Slice Of Life: I cannot afford to retire, but work gives me peace

Despite my age, I work for 8-9 hours daily. As a watchman, I am required to wait outside the ATM and keep a close eye on whoever who walks in. At my age, people retire and stay at home and take rest. I just cannot afford to do that. I have three daughters, I used all my savings in finding them good husbands and getting them married. 

I had come from Chengalpattu to Chennai decades ago to find a decent living. I used to work in a steel factory, the wage was minimal. My family didn’t lead a luxurious life, but we managed with whatever I could provide. I ensured that I gave them a decent living. I would be lying if I say that I didn’t yearn for a son. However, as part of my responsibility, I got my three daughters married. 

I eventually retired from the steel factory but I had to find a job because my sons-in-law didn’t support me and my wife. One of them works as a waiter in a local restaurant and the other is an autorickshaw driver. Unfortunately, one of them passed away. We had to support our widowed daughter too for some time. They say that the son takes care of the parents but at the age of 76, I have to wake up early in the morning and head to work.  

I earn Rs 5,000 every month, out of which Rs 3,000 goes on rent and I only have Rs 2,000 for myself. That’s just barely enough but we have to manage. At this age, the medical expenses also adds up. However, there are some people on the premises where I work, who like me. They regularly talk to me and ask for my well-being and some of them give me Rs 5 – 10 for tea and coffee. I have nothing called savings as such and I have overcome all sorts of struggles. There is nothing more left to experience except for sitting here and spending the rest of my life peacefully in front of this ATM.