The True Pillars – A Heartfelt Tribute To Parents

‘Parents are the silent warriors who fight their battles in the shadows, so we can shine in the light‘. Every parent is a quiet hero in the story of our lives; their sacrifices are often hidden but their love is present forever. Their struggles are rarely visible, and their contributions go unnoticed. In the course of our lives, certain moments define who we are and also make us understand what truly matters. These moments often involve the people we hold dear, especially our parents, whose love and guidance are irreplaceable.

As an English teacher for class 10 students, I have the honour of guiding the young minds through a pivotal phase of their lives by sharing the story of my dear father, a remarkable man who not only shaped my life but also showed incredible resilience as a cancer survivor, fighting TWO battles with cancer for more than 10 years.

My father was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. He believed in the power of hard work and perseverance, often reminding me that success is not a product of luck but of relentless effort. His dedication to his family and work was evident in everything he did. Despite the physical and emotional toll, he never let his illness define him. Even during his painful chemotherapy sessions, he hid his suffering from me, always putting on a brave face to protect me from worrying. Each treatment was a battle, yet he remained steadfast.

Every parent’s heart is filled with love that forgives, nurtures and supports even in the personal hardship. In his final days, my dad expressed a very simple wish: that I be with him. I was honoured to be by his side, providing comfort and support as he had done for me throughout my life. Those moments were deeply emotional and brought us even more closer. His passing has left a void in my heart, and I miss him every day. I yearn for the sound of his voice, the warmth of his laughter, his comforting words, the memory of his brave smile, especially during the most painful chemo sessions, a bittersweet reminder of his enduring strength.

To my students, I want to say this: Your parents are your eternal guides. They may not always express their love and support in obvious ways, but their influence is highly significant. They are your biggest supporters, who celebrate your achievements and stand by you in all the tough times. They work tirelessly and suffer many hardships, without showing the strain they are under. Please don’t take their presence or their efforts for granted. Take time to acknowledge their struggle, express your gratitude and show them the appreciation they deserve.

In the memory of my dear Appa, I encourage you to value and learn from your parents and thereby enrich your own life. Embrace the time you have with them , for it is these moments that become the lasting memories of their legacy.

 Subalakshmi A

 Grade X English Teacher

 Mahatma Baba CBSE