A Core Memory

In the realm of emotions, the animated film "Inside Out" brought to light the concept of core memories—those critical moments in life that shape our identities and stay etched in our minds forever. As I sit here during an office outing I helped organize, and yet find myself on the periphery of groups, I find companionship in a secluded sofa outside the main hall.

I sit here in a reflective mood and scroll Instagram. Well ,that is my generation people. So, here I am scrolling Instagram, and I come across a story of a friend's dad retirement, who coincidentally was also my dad's colleague. I am suddenly transported back a couple of months ago to my own father's retirement. As I reflect on this memory, I know there is this one particular moment that I remember distinctly and fondly. And somehow I know that I am going to remember this moment for the rest of my life, till the day I die.

The day was filled with speeches, photos, gifts, and a cascade of "thank you sirs." At the end of the evening, it was just us. The "OG Pandeys" and the newest addition—found ourselves alone in the office. It was time for us to leave. Dad rose from his desk, and then all of us hugged dad and walked him to the door of his office singing songs. We spontaneously broke into song, starting with "Ghunghroo ki Tarah." The melody echoed through the corridors, encapsulating the bittersweet emotions that filled the room. In that instant, we were simultaneously happy and sad, a complex blend that, in retrospect, is a mark of the best memories.

Upon reaching the door, my father turned back, his eyes brimming with gratitude and reflection. It was as if he was silently thanking the room for everything in life We, as a family, felt that unspoken connection, and with a final glance, we walked him back home.

This moment has become a core memory—a cherished fragment of time that I will draw strength from throughout my life. The simplicity of that evening, the shared laughter, the music, and the unspoken sentiments encapsulated in my father's lingering look back at his office. This moment with the closest people in my life is something I am going to cherish and draw strength from, all my life.

As I sit on this sofa during the office outing, scrolling through Instagram, I am reminded that life's most profound moments often occur in the unscripted chapters. In the end, it's the people we love and the moments we share with them that shape our core memories, weaving a tapestry of emotions that accompany us on our journey through life.