My Morning 'Mitra'

It is not everyday that I wait for my friend. I call him 'mitra' as is the word used in Indian language. Most mornings, my mitra would be present waiting for me or pay a customary visit when I would be waiting. Our friendship blossomed over a couple of months. We enjoyed the silent communication between us; the twinkle in the eye would be enough to convey meaningful communication. His need for food preceded any discussion. The topics of discussion were never beyond recipes and food, the preferences and loud shrieking that followed whenever there was a delay.

I would always share tastiest of food with my friend and he in turn would wait for me to get the tasty treats. Slowly, he started to take food right from my hand and would immediately run away to eat in peace. Eagerly we waited for the other to show up near the kitchen window for our morning rendezvous. My friend - the squirrel brought cheer in my busy morning. He demanded attention whenever hungry and ensured that I waited for him to come to the window whenever I brought something tasty to eat.

My morning 'mitra' is like a sunshine in our family. My husband and daughter too have a place for him in their heart. We all feel happy to hear him shriek to draw our attention. His visits may be for getting food but for us he brings cheer and joy. Thank you my morning mitra.