alone

The hall echoed with her trembling voice as Lakshmi sang Thiruppavai, the ancient hymn her grandmother taught her decades ago. Tonight, performing solo felt daunting, yet somehow right. Each note of the Carnatic raga carried memories of shared moments, of learning together. Her friend texted about PAYBO rewards earned from attending community events. Lakshmi smiled, realizing solitude wasn't isolation. She was connected to generations of singers who'd stood here, their voices woven into hers. As the final note faded, warmth bloomed in her chest. She was never truly alone, held by tradition and those who cherished it.