- Brian
Mendonça
Past the
languid days of May, the somnolence of the holidays, and the thrill of
examination results, it’s now time for new beginnings – academically at least.
Most students in school and college will now be promoted to the next class or
semester. Re-openings -- at the risk of sounding quaint – give you a chance to
re-do something. They give you a second
chance -- sometimes a third. Reopening means ‘to open or be opened again.’
A year has
gone by with a reprieve in summer – so have we learnt anything? Have we grown
in confidence to meet the new academic session with zest? Do we just amble
through our school years -- and later through college – as some of us do in
life, accidently and without conviction?
The school
years and the college years are precious years in life. Make the best of them.
It is here that one’s formative years are spent. As you pack your satchel or
haversack here are a few reflections:
1.
Enjoy these years – You won’t get them back. Make the
best of these learning years. Equip yourself for life.
2.
Choose your friends wisely -- One meets numerous boys and girls – some of whom will remain
friends for life. One is often
influenced by friends at this age. ‘Tell me who your friends are and I will
tell you who you are,’ is an old saying.
3.
Use time wisely – After the ample time spent in the
holidays to yourself, now is the time to get serious about life. Attend classes/lectures
regularly. After all it’s your parents’ money which pays the fees.
4.
Speak the truth – This is harder than it sounds. When
things are going uphill it will be even more difficult to witness to the truth.
But the truth sets you free. It does not force you to tell one lie to cover
another.
5.
Be true to yourself – Stand up for what you believe in. If
you feel something is not right, say so. Be cautious of those who flatter you
to achieve their own ends.
6. Exercise discretion on the internet – Conduct yourself with dignity in communication on
the internet. Don’t compromise yourself.
Log out of your FB account – start living your own life.
7.
Respect your elders – They usually tell you things in
your own best interests. It might appear boring but the wisdom of following the
right precepts is only seen in hindsight.
8.
Give something back to society – most initiatives – whether it is
weeding out corruption, or greening a space – begin with children and the
youth. Be the change you want to see.
Set aside time for this.
9.
Spend quiet time with yourself – rejuvenate yourself through
prayer, exercise, and your favourite pastime. Read inspiring literature. You
are here to make a difference.
10. Dream – think big. If you don’t dare to live your dreams, you will
end up realizing someone else’s dreams. Of course, the best thing to realize
our dream is to wake up!
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Published in Gomantak Times Weekender on Sunday, 16 June 2013; pix. source followbarbsbliss.blogspot(dot)in
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