Wow, has it already been a year? So dear munchkins, sorry
but your mom is not going to say the usual. Both of you can (probably) already
sense that you have an eccentric mom.
Yes, you both have completed me in unimaginable and the most
loving ways but I love my work and that is also what completes me. Leave alone
a few days, I can’t imagine a day without looking at you both and holding you
both in my arms. But when I’m able to support the family
financially (in whatever little way), I feel equally overwhelmed. On your first
birthday, I strongly pray that both of you can find your passion and
purpose.
As preachy as I can get, I want to share two very important
lessons with you (yes, already). Though I don’t want you to get drowned under
the weight of my (our) aspirations, but I already imagine both of you in either
Harvard or Stanford (you have that choice). I miss having that proper
qualification, and trust me I strongly believe that it really matters, really,
really does.
Here is the first.
When I was in the 10th standard, just before my Maths board
exam, I cracked up. I had a tutor, at that time, who told me something that
still resonates. I cried inconsolably and thought I couldn’t appear for the
exam. He told me that the board exam is a minuscule exam compared to all the other
exams that life will throw at me (at least I had the time to prepare for the
Maths exam). Most of lives’ exams will give no preparation time. It was
something that was told to me almost 21 years back but I still remember these
words as they were so so true.
I want you both to know that you should never be afraid of any
exams or difficulty. We got your back, always.
And here comes the second.
There have been a lot of people overly concerned, lately,
inquiring if you started to walk and then drawing comparisons. I have been
confused about the reason for such urgency and trying to make everybody to be a
part of a race. Shreya and Shivansh, please remember that your mom and dad are not
in a hurry and intend to remain so. Do not feel inferior if you are behind. Never
get lost in a race. Just remember you are unique, enjoy that and give your best. If you fail, keep trying.
In the last one year, I’ve learnt a lot from both of you but
you know am a bad student. Every day I look at you both and feel envious. Why
can’t I be excited about such little puny things? Why can’t I be as forgetful
and as forgiving? Why can’t I be as happy and as carefree? Stay the happy and
beautiful babies that you are.
While I die of worry about my weight, work and our dwindling
moolah, you both sleep like (the way you should) babies. I wish we can give you
both the right rearing so you continue to sleep like that.
So much yours that even your dad feels like a stranger –
Your mom
