If Only
code at the counter, thumbs instinctively typing in her PIN. Fierce advocacy arose to phase out banknotes as it helped in preventing the spread of viral diseases. She even wrote a piece on it, titled “4 Reasons Money is a Relic of the Past”. Her mother disagreed, believing that the sudden transition had negative impacts on the poor and illiterate. Even her mother, who had graduated in the 80s, needed time to familiarise herself with new technologies. Then again, in times of global panic, changes happen almost instantly. “Thank you ah Aunty, you take care, okay,” Geeta smiles before turning to leave. She reciprocates with a slight squint at the corner of her eyes. Geeta wonders what’s on her mind and whether she’s coping well. She remembers her mother’s lesson of ‘Sonder,’ the word for realising that everyone’s life is as brilliant and intricate as ours. Her mother must know; she always lingered and chatted with everyone when she brought Geeta along for Pasar Pagi. She misses those trips. If only she’s still here now. If only the pandemic didn’t happen. If only she hadn’t been one of the unfortunate 2%. If only , she chokes.
74
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs