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The End of an Era



Wasn’t it yesterday that we, new to a developed (at least comparatively) country, went to Ikea to buy your cot? We came home, 2 years ago, carrying a cot, a little mattress, a couple of cute, pink, fitting sheets, teething rails, a tiny pillow a couple of tiny pillow covers. I came home and got to work on the contraption, living up to “Mr. Fixit” again.

Like most Indian parents we’re a little over protective and a little smothering. Don’t blame us when you grow up, you’re Indian too and you’re quite clingy. We’re the opposite of parents who might agree to the Ferber method. Therefore, the cot was installed in our room and you slept there till two days ago.

As I dismantled the cot today, I realized that for me, the retiring of Tendulkar and Tata had no meaning, but you sleeping in your own room on your own bed signified the end of an era. I realized that even though I was a bit relieved that the parents had their room back again, I missed you. However, more than that, I extrapolated this ‘letting go’ of you to a future where you’ll move out of the house, and felt quite terrible.

I know that all kids must grow up and move on someday, and so will you. Just don’t forget how much we love (and possibly smother) you.
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