A Trip Down Memory Lane

Embracing Modern Convenience: In the modern age, train journeys have become a breeze. With a few taps on your mobile, you can book a ticket, track the train's live status, and arrive at the station precisely as your train arrives. But it wasn't always this way. Back in the day, securing a seat on a train required quite the effort. My father would stand in line at the railway station weeks in advance to get us a reserved seat. And if we couldn't manage that, we'd head to the station on the very day of travel, hoping to get a spot with general tickets. The rush and chaos of peak days! It was a familiar scene to stand all the way to our destination, a journey that could stretch for five hours. Seats were a hot commodity, and sometimes, sitting was a luxury. I recall sitting atop a VIP-branded suitcase, covered in green cloth, believing it had some sort of magical protection. Oh, the ingenuity of childhood!

Window Seat Wonders: While the current generation is immersed in their mobile screens during train rides, I find myself reminiscing about my quest for the perfect window seat. Five hours seemed like mere moments when I gazed out at the passing world. It's funny how time changes our perspectives, isn't it?

Mother's Love, Packed in Tiffins: Thinking back to my mother's preparations for our train journeys brings a smile to my face. She'd pack lemon rice and curd rice, a hearty meal to sustain us through the ride. Despite the tempting allure of train samosas, her homemade treats were our comfort. I chuckle remembering how we'd eat from paper plates, washing our hands through the window, often splashing water on unsuspecting fellow travelers.

Kindness in Shared Spaces: Witnessing the kindness of strangers is a memory I hold dear. When a mother with two kids had only two seats reserved, another family extended their hand and invited one of the children to join them. I watched the child's face light up as they found new friends. These moments remind me that humanity's beauty lies in its connections and shared experiences.

Lessons from Humble Beginnings: Traveling in the general coach was my chance to witness genuine bonds and connections. I found myself surrounded by honest and authentic exchanges when traveling among fellow passengers in the general compartments. It's a humbling reminder that true relations aren't bound by luxury.

From Dreams to Reality: Growing up, I yearned for the comforts of air-conditioned travel and the ability to afford my desires. I worked tirelessly to achieve what I have today, and this journey down memory lane reminds me of my progress. The past is a teacher, guiding us toward a future we've worked hard to build.