Looking back—2025

For me, 2024 was a year of change, transformation and a new beginning while 2025 has been a year of consolidation and of stabilizing myself. This is my annual report of my successes and shortcomings throughout this year. 
It seems just like yesterday that I walked into class IX on a rainy day in March last year. Last month, even class X came to an end and we had our pre-board examinations followed by a vacation, or rather I should say studycation that will continue till the I.C.S.E. board examinations that start of 17th February, 2026, interrupted, in fits and starts by extra classes which my teachers may take if they feel like it. Class X was over before we even knew, what with strong academic focus and loads of tests. In the midst of all that, I am thankful for being able to participate in ten quizzes (bringing my total participation in three years to 22) where I put my knowledge to the test. In fact, I participated in my first National quiz! Though I did not perform as expected in it, I have moved on—as they say, 'In a quiz, either you win or you learn!' an improvisation of a quote by Nelson Mandela. My family and I shifted houses, (yes, again!) right next door from our previous residence in the Puja holidays. I really love travelling as some of you who have read my other stories may know, but unfortunately I have not been on a vacation this year at all due to my studies—after all, ICSE comes only once in life but trips come more often! The last time this happened was in 2020 during the pandemic—sometimes it is hard to believe that 5 years ago, humanity was gripped in such deadly times and now we have left behind all that and adapted to the new normal.
Life has been mostly about studying, solving test papers, eating, going to sleep on repeat. To relax, I have been reading books,by which I have always resorted to in times of stress. My parents and teachers have, like always, been there for me and have encouraged me to set my goal for ICSE 2026 and I have the belief and faith that I can and I will do well. A plan for XI-XII had to be formulated and, though I would have rather taken Humanities, I took Science because, as it turns out, my love for Mathematics is more than my love for the Social Science subjects though I don't like Physics and Chemistry as much. I think it will help me in the long run, or maybe not—only time will tell!
As 2025 with its ups and downs draws to a close and 2026 blooms like a flower in the springtime, I would like to thank the Buddha Shakyamuni who has been my guiding light through all these times and who, I am sure, will continue to guide me through the obstacles that the new year might bring and help me to excel.
Happy New Year!