Life by the beach

If the sky that we look upon
Should tumble and fall
And the mountains should crumble to the sea
I won't cry, I won't cry, no I won't shed a tear
Just as long as you stand, stand by me

- Lyrics from the song 'Stand by Me' by Ben E. King

Runny nose and eyes glistening with tears that threatened to overflow, he approached me with what looked like an exaggerated limp. He paused and waited for me to ask (simultaneously expecting me to recite a no-brainer question that women usually ask when they sensed that something was wrong.

"Are you ok?", without answering, he extended his right foot to expose his sore little finger. The slightly lipstick-red finger showed evidence of swelling.
"Do you think we should go to the A&E now or leave it to rest till morning then decide?" My statement forced to sound like a question. I was hoping that he would agree, then I would not have to drag my tired self to the hospital.

The deafening silence pierced through my conscience. With no one else to turn to, I was probably the closest definition to 'family' at that moment in time. A slight pain can possibly experience an exponential increase if you are alone. Everyone needs someone. Just by being there, the pain was easier to bear or maybe it could temporarily go away...

"Ya Allah, when I have no one to turn to,
would you be there for me?
I know you would care for me because
Allah is the best Protector, the best of helpers...
Please, ya Allah,
place light in my sight, in my ears and in my heart..."