Friday, March 09, 2007

The Firsts

There is always a beginning...and which i believe is the most hyped. The first time I won a prize, the first time I cycled, the first time I wrote a blog...et cetra are all memorable moments. I remember the first time I came back from hostel, the atmosphere at my house was electric with excitement. My parents were very proud. Neighbours came over to talk to me and my long lost friends called me up to know about my well being. But this excitement has gradually ceased. Now my dad mostly comes and picks me up from the station. My friends call me up sometimes , but lately they have gone up to the extent to say that i come very frequently.
I agree that the first time is mostly the best time, as everything is new. But I don't think we should undermine the event just because it has occured previously. Let me illustrate with an example the afore said differences.
I got my ear pierced for the first time at the age of one in a proper hindu ritual. My parents took me to a temple on the auspicious day. After invoking God's blessings, my father held me in his lap, while the goldsmith pierced my ears. And all this was done without my consent. After that all my relatives congratulated my glowing parents while i wailed in the background.
Now the same scenario repeats after 20 years, albiet a few minor changes. This time I want to get my ears pierced and my parents are not willing. Finally after a lot of coaxing they agreed. I was taken to the local jeweller. He brought out a gun and unceremoniously fires a shot into my ear. And lo and behold, my ears were pierced. All this was done in a matter of seconds, without any fanfare. After this I was quickly whisked away by my parents for some other work.
Now wait a minute. Wasn't this supposed to be a momentous occasion? There were no congratulations, no offerings. Instead I got a blast from my brother, who is a doctor, that i had successfully mutilaged my cartilage tissue.
Well ,as I said it is the first time which counts. There is no fun in the second time. All I can do now is to wait for a new first. Till then, cya.