Yes, Mama, let’s have an open talk.

Like any living being, bound by two eternal truths – birth and death –
I entered this world on 03.05.2001, in a way different from my Guddi Nani.

My poor Mama and the whole family were simply shocked on seeing me, my physical condition.
All were in great pain – Mama and I, both physically as well.
Nobody was responding to me, reciprocating to me, or understanding my needs – not even my strong Mama. It was a typically frustrating environment.

Then my Nalini Aunty entered my fenced life, followed by Usha Aunty and a few more.
They tried to enter into my special life and lifestyle,
sincerely trying to support me and my Mama in so many ways.

It reduced my unending, typical anxiety to a controlled level.
Gradually, I became positive, hopeful and a bit cool even.
It encouraged Mama and my family members.

‘Acceptance’ played the most pivotal role here –
from my side and from the other side as well.
It was, and still is, the toughest, strongest and most challenging part of my “jailed” life so far.

My cool Mama, my family members and I are experiencing this everywhere,
and this has become our life journey now.
Undoubtedly, the Supreme Power – the Almighty – is behind everything here,
being the source of belief, faith, determination, energy – both mental and physical.

Now I truly believe one thing:
there is a definite solution to all sorts of difficulties in this universe
if we have ‘acceptance’ and a strong belief in God.
And of course, we should have an understanding, positive, patient support system
called ‘family’ and its members.

Right, my friends?
Let’s listen to some music now.

Author: Gautam Panda (Chinu) from Bhubaneswar, Odisha

This piece has been published as part of Meri Awaaz Suno – A Call to Every Heart That Has Something to Say, an initiative by Anupam Prayaas Foundation in collaboration with Beyond The Box. Because every voice deserves to be heard.