We live in an era where almost everyone we know is doing
everything possible in their power to fight the fine lines of aging. Save from
planning an expedition to find the fabled fountain of youth, people are trying
it all – from dying their hair to using miracle creams and everything in
between. You see, for some people, getting a year older is the end of life as
they know it and a humongous deal is made of this, afresh, every year. But then
there are those for whom age is just a number. These few and far between
individuals truly believe that one is only as old as one feels and so, they age
with grace, beauty and wisdom. Thankfully, I am surrounded by many examples of
such elegance and intelligence and thus, consider myself truly blessed and
lucky to have these models influence and shape me.
Take for instance, my grandmother Lira – she’s all
of 87 going on 88 and she’s still fiercely (and at times, stubbornly) independent,
aided by live-in help solely due to the fact that she’s almost blind. If it
weren’t for the eyesight issue, I know she’d insist on living on her own. But
despite these odds, you’ll always find her dressed impeccably, no matter where
she’s going – be it to the doctor’s, the church, the market or a wedding – you
won’t find a strand of silvery-gray hair out of place and she’s always made complete
by her walking stick, a little lipstick, a string of pearls and an air of
dignity.
Then there’s the legendary Mercedes Lobo and Myra
Shroff – sisters divided by a row of houses but united in their familial bond, love
for each other and passion for music. While Mercedes is a skilled soprano
singer and pianist, Myra is an accomplished violinist. On any given day, both
can be found either practising their professions, taking a walk or drive
together or partaking of the latest musical programme at any given centre for
the arts.
Cut to the larger-than-life influence that was Thecla
Rosario – my school principal and prayer pillar. She tackled unruly children
and unreasonable parents in exactly the same way – with love, understanding,
compassion and most importantly, prayer. She prayed for those she knew and
didn’t know, people near and far, religious and political leaders, for
countries and continents. Till today, students settled far and wide hold her in
high esteem and reverence and attribute much of their success to her and her never
ending belief and prayers.
Now it’s not only the women that amaze – the men
inspire me as well. To name a few, there are my next door neighbours – Averthanus
D’Souza and Nasci D’Souza. Though they aren’t related, they share a lot in
common. They’re both gifted with knowledge and an in depth knowhow – Averthanus
with that of literature, religion and writing and Nasci with that of history, archaeology
and traveling. They’re both equally passionate about music – be it classical or
from the 50s and 60s. They both believe very strongly in standing up for what’s
right. And they’re both genuine (and maybe last of their kind) gentlemen.
There are a few more that I could list and describe
because when it comes to people like this, I have a kaleidoscope of names and
faces in mind. But due to space constraints, I will not. However, I will state
this – while each individual has one or more qualities that sets them apart
from the others and makes them unique, together they have taught me to be
independent, compassionate and passionate about things I love. They have taught
me to pray, believe in myself and travel. They have taught me to live.
