When I was of age 8-9 I used to demand for pets from my parents. Sometimes I would ask for a puppy and when they disapproved of it I would ask them for keeping a fish atleast. They would ask me, "Who will clean the dogshit if he ever does that at home and who will clean the tank every now and then?". I would gulp down the saliva and say it with a little reluctance, "I will do that". But none of my demands were met because we had our own problems. I used to substitute my never-to-be-fulfilled-demands by feeding the dogs in my building with buscuits (I still do that even after a ban on feeding stray dogs :)). I have longed for pets in my subconscious mind ever since I was a child. Then gradually as I grew up I slumped the idea of getting a pet for myself untill this day...
It was Dussera and as usual I woke up late on that public holiday. My dad woke me up and asked me to get ready soon as he wanted me to assist him in carrying something along on his bike. He took me to a Pet Fish Shop and I was surprised. I couldn't believe myself that my dad was actually buying a fish tank. I went into flashback where I was demanding a pet from them and they saying no. Now was the day where I could vivify my long lost wish. I thanked my dad for it.
At the end of the day I had a 2 feet long fish tank with 8 red Goldfishes, 1 black BullDog fish, 2 Angels, 2 Red Carps and 2 Suckers at my own place. Incidentally, I have started taking care of them now. I call my mom from my office to remind her of giving food to my pets in case she ever forgets. I also have a relaxing feeling when I watch them after a hard day at work. I am always excited to return back at home for them. That was the day I longed for all my life. Though I regret having a pet in my grown up years than having it in my childhood...but as they say, "Better late than never".
I saw in my dreams in action...I saw light when I had lost hope. Patience is what I've learnt from this one incident of my life. I hope to learn more from such incidents.
