Memories... which make me smile!

Writing was never my cup of tea but since it has fascinated me now, I keep observing things in my proximity and think about those.
Well the other day I was talking to my Mom about my brother who is just about to move to an engineering college to pursue his graduation. Mom was feeling slightly insecure and anxious as my brother was going out of the house for the first time. She was telling me how she felt when I shifted to Delhi for my graduation some 7 years before. She used to wonder if I would be able to settle down without her and Dad. They had heard about the scary things regarding a hostel life like wicked seniors, bullying and ragging by them, horrible dining-hall food etc. She thought I was quite reliant on them for almost everything.

I was too little scared and apprehensive by the thought of living all by myself. And there were times when I was taken a back by the conduct of my mates and others around me, at times it used to be difficult to fine-tune with my room mates and there used to be arguments over trivial issues like who uses the bathroom first in the morning, who sleeps under the fan in summers, who gets the more spacious cupboard, when should the lights be turned off in night etc.
But over time I learnt to fend for myself and adjusted with the things around. As I had to take the decisions for myself, I learnt from my own mistakes. It taught me to be tactful and patient and boosted up my confidence. And slowly I started enjoying my independence. Life evolved as fun thereafter and I spent the most eventful years of my life. I made great friends and learnt from them as well. I really miss those days when we used to have late night discussions on something, 5 of us pulling one person’s leg, having gossips about other batch mates, running for notes and books in exam times, celebrating birthdays and festivals together etc.

I believe everyone should experience the hostel life atleast for once in a life time. I would say, when you meet people from diverse backgrounds possessing different personalities, you broaden up your horizon and develop your interpersonal skills. In short a hostel life teaches you all kinds of survival skills in every sort of atmosphere. Another good lesson it teaches you is managing your money and recognizing the value it carries. I realized the importance of a 10 rupee note when I could buy my breakfast with that.

'The richness of life lies in memories we have forgotten'

I am happy to have experienced that and would always treasure those days. I wish that my brother enjoys the same.

Have fun!
Rich