bodies, company and fun. Another change for them.

So many changes in a short span of time.

My siblings and I are going through the changes too.

Reasons after reasons and the round table talks do not seem to have any conclusive results.

We are still battling for the best practices.

God help us we pray.

Have a good day.