“Men are just desserts,” Sana smilingly states. “So what is the main course then?” I ask.

“Well, life is; a happy, independent one. Remember Rafia, you do not needa man, you only want one.

“And, this difference between need and want sums up your emotional desires,” Sana continues.

“You are right, perhaps. But, what if I ‘want’ someone and he says no; I would be really hurt,” I blurt out.

“Do not be intimidated by this likelihood, it may shut out your world to new possibilities. Hurt makes you grow. Be open to the possibilities around you and let the surprises welcome you in their own remarkable ways,” Sana finishes and gets up.

Her words continued to echo, as I internalised their value.

Also read: The heart’s filthy lesson

I led an independent and successful, yet emotionally private life. When girls my age were dating and getting married, I was concerned about my qualification and laurels. And when they were in the family way, I was stepping up the corporate ladder.

Getting committed was never on my agenda, now never appeared to be the right time.

Essentially, I always had better things to do. Not to say that I didn’t experience an emotional see-saw of varying kinds, every now and again; but mostly, I stood my ground and did not let such occurrences dampen my spirits.