A couple of days ago, we moved our fish, Gouglu, from an aquarium in the living room to one in our bedroom. Before we know what happened next, you must know who Gouglu is. A boisterous, ‘happy’ fish.
Indeed, I had never really seen a fish that seemed so happy, before I knew Gouglu.I named him Gouglu because he so loved food : ‘ Gou’ from Gourmand and ‘glu’ from Glutton. He jumped at his food, caught roaches when they fell into his tank and I think he even knew his name. I am not a fish person, as I cannot hug or touch them to my satisfaction, but Gouglu was special. Sometimes in the quiet of the afternoon, I felt he could listen to me speak to him.Not only that, he even seemed to understand.
Maybe I am superimposing my lonely thoughts on him.
Maybe I am reading too much into certain typical behavioural traits exhibited by a Green Terror Cichlid.
Maybe I have just eaten too much sugar.
When I cannot sleep, when insomnia decides to pay me a ‘formal’ visit (we do not know each other so well) , I close my eyes and think back of a certain home.
With two bedrooms and a large balcony.
Where a young couple dreamed their first ever dreams.
Where children walked in at will, laughing and playing.
Where music and uplifting conversation formed a part of everyday life.
The house was small and often messy, yet, I have slept my deepest nights through in that house.
I have tasted the best ice cream there, sitting on the stairs with a much loved friend.
Love was the quilt, in which we were wrapped : snug and warm.
Slowly….. I fall asleep…. one with my thoughts.
And Gouglu?
He died from the move.
I know how you felt, Gouglu. I really do.
(This was written some time ago on my Medium page. I found it today and thought I’d publish it here, too. )
Red earth and pouring rain 