A Circle of Time

When I retired from service, a sense of uncertainty loomed over me. For years, my life had been structured around my work, and now, without it, I found myself adrift. The one skill I possessed that seemed transferable was my ability to teach mathematics. I decided to offer tuition to school students up to the 10th standard, hoping it would give me a sense of purpose.

Initially, there were only a few students, and I conducted my classes in a small room at the front of my house. However, as word spread about my tutoring, the number of students gradually increased. Soon, the area outside my home was packed with bicycles, a testament to the growing popularity of my classes. It was heart warming to see so many eager young minds gathered to learn, and it filled me with a renewed sense of fulfilment.

Among these students, there was one who stood out and left an indelible mark on my heart. She was a 7th standard student, an innocent girl with a purity that shone through her demeanour. Her earnestness and sincerity were evident in every interaction. She had a way of asking questions and expressing her thoughts that touched me deeply. Despite her innocence, I often worried about how she would navigate the complexities and harshness of the world beyond the classroom. Her gentleness seemed almost too fragile for the challenges she might face.

Time, as it inevitably does, moved on. Years turned into decades, and my life continued to be enriched by the many students who came and went. Each one left a unique impression, but the memory of that innocent girl always lingered. I often wondered what had become of her, hoping that she had found her way in the world.

Today, after 20 years, as I was going about my routine, the doorbell rang. I wasn’t expecting anyone, so I approached the door with curiosity. When I opened it, I was greeted by a familiar face, though time had added a layer of maturity. It was her, the unforgettable student from so long ago. Memories of our interactions from two decades past flooded back, and I was momentarily speechless.

She stood there, smiling warmly, and handed me a wedding invitation. As I took it from her, emotions surged within me. We spent some time catching up, talking about the intervening years. She shared her journey, the ups and downs, and how she had navigated life’s challenges. Listening to her, I felt a profound sense of pride and relief. She had indeed survived and thrived in the world I once feared would be too harsh for her gentle spirit.

Before she left, she did something that moved me deeply. She bent down and touched my feet, a gesture of respect and gratitude that brought tears to my eyes. It was a moment of profound connection and acknowledgment of the bond we had shared. 

As I watched her walk away, I reflected on the passage of time and the impact we can have on each other’s lives. The innocent girl I once knew had grown into a confident and graceful woman, ready to embark on a new chapter in her life. And in that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of fulfilment and joy, knowing that I had played a small part in her journey.

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