A new ray of light in our lives

It was sheer excitement, hope and joy in ally with mild anticipation that began nine months ago and finally culminated into 21st May- The day when “Ahona entered planet Earth!”(That was my sister’s title line in the album she sent us). Life at times unfolds its beauty in the obvious yet most unique experiences. That’s exactly what dittoed my feelings the day my niece was born.

In spite of being located in the other half of the world, my pulses ticked with greater speed ever since I heard that Didi (my sister) was in the labor room. When I heard the news from Kingshuk da( my brother in law), I gauged that physical distance which is often coined as an obstacle is at times superseded by overwhelming emotions and happiness. Although I won’t deny that I would have loved to be there, I was no less ecstatic in my present vicinity. And in present times of pressure, stress and madness of the rat race, it’s not often that I feel this way.

What followed was endless phone calls, sms, exchange of greetings, deliberations about her pet name and celebration. There was a wave of euphoria between family members, relatives, friends and well wishers. I felt that the common chord of happiness struck between a group of people who were separated by physical distance and yet unified by their strong bonding and attachment. My niece’s birth reiterated this fact yet again.

When I first saw her photographs I was unable to believe my eyes. My imagination had been contoured within the frames of some magnificent pictures. Her gaze, laughter, tears, wonders and surprise stares summated to a pristine and pure feeling which filled me with gratitude to the divine. Didi’s subtle smile, Kingshuk da’s happiness and Ma’s joy were all trapped within the lenses. On this side of the globe, it’s amazing how her snaps can color even the dullest days and gloomiest moods with a heartfelt smile.

I later learned from Didi that Ahona means dawn or the awakening light. The name is indeed symbolic. Ahona is the first member of the next generation in our family. As Didi and Kingshuk da enter parenthood, we (me, cousin brothers and sisters) become Mashis (Aunts), and Mama (Uncles), and our parents, aunts and uncles become grandparents, it is the beginning of a new phase for all of us. She has entered with a light of sunshine in our lives, rejuvenated our spirits and a belief that life is beautiful.