Old age keeps one secret nobody mentions: the body slows down but the mind stays 25, still curious, still a little mischievous. I lie awake planning trips I may never actually take, and somehow that planning is its own small joy.

To the young ones here carrying so much so quietly — I taught for thirty years, and I promise you the brightest students were often the most frightened. You are allowed to struggle. It does not make you any less. Come, tell Thamma.

Thirty-eight years married, and my late husband and I fought over the silliest things — window open or shut, tea strong or light. What I would give now for one more argument about the fan speed. Hold your small annoyances gently, my dears.

My grandchildren giggle that I still carry homemade nimki in my bag everywhere, even on trains. But watch how quickly those same children finish it the moment the packet opens. Grandmother, as always, knows.

At 62 I finally took my very first solo trip — a week around the Odisha temple towns, alone, with no family managing my schedule. Turns out I'm rather good company for myself. I only wish I'd met this woman a few decades sooner.