Quite often when one grows up, one realizes that the opinions and conclusions about events and people that were dear to one might have been flawed. That, there were instances when we erred- the realization strikes one hard and humbles one at the same time. The narrow prism with which one has viewed the world is often a reflection of the environment that one grew in. It could have been tolerant or intolerant. It could have been a happy one or one that evoked sadness. It could have been one where rules were essential or one where mistakes were accepted to be a natural part of growing up. Irrespective of the scenario that was, it is obvious that one would have been poorer without them. Life has its ups and downs. Acknowledging the mistakes that one makes and preventing a repetition enables one to live a better life. It has been rightly said, "Make mistakes. Learn from them. Move on."

The birds continue to chirp. Even though it is quite early, the road in front of my house is quite busy. School has reopened and the children can be seen walking down the road with their school bag. Some look sleepy, while some seem excited. A few serious ones are even thinking about the term tests that will begin in a week's time. The atmosphere is quite infectious in its own way. I am transported back to my school days. Just like those kids, going to school had its own pros and cons. Sometimes I would look forward to it, yet there were times when I wished to take a leave of absence. School days had an element of fun and work. A delicate balance was often required to be struck between the two. Teacher's had their own requirements and ensured that, as kids we studied hard. Naturally, there was play time as well, and I'd always hope to excuse myself from showing how lousy I was at games.Sometimes I'd curse myself and yet, at other times I'd bless myself. School, surely evoked feelings that amuse me today. As I look back, I realize how essential those formative years were. Going to school in its own way, shaped me and made me into who I've grown up to be. This is something that may not be measured. It is a set of experiences that determine one as an individual-one's approach to life and one's attitude during the sunny and cloudy days. The sense of equanimity with which one accepts the good and the bad. Life goes on and the education received at school * shapes the way in which one views the world, *how one interacts with others * approach to work and * resilience. The days pass quickly and once one steps out; at a sub-conscious level, one inevitably returns to what was taught at school in order deal with the situations that are encountered in life. Undoubtedly, college, peers, work environment have their own impact. But, a good foundation increases the chances of living better. After all, sometimes, a promising start is the catalyst needed to make a giant leap of faith.Life at school, through trials, tribulations, happiness, sorrow and unpredictability prepares us to face a life which will always be filled with uncertainties.School in its own way imparts lessons on courage and faith. Once, the days at school are over they are often remembered as memorable and happy days where we had the" time to stand and stare."

What happens when someone close to oneself passes away unexpectedly? A sense of despair sets in. One may walk about in a robotic manner, and the question , ‘why me?,' constantly echoes in the mind. The situation is hard and it takes immense courage to rebound, to return to the way one was, before losing their loved one. While life around seems unchanged, the way one views life may be altered. Ever since the day one is born it is said that their death becomes a certainty. Nobody escapes it. The only difference is that one may live to be a hundred and yet another may breathe their last, while still a toddler. Life and death are considered to be two sides of the same coin. It is hard to reconcile with the loss of someone who was yet to experience the vibrant youth, become an adult and graduate into old age over a period of time. The world may have lost a talent. In short, nobody knows what could have been had this child lived longer. For the parent and the sibling this is a huge blow. It may take years to recover. In some cases it results in a void that remains unfulfilled till they breathe their last. This does not imply that the death of an elderly has no downsides. The longer one lives, richer are their experiences. Human experience and subsequently behavior evolve over a period of time. These people, in all probability, created beautiful memories with their loved ones. The uniqueness in their interactions with those beyond their family and the way they were treated by their peers will remain unmatched. When they die they leave their children, grand children and their spouse behind. Many others are also left in their wake. Unknowingly, they may have touched their lives and made a difference for the better. The deceased does not return but the memories that they create are left behind. While facing such a loss it is hard and the memories, at least initially, cause pain. As time passes a new perspective emerges. That which caused pain transforms into cherished moments. They evoke joy and yet, retain a strange element of bitterness and sweetness combined. Those who love to preach may emphasize on the importance of detachment. That advice may be ignored as it is absolutely fine to retain the personal bond with a loved one who has gone into an unknown dimension. In my personal opinion it is human to shed tears and smile as one thinks of them. The one who is no more continues to be important-in their life and in their death. The departed deserves that respect. And, for those of us who may have interacted with the one who went away-Life will go on as usual. The one we lost will stay behind as a cherished memory. May be, someday, when we too, depart, we will meet those who went ahead. At the same time, we too will leave our loved ones behind, with nothing but, memories.