Grandma's Translator Friend

Ali's grandmother spoke Urdu, and their new neighbor spoke English. Their windows faced each other. Both smiled, both waved — but no words ever passed between them. Language stood like a wall. Ali owned a tiny device — Tarjuman. It listened in Urdu and spoke in English, then listened in English and answered in Urdu! Ali placed it in Grandma's palm: Grandma, this is your new friend. The next day Grandma picked up Tarjuman and said, How are you? Tarjuman instantly spoke in English: How are you? The neighbor clapped with delight! Then the conversations began — tea, old times, children's mischief. Once Tarjuman translated samosa as samsoon. Both ladies laughed until their sides hurt! Ali watched — one tiny machine had joined two lonely hearts. He decided: this Tarjuman will visit every elder in the neighborhood! On Eid, Grandma gifted the neighbor hand-sewn clothes. The neighbor's eyes filled with tears. Tarjuman translated: You are like a sister to me. They embraced warmly. Dear children, is there a lonely elder near you too? A smile, a few words — sometimes that is the greatest gift of all. Moral: Caring for our elders is the greatest kindness.