A proud daughter

My father will always be the most important man in my life. He has been a teacher, a guide, a friend, an idol and much more. For years I have seen my father struggle to keep alive a set of principles which many have long since given up on. I feel proud to say that he is one of the most honest officers here today. As part of his family, we've faced some testing times because of his resilience and determination to do things the right way. Many a times we questioned our upbringing, stating that we deserved much more than what was offered. Since high school, I saw his punctual self turn up for work at 10 am sharp and return home long past sunset. A few times I have helped him edit his reports or be useful in some way or the other in his workplace. It wasn't something expected of me but I love spending time with him so whatever little excuse was worthwhile was good enough to be around.

Between the three of us, each shares a different bond with him. My elder sister is the only one who has managed to bring tears in his eyes. That summer morning when she was given a symbolic goodbye, Dad cried like a baby as she made her way out of the main gate. It was his first born after all. Seeing him break down left all of us in a similar state. My sis and dad share a very warm bond. She will indulge him in the lamest of news and get away with it. I have overheard several conversations between the two related to her experience with passengers on a flight or with the Bengali neighbours in Kolkata. There was this one time she even called him up with a request to recharge her phone, something I would never ever do.

My younger brother, on the other hand, shares a love-hate relationship with him. He is the only cause of worry for my parents. Parker can be a little careless at times. He is a thinker no doubt but what good are thoughts if you cannot put them to action? During our numerous talks, I try giving him certain ideas but somehow he doesn't seem too receptive. He is very lucky to have me around, someone who'll show him the way. When I started off, I was clueless. Thankfully things have fallen into place at every step and now I am in a position to advice the younger lot. I wish he could capitalize on this and work towards a worthwhile career. Nevertheless, between discussions about a new car or the future, both father and son have a strong bond.

One for the memories

Coming to myself, I am a daddy's girl through and through. Over the years I have learned a lot from him, so much so that there are times I just look at him and wonder if anyone can be so knowledgeable? It isn't always a joyride though. His principles appear too rigid at times. Charity, they say, begins at home but in my dad's case it begins anywhere else but home. The person I am today is a strong reflection of these principles. I know it might seem outdated and hard to implement in current times but it isn't impossible too. Whenever an opportunity presents itself I will try my best to take decisions like he would. 

Two days back we got an informal news that Dad had been transferred to the most prestigious department of the state, that of Finance. Now other times, people would have said "He's lucky", not in this case though. Luck is normally found at the point where opportunity meets preparation. While the family was all smiles, dad being his usual self spoke about it as if it were no big deal. This time I stepped up and told him it was indeed big news. The years of hard work are finally bringing some well deserved accolades in the form of such an esteemed posting. He deserves every bit of respect and honour coming his way. Even with the phone ringing frequently and visitors pouring in a day at a time, dad called me to his room yesterday. "I want you to buy some good books on micro and macro economics", he said. I understand how much he wants to excel and contribute to the state now that he has an opportunity. I wish him the very best and know that he will be one of the best Finance Secretaries that the state has ever produced.

Congratulations Pala. We are all extremely proud of you.