The man was an obstructionist.
Most dealings would leave a bad taste in mouth.
But one has to keep one's cool.
For way through one's life,
specially office,
is like way through a jungle.
One has to be careful
that one is not bitten by a snake,
or a scorpion,
or any other poisonous creature.
That one does not tread over anything
other than grass, or fallen leaf.
One has to be careful
that no ape jumps over you,
or you come close to a fearsome beast
so that your life is jeopardised.
The man was an obstructionist,
apparently had some illicit relation
with a colleague.
So I was always wary of the man.
The man went on transfers many times
and came back on the final lap to my office.
Suddenly I met him alongside a chummy colleague
and I gave him a hug as welcome back!
Pleasantaries were exchanged.
He treated me to tea and biscuits.
Surprisingly, the wounds have all healed!
His paramour in office still gives me trouble though.
But I am like resigned.
As if I have smothered all the issues.
Shall I say, there is a Christ, a Buddha,
a Mahavira, a Chaitanya,
or a Nanak in everybody!
Otherwise, how could I have given a hug
to the creature I never liked?
Yes, one can be in close association with someone at work, yet be distant; however, if one parts company, and then experience a chance encounter, invariably, one manifests a warmth of greeting that is a celebration of recognition!
