On Saturday, (March 29, 2025) it was at another big store. I was there to buy a particular brand of drink sachets which contain no additives, not even sugar, just the fruit concentrate. I was looking for Lime and Lemon. It was a request from someone living at one of the places I was traveling to. I went to the aisle where it was supposed to be, walked up and down and did not see them. Then walked around to the adjoining aisles and again, no luck finding them.
As I was exiting the adjacent aisle, I spotted a young person from the store, and together we looked up the aisle again, yes. It was indeed A14. So I pointed out the area where all the drink mixes are kept, and of course, it wasn’t there. Let’s call him K, and he said sometimes they are on the opposite side, and he turned around. It was filled with baking supplies including sugars. There, nestled next to sugar, K spotted the very thing I wanted! Though I do not understand why a no sugar item would be placed right next to a bag of sugar! Oh, well!
As I thanked K, I mentioned that I was carrying this overseas with me. So he told me what he was studying and that he would graduate this year. He showed an interest in working overseas. So we chatted, this young boy of no more than 18-20 years, and yours truly, this older woman with miles and miles of experience behind her. It wasn’t hard talking with him. He had a clean face, clear dark eyes, and a firm handshake, as he introduced himself to me.
K is the one of the many, who stand at the threshold of the future of this country and theirs; which are not different. How he turns out and what he does with his life, what experiences and opportunities he has will influence the lives of those around him, and the outcomes of his progeny. It’s our duty to nurture this generation which is waiting in the wings of their future, and which way that turns out, could affect ours- my generation. After all, everything and every one of us- is connected and affected by what happens to and with the rest of us. He was impressed by some of the opportunities I told him about, and he said that his world view has just been expanded. It was probably a boost to my ego, and if it was flattery, I lapped it up, and while encouraging him, also enlighten him on the importance of vetting his resources and sources, because it’s now a very complicated world.
At his request I gave him my phone number, not least because I’ve had angels in my life. Not saying I’m one, but can certainly emulate the generosity of spirit accorded me by fellow beings.
Wishing him all the very best- I responded to his text. K promised to keep me updated with his progress. I wish him all the very best in life. His mother, rather his parents must have done a good job with him. It is my wish a prayer he does his family proud. Every young person, standing on the cusp of adulthood, needs as much guidance and encouragement as they seek to find answers to life’s big challenges.
In a fast paced world where automation is taking up the opportunities to grow human potential, life can seem confusing and unfair. It is our duty to support those that expect it from us. There is no greater joy nor sense of accomplishment than knowing our life has made a difference.
Good luck young man-K!
Veenu Banga
12:41 am
April 2, 2025.
1 comment:
Glad you could expand the horizons of young K. You have so much to share. Wealth of information and wisdom which if tapped by those interested, will take them far in life. Lovely that you were able to do this for young K.
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