Black Ballet Shoes

 One of the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned was a pair of ballet shoes in the shade-black. They were soft and comfy and a delight to walk in. It broke my heart when they were absolutely worn out and I had to get rid of them. I have never owned a pair since. 

           Funny thing is, I had not purchased them by choice. I did not even believe they were good shoes...initially.

                                                        

 On a day when most stores were closed, a relative forced me to enter a wayside shoe store and buy something I liked. I was not exactly keen on the offer. Firstly because I find it awkward to accept presents from anybody except my parents. Secondly, the store was very shabby and the shoes on display were not exactly up my street. 

           When I refused to buy anything, the relatives themselves stepped in and picked out a pair. I scowled inwardly at the not-so-elegant pair while trying them on. When I found my size, I agreed to buy them and decided never to wear them anyway. And thus the ballet shoes came into my possession.

 It's funny how the most cherished items (people, materials, memories) in your life happen by accident. My shoes were an accident. And yet as I gawk at the cobbled streets of cities I want to visit, memories of my once favourite shoes fill my mind. My wanderlust soul has embodied itself into the perfect footwear. 

           The virus rages on as I sit in my homely prison for seven straight months. But when I am finally able to go out, I hope I am able to do that in my favourite type of shoe...