I look at our planet from afar , it looks rather small from here . A drop in an ocean . In this vast expanse , known as the universe . We should not matter . Yet we do . All the wars , earthquakes , famine  , money , animals , greed , insecurity , our inherent goodness , trivial matters of the heart , competition between friends and brothers all exist in this tiny blue planet . These things loom large in our minds  , in our consciousness . Yet if you take a shuttle and travel a million miles away from our planet like I do , then all these things fade away . At least the things that do not matter fade away . The thing that sticks is love . Not money , or power or fame . Only Love stays behind . But sadly as you get closer to our revolving planet , so beautiful on the outside . Yet inside , it is filled with loneliness and  terror and jealousy . That to me is strange . We have come so far , yet we are so behind .

My name is Plato and I'm a space traveler . And this is my story . I collect rare minerals from planets in our galaxy and other planets in far away galaxies as well . I was born in a poor family . I stayed with my parents until I was about 12 years old , and I moved away to make a living on my own . I remember my parents , they were not sad to see me go . There was a sigh of relief on their faces . I did not make too much of it , I had 5 other siblings . So I understood their reaction . My mother even packed me a sandwich for me . So , I made my way to Russia . From Greece , that is where I was born . And I was named Pluto after the great Philosopher Pluto . To this day , I do not know why they named me Pluto . There is not even the slightest of resemblance to the great man . So yes , I packed my bags and took along the sandwich my mother made for and headed towards Russia . I had a friend who moved there about a year ago . His name is Dimitri . He too was born to a family who was relieved to see him go . I had to reach this place called Minsk .

My father had already purchased a train ticket for me , the previous day . As I reached the train station . I took out the ticket and handed it to the ticket collector . The train station was grand and neat and tidy . A stark contrast to where I came from . The ticket collector guided me to the platform where the train was waiting for us . I boarded the train and seated myself in the assigned seat . There were hardly any people in my Wagon . Only a couple of old people and a few businessman . There was no one my age or even close to my age . But that did not bother me . I was considered large for my age . I had really broad shoulders and I was about 5 foot 8 . really tall for my age . Plus I was growing a stubble . And I certainly did not fear anyone . I could stand up to anyone . The neighborhood I grew up , certainly was not a fairytale . It had alleyways you would not dare step on in your wildest dreams . I could fight a bit as well, my father taught me to fight when I was about 5 years old . He used to always say to me . You are really strong son . You have to take care of the family one day . One day i would need to , I thought . But right now  i need to be away from them . I looked outside the window and the train started to move away from the platform slowly . I was a bit nervous and even excited as well . This is a great chance for me to escape poverty . I just have to work hard and I will be fine .  It would take a couple of days to reach Minsk . An old and cold Russian town . A perfect place for a nuclear reactor . Far away from civilization . The train was far away from the station and now it began to gather steam . This was the first time , I was stepping outside my hometown

Two days later

A couple of days had passed . And I was really sure that not a single word was uttered in the cabin , except when the attendant had come . There was a bit of a commotion when we entered Russia . The official had asked this one Gentleman for some documentation . And his documents had some problems . So , he was asked to leave . And this fine gentleman thought it was a good idea to throw a fist on the official . I think he was just desperate to reach Russia . And as he almost landed a punch on the face of the official .He started to whistle and a lot of there officers , this time in police uniform came in and dragged that gentleman out . They did not take a second look at me . I think they just thought I was harmless . So , the train reached cold Minsk . It was bout 7 PM . I looked out the window as the train made its way to the platform . I was indeed searching for Dimitri . I looked around and i started to worry , he would not be there . As the train halted , I looked at the entrance to the Train station , there he was Dimitri . Just beside the entrance . I was really relieved . I took my bags , and got down from the train and entered the platform . Dimitri was a couple of years older than me , but if you were to ask a stranger . They would bet their life that I was older than he was . He was a small kid , scrawny and there was no stubble or anything of that sort . Although he had the most beaming smile I have ever seen on a person . It was just pure optimism , it indeed was a rare quality .

I followed Dimitri outside the train station . An old trains station which was quite resembling an old Russian town . It was snowing that time of the year , and as it turns out it snows quite often here . We walked out of the station , into the town . Great , it thought from one beat up old town to another . Dimitri picked up his pace and I followed him , with the heavy bags hanging over my shoulder . I finally managed to catch up with Dimitri . Dimitri , where is our accommodation . Is it inside the campsite . I asked him naively . to which Dimitri replied . Only if you want to die . He replied . And he said it in such a way , that I knew he really meant it . We stay a mile away from the campsite , which is the Nuclear reactor . Dimitri suddenly stood still and looked at me . He said , do not take this job lightly . It could get you killed . And plus too , they asked for a strongman . That is why you are here . I asked Dimitri , well . What do you do ? Are you an accountant . To which he replied , something like that . It was clear to me that Dimitri had changed . He was not the same person I once knew . He was hardened by the world . Rather hardened by the environment around him . We were all hardened kids , that was the way we grew up . But Minsk had its own way , that's what Dimitri said to me . We finally reached our accommodation . As I looked at it from the outside , I thought it was alright . It was a a 3 story building and it was really long . It had a lot of windows and I saw smoke come out from most of the windows . Dimitri saw me looking at the smoke , he said . Plato , its Minsk . everybody smokes here . You will too shortly . To which I replied , that is a habit I certainly will never pick up . He was right and I clearly was very wrong . I smoke to this very day . We went tot he third floor of the building . The stairs were alright , not all that too broken . Dimitri picked up a pair of keys and he opened the door . We went it . I looked around the room . It was alright . It was indeed quite spacious . As big as the house we lived in Greece , well almost . Dimitri switched on the lights . Only the two of us ? i asked him . To which he replied No . We stay with another person , a Russian . He is older than us and he is an orphan . That's too bad , I replied . What is his name ? i asked Dimitri . The Russian ? his name is Sergey . Just mind your business and he will mind his . Replied Dimitri . I said , yes Sir .

That right there is your bed , he said . Pointing towards the corner of the room . It was alright , although there was no bed . Just a Mattress . Go to sleep Plato , Dimitri said . We have to be there at the worksite early in the morning . And it is your first day at work . We certainly do not want to be late . To which I replied , Yes sir . I would like to be really early tomorrow . Good , said Dimitri . And Sergey I asked , he will not be here tonight . Did I not tell you about the whole mind our business thing , just now . Yes , sorry . I said and went right to sleep . As I was half asleep . Dimitri woke me up . Did you have something to eat , I forgot to ask you .

That is quite alright Dimitri , I am not too hungry . I replied

The next morning

I got up , and again it was just the two of us . I was yet too meet Sergey . Me and Dimitri got ready really early and left for the worksite . He had a Identity card on himself . What is that ? I asked him . That is for identification . He replied . You will get one too . We walked hurriedly , and I slowly began to realize that was the normal walking speed of his . As we walked ahead , I asked Dimitri

Any rules , that I have to follow . You know , something that should stay on the top of my mind .

Just keep your head down and do your work . He replied

That is fairly simple . I thought to myself

Finally we reached the worksite . It was a really huge building . Again a bit old , but i could say it was well maintained . The whole place was covered with electric fences , so no one could break inside at night . Which caught me by surprise . Why would someone break into a building which was surrounded by armed guards . Dimitri entered past the fences , he showed his ID card to the armed guard who was there at the entrance . He spoke something , I could not hear properly and he pointed at me . The guard glanced at me and then waved me in . I kept my head down , just like Dimitri had said

There were many buildings inside the fence , which I realized only after entering the compound . From the outside , it does not look like there were so many buildings . Anyway Dimitri again walked at his usual pace , and I had to catch up to him . He made his way to the office building . All the lights were on , as it was dark outside . There was a middle aged lady seated there with thick glasses on .

Dimitri pointed towards her and he said . Let's go meet her . You will have to fill in some details and then some other formalities , he said . So we walked towards the desk where she was seated . So you are the new recruit ? She asked me . To which I replied yes . We need you to take a photograph first and have a few tests taken , she said . Go there , the lady pointed . There you will have your photograph taken and then come back here , I will take you to room where the tests are to be taken . What tests , I asked Dimitri . As I was too scared to take ask the lady . Just some fitness and medical tests Plato , he replied . You need not worry about it . So , I went to the room and had my photograph taken by a man . I think he was a military man , that was my initial assumption of him , mainly because of the way he spoke . He smoked a cigarette too while he clicked my photo . After taking some photos , he simply said , you are done here . Then I went back to the lady and then proceeded on to take some tests . Dimitri got busy with his work , as I did not see him till the afternoon break . After the tests were completed , we had a lunch break in the canteen . The food was alright , although it was Russian . I did not seem to mind at all . The food was not too hot , that was the only complaint I had . As we were having our food , we were joined by another working member of the plant . He came and put his food down on the table . I could say he was not taking the job too well . He had a tired  look on his face which was permanent through out our first encounter . Andrei , his name was . And Andrei was about 5 years older than I was . He was strong , but not as strong like me . You are the new recruit , he asked . To which I replied , yes . I think they might pair up the both of You , Dimitri said . Andrei laughed . How old is this kid ? 14 , 15 . He asked Dimitri . 12 , I replied . 12 years old ? Too young to be travelling in a vehicle . That's his job Andrei , said Dimitri . Andrei stared at me , as though he was analysing my capabilities . Let's see about that , he finally replied . He is a fast learner , Dimitri said . I pack a puck too , I said . And to this day I think it was a foolish think to say . We are not in the army kid , Andrei said . We just transport nuclear waste and dump it in a yard far away from the people . And personally between you and me kid , I don't even think it is legal . We do illegal things here ? I asked naively . It's the Russian government. There is no such thing as legal and illegal . These lines are not blurred , they are completely erased . I simply replied , ok . My time here is done , he said to the both of us and left . It's a tough job driving a vehicle , I asked Dimitri . It is if you have to wear a mask all the time , he replied . I again simply replied , ok . So what do they need you to do next . Asked Dimitri . Now I go to the inventory store and pick up my kit . Then I am done for the day . I have to report here at 6 in the morning . Did they ask yo my for a drivers license . No they said they will arrange it for me . Ok , said Dimitri . You head home and i will join you later . So , I finished my lunch and headed towards the inventory store . They handed me a slip where I had to sign . Saying I was responsible for the clothing and any form of poising because of the tear in suits and broken masks . They were responsible at all for the posting that could occur . And if I lost the suit or gear . I had to pay out from my pocket . The man clearly said . Careful son , these items are not cheap by any measure . I replied . Yes sir . I shall be very careful with the clothing . Ok you can go . He said . Again he looked to me , like he was a military officer. Why were there so many military officers in a place like this i wondered . But I didn't think too much of it . I took my things and went to the house where we were lodged . I had the keys . A pair for myself . Opened the door and went it . Again there was no sign of my roommate at all . Which made me wonder . Would I even see him at all . I looked outdoors the window . There was one on the streets , and it started to snow again a bit . Great , I thought to myself

Plato , lets go . Said Dimitri . You better be early he said . You do not want to be early and keep the driver waiting . Warned Dimitri . I jumped out from my bed , got ready really quickly and left along with Dimitri for work . As i left , i looked into into the other room , a man much bigger than me was sleeping covered under a blanket . Sergey , I thought . Me and Dimitri left the house and walked towards the plant . You will need to pick up your identity card before you leave in the truck , he warned . You packed your suit , Dimitri asked . to which I replied , yes . What about you Dimitri , why don't you have a suit . I asked him . I work in administration , Plato . You do not need a suit for administrative work . That's in the office , I asked him . Yes , he replied .

You know , Plato . Between you and me , I would prefer to do outside work than sit all day at the office . Its just boring .

Why don't you work outside then , asked Plato

I'm just not cut out for it . Replied Dimitri

Ok , said Plato and two of them walked towards the office

The entered the electrified fences and Dimitri went to his office , while Plato went and got his ID card from the old lay who was yet again sitting there . She never leaves the place , thought Plato

The old lady handed over the ID card and said to Plato . Go tot he dead end and take a left You will have the changing rooms . And please wear your mask. She said

Once you are done , come and meet me here . She said

Yes Madam , said Plato and went to the changing room

Plato changed into his hazmat suit and reached the desk of the lady .

In a muffled voice , he said . Is it going to be like this everyday he asked the lady

Yes , she replied . You can take the mask off in the truck , where it will be concealed . The other places I'm afraid not . She said

Son , she said . Be careful . You are dealing with nuclear waste here .

Plato nodded

Wait here , your partner will arrive anytime with the truck , the old lady said

And son , she said . Watch and learn .

Watch and learn , she repeated herself

Yes Madam , Plato replied

After a few good minutes , the truck finally arrives

Bye , he said to the lady

He went and got onto the passenger seat . The driver was not wearing a mask

Remove your mask , said the driver

Andrei exclaimed Dmitri .

Yes , fate would have it that we are partners on the first day itself

This certainly makes me happy , said Plato

Andrei , are we going to be permanent partners , asked Plato

Do not think so far along , Plato . Said Andrei . Only for this month . Then they shuffle us again

OK , replied Plato

I have loaded the waste on to the truck . Now its your job to make sure the last of it is dumped on the waste site .

And Plato , do not forget to wear your mask. warned Andrei

I wont , said Plato

Good , said Andrei and started his truck

The truck rode on in the damp and muddy roads . Which clearly bothered Andrei

These roads , I tell you . Sighed Andrei

Just like it was ,  back at home , remarked Plato

You are from Greece too , asked Dimitri

Yes , replied Plato

Greece , same like Russia . Asked Andrei

Somewhat , not as cold as Russia . Replied Plato

Is it hard to drive this truck , asked Plato

Not that hard , you will learn it in no time . replied Andrei

Will you teach me ? asked Plato

Sorry Plato , I do not have the permission to teach you . A senior instructor will teach you . When they think you are ready

I'm ready . Said Plato

It made Andrei laughed .

Plato laughed too

The truck drove through the roads , there was hardly any other vehicle on the roads

Minsk is always like this ? asked Plato

Lile what ? asked Andrei

No one on the roads . said Plato

Minsk , is a strange town Plato , said Andrei . It is a nuclear town . Not many towns like this in Russia . Not even the world

Only Scientists , Military officers and people who work for the government . Only these people live in Minsk

And people like us , said Plato

We work for the government , replied Andrei

The truck made its way out of the limits of the town . And there was large spaces now all over which were not occupied at all.

And after a while , the truck entered an enclosed area . This place was again covered by electric fences . A vast area , as big as a town itself . the enclosed area

We are early , said Andrei

There is no one else here . He added

Now Plato , we go to the yard at sector - 45 . That is where we dispose the nuclear waste

Sector - 45 . asked Plato

Yes , that is the trucks number as well . Each truck has a number and is assigned a sector accordingly

What happens to the waste Andrei , is it dangerous ? asked Plato

Do not ask questions whose answers you do not want to know Plato , replied Andrei

Plato Kept quiet

They crossed sector -1 , then 2 and then after a while 10 and what looked like an hour , they reached sector - 45

This is the place Plato , where we dump the waste . Said Andrei

And Plato , since this is the first day , I will help you . From tomorrow onwards you are on your own . Said Andrei

Now put on your mask , Instructed Andrei

Plato at once put his mask on .