The felicitation ceremony allowed for only one companion. It
was cruel. But that attribute had been mastered to perfection by the communist
government of West Bengal at that time in 1991. In their infinite wisdom or
twisted worldview, they had implicitly asked to choose one amongst the parents
to be with you when you were to be felicitated for your outstanding academic
performance in your 12th. (Lack of space was given as the reason
!!!)
So, it was decided. The father was to accompany him. The
elder one – the jewel in the crown. Outshining perhaps even the one who
couldn’t be outshone. Competitive exams mastered beyond expectations. A man of
exceptional intelligence – I was told later. I never did realize though, for
the longest time.
The mother was happy at the son’s incredible achievement.
But disappointed at having to miss out on such a prestigious occasion. The
younger one was 12, barely nibbling at the teens. He promised. There would be
another time. When it was his time. The mother smiled.
It was not to be. The distracted younger one muffled up.
Missed the only opportunity that was. Did the mother remember? Maybe. The son
never asked. But he would remember this. For life. He would also remember the
disappointed voice over the phone when he informed his father that his dream of
seeing both his sons attend the same college would not come true. For life.
18 years later, the father would go. No goodbyes. In that 18
years, the elder one continued to prosper. The younger one too, did spring
unexpected surprises and did fine. Neither of the sons had the opportunity to
express gratitude or love before he left.
The mother carried on. The younger one promised her to be
there whenever she needed him. This time, he did keep. 4 years later, Covid
struck. Being in different countries, with no possibility of travel, the mother
felt hopeless. The elder son made it a point to call everyday. Everyday – for 2
years. The younger one promised her again to visit – the day it allowed him to
travel and resolved to be there for her 75th.
Life had other plans. Travel restrictions remained through
September 2021. Destiny seemed to be unfavourable to the younger one. Then
suddenly, it turned. November 2021 – a month before her 75, easing of
restrictions were announced. Nudged by the wife, the younger one, despite
trepidation, very afraid, convinced, planned his visit. Landed and went home
unannounced. Rang the doorbell.
And saw her smiling. A smile delayed 23 years. Not a redemption perhaps but one to keep. For life.
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