In a world where it is easy to connect with old friends, it
is still difficult to form a strong bond. However, the earliest friendships as
a child is something that remains for lifelong. The same camaraderie could be
noticed at the reunion of the Fatima Convent High School, Margao Class 1973
batch celebrated its 50th anniversary.
It is interesting how the Reunion came about, as only a few
of the classmates were in touch with each other. Then came the pandemic and
people all over the world were stuck indoors. Everyone had time to ponder and
wonder ‘What If’. The Class of ‘73 had turned 60 and nostalgia was hitting a
few. In this scenario, a few of the batchmates formed a Whatsapp group in August
2020 and the ‘Fantastic Fatimites Class of 1973’ was created and grew.
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The suggestion for a reunion came up in April 2022 with a
‘Save the Date’ invite to the Fantastic Fatimites which was now 50 strong. This
connection was a gift beyond anyone’s wildest imagination and hope. To connect
with classmates who had shared ‘words of wisdom’ and gave advice in autograph
books back in 1973. The invite to the ‘Save the Date’ put into motion the
possibility of meeting after 50 years. Classmates from abroad scrambled to
apply for visas, book tickets, apply for leave, arrange work/business
schedules, in order to be sure they would make it to Goa before the date.
The committee to plan the Golden Reunion was formed. They
gave generously of their time and meticulously planned every detail of the
reunion. The event was held at Silva Heritage, Cana-Benaulim which fulfilled
the requirement of ambiance, privacy and hospitality.
Arrangements were made for a photograph at the venue as a
keepsake of the Reunion. Have you ever tried getting a group of 42 ole
girlfriends, meeting after 50 years, to stop chatting and smile for the camera?
It took quite a while!
After hellos, hugs and a few happy tears, the formal part of
the Reunion commenced with a prayer which included thanksgiving, remembering
departed classmates and those who couldn’t make it. A special cake to
commemorate the occasion was cut followed by the school anthem. The words and
tune of the anthem had been rehearsed online. One of the Fantastic Fatimites
even wore the old school uniform, beige, pleated knee length dress complete
with brown buttons, socks and shoes.
Then came the fun part, games that led to splits of
laughter, dancing, sharing stories of good old school days and recollection of
innocent pranks played on unsuspecting teachers. Educationists, doctors,
lawyers, entrepreneurs, bankers and housewives caught up on 50 years of
experiences in different parts of the world. All in all, it was a memorable
day.
Another part of the reunion celebration was a voluntary donation
to a charity. That is the kind of social consciousness instilled by the
teachers and sisters of Fatima Convent High School. All good things come to an
end but the fun spilled over to the next day. Those who could attend, spouses
included, hopped on to a boat to cruise down River Sal with Cris Cruises.
In the words of Theresa Ann Moore, they were ‘Reminiscing
joyfully before former teens say goodbye as I drive home, youthful voices
resound in my mind suspended in a moment of time where age is not defined.”
