Another stepping stone

Would she be Okay in England? One of the things that brought me anxiety while preparing for Mom's arrival in UK was her unfamiliarity with 'English' language. From rest of the angles I think I had somehow assured myself but her ability to communicate with only 'English speaking' crowd was something I was struggling with. However a sudden click reminded me that even though she doesn't know English but at least her son does. I can be her translator. In case we get to spend time with some 'English only' people, I will do translation. While my mind was busy rushing these thoughts, it also gave me few more mixed thoughts of gratitude & pride - Isn't it great? Thanks Babaji that I went to Convent School and had all education in English. Looks like Babaji already started preparing for her visit - years before 2011 by sending me to an English medium school. Good that I know English, else it would have been tough. Both of us in England, without English :) Not now! With her translator son, She'll be Okay. Didn't realize when these thoughts also brought back hidden pride of being better equipped with English Language.

But thankfully the pride soon changed back to gratitude. It didn't take long to reload one of the memories from childhood when I was complaining to Mom about her level of education and she gave back a life long lesson. Mom, do you know how embarrassing it gets in school to say that my parents haven't even done their class Xth? My expert Mom, without any waste of second threw ball back at me, "I agree that we aren't that educated but are making sure you don't repeat same thing. At least be thankful for this." In matter of seconds, it seemed that googly was at origin and all complaints vanished.

I think it was this very statement which took back pride that had started to creep in and returned thoughts of gratitude. Gratitude towards Guru and also parents who despite their level of education made it possible for us to have best of education. Not just worldly but also spiritual education. In the same set of incident also, on one angle it might appear that I have translated and helped her to communicate in an alien country but on a better angle it is she who has helped her. My being able to help her was only possible because she has equipped me with English language.

Thanks Babaji, this time the trap of false pride wasn't deep enough and You saved again. When I look back to reflect on incidents of life so far, I am reminded of many such mistakes. Mistakes that have reminded me of my shortsightedness but thankfully such mistakes have also become stepping stones to improvise and carve a better Sunil.