Shadow

Of late I have noticed that I am being followed. Even yesterday while coming back from my office I saw her. She was standing by me. A very graceful and dignified lady with an expression full of concern for me. She has been following me constantly. Last night I tried to avoid her by diverting from my normal route. But she was everywhere. At last, I manage to give her a slip by entering into a dark lane.

But the moment I came back to the main road, she was there. I parked the vehicle and went to get something from the roadside shop, so that I can avoid her. But when I came back and started the vehicle, she was there inside my vehicle. I was wondering why she is following me. I took the courage and asked her why she is following me. Who are you? She gave a mysterious smile and told me thay she knows me since long.

I was unable to recognise her. I have never seen her. But she has all the information about me. She told me the exact time of my birth. My childhood memories, my schooling days, my mischievous activities, my first crush. Not only the happy memories but the darker side also. When I was down with typhoid for 50 days. She knows everything about me. She told me that she was there when I underwent angioplasty in 2013 and she was there when I was performing my father's last rites.

I was wandering who is she? Are you my relative? No, was the answer. Do you follow me on Facebook? She gave me a smile and told that she knows me before the arrival of such social media. She is very close to me. She shares my joy and sorrow. She cries when I cry. She feels delighted when I get success. Who is she, is it possible that there is someone who is so concerned about me.

I questioned her, but I have never seen her earlier. If she is so close to me then how come I don't know her and where was she till date? She replied because I never required her. I was too busy in my own world. Getting new business, settling claims, attending meetings and giving presentations and making business strategies. Even I had no time for my family, forget about her. But now you need me. Now you are at the crossroads of your life. You need support and need a true friend and guide. 

And because of my need, I am realising and feeling her presence. I was adamant, I don't need anybody or any support. I will manage on my own. I know how to walk alone. So please leave me alone. I don't need any encroachment in my freedom. She was smiling. It is not a marriage of convenience. I can't leave you, because you don't need me. I know my job and responsibilities. I will be there with you forever. It is my duty to be with you and to take care of you. And in return, I don't need anything. 

I was impatient, and folded my hand and requested her to disclose her identity. She just smiled and told me I am your Shadow. I will be there with you till you are in the world.

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