Overlooked Endeavour

August 2017
Overlooked Endeavour



I laid my books down on the table while I searched for a book in the shelf underneath to untidily stuff into my obese bag. My three friends put their heads through the window, calling me to accompany them on the way to the buses. Some of my classmates ran around the room where no teacher was present and shouted independence wishes directed to no one in particular.
It was a day before the country’s freedom turned 70, starting its 71st year. There was jubilance in the air as we walked down the pathway and everyone’s chatter mixed to form the distinctive sound of a crowd. Delight filled everyone for it was a holiday the next day and everyone was excited for Independence Day. Till realisation hit me like a bull, I too was so.
Sure, Independence Day is supposed to be a day brimming with joy. But for most of us, it isn’t actually for the freedom. When Independence Day was meant to be spent as the day we gained freedom, almost everyone spends the day by slouching with laziness on the couch like any other holiday instead of standing upright and singing along with the national anthem. For most of us, Independence Day is just another holiday and we are grateful for the holiday, not the occasion. As patriotic as we claim to be, freedom fighters are just some grainy black and white pictures from history textbooks. We hardly acknowledge the hardships that they faced.
Independence to me is endless opportunities to be used, options waiting for me to explore them and dreams to be followed. Our ancestors wanted us to do just the same for which blood of many noble men was shed. They shared dreams to see India free from the clutches of the British and each freedom fighter built the foundation for this. So stand up, sing along with the parade which you watch on the television with pride.
I believe that independence to me is about making my own choices and decisions. But absolute freedom would be the freedom to choose what I wish to do, not have other opinions thrust on me.
Though India was born long ago, it truly made its mark after 1947. Though I can never face and feel the same situations they did, I am grateful for the legacy that they have handed down to us.
I'd like to wish all of the readers a belated independence day!



Comment down your thoughts on Independence Day and how you celebrate it!

Comments

Unknown said…
Nicely written.
Unknown said…
Good and
thoughtful one
Dileep said…
Nice thought process and very matured to realize the endless oppurtunity out there 👌
Thought provoking superb article .Makes one realise the value of cherishing this day.

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