Indian army is not just a career; it’s a way of life

I feel proud that my father was in Indian Army serving for around 20 years as a Border Security Force.

Army Day is celebrated on January 15 every year to honor the soldiers of the country, who have set the greatest example of selfless service and brotherhood and more than anything the love for the country.

My dad is not only a hero, but a father figure as well. He is my hero for many reasons, some of which no one will understand but me. My dad has taught me not only kindness and devotion, but loyalty as well.

I could not recall exactly how young I was when I first knew that my father was a soldier, but what made me realize what his job was were the photographs of him wearing a uniform and holding a gun. I always feel so proud of my father whenever I see him in those pictures. I always sense his sincerity and courage in every way, so I always thought my father was invincible as a soldier. And indeed, he is!

My father is an Indian Soldier. A passionate and intelligent man who has dedicated every day of the past 40 years of his life, to this nation. He has worked on holidays and through the nights. He has served with pride and conviction. As I am writing this narrative, far away from that paradise; there are men sitting with rifles at altitudes of more than 15000 feet, at temperatures of -35-degree Celsius, vigilantly monitoring the Indian borders. If there’s a lapse in their attention for even a second, they might lose their lives.

All I know is that I am an immensely proud son. A proud son of a man who has given his everything, for a cause he’s believed in. The proud son of an exceptionally talented woman who sacrificed her career to raise a family almost single-handedly; and taught it to respect her husband’s contribution to the nation. I am proud of all those times when my mother had to fill in for my father because he was on duty. I am proud, because all those times, my parents were looking at the bigger picture and serving a larger family, expecting absolutely nothing in return.

I was not born privileged because of all those perks I had as a child. I was born privileged because I had parents who taught me that living only for yourself is a life not worth living. I am privileged because I learnt through their actions and the lives they have led. They taught me that as long as you live in accordance with your ideals and beliefs, a life of passion and courage, you can hold your head high. They taught me that you don’t serve, expecting returns. You serve because it’s your duty to give back to society, to think beyond yourself. And they did just that.

People have to understand that the lives of the soldiers and their families lead in return for a salary they could have got anywhere else; but choose to remain in the army, serve and sacrifice because of the pride they have for their nation. Lately I realised that, Indian Soldiers, signed up for a lifetime of commitment to “Service Before Self”. It has taken me long enough, but I now understand that serving in the Indian army is not just a career; it’s a way of life.

My FATHER, there was nothing more to add, All the qualities combined is YOU! The Masterpiece!

Your arms are my shelter, Assuring me that it will be better.

Your hand in my comfort, Lifting me up when I fall short.

Your voice make me strong, Teaching me what’s right and wrong.

Your smile says it all, Father I love you more then all.

Father, I take this opportunity to say Thanks for what you have made my life to be from the word go to this time.

A small piece of advice my dear friends, fall back to your parents for anything and everything. I am sure that will make our lives better. Our parents may not understand all our feelings, emotions and thoughts immediately. They may not be so educated, talented & advanced, however I am sure they will make an honest attempt to understand us at any case. Please understand your parents & respect the love, hope, dreams & the faith that they kept on you…I sincerely request each and everyone, please never miss your parents. They are the visible gods on earth..

Much love and compassion is sent to each and every person who may read this and learn how to love and be loved.