On March 19th I got a call from my brother "Maa is not keeping well she wants you to be by her side" hearing this my heart sank all I knew was I have to be there. I had never asked for a leave I had hope my boss would let me off for at least a week.
My boss Manju tai was like iron hand in a velvet glove. It took a good amount of time and request for her to let me visit my sick mom. I left for my home on 20th march.
For the very first time my heart felt unburden. At the same time my mind was glued to my mom. After a whole year I got to visit my village my where my heart lies.
The freshness in the air hit my parched soul differently. My mind totally forgot how it feels to be finally free from almost 12 hour job per day.
But finally I was right beside my mom she had been suffering from stomach infection since past 2 weeks. Maa gently caressed my head and said "tu hoti hai paas toh acha lagta hai" I couldn't stop my tears. I did hug her and cried like a small baby oh I did miss her so much! It was truly fortunate to be with and take good care of her. Fast forward few days mom actually recovered real quick and is now completely healthy.
I knew it was my time to say my goodbyes again. I never wanted to leave. I was supposed to leave on 26th march early morning. But India announced lockdown on 25th. I had mixed emotions running around my mind. I was happy that i get to stay more and anxious about the coronavirus.
Days passed, weeks went by
I had good almost two good months all by myself at my home. I was mentally relieved over the time. I never knew how much I needed this break....to the point I almost started to forget all the stress my work had given to me over a period of time. I was a different person now. I was free. Most importantly I was happy.
June 1st our country started to go back to normal. This was it. My vacation time was over.
Manju tai called up very next morning " madam vacation toh acha lamba mil gaya kaam pr aajao ab customers ki line hai"
I was back at my red light area and back to my 12 hour job back of pleasing men.
I put a fake smile on my face as I apply red lipstick. In this hustle the sweet memories I made with ma in the last two months bring me comfort. I wish I could stay more.