After 22 long years, I stepped back into the familiar gates of Atomic Energy Central School (AECS) in Indore’s RRCAT Colony—a place I hadn’t visited since our Class XII farewell in 2003. This wasn’t just any visit; it was our batch reunion, a heartfelt gathering that brought together old classmates and, wonderfully, many of our beloved subject teachers.
The event was pure joy from the start. Teachers, most now retired after decades of shaping young minds, reunited with such enthusiasm. One even flew all the way from Chennai just to be there—it was a beautiful reason for them to assemble once more. We shared stories, laughed over old anecdotes, and posed for countless group photos on the school grounds that held so many memories.
As the day unfolded, I relived my school days in a completely new light. Walking those corridors, sitting in the assembly hall—it felt surreal. But this time, there was no pressure, no exams looming. I had never felt this happy going to school. Interestingly, those whom everyone once thought wouldn’t shine academically turned out to be the happiest, most content souls. Of course, there are always exceptions, but it was a gentle reminder that life isn’t a report card.
The reunion concluded on a high note with emotional hugs, promises to stay in touch, and a group commitment to make this a more frequent occurrence. That night, I jotted in my diary: “I had assumed everyone would come with their baggage of assumptions. Some did. But I couldn’t be happier, as many didn’t—we were there not to judge, but to experience the moment. Same old souls, minus the race. For the first time, no pitting against each other. Just reliving those forgotten, precious moments.”
The event was truly an eye-opener. Some connections endure time. We grow. We evolve. But the innocence of those school bonds remains. Gratitude for the teachers who could join, and for friends who feel like family. Here’s to more such reunions!
(Word count: 312)
The Wordsmith 
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