book

Some days it felt like nothing went right – my popcorn got
burned in the microwave, my white clothes decided to die a
colourful death, my toilet flush took the day off – and on
days like these it took everything I had to keep it together.
On these days, I stopped and realized that I’m not the only
one going through this.
Other days, everything worked out just the way it ought to –
the weather was perfect, my room did not reflect a warzone,
maybe it was a night we all stayed up late and talked about
the most inconsequential things. These were the days we
lived for and these were the days that made it all worth it.
I think the takeaway from this whole ride is that hostel life –
for that matter everything that happens once we leave
school behind – is a test of strength and adaptability. It is
one big shove out of our comfort zones and into the real
world. The experience is akin to diving headfirst into icy
waters – it hurts and stings and terrifies you but the
memories are the prize. We’re on a quest of sorts and we
can’t make it through without our sidekicks.
I could name a hundred times that showed me what it meant
to create lasting friendships – from common hostel
problems to unexpected nightmares like last year’s floods.
Every single one of those instances has, ultimately, become
a part of who I am.
Bright, welcoming and overflowing with promise – flat
number 14 has come a long way, as have I.
- Roshini Daniel (Batch 4)