While walking to the classroom I heard the national anthem start, ‘The Junior’s Assembly I thought. It was always late. Continuing to walk towards my class, I heard a sweet voice – “Aren’t you gonna stop walking? It’s the national anthem.” I turned around to see a girl, a fair complexion with hazel eyes and short hair smiling at me, She seemed to be 12. “Yeah, I was just a bit lost in my mind,” I said, wanting to set a good example for my junior.
I clenched my fists and put my hands to my side and observed the view. Everyone had stopped walking. Some kids were singing along, and some just stood and stared at others. Then I noticed a boy, wearing a hoodie about 3-2 feet away from me. I wondered why no one had told him to take it off since the school didn’t allow any other clothes than the uniform unless it is your birthday or you have a presentation. I, couldn’t object as I was wearing a jacket too. mainly because it was the monsoon, with chilly winds.
My eyes went to his face, it wasn’t like the other kids who had a sober look most of the time. he had a curious face and a mischievous smile. He was standing, smiling and singing the national anthem out loud. Bubbling with energy, he somehow contained his excitement, whatever it was for. These features distinguished him from other kids. So small, so innocent with such a pure soul. Made me think- “What’s the behind those big eyes? what’s the reason for his smile?” It made me want to get to know this kid, for others had a grim expression but not him. So optimistic, so mischievous but still a mystery.
The bell rang, the anthem was over, and the world started to come alive from a dead scene. I stood for a moment longer, observing the scene yet again. I heard the footsteps, the chatter of the children, and the orders given to the workers. I heard the world. A cool breeze made me shiver as I hurried to the classroom, forgetting all about the boy.