Wow… Ashiana has turned 51 years old. Lots of happiness is in the air. I sat down to pen down my story around my ASHI home. I can’t express in words what my Home is for me. It gave me a home away from home! How can one express one’s childhood journey and what one’s family – I mean my extended family of Ashiana – has done for you? I will try to share a few memories which are embedded in my life.

Namaste, Thank you, Sorry and Please – these are the words I learnt first in Ashiana. For all of you it could be just a building or an orphanage. But for us This is our life! Our home!

I realised that whenever I needed – guidance, support or love my elders were always with me. Lots of gratitude and respect to you all! Ashiana gave me shelter, love, care and education. I still remember that whenever we felt hungry, needed stationary at night or needed guidance all Bhaiyas, Bhabhis and Sheela Mam were there to provide for us.

I never ever felt that I was alone. My elders made me independent and strong to face the world. The most precious gift I got was a family and lots of friends. My friends are more than a family. They taught me to adjust in any situation. I learnt the value of unconditional love and faith in others and oneself.

Vibha Ma gave me a mantra when I was shifting to Delhi for my further studies and teacher’s training. The Mantra was Be positive, Be strong and Be Happy always! She hasn’t ever left my hand; she supports me in  every decision as a Mother and guides me whenever I need her. It’s almost Seven years since I left Ashiana but still I am their daughter. Wherever I go I will come back to Ashiana. Today I am happy confident and working with children at Gurgaon. Thank you so much……..for everything!

(MsVidusha after her stay at Ashiana has become a teacher and is now serving in a school at Gurugram)