The Candid Life of Meena Dave

by Namrata Patel

“You haven’t lived if you are not trying to forget.” She gave him a soft smile. “My grandfather says it,” Odkell said. “It’s our family motto. We believe in making mistakes and having regrets. As long as it hurts no one.” “But it’s OK if you hurt yourself?” He shrugged. “Why not? It is your experience. If you die, it is a good way to go.” “You’re not afraid?” “Of pain? No. I am a good healer,” Odkell answered. “I have scars as my memories. To fear is to torture yourself.”

Aloneness was a choice, but loneliness felt different. A disconnection from others that felt more like a condition of how she lived her life.

patted her belly. “Gravity can have its way with me. I’d rather be comfortable.