My Reflections(Via a Life Changing Book)

By Rashmi Patel

PROLOGUE 

Every book that I have read has been my solid and reliable companion, be as a kid of grade three with English classics like 'David Copperfield', an expressive kid of grade five with Ruskin Bond or Roald Dahl's abstract writings or a rebel teenager of grade ten with ambitious goals to be a lawyer with John Grisham and now as a mature adult many books act like a balm to my aching experiences. 

The most recent one is all about seeking chances in life to relive that one moment which could have steered the ship of my life to a safer and soulful island. It is all about the people in that heavenly abode called home that we hold so close to our heart. 

Read on as I found solace in reminiscing the misses I have had with my 'Bapa' (Grandfather) and 'Papa' (Father) as a child and its blazing effect in my life till date. 

Mitch Albom's 'For One More Day' - The book that knocks on the door my life offering companionship and solace...... 

Remember it is the family we love and the chances we miss........ 

To my Bapa...

"I love you every day. And now I will miss you every day." (Mitch Albom) 

'For One More Day' By Mitch Albom 

Could that be a reality? 

My camaraderie with this book began as a gift from my sister. 

The story highlights the mother-son relationship but it even throws light on the bonding family members have or could have had. Lamenting about the misses of the moments one could have with each member of the family is futile. 

This is what, it has taught me. Late but better. 

It gave me purpose to celebrate what I can have and not regret over what I did not have. 

Books change perspectives and its characters influence life. 

Initially, the connectedness to 'Chic Benetto' (the character) was instant and relieving. I often hold my 'Papa' (father) responsible for the (wrong) career choices that he made for me. There have been three occasions in my life where I had been candid telling this to my father. He had his calculations and analysis for the choices. I gave a deaf ear to his words. Reading 'Chic Benetto's character altered my outlook towards what parents say and decide for us. After all they too are humans. 

“When you look into your mother's eyes, you know that is the purest love you can find on this earth.” Mitch Albom 

These words are mirror reflection of the acts of my mother's support and push for me in the times when I had heated arguments with my father. These words even resonate in my soul and inner mind when I think of times I disregarded my mother's or father's concern and decisions for me. I am not a Papa's girl but yes from the four siblings in the family, I was sure his pet. 

Years down the line he has had his U-turns to justify things to me. After my encounter with this book eight years ago, I have realised that my father has been my Gibraltar. Strong and sturdy fighting for me! 

It's just that he did not have his ways to express and prove them to me. 

The book has made me humble and reflective of my acts of disregard towards my father. I miscalculated things. Alas! 

I have found solace in our reconciliation. That's the reason this book is so close to my heart. 

I WISH I COULD REWIND THE DAY WHERE ALL THIS HAPPENED BETWEEN MY FATHER AND ME....... 

Reliving it could give me the days I have lost being with him. 

The book has had a major influence in my life and helped me see people (I LOVE) and things differently. It has taught me about possibilities of doing something even when things are not going your way. 

The quotes in this book are reflections of the words my ‘Bapa' (grandfather) often spoke. Live the dream with your hard work and put your heart into it. Be optimistic and courageous to take chances and strive for the best in all aspects of life. I miss being with him. He was my first aid to every bruised moment in my life. 

This book has been one of the most important influences in the journey of my life. The power of family bonding is miraculously put forth in this book. 

What is it that I long for now? 

"One day spent with someone you love can change everything." (Living this quote with my 'Bapa') 

Be it my father, mother or Bapa, the existence of these people has been quintessential to my being and living the 

contended life I so enjoy. The very thought of these people is blithe to me. 

Thank you Mr Mitch, for your work has changed me and my thoughts about people I so love and care."Sticking with your family is what makes it a family.' 

My final words of influence. 

The book is clone to the thoughts -  

Lament and regret no more

of the times you could not control. 

Be thankful of the people who love you, 

For they wish good and best for you. 

Learn the lessons the hard way. 

Be the master of courage, 

And treasure the results of life lessons. 

That were gifted from the ones who love you.

By Rashmi Patel