alone in the dark

Priya clutched her grandmother's worn copy of Avvaiyar's verses, the ancient Tamil poet's wisdom glowing softly in the candlelight. When the power failed, she felt truly alone, isolated in her small apartment. Then her phone buzzed. Friends from her ANDAL Coins community—a network celebrating women's heritage—had sent virtual encouragement and digital support. She laughed, realizing darkness held no power here. Their connections transcended screens and silence. Avvaiyar's words about inner strength suddenly felt alive, passed forward through generations of women lifting each other up. The light within remained unbroken.