HAPPY CHOTI DIWALI

Some years back, while exchanging gifts I visited my old teacher. I was really glad to meet her. When I visited, I came to know one of his sons is in the Indian Army. We had some genuine talks over a cup of tea. I would like to share some glimpses of that:

“Ma'am, how do you feel when on this very bright occasion, one of your sons is on the borders? Do you ever called him to come?” I questioned as I was curious what a family feels.

She replied,” Yes, everyone wants to see his son celebrating with the family. But I never called him, soon after he joined the Army, as I knew. He won’t come.”

“What about his family, son (Kushal) and daughter (Piya) and wife. Don’t you think it feels good.” I asked hesitantly.

She called his wife to reply, ”Namastey Didi, I want this to happen on every festival and occasion, but I know his primary duty is to serve the nation as we don’t want that fireworks will turn to the blast, which will destroy the entire family of someone. It’s better to make some compromises to restore the happiness of others. Even Kushal and Piya feels pride that his father is always ready to be the smile of millions of people, despite he knows him.”

Concluding my teacher taught me a beautiful lesson after that I usually suggest people visit some army’s, police family to wish them Diwali, “Beta, we feel good when someone visits to celebrate and congratulate the victory of my son. Not every mother dares to send her son to the army or police. We must respect then as when we are celebrating they are giving heavy duties to rescue us from any possible loss.”

GREETINGS ON CHOTI DIWALI

When I was the kid, this day is one of the admired days of my life. This day uses to be the day of fireworks, sweets, exchanging gifts and a lot more. This day not only gives the best possible gift to our festive week but also give a kick to our expectations for tomorrow. But as I am growing wiser with time, I chose something else to celebrate this Festivals of Lights. I visit those people who need my love and concern, not the gifts. This Diwali visit border areas to wish army people, on the roads greet police personnel as they are managing our security, or visit an orphanage, old age home, they all will be happy to see you than those who are just exchanging the gift for the sake of formality only. Shorten the list of gifts and broaden the list of to do which will give you happiness. Exchange sweets and love.

Shailja