I never thought I could feel lonely, but today I know I can.

In all these years, I never felt lonely—at least, not in a way I remember.

But today, there’s a quiet sadness. She left for a 10-day Vipassana course in Pushkar, and though I understand its impermanence, I can’t ignore the shift within me.

My breath is heavy, my eyes a little wet. When I’m busy, she quietly waits for my call, but just knowing she’s there has always been enough to keep me going.

I never thought I’d be someone who feels this way. I don’t usually miss people; I don’t get attached to feelings. I live moment to moment. Yet, this time, it’s different.

A day before she left, she made aloo ke paranthe for me. Before leaving, she insisted on preparing dinner so I wouldn’t have to bother with kitchen chores. She has been to many courses before, even a 20-day one, but I never felt like this.

This time, it feels like a part of me is misplaced.

In simple words, I miss her. And for the first time in a long while, I feel lonely today.