Terra Firma

Vijayadashami, celebrated on the tenth day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu autumn month of Ashvin or Ashwayuja (around October), is the grand culmination of the 10-day annual Navratri - 'Nine nights' festival.

This is one day of the year, considered to be very auspicious to commence any form of education. It is customary to begin a learning process ceremoniously and today, I was to commence my education on a technical subject that has been my bread and butter for five years now but ironically i knew nothing more on this subject than I could confuse an audience with my knowledge or lecture!!!

It is also customary that the student designate pays honors and tributes to the Teacher - usually in the form of a valuable - before embarking on the journey of learning.

I asked my teacher if there was any preference for the offering known as 'Dakshina' and the teacher responded by saying that it was upto the student. I wanted to offer something priceless or invaluable but was not sure if it would appeal my teacher. I should not end up inviting the wrath of the teacher, let alone learning something new! I wanted to make sure that the Teacher would appreciate it and if possible treasure it for a long time.

The Teacher asks of me to give up my inclination for tobacco products. But that is not good for the teacher to treasure, I think for myself. Clueless about what the Teacher wants or would like, I wait for the Teacher's nod to commence learning.

I get a couple of exercises to take a shot at before the Teacher could take me through the ocean of knowledge. I manage to crack the first problem - the one on the Leaking Bucket but have yet to figure out how to wake up the sleeping barber.

The Teacher is waiting for my answer. So am I. What 'Dakshina' shall I give the Teacher...!!!

If the teacher refrains from making it clear, I think I will go ahead and give it without asking. No matter how it is accepted or rejected. After all it is upto the student to take the decision.

It is time to learn. It is time to begin, before it is too late.