There are a few memories that you cannot take out from your mind, one of which is when I was in eighth grade. We all know that the month of August commemorates our Independence Day. The atmosphere is jubilant and everywhere we see is our beautiful green and white flag.

I remember it was the fifth of August and we were preparing for the celebrations that were going to take place on our school function on Independence Day. Every teacher in her/his respective class was selecting their best students for the categories of debate, speech, dance performances, and for singing patriotic song, etc.

I was selected to sing a song.

Although it was my favourite category, I had always fantasised about hosting the show. To me, it was more special than any other category, and for various reasons I was unable to participate as a host.

That year also, before I could tell the teacher of my interest in hosting the show, the girl from a senior class showed up and was selected for the said category. I had to remain silent as things were soon finalised.

In my eight years at school now, I had built a great understanding with all the teachers, so whenever some event or a day was celebrated, the teachers would ask me to be a part of it in some way. I loved helping them in activities, like decorating the stage with arts teacher, helping Urdu and English teachers for coming up with the topics for speeches, and sending invitations of the event.

Each day passed with lots of exciting preparations taking place. The selected students were preparing more enthusiastically for their part. I was fully prepared to sing the song Dil Dil Pakistan and was helping other students in their category now.

Finally, August 14th came. We all arrived early in school and had flags in our hands; everything was rehearsed and the show was about to begin. The guests and parents had also arrived.

However, something seemed amiss. My teacher looked worried as she could not see the host for the show anywhere. The girl who was to do it had not turned up. There was absolute chaos, because no one else had prepared to host the programme. Teachers were discussing the options, but they were all upset.

Time was running out, I saw my class teacher discussing the matter with the principal. Therefore, I intervened and offered to host the show.

My class teacher said, “You aren’t prepared for it. How you will do that?”

I replied, “Don’t worry ma’am, I won’t disappoint you. I always wanted to host, but couldn’t do that for various reasons, so I can host if you allow me to.”

“Well, I believe you have the potential but...” she said and looked towards the principal for approval. Our principal smiled, indicating her approval.

I smiled back and happily walked towards the stage. I felt overjoyed when I was given the mike to start the show. Of course, I was nervous at the start, but within minutes, everything came under control.

I hosted the show very smoothly and felt happy for myself. When the show ended, I was appreciated by all the teachers, especially our principal. Although it was my first time, I did it better than those who prepared and rehearsed for it in the previous years.

So, it was the most remarkable Independence Day celebration for me and I can never forget it.

Published in Dawn, Young World, August 14th, 2021