Experience Sradha
It has been more than half a century since I began my journey on this earth, carrying a lifetime of memories. As a student, and later when I began teaching, I received far more recognition and appreciation than I deserved — and I have given much in return as well. But I truly realized how safe and secure that space was only after running Sradha for the past year. It is a great freedom. There is no sword hanging overhead in fear. I only need to do the things that make me happy. I enjoy that completely, both inwardly and outwardly. Perhaps the core of this joy lies in the fact that it is truly mine. Let that remain there.
Some days, not even a single person walks in. On other days, it may be full of people. That is natural. Sradha is located in a slightly less busy part of town. There is plenty of space on the road in front to park even large cars. When they see the name “Eco Shop,” affluent people park their big cars and walk in. To them, I am just the saleswoman standing in the shop.
They ask about each item in the store, and I enthusiastically explain everything. Then they say, “Alright, we’ll come back later,” and prepare to leave. Before going, they ask, “Do you have a card?” At that moment, I take one of my books and hand it to them. They look at the picture on the cover, then at me, back and forth, and ask in disbelief, “Are you Rosy Thambi?” Some say the name sounds familiar. Some flip through the book. Then they return to the shelves, pick up a bottle of honey or herbal tooth powder or something else — along with the book. After that, the conversation becomes filled with warmth and affection.
What I was saying is that I happened to reflect on the state of mind of an ordinary sales girl.
It has only been a year. I have met and come to know many people. Faces marked by pain come in every day — new faces. Life still stands outside the classroom, under the sun and rain. With words and comfort, I have embraced as many as I can. I am determined to continue doing so.
When you pass this way, do come in. Let us sit for a while in the shade of this golden shower tree.
