LITERARY | If These Walls Could Talk

Most people often say that graduating is one of the biggest achievements a student can accomplish. People you see and don’t see often offer to congratulate you with a simple  “congratulations” — a word spoken  or sent in passing with a smile and sometimes a pat on the back. Though considered as a heartfelt gesture, this simple word and act of kindness does not measure the sacrifices one went through.

How can a single word contain the weight of sleepless nights, repeated failures and the countless moments where it seemed like giving up was easier than pulling through? How can a pat on the back and scattered applause measure the courage of waking up every day and choosing to fight for your dreams? Being considered a graduate is not to be taken lightly; it is an earned right that not everyone is privileged enough to attain.

And perhaps, if these walls could talk, they would tell stories of different individuals—those that triumphed in the journey and attained a victory written not only in diplomas but also embedded in the hearts that refused to surrender.

These walls would speak of the timid yet curious freshmen who entered thy happy walls with uncertainty and fear. They would remember the juniors who finally found their footing whilst carefully navigating through every “prof” recommendation that they see in OPC. They would reminisce on the echoes of laughter from the sophomores who got used to adapting to every little thing. Lastly, they would celebrate the seniors who made it this far.

These four-cornered walls witnessed not just lectures and endless presentations. They observed every struggle, every cry for help, and every personal hardship. They watched each and every learner be shaped into who they are today—cradling the seeds of their hopes and aspirations that now bloomed the fruits of their labor.

If these walls could talk, they would preserve the distinct characteristics of every learner, the stories their journey has woven into the crevices of every room or building they’ve been into. These graduates entered with a heart full of hope and nerve-wracking ambiguity, only to leave with bravery and the strength to persevere.

#TruthInTransit
#IASParagon2526