Bring out the child in you…

This note is dedicated to all Dominicans- teachers and students.

“For in every adult there dwells the child that was, and in every child there lies the adult that will be” said John Connolly in "The Book of Lost things". 

Each one of us has a child within us. As we grow up, we lose much of our innocence and naughtiness, leaving back traces that shows up once in a while. With every growing year, we carry with us memories of our childhood, which is undeniably the most carefree part of our life. Think of your childhood days; and I’m certain it will bring a smile on your lips or a tear in your eyes. We were happier as children as we found joy in little things. Gone are the days when the sight of a butterfly, a new movie on television, the idea of a picnic, a rain holiday, a new dress, a chocolate or a small gift would make our day. All we had to worry about were the exams and surprise class tests and record books to be completed.

Today is children’s day, and it never used to be as boring as it is today. In school, Children’s day was a big day, colorful and power-packed. It was rather a month of celebrations with various competitions in all disciplines and prizes.  We used to start preparations for the D day almost as soon as the Teachers’ Day hangama died out. Teachers used to be dressed up in colorful attire; they danced, sang and acted and entertained us. How we waited anxiously for the dance and the play! I still remember some of the best dancers and singers among our teachers. I don’t want to name any of them in particular as they were all there, doing their best to entertain and enlighten us. We could see the child in them as they rejoiced with us. I recall how we were all stunned when Sister Rose Daphne, our Headmistress was dressed up in a frock with make-up; all set for a remarkable performance.  A special mention goes to the strict Maths teachers, whom we couldn’t even imagine dancing and charming us. The fun fair and the special children’s day gift from Chacha Nehru are unforgettable. We adored them, our teachers! I guess the celebrations are on even today, though we all miss it.  

Today, if I want to jump on the road or scream in a crowd, I would be rebuked for behaving childish or branded eccentric. The child in me yearns to come out and revel; and I let it out when I am at home by myself. We can still try to relish the little things in life that we fail to notice in the midst of our busy lives. All we need to do is to just slow down our pace, put that burden of responsibilities on our shoulder aside for a few minutes, and observe the beautiful things around us.

Happy Children’s day, not just to the little ones but to you too; it’s time to bring out the child in you!