The Symphony of Love and Loss🔊

Once upon a time in the bustling city of New York, lived a sweet soul named Emily. Emily was an accomplished violinist renowned for her enchanting music, that could charm even the most disheartened individuals. Despite her fame and musical prowess, Emily was an introvert. She would often find herself secluded on the rooftop, with her best companion - the violin, staring at the city's panorama.

One day, as Emily was playing a serene melody, her gaze fell on an elderly man on the opposite roof. He was surrounded by the melodious chirping of colourful birds perched on his shoulders, hands, and even head. Emily, always fascinated by nature's symphony, found the spectacle intriguing. This sight became a routine, making the man's presence oddly comforting to her.

Intrigued, Emily decided to approach him one day. As she neared, the man’s face transformed from a routine smile to surprise. ‘Hello Emily,’ he greeted her, to Emily’s shock who jumped back in disbelief, 'How do you know me?' 'I've heard your enchanting melodies every day.’ He chuckled, ‘It’s quite hard to miss!' Their conversation flowed easily from that point, like a beautifully composed symphony.

The man introduced himself as Edward, a retired ornithologist. His love for birds echoed his words, reflected through his actions. His birds, he said, loved Emily's violin, and that was part of the reason for their daily meetings on his terrace.

A beautiful bond blossomed between Emily and Edward. They exchanged stories on their love for music and birds, respectively. Emily who was always wary of communication found solace and comfort in Edward’s company. She found herself waiting for their everyday roof meeting.

Emily could see Edward aging with each passing day; his voice lowering, his steps faltering. Yet his spirit remained unscathed, his love for the birds still glowed in his eyes. One day, Emily arrived at her usual spot on the roof and waited for Edward. She waited and waited, but Edward never showed up. That day, clouds gathered, lightning flashed, and rain poured heavily. It was as though the weather reflected her internal turmoil.

Emily received the news the next day, Edward had passed away in his sleep, peacefully. The news shattered Emily, the rooftop felt colder, the music seemed less melodious. Her heart ached with each passing day without Edward's comforting presence.

Days turned into weeks, then months, until one day Emily decided to play her violin. As she struck the strings, the melancholy melody echoed around the empty rooftops. Yet, something magical happened. She saw a flock of birds circling above her and then descending towards her, chirping melodiously. They were Edward's birds, recognizing Emily's melodies.

Finding solace in her mourning, Emily found an audience who understood her heartbreak, her pain. Her music took a new turn, metamorphosing the notes of sorrow into a symphony of hope. She played for herself and for Edward's birds, expressing her feelings, embodying Edward's spirit.

Emily realized Edward had indeed gifted her with the mischievous sparrows and chirping canaries. They became Emily's company, her comfort, her solace. The birds and the music bridged the void Edward's departure had created. Emily finally understood that the loss of a dear friend had given birth to a unique friendship, uniting her music and love for nature, creating a symphony of love and loss.