How long did we have the car? A full 16 years. 

We made several trips to Tirupati in it. To this day, I wonder: without this car, would we have visited the temples as frequently? Having our trusted driver gave us the freedom to travel whenever we wanted. 

I tend to form attachments to things—not out of materialism, but out of appreciation for what they’ve given me. Everything, from plants to birds and even inanimate objects, exudes a certain energy. When we are attuned to these vibrations, happiness quietly follows. 

During a Pranic Healing course, I learned to sense the energy in objects. It may seem like a matter of belief, but I’m convinced our WagonR had a strong, positive energy. 

The car was particularly helpful during my eye treatment in Pondicherry. We made countless trips there for injections that were more affordable than in Chennai. From overnight stays to follow-ups, the car was our reliable companion. 

There was only one mishap—our car brushed against a stray cow on the way back, denting the front door. Other than minor scratches typical of Chennai traffic, the car served us well. 

When we built our house, my wife frequently used the car for errands. Knowing she was traveling safely with our driver gave me peace of mind. 

The only downside was when we left for the U.S. for extended stays—the car would sit unused, requiring maintenance upon our return. During the 2019 lockdown, the car suffered damage from heavy rains, necessitating major repairs. 

Reluctantly, we decided to give it away before our next U.S. trip in 2023. I missed the car terribly during my cancer treatment, and parting with it was a sad affair. 

I will always remember this car with love. 

Contd. 374. Barable