The 'pedigree' woman!

I've always had an appreciation for the fascinating trivia that unfolds in everyday life. These simple pleasures have the power to unleash positive vibes, breaking the monotony of the mundane. Allow me to share an anecdote that holds a special place in my heart; I'm grateful that my memory still obliges...

In those days, our locality was dotted with smaller shops where most groceries were sold in loose quantities. Corporate giants hadn't yet penetrated the retail business. Almost every small shop had its own math prodigy—an agile teenager who effortlessly calculated the sum of 'n' items in a matter of seconds. They would wrap the items in newspaper sheets with such precision that opening them at home became a delightful challenge.

Then came the day when a new supermarket ventured into our area with a grand inauguration. The terms 'offers' and 'discounts,' which had been alien to our shopping experience until then, made a ubiquitous entry. People began flocking to the store, lured by its eye-catching ads and enticing offers, despite its claims of selling 'branded' items displayed in a fashionable manner.

One evening, as I was shopping at the supermarket, I found myself in the throes of impulsive shopping—a trait often triggered by supermarkets. Determined not to overspend, I had painstakingly prepared a list before stepping into the shop, and I was trying my best to stick to it. Just then, I noticed a tall woman in her late sixties selecting ten packets of Pedigree dog food from the rack. Pedigree was known to be one of the costlier options at the time, and here she was, taking ten packets! As she proceeded to the billing table, everyone watched her in awe.

I considered myself fortunate to strike up a conversation with this intriguing woman. Her choice of a handloom saree and her humble demeanor touched my heart. I couldn't help but ask, "Ma, why did you buy ten packets?" She responded with an endearing smile and quickly went on her way, leaving me curious about her story.

Months passed, and one day, I happened to encounter the same woman near her home. Calling it a "home" would be a misnomer; it was more of a haven for her beloved pets—street dogs. At least a dozen strays found a cozy sanctuary in her humble housing board apartment. Despite their humble origins, these dogs appeared healthy and content, relishing their favorite delicacy, Pedigree, along with homemade food. Some of them were sick, and she showered them with affection and care. The scene that unfolded before my eyes was deeply touching. She introduced me to her furry family with pride. "Look! Appoo is dancing! He got his booster shot today! Aren't you surprised?" she exclaimed. "See! Stella is looking after her puppies—they keep her busy always!" She persistently voiced her concern for her beloved four-legged companions. As I left the place, I couldn't help but salute this remarkable woman. It felt as though her pets bid me adieu, singing, "Home sweet home...we're not alone! Here's our mom, her care is awesome!"

I later learned that she was a retired government teacher who had chosen to forgo marriage in order to care for these street dogs. She had invested a significant portion of her fortune in their well-being and even shared her monthly pension for their upkeep.

Truly, she was compassion incarnate—a real-life fairy godmother!