Adios Austin.

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

In a couple of days, my wife and I would be leaving Austin back to Hyderabad, India after sixteen weeks of vacation.
We came here for a purpose and its ending has been satisfactory to us. A new entrant to our family-birth of a grandson to us- brought immense happiness, and it was joyful seeing him grow slowly. It is bound to be more joyful during the next few months as he and his mother too are traveling with us to be in Hyderabad amidst more relatives.
Our stay has been comfortable and enjoyable, that was made more memorable by the hospitality of our daughter and son-in-law. We spent our time usefully without getting bored, despite staying indoors a greater portion of the time due to the vagaries of the weather and due to comforts in the house. Some of our relatives and friends visited us, and that gave us more happiness.
My only complaint is I did not get to see my neighbours as my visits outside the apartment were infrequent. As we are used to seeing crowds in India, the absence of a similar picture projects aloofness and a curfew like situation. But that is the way life goes and is lead here.
Driving around Austin and its suburbs, watching its news channels we have become familiar with the names of the counties in this part of Central Texas. We felt at home, though far away from our original home. I do wish that ABIA (Austin Bergstrom International Airport) and the new upcoming airport at Shamshabad in Hyderabad are connected by a direct flight with one stop over!
We had to alter some plans and pre-pone our return trip due to family obligations. And while we were here, there were moments of upsets that disturbed the tranquility of a peaceful period. We do believe that the almighty has a way for us and we have his blessings.
At the outset, we are leaving with mixed feelings. A thought does occur to me that I may find it difficult to travel long distance in future due to my body NOT supporting my mind. My wife, a great companion, ever helpful, feels that it is my discretion and destiny. I am suffering from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a form of neurological disorder in my nervous system, which has no cure as of now. But research is vigorously on, and I am aware of it through excellent brochures sent to me by my nephew from Johns Hopkins, Baltimore.
We never know what future has in store for us. We are ever hopeful.
Till next time, adios Austin.