message in a bottle (02.2003 - 09.2008)

'twas me birday on Saturday. Fun was had.

Friends I have many,
Most of them are fun;
Lovely, boisterous, caring they are,
But match up to you, none.

Happy Birthday, sumthn2say; wish you a golden year full of love, joy, and success.

As a friend aptly put it, “Birthday is my favorite festival. It came into being with my coming into this world; it is personal and therefore, my favorite.”

This morning as I walked past a bunch of school kids, I saw this little boy distributing candy amongst kids on his bus stop. He offered candy to this seven-eight years old girl and she asked, “Is it your birthday today?” While the little boy nodded in glee, I could see a jealous glint in the girl’s eyes. For a moment I was shocked but then I remembered. I have been there. I have longed for it to be my birthday when I saw my classmate getting all the attention, presents, wishes…the works.

The only thing years have changed is my patience level. I can now easily wait for November to arrive in its due course and then celebrate my birthday. No, you will not see my eyeing a birthday girl enviously in the month of June anymore. Nevertheless, I want it all on my birthday. I want surprises, I want gifts, and I want greetings from unexpected and, of course, the expected. But most of all, I want the day off. Even if it requires me to throw a tantrum in front of the boss! As it is I do not get the big deal that is made when one asks for a day off, in advance. No one died in my absence on Friday. In fact, the company did not even lose any money. Nothing else matters. It was my birthday, I earned the day off by being born.

And so, fun was had and I got myself certain gadgetry presents that I shall not boast about. Lest they will fall in water and die on me. I also got a tale, a castle, a blessing, pinkness, a wish, and a spectacle. And then I got presents. Yay!

November 17, 1978 was a Friday.

November 17, 1981 - 86 conjure up vague images. There was always a party, a cake, and some presents. Some kids of my age, a few grown kids who would thrust a gift in my hands without a hint of smile. Lots of uncles and aunties making infuriating remarks like ‘now you are a big girl’ or being nosey and asking ‘so what did mama and papa give you?’ I never distributed sweets to my classmates. My logic, it was not a public affair.

November 17, 1987 was the first out-on-my-own experience. Well, I was not actually on my own, it was a school trip to a place called Kooch Bihar, followed by a party at home, just like the one described above.

November 17, 1988 is synonymous to driving on an East Indian highway with ma, papa, and our two spitzes, Whiskey and Tipsy. We drove all day and guzzled loads of Mango Frooti. I remember it was a sunny day and I was delighted to have touched the two-digit mark. This road trip went on to become a cherished memory.

November 17, 1989-90 blank

November 17, 1991-95 were all about feeding my friends on oily burgers and lukewarm soft drinks from the school canteen and receiving cards and knick-knacks.

November 17, 1996-98 were spent treating one and all who happened to cross my path on that day. Utter confusion!

November 17, 1999 was about discovering a true friend and entertaining some fake ones.

November 17, 2000 was bliss. Warm vibes, exotic food, pretty candles, profound words (both printed and verbal), lotus chairs, and the serene Lotus Temple would sum up the day.

November 17, 2001 comprised snuggles, Chinese food, and Cats and Dogs. Nonstop fun.

November 17, 2002 started with serious but harmonious conversation by a fountain. Then there was great food, an amazing present, and joyful moments; all engulfed in warm vibrations.

----XXX----