It's pouring cats and dogs at Salem. Jet black butterflies with white dots painted in their wing tips are seen in migration in the campus. Classes are bustling with busy teachers, studious (!) children and nosiy feet pattering across the corridors.
It looks like we hardly have time for any other activity like reading or writing. A new professor has come in for the Civil Department. Professor P.M.Kavimani is in charge of the college as principal, since Dr.Ebenezer Jeyakumar is recuperating from the heart attack that he suffered last month.
The first years are going through their tortuous process of settling in, getting to terms with new people and new surroundings, the insects that cause burn-like marks in the girls' hostel and the horror of listening to English teachers speaking only in English. But, I really admire the gutsy first years this time. There are many Tamil medium students, but they are so determined to do well, that most do not mope over the new language. On the other hand, they are determined to give it a go. We also hear stories of children weeping long into the night - girls and boys. But, as we have seen over the years, this lasts but for three months and then friendshipsbecome more important. However, in these three months, we will as usual see a few deserters and lonely wanderers.
Ah well, I must mention that the Alumni meet went off very well. Nothing beats the joy of just wandering among one's favourite trees and classrooms and reliving memories in the auditorium.