The Sacrifice

"The threat of war looms over the borders of our country. Each soldier must prepare himself for attack any time, requiring him to endure severe physical and emotional strain. It’s the noises and the smoke, the terror and the rage, the cries which a soldier continues to see everyday. Today I salute the feisty spirit of a soldier who stands tall and proud as he protects the crowd. Freedom was the gift you unselfishly gave which made the people feel safe, while pain and death was the price you paid. I give my utmost admiration to those who fought to defend our nation."

Eruption of claps is what my ears caught while I walked down from the stage after giving my little speech. “Tara, I am so sorry for loss. He was a brave soldier.” One of my aunts gave me a hug. With that a series of condolences started pouring in while my heart only felt numbness. My eyes were still earning to see his handsome face, my lips were quivering to call his name; my insides were tearing apart as throat lumped with tears.

My thoughts were interrupted by my 8 year old girl as she hugged me tightly. Rubbing her back soothingly, I kissed her teary cheek. “Sanju, want to go home?” She nodded looking down. “We should leave, Ma.” I spoke eyeing towards my daughter. “You head home; I will come in a while.” She replied still looking at her son’s picture. “Okay Ma.” Giving her a hug I left.

“Where were you?” I asked looking at my 15 year old son as he stood at the doorway. In that moment I realized how dangerously similar he looked like his father. The same brown eyes, jet black hair, dimple smile, sturdy look yet he had a soft heart like mine. Without a word he walked inside; putting his head on my lap, he sat on floor while I rested on the sofa. “Ma, I know Pa just left us but I also want to keep the promise I made to him.” My heart dropped for second but when he held my hand and I saw the spirit in his eyes a smile escaped my lips. “Kabir, if you want to join the army, I won’t stop you.” I assured him. “What if I can’t make Pa proud?” His voice dropped. “You know the day your father joined the army what you Grandfather told him?” I said holding his hands tightly while his eyes sparkled with curiosity. “He said, don’t worry, about making me proud just make our nation proud.”