Happy Birthday Papa!!!

This is my Dad's second BDay after he passed away. Sitting here in the Mumbai airport waiting for my domestic connecting flight to Mangalore, I remember that day on 17th August 2013 when I was in Bangalore waiting for the same connecting flight to Mangalore. But that wait was the longest wait of my life. All those memories rushed back into my mind as I sit here and write this blog.

The security guard questioned me that the flight is in the morning, why are you coming so early. And I said thats because I just got off from an international flight and I have to take this flight to get home. Same question was asked in Banglore on that day as well. And I remember, during the entire 20 hr journey I did not have anyone talk to me, and this was the first person to stop me and question or talk. And I had broke down in front of him. I was trembling with tears in my eyes and with choking voice I told Please let me in, my Dad has passed away and I have to get home at the earliest, I need to check for earlier available flights and so on. I still remember his face, poor fellow was taken aback, and just tried to console me and told you can go but the counters dont open until morning 3AM , so you will have to wait.

And today, I am sitting here thinking how did I spend that wait time.

Well, I will stop the sad part now. Its his Birthday and he used to love it when we wished and celebrated him. I will write his birthday card after this blog.

Papa, wish you a very happy birthday. I know you would be missing us like we miss you here. I will be home on your bday, and will remember and celebrate you with Amma and Sister.

You have not ceased to make your presence felt even till this day. I got promoted last week, and that's my gift to you on your birthday. I realized how empty my success is without your congratulations. The way you would celebrate my success, it always seemed bigger than it actually was. And last week, I felt my biggest success slightly under rated. But nevertheless, knowing how you would have reacted, brought smile and satisfaction to me.

So, Happy birthday Papa the greatest :-)

- Sarita
Dated- 20th March 2015 (IST)

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