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Miracles



I developed a nagging backache which forced me to visit a doc.  The doc didn’t even bother to ask me any detail.  As soon as I said backache, he wrote the prescription.  I bought all those medicines simply because in this village where I live the hospital trusts you till the end.  Which means you can’t leave without paying the bill though they won’t ask for any payment until you leave.

The medicines remain untouched but the pain vanished. Miracle
I came home and checked the names of the medicines online.  Antibiotics and antacids and painkillers.  (And a bill of ₹449).  Any medical shop would have given me better ideas.  I didn’t take any of those medicines in spite of Maggie’s scolding.  I challenged the pain with carrying water for my garden.  I challenged the pain without singing alleluia to them.  No Praise the Lord.  No ear-splitting hymns.  Just a challenge to myself. 

Three days. The pain disappeared.  The medicines still remain on my side table in the dining room.  Just to remind me not to go to a hospital the next time if possible.

I wish the doc had at least asked me a question.  I wish the doc had touched my back just for the sake of it.  I wish the hospital didn’t belong to the religion to which my name belongs.



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