I was one of the privileged few who had the opportunity of studying in St.Mary’s Convent, Allahabad...a school with stuff that dreams are made of....making me everything that I am today...coming second only to the upbringing my parents gave me...giving me memories that would last a lifetime,,.this poem is dedicated to all my sisters and school mates, specially Manjula Shetty with whom I have always been in touch since 45 years,,,

I am sure they all would identify with this poem.

Memories of my school...the stuff that dreams are made of...

My school, an unforgettable experience, I don’t mind repeating at any cost,

In an almost fairytale setting, with a campus so huge, one could get lost.

The unique combination of antique and modern edifices thrown together,

And winding corridors, adorned with gothic pillars, boldly defying weather.

The gigantic, dome shaped gymnasiums, standing proud and well equipped,

For many decades, by thousands of children, to be ransacked and frisked.

The beautiful drive-in bringing in animated schoolmates every fine morning,

And sending them off to their homes after a memorable day, in the evening.

Each day was a day of learning not just academics but lessons of life itself,

That would make each one of us a better person, absolutely sure of oneself.

The discipline and the drive, the bonding and the building of special relations,

Were the characteristic features that set my school apart from many millions.

Sports was so beautifully integrated and highlighted in the education process,

It groomed my personality and persona with a confidence, I till date possess.

Needlework could not have been imparted, with more finesse and perfection,

Helping me become creative and able to handle with ease, my ‘home section’.

Art was taught with so much passion and patience, it was simply loved by me,

Enhancing my creativity to an extent, that an artist was soon born within me.

The auditorium with the grand piano on the stage created an ethereal ambience,

And music played such a special role in my school life, I still feel its resonance,

Sister Elizabeth singing soulfully and playing the piano with her magical fingers,

Made me adore her songs and I soon found a place among really good singers.

Moral Science developed in me a very healthy conscience and the right values,

And the love and caring environment, would certainly drive away all the blues.

Language skills were painstakingly developed, by passionate teachers, very able,

And inculcating in me good reading habits, through a treasure of books available.

If the English language was taught by listening, speaking and writing correctly,

The national language Hindi and ancient Sanskrit were also taught compulsorily.

There were a lot of opportunities for exhibiting my talents during various concerts,

Exhibitions, competitions, the Sports and Annual Days, which were major events.

Above all the sisters that tiptoed around the campus with composure and calm,

Created an aura of spirituality and security ensuring that there can be no harm.

The most vivid memories are the visits to the chapel, kneeling down in reverence,

And Reverend mother on rounds, her dachshund close on heels, her looks intense.

The environment of the school had on me, a very profound and penetrating effect,

Shaping me into one, with integrity and the ability to deeply reflect and introspect.

Among all those who have studied in this convent, there is really a strong connection,

No matter how far and wide they have spread, and which field they may have chosen.

They are still strongly attracted to each other, almost like opposite poles of a magnet,

Thanks to face book and twitter which have helped many of us reunite and reconnect.

I was indeed fortunate to be part of such a school, which today, is really rare to find,

And I am proud to be a part of a truly great learning experience, only one of its kind!