THINKING ALOUD

Why should we try to fit in, when we are born and trained to stand out?

At the outset, on my personal behalf, I would like to thank all the ex students who attended yesterday’s school function in large numbers. This, I am sure, augurs well for the forthcoming Golden Year of Loyola. I am also grateful to all the teachers who graced the occasion by their presence.

It was indeed a pleasure, honour and privilege to meet ex students from batches as old as 1962, who attended the event, even at very short notice. Some of them even flew to Pune, only for this occasion.

I had occasion to discuss at length with a senior ex Loyolite about his perception that Loyolites, [who were trained and whose personalities were moulded by educational giants like Rev. Fr. Schoch, Rev. Fr. Rehm and Rev. Fr. Oesch], are misfits in today’s society. He has rightly echoed the feelings and sentiments of many of us, that the noble teachings of these ‘Gurus’ do not allow us to be a part of today’s society.

These priests, who were institutions by world standards, motivated us students to strive and excel in all fields, and play the game in the right spirit. This speaks volumes about their dedication and commitment to high moral values which helped them make gentlemen out of boys and make us responsible citizens of this country.

These good souls, along with our teachers have been instrumental in making us stand like the Black Rock against any odds. We might have learnt to swim with the tide, but I cannot [and we should not] forget that they also taught us to swim against the tide in order to save a situation.

As students of one of the best schools in India, we can discuss ways and means to make a difference to society. Together we can and we should. Some of us may have somewhere down the line, resigned ourselves to the present state of affairs, although in principle, we feel otherwise.

I also request our school brethren to enlighten us with incidents on how our teachers made us learn and imbibe the spirit of discipline, honest hard work, etiquette and regard for others. I am certain that these would serve as lessons, even much after school life, to us and to present students of our school.

I am open to ideas and suggestions, by seniors, juniors and my batch mates.

Being challenged in life is inevitable, BUT being defeated is OPTIONAL.


Anup Yoganand Attavar, Pune