OM-NI-POTENT

Goodthings do last in memories is
what our father used to say.How you refresh them,dust them and keep them in order is what matter most.
That way the city of Madhurai gave us the firm foundation that children need in their formative years. Our paternal grandparents lived in its suburb called Pazhanganatham.
our memorable holidays were spent in the company of our affectionate but firm grandfather and grandmother.
while our summer days took us to Chennai(then) Madras, our Christmas and september leave from school were spent in learning with our thatha,
a dear old Postmaster from Srivaikuntam, Thirunelveli.A strict disceplinarian who administered our young minds and health with kindness and care.
He made us read the english newspapers and recite math tables from 1 to 16 everyday.the evenings were devoted to long walks along the old paths.
He was very cautious of how we spent our times.

He will make us write on a paper about what we are going todo that day,including playing. and make us write down the time schedule.
evenings were reserved for prayers.

And all of us , cousins friends were told to be back home by 6pm.
when he will relax in his easychair his thin frame looking more thin on the stripes of the cloth.

Until the moment we try to overstay our evening playtime,
He will not scold or even look cross.
"kai kaalai alambindu vaango"

we will all remain silent. after we finish our snacks
he will ask how we spent our time. and the he will recall
his own childhood.
he will not be maudlin abt the past. He will not talk about losing his parents at the age of five and how he was in the care of his kind Aunt.




Just good facts of learning about good habits, health and education, respecting elders.
"periyavaa solRathukku maru pechu pesakkudaathu,"
this will his refrain.
we trusted him and will say "sari thaththaa." all the time.













After that,
'inthaa! yaaru angge ? unnaiththaane(this is for our paatti)
give the children some snacks."
THe most rebellious of our lot one cousin,
will approach him to say, that the others persuaded her to stay more time,. "ellaam enakku theriyum": will finish that.

he will sit with us thru the prayers and after making sure
everyone is listening, he will talk about the importance of keeping track of time and be punctual in all the matters.

Guess that has stayed with us more than anyother advices.

.