Harry MacLure
Tempted by overseas job offers, a great number of Anglo-Indians fly their nests early. Barring a few, this migrant group has no will to return home. This is disturbing at two levels. Due to migration, the Anglo-Indian population in India is dwindling considerably. And then, there is a rising number of Anglo-Indian senior citizens living alone. Old parents deserve the sacrifices children make for them.My 86-year-old mother has been luckier, because my wife is also committed to seeing her comfortable in her old age. Caring for my mom is among reasons why Jillian has not returned to her teaching career.
Jillian MacLure
Over the years, she has become extremely fond of me. When a job at a school in Dubai appeared on the horizon, she was distraught. I vividly remember how her face crumpled and tears started coursing down her cheeks. It stirred my heart. Seeing how we relate, many mistake us for mother and daughter.
Harry
Considering my unusual working hours, Jillian thinks we would meet only on Sundays if she went to work.
Jillian
As an illustrator, writer and publisher, he enjoys working in the quiet of the night. As a routine, he goes to bed at 2.30 a.m. and wakes up late. If I were working as well, I would have to rustle up a breakfast and leave it cold on the table for him.
Harry
Two incomes may enable a couple to live it up. Once hooked on an ostentatiouslifestyle, it is difficult to give it up. You'll end up slogging to maintain it. Family relationships suffer when materialistic pursuits become unduly important. As we believe simplicity contributes to a peaceful life, we have not bought into the utopia promised by consumerism. And, I believe greater and lasting happiness comes from putting people ahead of everything else.
Jillian
Anglos In The Wind (AITW), the international magazine for Anglo-Indian community he runs, is about people. It has enriched our lives with friendships. More than that, it serves the community. The magazine has facilitated Anglo-Indian reunions around the globe and finds succour for disadvantaged sections such as poor, lonely senior citizens.
Harry
We don't have children; and we are running AITW with the time we would have spent on children.
