We grew up together, maybe far apart, but in the same manner.

I used to fight for little things, you sacrificed it and gave it to others.

I loved my parents, you also did, but you loved someone else better.

We both left home at 18,

I got into engineering because it was the trend, you got into NDA without fearing the end.

I persuaded my degree, you had the toughest training to complete.

My classes started at 8 and ended at 4, you forgot the difference between days and nights.

I struggled to get up in the morning, you survived alone even the mournings.

I got the best CTC and the most comfortable job, but you, you just didn’t stop.

Every evening I met my family, you just wished you could see them once.

I celebrated festivals with lights and fervors, you celebrated yours with the sound of gunshots in your bunkers.

My mother wished me goodbye each day, yours just wished she would never have to say that.

I was sent to luxurious hotels for business trips, you were sent on the line of control.

We both returned one day. Both our families had tears.

I wiped theirs, But I know you couldn’t…

I just lived, but you created a way of life.

I was breathing, but your spirit survived.

I was selfish, so you sacrificed.

I lived for myself, you died so that I could be alright.

We both left home at 18, but you never came back….