Part 1
Obviously, I will not miss this time…!! This Saturday is my treat for sure, I declared with confidence. Every week it was a practice we had followed – one of us will treat the gang with samosa and everyone will take turns to sponsor it.
In 90’s , this is what the high school kids could afford when the pocket money (normally in single digit) was considered as luxury.
As we were ending our tenth grade, it was a practice we had adopted to make our school life memorable (and to get some free food in that context). For many weeks I had enjoyed this free samosa from our school canteen shop and this week It was my turn to spend and treat others.
Afterall It was testing time to ensure I adhere to the commitment, otherwise friends would have tagged me, since I had ensured to enjoy free food without fail from all. I was also considered one who does not spend money but ensured to join for free food, every time, hence I wanted to avoid that comment again.
With aim of Saturday treat, I started collecting all my available savings (normally,coins given away as tip when brought household materials) and had fallen short of another 20 rupees. It was matter of prestige since I had already declared and did not want to be teased by friends.
Any middle-class boy would have felt his heart while asking for money and it was considered big culpability to put burden on parents for such things however, I didn’t have option hence ended up pleading parents asking for 20 rupees.
With great beseeching, somehow, I got it and was overwhelmed with the fact that I will ensure to keep my commitment with friends.
Part 2
Saturday early morning, in the winter, I started towards school, ensuring I have kept the money and felt richer. Since I did not have cycle to pedal, it was routine to walk down in the neighborhoods and reach school.
As I was walking down, found this young student, residing few streets away, sitting in a park shivering in cold. I had seen this jovial, ever smiling boy whenever crossed paths, however today I felt he had not slept previous night and was looking worried. With concern and curious to know, enquired him what happened. He was uncomfortable to speak to me, however I persuaded him.
I am in trouble, he said. Since my parents could not afford for my schooling, I was admitted to a Government Hostel in neighboring district which provides free education and accommodation. I was supposed to be there by today, but I am still here wondering what to do.
I did not understand the context, asked him what is the issue? With tears in his eyes, he said – my parents are daily coolies and in lot of financial debt, that is why they have put me in free hostel. I was given 50 rupees to reach that place and I know even for that; they took loan from a neighbor.
Unfortunately, when I reached bus stand, someone pick-pocketed it and now I am not sure what to do. I feel guilt to go back home and put them under more debts. I will also get beaten up surely, but I do not have options. I had walked back from bus stand and stayed in this park, wondering what next.
I felt remorse for his situation, felt empathic for him and did not know what to say, realizing I had 50 rupees in my pocket. I knew this money can give him lot of comfort but same time If do not treat, friends will make fun of me. With great dilemma, I gave away that money and asked him to reach his hostel on time and continue his studies.
When I reached my friends, I told them I had given away the money for a good purpose without revealing the details of that neighborhood kid. However, most of them felt I was lying to avoid spending money on them. Though few appreciated, others mocked me, called names, and asked not to enjoy free food always. I was humiliated, hence reacted, words led to severe arguments and my relationship with them ended thereafter since I could not treat them with a humble samosa.
Life moved on…..
Part 3
In 2020, I was working as supervisor in a resort, leading a simple life with family. As the hospitality industry went down, due to the pandemic, I lost job.
I tried approaching all my contacts, friends but it was difficult time for all. When reached some old contacts, they didn’t even pick calls. I also uploaded my resume in social media and spending days searching and updating my status which was liked by many and commented for better reach, yet no luck.
On a fruitful day, I got a call to attend an interview in online mode. I was not able to recall the application for this company nor aware of any contacts working.
As I joined the video call, a bright young executive spoke to me. He asked basic details and checked if I am interested to work in his company’s guest relation wing as Head. I was surprised, though I am from hospitality industry, offering Head position in this tough time, could not believe my luck.
I instantly agreed to it and next few days I was back in job with handsome salary and life was on track. However, I was always curious to know what made this company to select me for this salary and job and was waiting for the opportunity to clear the doubts.
In months, the situation was normal, and we resumed our work in office premises. Met many people and the young executive who took my interview. After initial pleasantries and work updates, I dared to check – Sir, may I know how you decided I am in suitable for this job, although I do not recall applying in this company...?
He had a laugh and continued with a smile – when you have helped me in the crucial phase on my life, without knowing me, I knew I can trust you, when I know you.
This puzzled me further, he clarified – I am the boy whom you helped to reach hostel to continue my education. Just because you gave those 50 rupees, I joined on time and completed my education through those free hostels and scholarships, got into a company, and eventually became an entrepreneur.
When your profile was shared in social media for better reach, I could recognize you and felt this is the opportunity for me to say - Thank You!!
Life is not a white paper allowing YOU to canvas it, as you wish. It is always associated with people painting it with different emotions, feelings, and colors, mostly treating us in unexpected time and circumstances . isn’t it?
Disclaimer – all characters & situations in this story are imaginary and if any resemblance, it is just coincidence.
