Feature

Strolling down memory lane

Yamin Tauseef Jahangir

The shrieking sound of the iron knob turned into an ear splitting crescendo as it protested hard when I tried to open the gate. I got inside the premises, and the familiar structure embraced me with all its' love and affection. As I walked through the cemented path I scanned the surroundings. It was just the same when I had left it, although with a few renovations here and there; the huge building stood boastfully amid the tall eucalyptus trees. Most of the leaves had turned yellow, announcing the presence of winter. A strong breeze flipped my hair like that of a spaniel's. The school was having its winter vacations and as I had expected, not a single soul was around. May be I needed this, just to let the aura of this environment sink in, mixed with so many shades of grey and enigmatic colours. The debris of a few dead leaves got crushed under my rubber sole and I went inside the building, towards the classrooms.

I spent twelve long years of my childhood in this institution. I can't recall much of it, but I clearly remember the first time I entered this school, holding my father's hand. With anxious watery eyes, trembling fingers and a desire to experience the unexpected, I started my journey towards education. Although I somehow managed to be in the ranks, I never had that instinct of studying hard. But I will never forget the enormous contribution of the wonderful teachers and my principal Mrs. Safia Gazi Rahman just to make me a better human being. With their relentless efforts, helping us ungrudgingly, these teachers were the people for whom I manage to stand on my feet today. I made great friends in this school, some were very charismatic, some busy with their notes and always willing to help, some giving support when life went through a tough phase, and some close to my heart. It seemed to connect two worlds together and I miss them with every breath I take. The school also had a small field, which was like heaven for us. I remember we would bunk classes to play soccer and cricket, even in the rainy days. We had annual sports programs and for one whole month before the event we were obsessed with securing the top position and getting the trophy. The science projects were awesome as the big brains engaged themselves in building something innovative, and it also made us 'think'!

When raindrops fell on the roof, the tinkling sound was more beautiful than an orchestra and often our teacher had to raise her voice to reach us. We also celebrated the millennium night in this campus. It was a spectacular occasion, and we lit candles everywhere in the school. Then there was a firecracker show, and I remember one of the crackers went into the administrative office, and trust me it was beyond any recognition! The 'Meena Bazar' at the school was unlimited fun. We set up booths, shouting at the top of our voices to attract crowd and getting a taste of marketing strategies. The rag day was phenomenal and it was the time to show our true colours. The last recollection would be the farewell event for the seniors. When I was a kid, I always dreamt of this day, but when the time arrived, I wished it never came. The dinner, followed by some musical events, filling up slam books, taking photographs and finally, saying goodbye.

I felt as though I was six years old again, oblivious to the world and full of childlike innocence. I saw the benches in the classroom, and I searched for my name written on one of them. But alas, I couldn't find it. Every step that I took made me feel how beautiful those times had been in my life. I then went to the field, where nothing had changed; I could see myself playing 'Chor Pulish' or 'Borof Pani'. I respected my seniors a lot and they always treated me like a little brother.

I know now that even though I don't meet them anymore, some had always given me inspiration to achieve my goals. I then walked towards the entrance, and looked at the nameplate, 'Sunshine Grammar School, Chittagong'. The name was so important in my life. Tears brimmed into my eyes, and with a heavy heart I went to the car, I wished time would stand still and I would never have to grow up and face the harsh realities of this world. The memories that I shared with this school will have a special place in my heart.

The writer is a student of EWU, Dept. of Pharmacy