Dearest Lover,
We were so young when we first met. Ours was an arranged relationship duly enforced on us. I remember you sitting on my bed when I first saw you. I wasn’t sure about our future, but little did we know about the vivid experiences that awaited us. And the rest, as you already know, are memories that changed the course of life for both you and me.
It’s been twelve years since we first met, and it’s only fair that I voice my love and affection for all that you have done for me.
Love at first sight
We met two days before my trek to Nagtibba in Uttrakhand. Just twelve years old, I was so angsty because all my friends had shiny new rucksacks and I still didn’t possess one. I was elated when I first laid my eyes on you. You had just arrived in the mail from Delhi. Gleaming with an urge to explore, your freshness was so overwhelming. Was this the beginning of something substantial, or just another fleeting fling?
The greatest support system
I’ve made friends from all across the world, but no one has ever stuck by my side in times of pain and agony as you did. Missed flights, stolen belongings, uncomfortable journeys and stranded in places unknown – I couldn’t have braved the storms without you.
Stories worth retelling
Remember that time when we were chased by local farmers in Karnataka because we tried to steal mangoes from their fields? Or that time we hitched a ride on a tractor in Orissa? If I ever write a book, be safe in the knowledge that you’ll be mentioned more times than you expect to.
Help comes from unexpected places
Who doesn’t love a bit of comfort while travelling? Your cushy straps, firm back support and easy to access side pockets made trekking such a luxurious experience. An essential pillar of a healthy relationship is to give each other space when needed, and your spacious attitude can never be eclipsed.
Love has no boundaries
Tales of your exploits have travelled across the ocean and over the mountains. I’ve let friends borrow you ever so often. I was so relieved when that guy from work returned you in healthy conditions after a month in Thailand. Frankly, yours is the only polyamorous behaviour I will ever be acceptable of.
End of an era
You have to agree, we had a great run together. All the corners of the world that we explored and all the hardships we endured – it was all worth it. Trust is a two-way street and nobody knows this better than you. There was no concept of warranty and returns when we were acquainted with each other and taking each day as it came was the only option we had. Do I regret throwing you on top of a state bus or watch you being manhandled by airline personnel? No, because you’re not like the others, you were always capable of taking care of yourself.
Now, as I explore the columns of outdoor gear retailers searching for your replacement, I often find myself zoning out, reminiscing the times gone by, negating any possibility of getting intimate with any other 80-litre polyester enclosure. But trudging on and looking forward to new avenues and making new bonds in unknown places – isn’t that the essence of travelling?
Your accomplice in adventure,
Eeshat
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