OLD FEELINGS, NEW INTERPRETATION

 

OLD FEELINGS, NEW INTERPRETATION

 

Sometimes a random memory pops into the head without reason —like an old  minor incident or scene—and it completely changes how we see it a  now.

Impressions from ordinary routine happenings often hold a quiet transformative power, elevating seemingly trivial forgotten events into unforgettable instances of grounding and personal refinement. Life is not defined solely by extravagant deeds, but rather by the accumulation of small, seemingly insignificant moments, actions, and experiences.

 

I visited a friend in January this year  to meet his son and daughter-in-law, who had come with their six-month-old baby daughter from Assam where they live.

 

The door was opened by a little girl flashing a big smile , surely no older than 12 years, holding the baby close to her chest. I couldn't help asking her name and if she went to school. Sadly, I learned she doesn't. Mansi (she pronounced it मंसी ) — that was her name, politely asked me to be seated. She went inside and returned with a glass of water for me, telling me that “saab and ma’am” would be would be right out.

 The host’s family filled the room, the air thick with chatter and laughter. The daughter-in-law sat cradling her baby , the centre of everyone's attention. But my gaze kept drifting towards little Mansi. She stood quietly behind her mistress, nearly invisible in a corner of the room . Soon I bid goodbye and left.

 

At first, I treated the visit as a casual courtesy call, barely giving it a second thought. But  a couple of days ago, the memory suddenly forced its way into my mind, gripping me with its poignancy.

What struck me was the quiet radiance on little Mansi’s  face—eyes sparkling with genuine joy, and a perpetual smile on her face. She looked utterly content in her role. Watching her, I realized she was masterful at what she did, moving with a blend of tender care and quiet dedication that went far beyond mere duty.

 

Recalling the sequence of events I felt really sad seeing the little girl working, because at that  age she should just be carefree, go to school, play & have fun, ,but here she was working.

 

Now as  I sat in silence, grappling with the starkness of that memory: a little girl with a little(r) baby clinging to her hip!, I realized how important it is to be good at whatever you do,no matter what you do. I myself am pretty bad at many things or don’t do things with enthusiasm. It is good to accept things as they are and face them, as that incredible little girl was doing. Happiness is sure to follow.

 

So the moral of this story is that we can learn small or big lessons in life from people around us, people like little Mansi, who probably doesn’t even understand the meaning of a blog .But thanks to her I am writing this.