Do you ever think you're being thought about?

Whenever the winds of change blow through our lives, we all resort to dealing in different ways. I've noticed when something particularly big is about to happen, we're very closed about it, not mentioning the impending fact to most people. This happens for a couple of reasons. First, we are not sure if it'll actually go through, so we don't want to sound like all-talk-no-action. Second, we are afraid of other people's reactions so we don't tell them because we are afraid of (sometimes scathing) criticism. But very often, we end up talking about it and confiding to the strangest set of people. These are: 

1. Your personal trainer! This is the guy who knows your exact weight, how your face looks when it's scrunched up in pain, when your periods start and other gross details, so why not bounce of your ideas and frustrations on him? He also doesn't know anything about your work or anyone else in your life. And gives beautiful advice which goes... "1-2-3 -- you know, Indian Mom's worry a lot, don't take tension... 8 - 9 - keep it up - 10.... I think it's pretty cute actually. I miss my Mom...  perfect Uttara, don't stop now - 5 - 4 - 3..." 

2. Your taxi driver(s). Now this is not one person. It is many people, all essentially the same. Pan-chewing, slightly smelly, old, balding and bearded who are dying to talk while they drive between the Queen's Necklace and MHADA for the 10th time in the day. And when you're stuck in traffic and ranting about life he will say something like... "क्या मैडम, सब लोग अन्दर ही आते हैं. मुंबई के बाहर कोई जाता ही नहीं! नशा है यह शेहेर"

3. Your receptionist/ assistant. She notices everything. Your comings and goings. Who you're talking to when you have to step out of the room to take a call. When you're looking frumpy on some mornings before you do some emergency make-up. When your eyes are swollen because you haven't had enough sleep last night. Which is the next vacation you are planning... she's your default confidant without you intending it to be so. I'm sure all assistants get together every now and then to exchange the juiciest pieces of gossip! 

4. Your Family Doctor. Again, this person is, by design, supposed to know everything about your life. And has the amazing knack of turning every problem into a medical problem that she can solve. My standard family doctor conversation goes as such... 

Doc:So, how is work? 

Me: Fine, goes well but it's pretty hectic 

Doc: Found a boyfriend yet?  

Me: No, not really. (WTF?!)  

Doc: You know, you need to loose the weight. I've just discovered this amazing machine/ hormone cream/ diet plan/ pills <insert appropriate fad> which can really help you! Also, you have to get xx, yy, zz tests done, Uttara. These could be problem areas... 

Me: Ok... (WTF?!!) but I'm feeling alright and I've joined the gym.. 

Doc: Yes, but you're not going to get a boyfriend *just* by going to the gym!!   

Me: (panic! I'm going to be alone for the rest of my life) ...yes, I'll set up an appointment with you - definitely. We'll solve this problem. (annnnddd exit, stage right) 

I guess there are many more such people floating around in your life. I often wonder though, if they will think about you later… and wonder how you're doing :)