I still recall that last memory of a yellow cab numbered
8692, taking away from me the people who had been a prominent part of my life
for the last nine months. I wanted to stop the cab, but no. I thought of running
to the gate and saying goodbye once more, but I instantly realized the futility
of my thought. It took me at least another 10 seconds (or so) to realize what
had hit me. The people, who had been constant pillars of support for the last 9
months, were no longer there. As I turned back slowly on the cemented path, the
bright morning sun made me feel exposed, naked and, well, quite frankly,
incomplete.
When I had come to Joka in June last year, never had I
imagined what was in store for me. I was a little skeptical, to say the least,
about my decision to quit my job and coming to Joka for an MBA. However, as I
realized over the course of the year, things turned out rather well. Really
well. For, in a couple of weeks, I found myself amongst a group of people, who
I could instantly mix with, friendly, smart, talented, fun-loving you name and
they were all of that. And I could personally connect with each one of them,
for different reasons and at so many different levels. To their credit, they
took me in with open arms, and gave me a year, which I shall never ever forget.
They mocked me, made fun of me, pampered me, laughed at me, laughed with me,
took care of me, and held my hand every step of the way. So much so, that post
the summer placements, I would, daily, be raring to get back to them in the
evenings, for I knew that good time was in store. But as they say, all things,
no matter how good, must come to an end. And time flew by. The extra-academic
work made the time seem even shorter. Nonetheless, the quality of the time we
spent together never deteriorated. Each time was as good as the last, if not
better. I can still recall most of those late night-early morning sessions, the
constant banter, the intoxications, the birthday bashes (where I would be the
constant photographer) and a lot more.
Now as I look back at the good old days, I know I am going
to miss them next year. I know I’ll not have the same set of people around. But
I also know that I have gained, lasting friendships and some really wonderful
memories to cherish for a lifetime.
As I bid them farewell, I realize once again, that goodbyes
are never grand, they are not meant to be. But goodbyes are also not the end;
they are merely promises to meet again in future, in a different place, at a
different time.
