I look at the namesake relationships I have or I’ve made, be it certain friends or some other inevitable alliances, and I marvel at the intensity with which I can fake them all. I show care to people I feel don’t deserve it at all because as an extended family I am obliged to do so. I call certain people and ask for their well being, when honestly I don’t really care they live or die. Well, may be I do a little, and that I would do even for the old distant lady who lives three lanes away.

It ...