Containing hiccups

 


Jean Valjean is the protagonist in the classic novel by Victor Hugo. His story of his incarceration in jail, release,  the reformation and success  is the story line in ' Les Miserables'.


I am going to tell you about a boy who had impressed me much due to his energy, service and attitude towards work etc.  The boy overwhelmed me  in the ICI canteen as a server.  His hardwork and pleasing manners earned him a job as a society clerk, a temporary contractual job.  Later when he was absorbed as a staff in Zeneca I was happy that  he deserved and earned what he stood for.

After shifting of Zeneca from Ennore premises I lost contact with him but was sure that he would have excelled in career wherever he was.  Hs name is Rajendran.


In the year 2013, after VRS from ICI in 2002 I was working in Anthus Pharmaceuticals in Kilpauk.  On the second day of August I  re joined in office after an Angioplasty,  with two stents and  a lighter heart;  but a heart full of thanks to Almighty for keeping me healthy with an extended period of life.  After lunch from a hotel in Taylor's Road I was coming back to my office.  A stout man called my name and came running towards me.  


Sir, my name is Rajendran who worked in ICI canteen and narrated his contacts in those period to instill faith.  Because his present appearance was entirely different from that of a boyish look then. He said that he was at that time employed as a staff in Food Corporation of India, Egmore and  is on an emergency, pleaded for my help.  He thanked God for  presenting me in front of him at that critical juncture. 


 His brother had committed suicide and his body after post mortem procedures in GH had to be taken to his native Salem for which he has already spent around ₹2 lakhs.  He asked money for a group to go to native by train.  His entourage was expected from Tambaram at the railway station. I could not refuse and took him to the nearest ATM where money was given.  


He promised the money to be returned in a week and gave his mobile number and noted my number also.  Now almost eleven years, his number is not working and I am still searching. I wanted to forget this incident,  but every now and then when I lift my debit card to draw money from any ATM this incident comes to my mind.  Has Jean Valjean lost the track and gone back to his old habitat?

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