Thursday 12 November 2015

Lasting impressions

I was wondering who is #madeofgreat?
Made of great, is a person who left a lasting impression upon us, out of the hundreds of people we meet everyday, during the course of our life.


There have been many people with whom, I have spent some amazing moments, that have inspired me, encouraged me and made me think he/she is great. While pondering on who would be that #madeofgreat I thought about my 9th standard science teacher Tanu Miss, my own mother, Lavanya, my first mentor at the start of my career and was just scrolling my life over the people and incidents that impacted my life.



For me #madeofgreat is my 3rd standard class teacher Mrs.Mendes. A lady with saggy skin and wrinkles due to her age. Her hair cut short till her shoulders. Her small eyes. The vivid memories I have of her take me to the moment, when I was just a little girl, my small hands, wearing school uniform, sitting on the marble floor in the classroom while other students on the bench, over a huge chart paper, greater than my size and writing with Mrs.Mendes, alongside me.


Our school had recently introduced a policy of writing in print letters rather than cursive. Many students could not pick it up too quickly. I was the one who got acquainted to print writing easily and believe it or not, at that age, my handwriting was the best among my classmates or so Mrs. Mendes thought .
That is why, she chose me to write, a privilege, as the chart used to be displayed in the school lobby, where whole school could have a look at what 3rd A students presented.

Now, coming back to the moment I remember. I was writing very dedicatedly (privileged by the opportunity) where I was given a PEN to write. Writing with a pen was also new to us, because till second standard we used pencil. I was trying hard not to make any spelling mistakes as I knew the white eraser couldn't hide my mistakes. This would mean, I would have to strike a word off, which would have made the chart look dirty. But while writing, I did an error and I was too embarrassed and frightened by the rage, I may have to face now.


I told Mendes Miss I committed a spelling mistake and I will have to strike it out. Instead of shouting at me, she said,' it was alright' and she did something which I couldn't have guessed, ever. She brought a round blue colour thin thing to my notice and carefully started rubbing off my mistake. I could see the ink vanishing, although it left a blue tinge on the paper. It was an ink eraser! Who knew? 

I was damn impressed by this new invention, which I saw. Also, I was thankful to Mrs.Mendes who didn't shout and politely rubbed off my other two mistakes, later again. After we finished, she showed the chart to whole class and put it on the school board with the help of those round pins. She even asked me, to mention my name at bottom. Few other teachers who noticed it, appreciated my job.


Now, I don't know exactly what was great in her. The invention she introduced me to, her kindness or her motivation but she left a lasting impression on me.


She became my favorite teacher and I her favorite student I guess. We also performed to a fairy dance wearing a white frock with layers, silver lining, silver wings, with a fairy wand in our hands on our annual day. She choreographed it and had selected that dress.


 I remember I wrote my first Diwali card for her, with lotuses drawn on it because I could draw only a lotus properly. I wrote some message and gave the card to her and wished her Happy Diwali. We went to 4th standard and got a new teacher, new classroom. I used to watch her and wish her good morning whenever we came across each other whether in the lobby or staircase. But soon, she left school. I don't know where she is and how she is right now. But, she helped me build my confidence to a great extent. I remember I scored my career best 93℅ during my third standard itself. A great lady and my salute to her!


Keep thinking!


You might be thinking where did I come across #madeforgreat. I did when I visited  http://madeofgreat.tatamotors.com.

Lionel Messi has associated with Tata Motors. You probably must have already seen the advertisement.
"What do you think of Tata Motors' association with Lionel Messi?"

30 comments:

  1. Lionel messi associated with Tata is a great deal. But your post reminded Me of my class teacher in 2nd. Cyril miss. An angel really for me.

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    1. That's nice that my post reminded you of someone.

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  2. This post reminds me of my 4th standard in sri MA.... Only and only 5 students in class.... Milli miss and Meenakshi madam(principal)
    Memories last for life....
    Made of great

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  3. This is definitely a great post. We all have atleast one great teacher in our school lives, who cast a lasting impression in our character. Nostalgic indeed, as I could relate to it.

    As for the question, as you mentioned in your post about how Mrs. Mendes helped you shape your motivation or encounter you to an invention, she was in a way, complimenting your discoveries. Likewise, I believe, both TATA Motors and Lionel Messi are known for their strength, reliability and trust, hence, they both compliment each other in a fashion, and indeed, their association is one great example of 2 sides of a coin.

    :)

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    1. Hey Amreen.. very well put! Your Email id please

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    2. Hey thank you Anagha! Its amreens44@gmail.com :)

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  4. Wonderful post, Anagha! Your post reminded me of my 4th Grade teacher, Ajit Sir. He was a gem of a person and the only reason why I could actually do Math. He made mathematics so fun to do! 😄

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  5. Thank you Radhika! I am glad I am able to remind people of their teachers.

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    1. As for the question:


      Messi is the absolute best in his field. An association with him is sure to provide a great boost to the already prime reputation of Tata Motors'! This combination is the start of a great era, where Indian workmanship will be renowned all over the world. Undoubtedly, a great move for the automotive industry. :)

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  6. Tata Motors and Messi compliment each other like aloo does to Samosa. Tata Motors and Lionel Messi have many things in common. Tata Motors and Messi compliment each other just like aloo and Samosa. Firstly both of them have highly credible performance record. Secondly they are both made of great material. Indeed there couldn't have been any other brand ambassador than Messi for Tata Motors

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  7. Greatness is not measured in money or fame. True greatness is in the small things, the simple acts of kindness and courage. A child willing to part his/her pocket money for a street beggar. A railway line man putting his life on the wager to avoid an accident. Simple acts of charity and courage but great. Truly.

    Messi got skills and tata got money, great in their own respect but not any great than Mrs Mendez who could have been stern with little Anagha but instead chose a path of gentle mentoring. And that in my mind is truly #madeofgreat

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    1. Harish, you are really sweet! I agree with your definition of greatness.

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  8. Anagha..what a glowing tribute to a lovely pedagogue and how right is our parampara of giving respect to " Mata Pita Guru and God'..though not necessarily in that order.

    Growing from.strength to strength from humble beginnings, through decades of hard work, grit, perseverence and determination are two distinct brands that are matchless and outstanding- Messi and Tata, a combination that is an outright winner!

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  9. I am delighted to read about yet another teacher as a role model , inspiration story. This is something that never gets old, and always wonderful to read about. Those innumerable teachers who gave us support, strength, knowledge and confidence to support in life. The people whom we look up to and think they are the one who can resolve all your queries. It is heartwarming for you to remember all these intricate details in your childhood about your teacher and blogging about it.

    Regarding Lionel Messi's association with Tata, I think this is one of the best combination I've ever seen in recent times. A brand known for reliability , consistency and quality ,Tata Motors has been the pride of India for demonstrating such finesse and bring car ownership even to the massses. Be it the 1 Lakh car or the high end premium segment cars, Tata has an impeccable brand value. The only guy who can match up to such brand value is Lionel Messi. Known to be one of the greatest footballers in this decade or even millenium , Messi is someone who has risen from the roots, grown up amongst several obstacles and become world famous purely because of his consistency, skill and his passion to the sport. When Lionel Messi endorses Tata Motors, its become obvious what both of them would reflect. A rock solid impeccable brand endorsing another . The match is made in heaven should I say?

    End of the day both Messi and Tata Motors are true reflections for greatness and what better delight one can get to see them together

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  10. Hi Anagha,
    Indeed a nicely written post. I wish you good luck for the contest
    Here is my answer
    The association of Tata Motors with Lionel Messi is that of two greats. Lionel Messi has been exceptionally talented who with his hard work, determination and sacrifices has got better and tougher in his chosen sport so is the Image, reputation and quality of TATA Motors that have transformed brilliant ideas into masterpieces of engineering and created a brand and products that we are so proud of as Indians. Lionel Messi has transformed his body and the mind body co-ordination into a masterpiece of precision and excellence it would not be wrong to say that Lionel Messi is the TATA Motors of sports where as TATA Motors is the Lionel Messi of vehicles both giants in their own spheres driven by the drive to excel and lead by example. So Lionel Messi is the best choice for becoming the brand Ambassador for TATA Motors
    aaloke19@gmail.com

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  11. Your post describes #madeofgreat so well that it has winner written all over it. Good luck for your entry.
    Here is my answer.
    Like minds think and act alike looking at the track record of TATA Motors it has stood the test of time and built a business that was built using bricks of hard work on a foundation of trust. Authenticity, reliability, simplicity, as well as its commitment to innovation are the trademarks of brand TATA Motors. These same qualities are present in Lionel Messi who with his immense talent has made a mark for himself on the international football field .Facing all hardships he has worked hard toiling on the fields and in training sessions facing injuries and pressure to come out trumps and be a winner. Thus these two greats Lionel Messi and TATA Motors are made for each other .There association is a bond of two legends
    In case you pick me a winner my email id is : princess09hema@gmail.com
    Fingers crossed :)

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    1. Thank you so much. I am glad you feel so!

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  12. I can't help noticing the subtle wit in your narration. And your honesty in saying that you really don't know what you think is great in her :) I can relate to it. There are several who I think is great but difficult to point out what exactly makes me think that way. And I've had that experience too of writing a chart for the class and that feeling of nervousness that I shouldn't make a mistake, ha! School life is a lovely memory, isn't it? Glad to read your post.

    Of the thousands of thoughts moving around the Messi-Tata Motors association, here’s a new insight. Messi is also the ambassador for UNICEF for his noble deeds for the betterment of children across the globe. That’s something that truly touched me, more than the football legend in him. On the other side, our Tata Motors could think of making several Indian middle class dreams alive with their Nano. Definitely there’s a touch of humanity behind this. Their association sounds to me like humanity meets humanity!

    Nandhini
    https://pagesfromserendipity.wordpress.com
    nandhini.pfs@gmail.com

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    1. Good observations. I am glad you could relate to it!

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  13. Your post defines #madeofgreat to the hilt. Goodluck for the contest
    My answer is:
    Authenticity, reliability, simplicity, as well as its commitment to innovation are the pillars of strength on which TATA have built a brand that has put India on the global map. It is a brand that has stood the test of time just like Lionel Messi who tackles opposition on the field with his skill,agility,strategy,brilliance and raw power to reach and score a goal so has been the track record of TATA motors who has become a brand leader and a global giant. These qualities make TATA Motors and Lionel Messi perfect partners who stand for the same set of values thus Lionel Messi is the perfect brand ambassador to represent TATA Motors.
    Hope my best to be a winner here; do contact me for the prize at mahima2014j@gmail.com
    fingers crossed

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  14. Your post defines #madeofgreat in an awesome manner.Very well written and interesting post indeed.
    My Answer
    Tata Motors is a brand that makes durable vehicles, with its MADE IN INDIA mark makes every Indian proud. It is a brand seen globally as Trusted, Reliable, Innovative and at the forefront of technology. In its journey since inception it has overcome all odds, competition, and adversities with grit and determination. These same qualities are associated with Lionel Messi who was very talented and hardworking from a very early age. With each game that he played he kept improving his skills and built a career to become one of the best player of professional football. There qualities make both TATA Motors and Lionel Messi giants who perfectly compliment each other and Lionel Messi the right and perfect Ambassador who stands for the same values that TATA Motors does.
    bhuwan198grover@gmail.com

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  15. Yours is a very well written post your .Its is a very nice description of #madeofgreat
    TATA Motors is a brand associated with performance, endurance and excellence. These words are also synonymous with Lionel Messi who plays as a forward and weaves his magic on the football field.Just as Lionel Messi is considered the best footballer in the world ,TATA motors which is Indias premier automotive manufacturer gives wheels to the people of India with its wide range of vehicles. Both believe in excelling in whatever they do and set examples for others to follow. They compliment each other as both are reliable trustworthy and leaders thus Lionel Messi is the natural choice as the brand ambassador of TATA Motors
    Please consider me as a winner
    Email: yagneshbjoshi10099@gmail.com

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  16. I see both Tata Motors and Lionel Messi as pioneers. While the very name Tata is enough to make us go back to all our history books where we have seen there hardly is a comparable name that has contributed so much to the society in such an ethical manner, the very name Messi conjures up images of a boy-man who has turned the world upside down with his talent, determination, discipline and never-give-up spirit. The compatibility between the values they both share is intense and that is the reason this partnership works perfectly.

    With a concern for the society at large,everything that Tata has done has inspired us to dream big, conquer the world and pour all our energy back into the society to do good and inspire good. By facing his demons, Messi has done the same. He enjoys a God-like status in the world today because he dared to dream, achieved the sky and still hasn't lost his humanity a bit. He is still a child at heart and he gives back with his multiple philanthropic activities just like Tata does!

    Talk to any person in India, ask them about the companies they admire the most. Tata is right there at the top. This name is beyond bottomline, spreadsheets, return on investment and share price. It is equivalent to soul of India-soft, kind, diverse, dynamic, eternal. Just like that Messi has emerged as not just another football player but someone whose very life is an inspiration, whose personal struggles are a template for others to emulate and who has morphed into an eternal legend.

    While it would take eons to write about what makes Tata Motors and Messi great, as their list of achievements is too long for us to even skim over, suffice to say that this partnership is for the ages. As they say, some things are made in heaven :)

    Thank you for this opportunity.
    -Richa Shailendra, lovelyricha1@gmail.com

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  17. Inspiration,
    Dedication,
    Discipline,
    Commitment,
    Trust,
    Loyalty,
    Excellence,
    Legacy,
    Immortality.

    These are not mere words but a part of our soul. Not just the ones that we carry around in our individual bodies but that supreme soul that binds us all together in this universe. That is why we teach our children values and morals so that these little pockets of our souls do not die away. But when we look around at our modern day lifestyle and society,it leaves a lot to be desired, right? Wrong :) I would say,as long as we have even 1 shred of humanity left,there is a ray of sunshine and that is what we see here.

    I am inspired by your story just as I am inspired by the stories of Tata Motors and Lionel Messi. As I said above about humanity and ray of sunshine, it is very few icons left in this world who make me feel that way. Both Tata and Messi definitely make it to this short list.

    When we talk about Tata Motors,we talk about the pride that every Indian feels because this is our truly global brand, a brand with a soul, with every product made to help us fly. This is a corporate behemoth that has not amassed its fortunes at the cost of the little man but by being a part of the very grassroots. The legacy of excellence and giving back to the society selflessly is so ingrained in Tata DNA that it has become part of folklore. Even today,in any Indian home, the moment a son/daughter gains employment in a Tata company, nobody talks about salary or CTC, they just thank their lucky stars that they are a part of Tata family. The very soul of India resides in Tata. Tata Motors has taken these very same values global, making Indians proud of what they represent. 'Look,we represent excellence, with a dollop of old world values, with love and respect' !

    When we look at Messi, we see a boy with dreams in his eyes and a man who has put everything he had in making them come true, and he did! With singleminded focus,dedication and hardwork, he has managed to outdo every obstacle he faced since his birth personally, healthwise and family financial situation wise. Every obstacle became just another step for him to grow and reach up the sky. And still, every time he walks out on the field, he plays with the same agility, alarcity and a a hunger to prove himself as if it is his first game! He hasn't achieved his demi-God status without superhuman efforts.

    When these two demi-Gods of their respective fields come together, there are bound to be fireworks and that is exactly what it is! Purely from a corporate point of view, there are rare instances when we see such a perfect fit form. It can be called a divine sign that a symbol of vibrancy and dynamism like no other has taken shape with the partnership of Tata Motors and Lionel Messi. More than a mere advertising gambit,it is an amalgamation of those perhaps 'lost' values that the world needs more of,now more than ever. Maybe the Gods are finally happy!

    Prajakta Sinha
    sinpra11@gmail.com

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