It was a sunny morning when I was going to Bromley market in London and I saw an elderly couple travelling with me on the same bus. The mature lines on their face said they were probably in their early 80s. The two had most likely been to a grocery store as the bags with them were stuffed with vegetables and other staples, They two were seated next to each other. Their wasn’t much talking...the two kept looking out of the window, maybe just enjoying the scenic ‘English beauty’.

 

As their stop approached, the old man pressed the ‘Stop’ button after which the bus came to a pause at their desired destination. I would like to confess that it was an excruciating watch as the two took their own sweet time to walk down the aisle. The man got down first and kept standing, not even looking behind. For a moment, I thought if something was wrong with him. But then, his wife came behind him and took the support of his shoulders and got off the bus. He then held her hand and they started walking towards their home. It must have been a routine thing for them, but the man’s subtle gesture had my heart.

 

There was no communication needed and the two were in perfect symphony with one another. I was so happy just by looking at them and I also remember now that I was smiling ear to ear after witnessing the warmth they shared. It was such a wholesome moment to witness. Honestly, I felt envious of the lady, and wondered if I too will have a mature shoulder to lean on like her when I grow rugged and frail. I do wish for a love like that, we all do… after all… after youth deserts us and what one really wants is care and respect and love...lots of it.

 

By Amee Soni