Twenty five years in a long time…but still not long enough to triumph over my sense of trepidation and excitement. I came to MIS in 1984; a shy, timid girl of fifteen from a small district of Uttar Pradesh, oiled hair, kohl laden eyes and loads of anxiety. My only credentials were my convent education and meritorious result in Class X. As I waited outside the school office to meet the Principal, Mrs. Pillay for admission, the decision was made — I wanted to be a part of this unique institution. It was the simplicity and serenity of the surroundings, the absence of concrete, intimidating high rise structures and an extremely comfortable atmosphere like home which had enveloped me in its fold.

The feelings were almost similar this 23rd of April. As I entered the school premises, this time wearing two very different hats – that of a parent and an ex student invited to judge one of the events at the Talent Fiesta, there was cheer and hustle bustle all around. A positive energy, vibrant with enthusiasm was present in the air. Many had taken time to come as ex-students and volunteers to celebrate the birthday of their own school. We did not know each other but a common thread of belonging to MIS made all of us take joint ownership to make this day a special one.

In the corridors, classes, music rooms and halls different events were organised where children showcased their talents and interests. The challenge among those participating was to definitely do better than the others yet an acceptance and togetherness prevailed. One could see individuals and groups participating in the same events helping each other as and when needed. The overall spirit underlining the events was to choose “The Best from among the Best”.

I proceeded to class XII D where students from different sections of the senior school were participating in Spin a Poem event. There were four groups with four members each. These groups had to weave a poem based on two lines given to them through a ballot. Each member of the group was given six minutes to add two lines each to the poem, twice during the event.

It was amazing to read what the young students wrote – the lines added by each member were carefully thought out and more importantly showed a deep understanding of the subject. All four poems were excellent in terms of content, creativity and overall meaning. Words were chosen with expertise, thoughts were coherent and language subtle yet purposeful. The creativity unleashed in this short and instant on the spot activity is a clear example of the thinking, beliefs and attitudes of students participating in this activity.

As for me, this experience was joyful and memorable. It gave me a chance to relive my old times, to identify myself as someone who was a student and once a part of all these activities. It is a matter of pride for me to know that in these times of cut throat competition, selfishness and shrinking spaces, there is an institution which instils nurtures and keeps alive ideals and values of comradeship and selflessness. The nostalgic memories of years gone by will continue to inspire, cheer and give me an identity which is precious and my very own.

Juhi Jain Batch of 1985