By Gauri Pendharkar
Other Voices
A quiet spread over the group as we all slipped into a self-induced relaxation mode, a meditative state under the dark, cold sky studded with stars. The beautiful moon seemed to smile down over us humans huddled together in a true spirit of oneness, all for the same noble cause … yes summer school registration.
It is 4:30 a.m. and I was only 20th in line. I beamed with pride and joy at how far I had come since my first induction into the “line of wait” several years ago. I remember strolling in at 7:30 a.m., simple, naive old me, sleepy and casual, only to stare in utter disbelief at the line of people ahead of me. It took me two days to get over the depression of being 136th in line for a six-week summer class for my kid!
Today, you should see me at 4:30 a.m., bright and prepared with my folding chair, tea, warm jacket, cell phone, snack, book, forms filled out. Hey, I’ve got it made.
You know, there are so many hidden advantages to this once-a-year occasion. Perhaps that is why people in higher places do this to us, mere parents: to promote a sense of community and cause; to keep us focused on our goal of providing great opportunities for our kids and learn a touch of being one with nature, in a serene, unearthly hour, when man can bond with one’s inner self. Also, one puts all the modern amenities to highest and best use. Once, there was this man who truly inspired me with his creativity. He sat with his laptop, and a helmet with a biker’s headlamp shining down his head, working away to glory, totally oblivious of his surroundings. A truly illuminating companion, I must say.
Another advantage to this gathering is the new friends you make and that special bond that never breaks between its members. I’m thrilled to say that I’ve been chosen chairperson for our annual barbecue. It feels good to belong, and although I may not qualify to do this in a few years since my kids will be in high school, I plan to leave behind a legacy that other parents can benefit from. I plan to set up a “lost and found” and a “first aid” booth for each registration occasion, and maybe a coffee and donut stand, too. After all, we have to wait in line, so I may as well make it a happy, comfortable, growing experience for us all.
Well, it’s almost time for the gates of heaven to open now. The starchy angel will let us in and we will all troop in to do the needful, another successful mission accomplished and, as always, the joy on the children’s faces at getting the classes they want is all the reward we need.
Pendharkar is a Los Altos resident.
