Ravi was very happy because the summer holidays were about to begin. He had already planned to sleep late in the morning, play with friends during the day, and relax by watching TV in the evening. But fate did not seem to like his plan.
As soon as the school’s last bell rang, the teacher smiled and said, “Children, make sure you study for two hours every day during the holidays.” Hearing this, Ravi felt a little disappointed, but he thought, “Two hours of study is also part of the holiday.”
After reaching home, Ravi made a holiday list—sleeping, playing, going out, and enjoying himself. But then his mother said, “House cleaning will also be done during the holidays.” Ravi thought this might be the name of some new game.
The next morning, his mother said, “From today, start practicing washing dishes.” Ravi said, “Mom, I am on a break from studies, not from work.” His mother replied, “Holidays are for resting the hands and legs, not the brain.”
In the afternoon, his friends came to play.
Just as Ravi was about to go out, his mother said, “Finish your homework first.” Ravi sadly said, “My holidays have gone sour.”
In the evening, when he sat down to watch TV, the electricity went off. Ravi looked up and said, “It seems the holidays are angry with me.”
The next day, his grandmother came and said, “Learn something new during the holidays.” Ravi asked, “What?” She said, “Cut vegetables, sweep the floor, and wake up early.”
Ravi felt that his holidays had turned into a strict training camp. He messaged his friends, “My holidays have gone sour.”
Finally, Ravi decided that no matter how busy the holidays became, he would surely find some time for fun.
Sitting on the terrace at night, he thought, “Holidays are not just for rest but to add flavor to life.”
People in the neighborhood say that although Ravi’s holidays went sour, his smile remained sweet.
RAJEEV VERMA 