I woke up this morning and got down to making tea as usual. As I stood by the stove while the milk boiled, I noticed my fainter heart beat. It beat so softly as if afraid of disturbing others with its presence. Thud.. skip, thud... skip... thud... skip... thud... skip... That beat wasn't a stranger to me and it always came with another guest-fear. I noticed ma enter the kitchen as she made her way to the sink. I wished her "Good morning" and gave her a hug with feeling. She said "Thank you" awkwardly. It was not consistent with what we usually do with each other-we beat each other up with un-called for advice and suggestions. Fear has been a regular visitor at my doorsteps. I always put on a brave face, growl at her and shoo her away. But that's exactly what she wants to see. When I put on a brave face, she instantly realizes that I am afraid. Why else would I need to put on a face? Pleased, she laughs as I shoo her away, fully knowing that my actions are ...