The disciplined way

After reading Saby's thoughts, I could not resist starting on my second one....

This time I will take a leap and go straight to something that has been so unique in my learning process at SVTS.

DISCIPLINE

If someone asked me about the best thing that happened to my life, I would unquestionably make attending SVTS. That closely is followed by accepting discipline. It has just become so much a part of me now than it was even at St. Vincent’s. My special thanks to great people such as Br. Foley and Br. Parton. In fact the whole setup was so good that you naturally fell part of it.

Everything that was done during our boarding life had to be carried out at specific times. Initially and often I resisted it but I always liked the fact there were such a thing called “rules”. Coming from the most lawless state, Bihar, I think I metamorphosed pretty well into a non-conventional bihari way of developing the inner self as a disciplined individual. Yes it was part of that strict time structure that we were able to get so many things accomplished. When I see my daughter exhibiting some of those characteristics of “discipline”, it drives her mom, my wife Anita nuts. But as a Dad I am overjoyed with the sense of gratitude for St. Vincent’s. Time keeps flying but memories stays where it best resides, in our inner self. Boarding school was the first place where I really learned to take care of small needs. Whether it was those small needle work tasks, sewing your clothes or polishing shoes, preparing yourself for school or it was helping others do it, everything was done in the best possible way as an individual.

One of the great things I have learnt was to a piece of paper always ready. I know Br. Parton would make rounds insisting on it. I never really understood it that time but I did that any way. Today even in this electronic era I carry a small notepad in my pocket along with a pen. I am always ready if there are any notes to be jotted down.

Before I joined St. Vincent’s I had a tough time following schedule. But that changed. Thank goodness for that. After I graduated from SVTS, I have carried that disciplined character all along. It has not only established me as a content individual but has given me a unique quality that I pride myself of.

A number of events have followed in life but the tolerance that comes with discipline is unmatched elsewhere. I had seen a lot of students squirm over the thoughts over following the rules, but it bring in a good change in us. I am thankful for the table manners, be courteous, prayers before bed and finding a quiet place in the hustle & bustle of the modern life. All of these centered around discipline.

To top it all I had the pleasure & fortune of having Alok by my side who gave the discipline a special meaning. Even today when I meet him, he reminds me so much of that old my captain.... and the old discipline of SVTS.

back to main page