Addicted to the Movement

Or

I could say addicted to the skies.

My sweet mentor Mrs. Wagle once told me of a failed project. She had seen the balloon sellers who set out out in the morning and walk around neighborhoods, stop near schools or playgrounds and try to sell their ever-replenishable stock of balloons.

They walk all day everyday – so much so that fitbit might want to consider making them their brand ambassadors.

They belong to a particular group – maybe it is a splinter group of some clan or tribe that has found economic value in the wandering + balloon-selling idea.

Mrs. Wagle had observed them over time. And realised that their little ones miss out on formal education as they walk with their parents who are themselves young and not formally educated.

So she tired convincing the parents and the older of the little ones. Not once – but many times. And as she already had a residential school running for this purpose the operation was feasible.

So she tried her best. And with her personality, no one refused.

So the balloon-sellers children joined but only for a few days. And then they ran away.

The conclusion: They were too addicted to open spaces and could not bear the idea of a constant roof over their heads.

She said ‘once you get used to moving about it is impossible to stay still in a room’.

And that I think is also my ailment.

I recall the Anatolian Yoruk proverb that is something like “Only the weak need to settle down in one place”.

It is not that I have any notions of being strong – but I think I am not vulnerable at this point in life – which is probably what the Yoruk proverb means. Because only the ill or infirm or their caregivers – those with babies or health issues – have vulnerabilities that require staying in one spot.

And until that happens – which it will sooner or later – it is time to enjoy the greatest luxury available to all – open skies and open spaces!

Featuring Asset 1788 “ON MY WAY” (a fantastic Batik Wayang TO BE UPLOADED on wovensouls.com)

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jm

July 2023