Give and Take

There was a time when everything I owned was exclusively mine. I could not bear to share it with anyone. My kindergarten report card said I was very obedient and had good learning skills. But under the column for teacher’s remarks for improvement, I clearly remember the neatly scrawled words “needs to learn sharing with friends”. I laughed it off later on thinking how selfish I must have been in my childhood. But it was only in the recent years that I realized the true meaning of sharing.

Spending my entire schooling years at home and being a day scholar in my undergraduate days, did not expose me much to the joy of sharing. I was never aloof though. I made friends, was a cheerful little brat who got into trivial squabbles like every other teenager. But parting with something that was once declared mine did not leave me with a happy feeling. There was always a sentiment of wanting to keep things with myself. What if they spoiled it? Let them get their own if they want! I once kept a pretty looking doll to myself that we bought for a cousin eighteen years younger, assuming that she would ruin it if left to her.

But certain circumstances and people change you from within. You begin trusting people. There develops an unwritten bond of faith and conviction that is called friendship. It is a unique relation that develops on a thin line of trust and love. Sharing does not only mean give and take of materialistic worldly articles. It also pertains to feelings, thoughts and emotions. Sharing brings people closer. I consider myself fortunate to be blessed with people around me with whom I can share my world!

Everyone has a role to play in our lives. But that does not mean you don't value them once they finish playing their part. Different people assume significance in various life scenarios, but it is up to us to make that little extra effort to keep in touch. Friends are precious.Do not take friendship for granted!

Next time I get something, what if they spoil it? Well, I could have spoiled it too! 

PS – this one is dedicated to F,B,K and R who taught me the meaning of friendship!