Being a girl-2

(continued)

9th std., where we were being polished and gearing up for the next "important" year of our life..Glimpses of friends getting into "first-relationships." By now, even started developing a certain manner of talking and interacting, especially with friends of the opposite gender. It wasn't the usual "jumping hyper" response that were given out! It became more subtle. Being taught how to cook for the first time, lessons given by mum on how to behave when guests come at home. Dealing with problems on monthly basis.! These were changes that took place over a period of time, yet went unnoticed. After completing of 10th, whenever there were talks on what career to choose, I would always be advised on choosing something, that would be flexible so that I could adjust with new priorities, in future. Those priorities, whose name was also yet unknown. Sometimes, I wonder...will that "priority" also be getting similar advice or instead, would be encouraged on doing what he likes to do!

Forwarding a li'l more, the first time I travelled alone by public transport, the first day of junior college. Usually, there used to always be someone accompanying, but the day I first time took a train, I still remember, my dad's 45 mins advise on "HOW TO TRAVEL IN MUMBAI"...and that too for a mere 10mins journey!! Right from how to buy a ticket, to taking care of the belongings, I was told everything...and the conversation went on till I reached the college safe!!

But, the lesson wasn't over yet! I had just learnt how to buy a ticket, board and get down the train...the main lesson was yet to come! Over the days, I learnt about staying alert as to the kind of people around me, ignoring crooks who sat on the platform and whistled, turn away when any man looks at you, carrying chilli powder and pen-knife, just in case!

I also recollect the first time, we girl-friends went out....out of our locality, alone, for the first time! Convincing parents, interrogation about who and all are coming, giving contact details of ALL the girls in the group...huff!! And finally, after getting a "yes" calling up and asking "Mummy ne haa bola...accha tu kya pehenrahi hai?" (Mummy told yes, what are you wearing anyways!) :P ;) :D

Such incidents happen only once in life! I call them "First-time experiences!".

No, it isn't that parents don't care where we go after we have grown but the hidden anxiety and care all those calls were filled with, which were irritating then, I somehow miss them now!!

I end here, for now...but before that all you girls reading this, I hope you've realized how special you were and are, maybe not for your boyfriends, but definitely for that Dad, who stayed up at night and changed your diapers when your mum was tired and asleep, who listened to all your annoying poems, who carried you every evening, home, when you stretched your hands up! You are special for that Mom, who sees her reflection in you and plays the role of a ''hidden lover"....who's ultimate goal in life is to get you married off to a guy and see you settled in life! :)

You must know, you are special...you deserve to be!

P.S: I apologize to the guys, that they do not have much to read...but then too...I hope there was something you liked! :)

Till then, have fun!

Regards,

Rithika