Krishna - many faces of a man

A lot has been said and written about the various roles a woman takes. Roles in the form of relationships. Roles as an individual. Roles in family and in society.

But today what fascinated me was Krishna – many faces of a man.

A lover and a ruler. A meditator and a negotiator. A fighter and a peacemaker. A strategist and an innocent kid. All of these together. And all of these in one man. May be every man.

I woke up with a kiss on my forehead. My lover turned, switched off the alarm and went back to sleep.

I got ready for work and headed towards the dining table for breakfast. He was already there, dressed in his smart business attire. He looked at me disapprovingly, “that combination doesn’t suit you. It’s making your face look dull.” I obeyed my ruler and went back into the room to change.

When I got into the car he was in some deep thoughts. He didn’t even notice when I sat next to him. And continuing to look in oblivion he said, “I am sorry. I acknowledge I have made a mistake. You were right.” He has been meditating about my words.

The car stopped at a crossing. He turned and asked, “Would it be okay if I stay in office till late today. And may-be even tomorrow? I can then ensure I don’t spend any time on office work over the weekend.” I knew his big meeting was scheduled for coming Thursday. And I also knew that the team will demand a celebration on Friday. But he negotiated it well with me.

The phone rang. It was the banker, reminding about the upcoming due date of loan payment. He seemed worried. “I know things are tight right now.” He turned towards me and continued, “But you needn’t worry. I will manage it all. Even if it means I work harder, I will do it.” I know the fighter in him will not give up. Not so easily.

The phone rang again. It was his mother, asking why he still hasn’t shared the income-tax documents with the chartered accountant. She was upset since his laxity was causing tension for his father. “Mom, I have ten things to manage. Please tell dad not to worry. I will do it in time.” Peace was restored.

Next ten minutes were spent in revisiting his plans and goals. “Earning money is not my objective”, he repeated the nth time. “You and I need to grow as individuals. Only then we can give our kids a right upbringing”. His strategy was clear.

It was time for me to get down. As I got down from the car, he looked at me, almost pleadingly. “Call me when you get some time. It helps.” The innocent kid wanted his share of attention.

He drove away.

A son to my parents. A father to my child. A friend to my friend.

And to me – he is all of the above.