While living away from India, my mind opened up in many ways. One of them is appreciation for a few small but important things.
Things that I miss:
- I miss the clean air deeply and the blue skies the most. AQI here is >600 as I write this.
- I miss sitting, meditating, journaling, walking, and running in big lush green parks.
- I miss being in pleasant weather with cool, nippy wind in my hair.
- I miss walking 30+ and 45+ minutes in walkable cities, feeling safe.
- I miss the no-honking on roads and the quietude in the center of modern cities.
- I miss the gothic aesthetics and cleanliness in the public spaces.
- I miss talking to people from around the world. I miss the diversity in their personalities.
- I miss being left alone knowing that no one will judge or stare at me no matter what I do.
- I miss feeling safe from stray dogs. I miss dozing off at a bench knowing I’ll be safe.
- I miss feeling respected. I miss people giving me a way and saying thank you, cheers, and please.
- I miss being able to go to Universities, Museums, and Libraries without being asked who am I.
- I miss sipping coffee in cute cafes.
- I miss being around people that appreciate the art and (same kind of) music like me!
- I miss the efficient public transport. I miss the freedom it gives to go anywhere, any time.
Things that I don’t miss
- I don’t miss the cat-and-mouse play between the sunlight and rain.
- I don’t miss seeing so many options of chocolates everywhere I go that I freeze in confusion.
- I don’t miss… who am I kidding? There’s nothing I don’t miss. I’ve left behind a piece of my heart. <3
