The day I became free

I had just woken up that day and it was raining pretty heavily. Exhausted from last night’s work, I got up with a dreary mood and washed my face. Breakfast was served and the car was ready. In 20 minutes, I was infront of my destination. I took a couple of deep breaths and went inside the building. Half an hour later, I hear the words “Congrats, your US F-1 visa is approved”. Still half-asleep but filled with excitement, I rushed towards my dad informing him of this news. Within an hour, my family congratulated me and wished me all the best. I was leaving the next week.

The week went by swiftly and it was not before the evening of the day I was supposed to leave that it hit me. The place I called home for the last 18 years, would only be in my memories for the next year. The faces I took for granted every day would only be seen through a phone. The streets and the food that I had fallen in love with would be replaced by a entirely new culture. I tried to control my tears but my emotions got the better of me. I couldn’t bear the thought of my leaving my this life behind…

My mom calmed me and said that this was a new beginning and a beautiful chapter of my life. Not many get this opportunity, and I should be grateful for it. She wanted me to feel better about going but deep down I was still scared. Eventually, we reached the airport, and I went inside. Seeing my parents faces for the last time broke me from inside. They were trying to hide their feelings, but I could see it in their eyes. I went inside the washroom to clean my face. Still wondering, if it was the right decision, I checked in my bags and sat near my gate. I was having second thoughts and was about to call my parents, when it was announced that the boarding had started. Setting my feelings aside, I sat down and saw the screen in front of me. It said, have a pleasant flight. Somehow, that innocent message calmed me and I looked out the window. The flight had taken off and the entire city gleamed in the orange light. That’s when the thought crossed my mind… I was all alone now. No one will be there to take care for me. I have to help myself. I have to become independent. I have to become free…..