Based On A True Story Part 8: Diwali

Days passed quickly and, just like any other couples out there — there have been times when we, too, get into some sort of misunderstanding, many hours of silence, and sometimes, especially when my mood swings were at its finest, I would unintentionally treat him coldly. And even though those times did not really lasted long, I could not help but feel guilty whenever I realize how immature I am. I kept telling myself that I could have been more understanding; could have been more mature about everything; could have imagined myself if I was in his situation. I still am working hard on the part of life called “growing up”, yet I could not help but go back in time and be a kid because of the fact that he treats me like a princess.

But I can’t always be a princess, can I? The princess has to grow up and work hard too.

There was a time back when we were just penpals when I asked what was his favorite celebration. And apart from Christmas and New Year, he told me that one of it was Diwali: the festival of Lights; a tradition in India. He should have known by now that I love lights because he is one. He’s my light.

I wasn’t exactly sure when the celebration was, but one day I just woke up and read that it’s the festival of lights. And that was how I knew, even before he told me the same day through text. I greeted him first and he was surprised.

“How did you know?!?!” He asked in the text.

We weren’t able to chat for a very long time because he had to go to their Gurdwara. He said they would light candles and eat there. I literally wanted to go, even though it was impossible, just so I could see what it was like with my very own eyes. He said everyone is welcome in the Gurdwara anyway. And surely I could sneakily hold his hand while holding the candle with the other.

I kept texting his phone even when he left their house. I wanted him to tell me all the things that they were doing and the princess’ wish was once again fulfilled when he sent me pictures of their Gurdwara and the pretty candle light outside. It was beautiful. Very simple but beautiful and I could already imagine myself walking through the hallways of the place, lost in my curiosities. If there was, though, a Gurdwara in my country, I don’t think I would be able to enter. I don’t know anyone from there and I’m just not that brave, unless he’s holding me, then I can do anything.

I guess that particular celebration was the one that got me interested in his religion and his culture in general but I just couldn’t put into words what I wanted to know. There were many things that I wanted to know, but I didn’t know which ones to know first. I’m just very curious, and that cultural side of him was one thing I wasn’t very familiar yet.

But I like Diwali now too, that’s for sure.

(Source: cloudbearer)