On Grit and Determination
I decided to take the public transport that day back home from office. I got into the bus. I bought the ticket from the conductor and then put on my headphones to listen to the radio. A few minutes later, I felt a nudge around my arm and I see a burka clad woman sitting in one of the seat signaling me to occupy the vacant seat next to her. I sat next to her and thanked her. She smiled and after few minutes, she asked “kaam ko jati kya?”(Do you work?). I smiled and said, “yes”. She enquired what work I did. I plainly replied that I am working in a company as I didn’t want to explain her the software jargons. She said,”auraton ko apne pairo par khada hona zarurai hai” (Women should stand on their feet). “Mein bhi kaam ku jati” (I too work), were her next words and I saw a glint of pride in her eyes while she spoke. I grew inquisitive and wanted to know more. I switched off the radio and asked her what and where was she working.
