After what seemed like an eternity, with many failed attempts, we finally made it happen. A few of the SFX girls reunited in a reunion of sorts. The planning took some time but after a lot of coordination and follow up, we made one of our long awaited dreams a reality.
After some discussion, we came up with the date. It was going to be the 22nd of December 2013. That was the date everyone kept free for most part of the day, in spite of other committments.
We all met on the 22nd morning at Babaji's (yeah it is still there) in Mapusa. I remember reaching and the first sight that jumped at us was of a few girls standing outside and talking. We could not recognise anyone and they seemed to be a bit out of place standing at the entrance. I travelled with my classmates Rima and Rocklyn. Rima was kind enough to pick us up. After we got off, our driver moved off to park and we started our very anxious walk over to Babaji's, we realised that those ladies who were standing there were no more there. A peek into Babaji's confirmed that those ladies were indeed our schoolmates and they were huddled up at a table because we were late to arrive. It was a little difficult at first recognising the faces but there was a moment we all were all hugs and screams trying not to make a scene but failing all the way.
With the rest of the group on the way and some not joining us for our visit to the boarding, which was our first stop. We wanted to see a lot but were pressed for time so we decided to make this a very short and quick visit. We met a few of the nuns and it was a moment to remember... us being back to the place we started from. Truly a moment to savour and the reminicsing i am sure made each one of us nostalgic. And being together made it even more special. I had been there a year ago with my classmate and friend Rima and even though it was so special, this was completely different. We clicked a few pics and our next plan was to meet Santan. Santan, for those who do not know, looked after and took care of us in the dormitory. We were all so moved by her situation during our previous conversations that we thought we would get something for her. Some of did exactly that. We showered her with our gifts and she got so emotional that I could sense all of us on the verge of tears.
One other thing that I still recall from our visit to the boarding was we got to see at least one nun from our past. Sr Lourdes surprisingly remembered all of us. I went back to my 'back seat' approach when everyone was introducing themselves, I stood behind hoping I would not be noticed. With the introductions done, I breathed a sigh of relief hoping she would not see me. She did... She wanted to know my name. What shocked me was the moment I told her my name, she related a past incident and I knew she remembered. Truly amazing! Nelly one of our classmates and a day scholar also came to boarding to meet us as she found out that we were going to be meeting. It was so nice to meet her. After this our nuns offered us some Christmas sweets and urged to stay longer. They took down our details before we left as I am sure they get a lot of ex student visits.
My personal agenda diverted my attention for a while because I had to meet a very special lady. One of the strongest people I know. The mother of my friend and classmate Dafny. Melanie, Rocklyn and I made our way to the little shop she ran just outside the boarding. Entering the place I still held my back bench position, but she remembered my face. It was great to meet her. Over our hungry years in the boarding, she sent me roast beef sandwiches so often. That is so unforgettable. Dafny knew that I liked it and she always got these for me. But I love aunty with all my heart for this. Tough as she still is, she made me wait back and with her arms on my shoulder gave me some necessary life advise. A moment I will cherish.
Our next stop was Candolim. We made lunch reservations at 'Calamari'. That is where Sharon and Glenda joined us. We were so loud that people kept turning to give us 'the look'. The Mojito was a complete disaster. The mint leaves were dumped in the glass which looked like chopped green salad in a glass of white rum.... and there was no taste of rum. We decided to order a bottle of Bacardi and after a couple of drinks each we realized we could not finish the bottle. Last I heard the bottle was still lying untouched.
We made time for one final pic together and said our goodbyes and departed. I guess we all knew that the goodbye was not one that was final. It was temporary... till me meet again. I can say that even though we had our childhood grudges and dislikes, all that had just vanished and we were a group of people bound by our memories and our common likes and dislikes. What was amazing is how we all turned out now. What I saw was a group of beautiful ladies, highly accomplished with awesome families, a few who I had the pleasure to meet. Deep down we knew we had a need to keep our past a part of our present and future as well.
I hope to add some pics soon from that memorable day soon.
