Tears of Gratitude: Reflecting Smita’s emotional reunion with Rohini on her wedding day
By Lokanath Mishra
(Smita and Rohini meet in school and develop a strong bond, studying together for nearly a decade. During their school days, they embark on an adventurous journey to their respective villages, where Rohini takes Smita to her grandparents’ residence, showcasing the warmth and care of her family. After completing high school, they attend the same college.
However, Rohini gets married without completing her degree, while Smita pursues higher education and becomes a teacher. Years later, Smita gets married, and Rohini attends the wedding with her husband, triggering a nostalgic and emotional reunion.)
Smita’s wedding day was a grand affair, with over 2000 guests in attendance. However, amidst the laughter, music, and joy, one moment stood out above the rest. When Rohini, her childhood friend and batch mate, walked in with her husband, Smita was suddenly overcome with emotion. The two friends hadn’t seen each other in years, but the moment their eyes met, they both burst into tears.
Smita and Rohini had been inseparable since their school days. They had studied together for nearly a decade, sharing countless memories and experiences. Rohini’s family had treated Smita like their own daughter, and Smita’s family had done the same for Rohini. Their friendship was built on a foundation of trust, love, and mutual respect.
One particular incident stood out in Smita’s mind as she looked at Rohini. During a severe cyclone and flood, they had embarked on a journey to their respective villages. When the bus driver refused to proceed further due to a collapsed bridge, Rohini had taken Smita to her grandparents’ residence, where she was treated like family. The warmth and care shown by Rohini’s grandparents, uncle, aunt, and cousins had left a lasting impression on Smita.
As Smita hugged Rohini tightly, she was transported back to that moment of vulnerability and kindness. The genuine warmth and care shown by Rohini and her family had brought tears to her eyes. Perhaps it was the realization that, in that moment, she had felt truly seen and loved without expectation or judgment.
By the time Smita got married, life had taken a toll on her. She had faced challenges in her job, her mother’s illness, and heartbreak. Seeing Rohini brought back memories of a carefree time, a time when love was pure and uncomplicated. In that moment, Smita felt a deep sense of gratitude for the love and kindness that had shaped her into the person she had become. As she looked at Rohini, she knew that this new chapter in her life would be filled with its own set of challenges and joys. But with the love and support of those around her, she was ready to face whatever came next.
The tears Smita shed on her wedding day were not just for Rohini; they were for the memories, the love, and the lessons learned along the way. They were a reminder of the journey she had undertaken and the people who had touched her life in profound ways. As she looked at her husband, her friends, and her family, Smita knew that she was not alone, and that was the greatest gift of all.
