In the olden days were independent houses with a garden around it in which would be found a lawn, a swing and of course a profusion of flower beds and the whole would be surrounded by a compound wall. This compound wall while being high on the outer perimeter would be a low one between the houses and would be the meeting point for the housewives in the adjoining houses. These walls did not divide people but helped in bonding them.
Very often the women from neighboring houses would cross over from their houses to a common spot and it would become a meeting venue for the housewives, whose husbands had gone to their work spots and children to schools or colleges. After completing the morning chores the homemakers would congregate to this compound wall and engage in animated conversation or some combined projects like knitting or other crafts especially during the winter months when the pleasant sun provided a warm ambiance. Younger women would learn from the older - these sessions were a good chance for counseling, teaching as well as gossiping. It lead to bonding between the women and strengthened the network of support so essential in an urban setting.
The present day scenario with stacks of flats provides ample opportunities by way of common corridors, balconies and others but sadly women hardly have the time to linger and enjoy each others company. They are either employed or if unemployed busy with the thousand and one errands so much a part of modern urban life.
Oh for a return of those days and sessions at the compound wall!
