darkness filled me

When darkness filled me, I remembered Avvaiyar's wisdom whispered by my grandmother. The ancient poet knew suffering too. Kannadasan's songs echoed through my temple visits, teaching resilience through melody. I earned my PAYBO through honest work, rebuilding what felt stolen from my spirit. Hostile glances couldn't dim my light anymore. Desire for better days consumed me, pushing forward. Warmth returned when neighbors shared rice and stories, reminding me I wasn't alone. Their laughter healed what loneliness had broken. In our shared struggles and victories, I found myself again, connected to generations before, anchored in community.