It’s been several years since I scored good grades. The once topper of his class is now satisfied with average marks because, as we all know, time keeps changing. To my dear readers, I won’t be writing about the ‘Education system of Pakistan’ or ‘Grades don’t matter’. Today’s blog revolves around something which is of immense importance, at least to me.

A few days ago I was at work when my phone rang. It was my grandmother. The reason behind the call, on most occasions, is that I have to bring her medicines. The call on September 27 was no different; at least this is what I thought.

Grandma: Mani, kaisa hai mera beta. Tunay mujhay btaya hi nae kay tu pass hogaya hai.

Me: Jee jee, mein aya tha apkay pass lekin yaad hi nahi raha

Grandma: Bohot khushi hui sun kar. Teri phupho say pata chala. Allah tujhay hamesha khush rakhay. Tujhay laiq karay

Me: Ameen!

After the call ended, I smiled and resumed my work. That was one of those special moments which made me realise how special I was (am) for my family. When I met my grandmother the other day, she gave me Rs500. I told my parents about my reward, and my father jokingly asked me for the money.

That was not the first time I got inaam for my success. But that moment was precious. Why precious? Because of all the prayers I got, and I saw happiness and joy on my grandmother’s face. She couldn’t be more proud of her eldest grandson.

Such are the precious moments of happiness and joy that I have been blessed with. These family moments brings comfort with them. Growing up in a joint-family system made me realise the importance of sharing and caring. The whole 18-member family is there for me whenever I need them.

I was brought up alongside my cousins whom I refer to as my siblings. We used to quarrel, still do to this day. But that hasn’t stopped us from coming to each other’s aid whenever we are in need of it. Sure, there have been incidents of misconduct but, at the end of it all, we were able to put our differences aside and bury the hatchet. Gaming on Play Station 2 with my siblings is one of the most cherished memories of my 21-year life.

(P.S. The morons do invade my privacy)