The Beginning (1st July, 2023)
In the summer of 2023, I was in 8th grade. Just a couple of days after our first Unit Test ended, our much-anticipated 7-day Summer Camp began. To be honest, I was not interested at all. The peak of summer meant unbearable heat, and I found nothing enjoyable about the camp. Everything seemed boring, and I couldn't wait for it to end.
However, as the camp was nearing its conclusion, I met someone special, a girl I had admired from afar for a long time. To my surprise, we quickly became close friends. We talked, we laughed, and we enjoyed each other's company. We even promised to be best friends forever. This unexpected friendship made my summer camp much more special.
The Realization (7th January, 2024)
The day of our School Annual Function arrived, and it was held in a nearby field. All the boys were asked to wear formal suits, shirts, and ties. I was given the job of anchoring the event. The function started at 10:30 am, and my part in anchoring ended after about half an hour. After my duty, I headed backstage to check on the students who were about to perform a song.
That's when I saw her. She was looking more beautiful than ever, her eyes sparkling, her smile blooming, and her presence exuding angelic vibes. We chatted for a bit before I returned to my work. As the function was coming to an end, I was finally free from my duties. When we were about to go home, she asked me for selfies, but I declined as I was exhausted and felt I didn't look my best. Despite this, her eyes reflected genuine happiness, and that made my day. We spent some moments together and took selfies, making me realize that I truly meant something to someone.
Keepin' It Real Since 14:2 (14th February, 2024)
The day began with a literal fall out of bed. It started poorly, but then I remembered it was Saraswati Puja at our school. I quickly got ready and headed to school, arriving earlier than expected. After waiting for a while, the Principal arrived and opened the gate. I busied myself with tasks and didn't even have time for water.
As the main Puja began, I received a message from her saying, "I'm coming." That lifted my spirits, and within minutes, she arrived with her mom. She looked stunning in a cyan saree, leaving me speechless. Her glamour reminded me to keep things real, a sentiment that has stayed with me ever since.
"I'm Proud of You" (22nd May, 2024)
This day became the most memorable moment of my life. I had participated in the School Election for the head boy position, and this was the day the results were announced. During the Investiture Ceremony, when our Principal announced, "Our head boy for the year 2024-25 is Dhrubajit!!!," I was overwhelmed with emotion. As I walked to the stage amidst claps and cheers, I saw her cheering for me with unmatched grace.
Despite my usual inability to smile easily, this moment made me smile genuinely. I was both smiling and crying when I received the head boy badge. After the function, I rushed to my class, grabbed my bag, and hurried outside the school. She called my name, and as I went to her, she whispered in my ear, "I'm proud of you."
Conclusion
These moments from my 8th-grade year taught me the value of unexpected friendships, the realization of one's importance to others, and the joy of genuine achievements. Each experience, whether a summer camp, a school function, a festival, or an election, added a unique chapter to my life. They were not just events but lessons that shaped my character and outlook. And through it all, the presence of a true friend made every moment special and unforgettable.
Written by: Dhruv Xyo
