Alchemists

"Alchemy neither composes nor mixes: it increases and activates that which already exists in a latent state."—Franz Hartmann, late 19th Century alchemy historian, from his book, The Life of Paracelsus and the Substance of his Teachings.

Do alchemists really exist? People endowed with the ability to convert common into precious. I was fortunate to have met a few of them. They were the ones responsible for making me what I am today.

1. My Parents (28 yrs now): Encouraged me every stage of my life. Even when I made the worst ever mistakes in life, even when I thought my life was all messed up, they were never harsh with me but showered their love on me. “I love you mom and dad!”
2. My Hindi Teacher (1 yr): I spent only one year with her. She died of cancer. But in that one year she transformed my life. Without her I would have failed my 10^th standard, for sure. “I love you ma’am! I can never forget your smiling face, now I guess you must be smiling from the heavens above.”
3. My Best Buddy (12 yrs now): He had a huge impact on me. Most of my characteristics I guess were a result of my association with this classy guy. We did our B.E. together. We had our usual fights and needless to say he won most of them. “Thanks buddy! Thanks for shaping me.”
4. My Inspiration (8 yrs now): He is the most intelligent and down to earth person I have ever met. We started our career together, and grew together. We always stayed together (for more than 6 yrs,) to the extent many people in the office used to call us twins. “Thanks da! Wish we will once again get to work together.”
5. My Role Model (6 yrs): What can I say about this person? Amazing person. I call him my professional life elder brother. Whenever I was confused about my career, he is the person I turn to for advice. “Thanks Sir, thanks for being there for me.”

Everyday, we meet so many of these alchemists. I hope when my turn comes I too can be an alchemist for someone.