An Angel in Disguise

“Come on darling, do not fear!”, those were the words that came from her as she took my hand off my Dad’s. The lady was draped in a light-colored sari and was carrying an enamoring smile. This smile, I think, made me let go of my Dad’s hand and hold hers. (Or the instant desire to grab some from the transparent jar of candies she had on her desk, I’m not sure!!!).
Fair complexion, rosy lips, silver hair, dimpled cheeks…
Voice as sweet as honey and the ever-maintained serenity…
I was gifted with the best Nursery teacher!
As I got to know her more, I fell in love with her personality (Not that I knew what personality and blah blah… meant then, but I can say so now!!!).She used to regularly get with her, toffees and biscuits, to award the kids and encourage us to take interest in our activities. (Orange cream biscuit was my favorite then and the days she used to get that, one had to see my efforts ;) ). I secretly hated the extra attention some of those cry-babies in my class got from her!!!
I waited eagerly for her to pat me on my back or to stroke my cheeks. (People generally love to stroke my cheeks!). And the day she gave me a peck on my cheek for she was impressed by the way I recited my rhymes with all actions and punctuations (Thanks Mom), I was on the seventh heaven. (God knows, if I was happier that day or Alexander the Great after his conquests!)
She taught me what discipline and cleanliness meant in real life. I was so influenced by what she said that I even won a trophy for neatness and discipline at my school! It was she who held my hands to help me write words, who gave me a “Good” even if the handwriting was bad, making me want a “Very Good” at the same time giving a scope to improve. I don’t remember seeing her angry anytime! She didn’t need to be…she had her own magical ways to charm little kids into doing what is Right! Shy ones started participating, bullies got subdued ; everyone was happy.She is the one who initiated the transition of a shy little me to what I am today.
Till date, whenever I come across her she greets me with the same enchanting smile with which she had made me forget home the very first day of my school. I don’t know if she recognizes me as one of her kindergarten students!
She might not even remember me today, me being one of those hundreds of saplings she has nurtured with all her love and affection, but she has carved a permanent place for herself in my heart with all the love and cognition she has bestowed upon me.
School was indeed our second home…
Ma’am, you were my second Mom!!!
With all reverence and salutations,
Ganguly Ma’am, I love you!
(Mrs.Dipti Ganguly Ma'am was my Nursery teacher,an Angel in Disguise)