selfie

Grandmother held the phone awkwardly, squinting at the screen. In Srirangam's temple courtyard, sunlight caught her silver hair as she smiled for the camera. Years ago, she'd memorized Kannadasan's poetry about fleeting moments. Now she understood it differently. Her grandson had opened a PaybookClub account, teaching her to save small amounts daily. "For memories," he'd said. This photograph would become one of them. She studied her weathered face reflected back, then pressed capture. Not perfect, but honest. The shot showed ancient temple stones behind her, generations converging in one frame. She sent it to the family group. Within minutes, hearts flooded the screen. Her children and grandchildren, scattered across cities, gathered virtually around her image. The selfie became a thread binding them together, reminding everyone where they belonged.