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We’ll Meet Again: A Story by Aradhana Agarwal

Sneha suddenly decides to be a strong person physically as well as mentally. It is beyond comprehension for her parents. She hasn’t disclosed anything to them. They recall, that after a school trip, Sneha declares that she is keen to learn a martial art.

Since Sneha’s return from Mahabaleshwar, her mother Kishori has noticed that Sneha is no more a chirpy girl. Her facial cuteness is the same but her innocent eyes spark some strong determination. She has begun focussing on her physical stamina, healthy diet, and a lot of exercises. Kishori is happy to see this transformation in her but is worried if Sneha has faced some dangers during the trip.

Kishori sits with Sneha and enquires what has motivated her to be a strong girl. Sneha looks into her eyes and asks, “Mom! Why haven’t you mentioned that you have won medals for being the best scout during your school and college days? Why haven’t you told me that you are a black belt holder in Karate? Why haven’t you revealed that you are a savior of a child who the child traffickers have trapped and a Bravery award is given to you?”

Kishori fumbles, “I haven’t said anything because this is my past. But who has informed you about all this?”

Sneha says, “In Mahabaleshwar, we attended a self-defense training program. An instructor delivered a lecture on the importance of martial art.  While doing so, he narrated an incident and saw us a video of a lady who saved a teen single-handedly after a fierce fight with notorious goons. Mom! The lady was you. I recognized you instantly and shouted, ‘She’s my mom.’

The sir invited me on the stage and the audience congratulated me for being a strong woman’s daughter. Mom, the sir introduced himself as the boy who you had saved. I felt so embarrassed that

I was clueless about these. Neither you nor Papa has told me that I am a daughter of a life saviour.

Where is your photograph receiving the award? Where are your medals Mom?”

Kishori calms her down and says in a low voice, “My mother has kept those awards and certificates in a box. In our society, the bravery of a lady is not a quality to be mentioned in front of in-laws and husbands. So, I haven’t brought any memoirs of my glorious past in this house and never have told to your papa.”

Sneha says, “Mom! The sir has taken a promise from me that we’ll meet again. I have decided in the next meeting he’ll meet a strong girl with a strong mother. Bless me so that I can make you feel proud.

Kishori hugs her tightly.