Appu

They called him Appu. He lived under the bridge, his worldly possessions packed neatly in a shopping cart. The first thing he did on waking up was look around him, and laugh heartily. Next he would wash himself at the standpipe near the public toilet, and dress up neatly in his old but clean clothes.

The hawkers at the market would often take pity on him, and give him the left-overs, which was breakfast, lunch and dinner for Appu. Seeing the crumbs, he would laugh. All day long, he cruised the streets, watching the world, and laughing in joy.

Some called him a crazy old man. They made fun of him. They gave him the spoilt food. Some of the youngsters would push him. Some would throw small stones at him. And they would all laugh at the fun they were having. Appu would laugh with them. He loved them all. His was a happy and carefree life.

“He lives well who laughs often, loves much and sacrifices his own happiness for others.”