The telephone is a joyless instrument here. I remember a time not so long ago when it’s every ring was music to my ears. Now however, it merely jars my peace of mind. Don’t say welcome to the corporate world, because I’m not working yet. I’m still studying.

If truth were known, I’m not opposed to telephones in general, but to one in particular. The shity brown coloured one at home here. I did not always react to telephones in this manner. In fact I was quite good pals with the civilian telephone in Pune. All good things must come to an end and so did our tenure in Pune.

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Dad’s posting came and we shifted bag and baggage to a beautiful but rustic place called Coonoor. If you have never heard of it, you must be in the majority. Its a small town about 15 km from Ooty. It has a big army cantt and a small civil town that supports it. In the back of beyond with nothing more to its credit. Quite a change from a vibrant city like Pune.

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It is a hill station and a lot of people visit the Nilgiris during the summers, but that’s not the point. The point is the telephone here and I have not exactly hit it off.

Why? You ask?!?

You do me grave injustice. Imagine being marooned on a desert island with not a friend in sight and having to play your parents secretary besides. Each time the blasted thing rings you must answer it, knowing that it can’t be for you.

I don’t know about you but making polite conversation about mundane and sundry things with Uncles and Aunts you barely know is not something I enjoy. Maybe you’ll get a better idea when I share a few conversations with you.

Tring Tring

Hello, yes Mom is in the bathroom. She’ll call you back. (She’s actually avoiding you and told me to handle it.)

Tring Tring

Yes, I’ll tell Dad that the cocktails are at 8 o clock at your home tonight, Uncle. (Naturally being a mere daughter I am not invited, so what if i am old enough to vote.)

Tring Tring

I’ll be sure to tell them to call you the minute they get back. (Why can’t the full group go out together and leave me in peace to read my book.)

Tring Tring

I’m sorry Uncle, you have the right number, but they got posted out a month ago. (They left ages ago, where were you hibernating?)

You get the picture. It is a sad situation and I see no improvement coming through. I guess things will be better when I leave for college.

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