TITLE: The Silent Lover EPISODE: 2 Admin: muller Frality thy name is woman. An eye-opening statement for those who think that our east has disgraced or degraded women. She banged her fist on the palm of her other hand. The greatest litterateur of the West is saying that woman is weakness. Williams shakespeare was a honest man I guess. The other girl who looked a little younger smiled naughtily. Even now, The first girl continued, apparently ignoring the other girls remark. Their literature has not attained what Urdu literature had achieved in eigtheenth or nineteenth century. Ofcourse we have Ghalib, Meer, Iqbal and so many.....The list just never ends... I would never understand one thing sister. The younger girl raised the tea mug to her mouth. No Suprise Sheeba. Infact you dont understand anything. The older girl shrugged her shoulders. Deeba..... I will kill you. She threw a heavy pillow toward her sister, which Deeba caught expertly. But I must admit...... Sheeba smiled. That youre a good catcher. Atleast you could teach our Pakistan cricket team how to take some good catches. Yuck, I hate cricket. Deeba made her mouth like she had swallowed something really bitter. Now, I wont doubt that. A nerdy, book-worm kind of all like you should only go for poetry and prose. Sheeba took another fine sip. Why? Okay. Tell me honestly; didnt you feel any interest in poetry ever? Deebas voice had a slight tone of disappointment in it. I just couldnt get it, the failures in love, crying and all that painful stuff. This is an internet age my dear. Sheeba said fluently. You have to look forward instead of wasting your tears, time and energy for your past. And thats what all poets do. I just dont understand why dont they get some life and begin to work on something constructive. Really, you think that way? Deeba said sadly. Yes, and its my way of thinking. Sheeba said proudly. But shall we risk our ideals, our interests and our dreams for such modern age? Deeba looked deep into her sisters eyes. Her style challenging. Oh my gosh. Youre really silly Deeba. Youre twenty now, yet it seems like you have made a dream world of your own, a world you never want to climb out of. Sheeba said. On Deebas silence, she went on. Be practical my sister. This is the new millennium. Poetry, idealism, fantasies, dreams.........youve got a lot more to do than thinking about such primal things, move on. I wonder if this new millennium has anything to do with human feelings and emotuons. Does this mechanization and industrialism govern our tender feelings and soft sentiments too? Sorry, if it will, I refuse to acceot such so-called modern life style which is devoid of our natural feelings. My own philosophy is, if you like something, just go and get it or otherwise dont love what you cant get! Sheeba said rigidly. Deeba laughed at her statement. Why are you laughing? Did I say something funny? Sheeba raised her brows. Your materialistic thinking is funny, sort of a selfish one. Life is not a business my dear. Sometimes you just have to live for others, have to care about others more than you do for yourself and have to give sacrifice..... Okay, Okay. Thats enough..... Sheeba cut in thickly. I dont want to argue with you. We can never convince each other. Sheeba raised her hand in a gesture of final word. I never wanted to convince you, I was just presenting my own opinion. Deeba said plainly. Im sorry but I just cant agree with your just do it style. Well, so whatre we talking about? Sheeba said quickly changing the topic. Frality thy name is woman. Deeba smiled slowly. You mean, back to shakespeare again? Sheeba asked. No enough of him now. I just wanted to say that our east has always been very fertile for language, culture and customs you know.Deeba said swiftly. Even today, weve got fabulous poets like....... Oh God. Dont tell me youre talking about him again. Are you? Ofcourse, its him. Deeba smiled in answer. My God Deeba, dont you have any other topic to talk about? No, and you know the reason that why....... Oh I forgot to tell you. Sheeba said quickly, before her elder sister could finished her sentence. And now Im thinking how I can forget such a thing which is purely of your interest. But first tell me what can you do for me if I tell you something about him? WHAT? Dont tell me that! Her sisters voice and style totally changed suddenly. No one could believe that this desperate and excited girl was the same one who was talking so calmly just a few moments ago. Yes, its about him and youre such and admirer and fan of him, I fear if the news Im about to tell you would cause you to have a heart attack or something. Sheeba smiled devilishly. Oh, you cant tell me more than what I already know about him. Can you? Deeba gave her a challenging smile. And what if I tell you hes finally appearing in some poetry-show? What? Youre kidding right? Deeba couldnt believe if shed heard her correctly. I really have confirmed news thats hes finally coming to some Mushaaera in front of the public for the very first time. Sheeba smiled satisfactorily. And guess what, its going to be in our very own city, our sweet dear Karachi. Sheeba really? Deeba was really excited, her breathing fast. Please.....please.....tell me how and when? No, not like this Sheeba rose and put her hands on her waist. Blackmailing? Whatever, Okay, what do you want? Ice-cream, money, dinner or what? Deeba asked helplessly, rising from her place. Umm I guess dinner will be fine, but Id choose the meny right? Oh Sheeba please. Now for God sake tell me everything in detail. Okay Baba, but first sit down please. Sheeb held her sisters hands in her own and made her sit in front of her. Well, do you remember I told you about Inter-colleges poetry contest? Sheeba began after taking a long breath. Yes, what about that? Today, classes were off early and we had nothing to do in college, so we decided to check that out. The contest was today and they had invited him as a chief guest. But he never goes....... Deeba interrupted quickly. Yes, I know until now hes never been to any function or contest or has not even given an interview ever. But someone told me that our college administration used a big source to invite him there. What do you mean? Deeba asked, her eyes showing frustration and desperation They contacted him through his teacher, someone he really respects and calls as his spiritual teacher, his Maulana uncle. Sheeba told her all in one breath. Oh, and who told you all this? One of my class fellows is a daughter of our college principal. Sheeba smiled, opening a chewing gum from its wrapper. And thats where we met him. She added. You mean, you alone? Deebas eyes widened with astonishment. No. We were five girls in total, my class fellows. She put the bubble gum into her mouth. We all went to the contest, and it was just amazing. I dont have words to explain what I felt out there. It was all so fabulous and fantastic. The aroma, the atmosphere, the guys, umm well.... Deeba said nothing; perharps shed been lost in the trance of what her sister was telling her. And although until now Ive been arguing with you about him, I must admit that he is different and has a very impressive personality. Sheeba nodded, smiling. Deeba smiled proudly like it was not him but herself whom her sister is praising. He came only in the end, and read just one poem, but it was enough to steal everyone out there. Oh Sheeba, Im so jealous of you right now. I wish I were there..... Deeba clutched the pillow to her bosom, her face showing clear disappointment. Tell me how does he look like? Umm, now that will charge another treat, what about an ice cream too? Sheeba winked naughtily. Noooh. Deeba clenched her teeth and threw the pillow on Sheeba, who bent her body perfectly to save herself from the expected attack. Well sister, thats a suprise, youll find out soon. she said satisfactorily. Meaning? I mean how you will find how he looks like is another suprise. Sheeba laughed with continous momentum. Perhaps, today is the day full of suprises and shocks for me. Deeba said helplessly. You got my point. Sheeba twisted her lips to make a bug bubble out of her chewing gum. Actually I want to get rich soon, and soon for all these services of mine, youd have to pay me heavily. Hmm, yeah I was thinkung the same. You should probably apply for a job in some secret service. That will be a watse of me, I guess. She told Sheeba proudly, a lazy grib dancing on her face. So, how am I going to find out how he looks like? Deeba, are you just making it or are you really this serious about him? Sheebas question was sudden and more than that, her unexpected serious tone suprised Deeba. Sorry, I didnt get you. Deeba was confused. I mean, are you having some crush on him or what? Sheeba looked deeply into her sisters eyes. Deeba laughed loudly on her question. Come on Sheeba, dont talk silly. She said finally, as her laughter dissolved in the air. I just like him as a poet, and thats all. Ive never even met or saw him. Its just curiosity and suspense. Hmm. I hope this is the case. Sheeba said thoughtfully, her eyes searching something particular in her elder sisters face. But I wonder sometimes....... Sheeba threw her head back on the bed and lay still. That he never gave an interview, no news paper ever published his pictures......and yet within a short time he has become so famous and popular, especially among the youth of Pakistan. You can say so because youve never read his work. Deeba said. But he sure sounds like some mysterious or hidden person. Thats why like other mysterious personality, therere rumors about him. Sheeba closed her eyes, yawning. Yeah I have heard some of those. Deeba placed her hands behind her head and lowered herself on the bed in a half-sitting posture. Some say hes playboy. Some say he has a dark past. Many think hes a womanizer. Sheeba didnt say anything in reply now. She was sleepy. Sheeba, you cant sleep unless you tell me. Tell you what? Dont you ever get tired of him Deeba? Sheeba said angrily. Please let me take some rest. Its one a.m now, and I have not slept a wink this whole day. You told me about seeing him soon. Oh! My goodness. Sheeba gazed at her sister who looked like she was about to cry at any time. Hes been invited to an all Pakistan young poets function and hes agreed to participate. Happy now? She said finally, her voice louder than before. REALLY? When? Deeba couldnt believe her ears. This weekend. Ten p.m. Sharp! Karachi Hospital for Psychiatric Diseases He first looked at the big sparkling signboard and then at his wristwatch. He was there in time. Locking the door as he climbed out of his car and taking short steps, walked inside the huge premises. Hello sir, how are you? The lady receptionist gave him a lovely smile, looking clearly impressed. How are you? Hope fine! He said without even stopping properly near her. I believe I am not late? Not at all sir, Dr. Waris is in his room. He heard the receptionist voice on his back. Walking straight, he reached near the door which had a name plate of Dr. Waris Ahmad. He knocked on the door and on hearing the response, turned the door knob and stepped inside. Welcome dear, so very nice to see you. A man in his late fifties left his chair to greet him. Please be seated. Thank you doctor. He took his chair opposite his. So...... Doctor set a formal smile on his lips, taking his glasses off. Howre you feeling now? Better. He said plainly. Much better. Thats good. Oh yes I have to show you the reports of your last tests. Finishing his sentence, doctor left his chair to open one of his cupboards, took a grey file out and then returned to his seat. Taking his glasses back to his eyes, he slowly flipped through the pages of that file. Well Closing the file, doctor took a long breath and peered at him through his glasses. For several minutes, doctor just sat there, staring at him like he would never see him again. No sign of any personality disorder. He finally began to say. Not a single hint of dementia or schizophrenia, no mark or trace of any manic-depressive illness. He didnt reply, just looked back at the doctor in silence. Congratulations. Youre completely normal and healthy now. He shook his hand with him excitedly. Thank you, you all really worked hard. His response was short. No, Doctor refused to agree. It was you who worked hard, who fought with all of his might and will power. You defeated the disease and won this stressful war. His doctor said with a sheer admiration in his eyes. In answer, he lowered his eyes to the thickly carpeted floor but said nothing. When he looked up after a silence of few minutes, he saw that doctor was still staring at him. What are you looking at doctor? Anything wrong? I was thinking how things could go so right Doctir said, his tone filled with suprise and amazement. Impossible and unbelievable. Dr. Waris was plainly astonished. Whats so impossible doctor? I mean, we all expected your problem to get resolved in atleast four or five years and yet youre completely alright within two years. Doctor told him. And to be honest with you, we didnt expect this problem to get subsided completely. Its prognosis is bad, and in almost all cases, the patient is never able to achieve his pre-disease state back. I mean he never gets completely normal. He told him in detail. But your case is one of its own kind, you are as mentally and physically active now like you were before. Dr Waris paused for a second then added. Apart from all that, I now see a strange calmness in the way you talk, and your style of expression has become so mute and yet so inspiring. You look very much satisfied and content now. So do you suggest anything for the future? He asked, not commenting on what his doctor had just said. Do I need to take some precautionary measures? Well, Id say that just try to be more social. Attend parties, functions, and gatherings, make new friends, visit refreshing places. Thats all. Anything else? Thats all. But yes, if you feel any mental problem or depression episode again, you may take these medicines. Doctor slid a letterhead in front of him and was about to prescribe some medicines on it when his voice stopped him. I think you should leave these medicines, doctor. It will be useless. He said flatly. Would it surprise you if I tell you that I never took any of the medicines you prescribed for me in the last one year? What? Really? Doctor was truly shocked and suprised today. Are you sure you didnt take any of the medicines I prescribed? Not a single one. He smiled slightly. Then what took cure of your problem? My religion. As he spoke, Dr. Waris noted that there was some strange, specific contentment in his voice. Oh, you mean spiritually or something? Dr. Waris raised his brows. Not really. He said simply. Spirituality is just a part of religion. My religion has a lot more than that. Then? Fortunately, someone guided me to the right place and the book I consulted was a perfect one for me. It has remedy for every disease and cure for every pain. He explained. Thats truly interesting. Doctors shock had not yet subsided yet. It heals wounds, and soothes bruises, even if they are on your heart. His smile was very weird this time. Is it some sort of a medical book? Not solely. He answered. It has economics, physics, chemistry, biology, every science and every art. Could you please tell me which book you are talking about? Doctors curiosity reached its climax. And, where I can find the book Ofcourse Doctor, why not, its called... Yes? Doctor, would you mind if I give my answer rather poetically? He smiled gracefully. Really? That would be very interesting. Doctors eyes and facial expression changed even more. You sure? He wanted to confirm one more time. Positive. Why do you doubt? I dont doubt. His eyes smiled at him. I was just thinking do you have much time or interest for a dry thing like poetry? Never. Its one of the things I prefer to do in my leisure hours. It woukd actually be a pleasure to listen. Please.... Dr. Waris couldnt wait to know what it was all about. He bent slightly forward, and with full confidence, he began to read. His voice was soothing, his accent was firm and his language fluent. I am a book in elegant prints To know my name, here are some hints Wow! Doctor said, his eyes spreading wide. He seemed not hearing him or anyone. He was lost in himself, hidden in what he was reading. Rich in cover and nicely bound In hearts of muslim, I am rarely found High on shelf, I am kept Forgotten there, I am left With respect, I do get lots of kiss My main point is what they always miss In a melodious voice, they recite me Neglecting the message inside me At times, I am used for phony swear My true use is very, very rare A miracle, I am, that can change the world All one has to do is understand my word I have wisdom, I have treasure So much, that there is no measure In your savior, Im your guide But whos there to follow my bide Right from wring is my fame Leaving his sentence unfinished, he smiled, left his chair to shake hand with the open-mouthed doctor. But before leaving, he didnt forget to finish his poem. Holy quran is my name Watchout for episode 3 Target: 5 Likes
Posted on: Thu, 27 Nov 2014 05:39:01 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015