A son is a son till he takes him a wife, a daughter is a daughter all of her life. ~Irish Saying
It was the time when Muskaan graduated from her play school and was all set to go to “BIG” school. It was her last day in her play school and we were invited to attend their farewell ceremony. After a farewell dance and song from juniors, we went to her class, where teacher handed over her first report card and an envelope. I opened it and saw a paper framed on a cardboard, with two blue tiny handprints on it. On left side was Muskaan’s Name and date on which they were taken. I smiled, it was very cute.
The teacher said “This is a priceless gift from our side to you. You might not feel it today, but will realize its importance one day”.
I came home, not sure of what to do, I made a folder, where I kept her report card and this memento. As time passed, I collected all her school records in the same folder, including her report cards, certificates etc.
A few weeks back, my mother visited us. On a leisurely afternoon, Muskaan wanted her Nani to see all her achievements and academic records. Since we were free, so I took out that folder; as she flipped certificates and pages, I was feeling proud, as if I have won them. In the end, I reached the place where those handprints were kept. Muskaan saw them and was happy to see her handprints. She kept her hands on it and I saw the difference. I realized what teacher told me that day. Suddenly that page was priceless for me; I can never get those tiny handprints again. They will be different. After a few years she will go… I was so lost in my thoughts I never realized someone read my mind that moment.
Yesterday, I received a courier. Very unlikely, as I get such mails on festivals and occasions only. I opened the envelope and saw a coloured photocopy of two tiny green handprints, where my name was written on one side and date was when I was 18 months old. There was something scribbled at the end “We know how you feel when you see them – Happy Daughter’s Day - love Ma, Papa”
I am precious to them, just like Muskaan is to me. Though for me my both kids are equal. I always fast for both of them on Ahoi Ashtmi (mothers fast for the longevity of their son) but I sometimes helplessly hear someone very close to me “they are forcing me to go for a check up, if it is a girl…” or a mother of two girls, sadly confessing, that she is being pressurized for taking one more chance…..and I close my eyes and pray, I pray for the happiness and peace of mind.
It is only most fortunate people who are blessed by girls. Even in purans “Kanya Daan” is considered the “Daan” that can lead to salvation. No festival is complete without a female. Still they wish!
I Wish people know and understand the joy of being a parent rather than taking it as a long term investment.
Happy Daughter’s Day to all of you! For all the daughters around you who have given meaning to your life in some or the other way.
