Persevere and never stop - An inspiring story of Gloria Lyall (Khyaal community member)

“My parents migrated from Pakistan to India after the partition. Initially, they were a well-to-do family but after migration, they had to start over from scratch. They spent months in refugee camps and the condition was very tough. In 1948, right after we gained our independence, I was born. My father somehow managed to get our life back on track. While he took up a government job, my mother chose to be a homemaker and both were excellent in their respective roles.

I completed my education in Delhi and desired to be a doctor. But, my father told me I would be an amazing teacher. Guess what? He was absolutely right. He guided me with all his knowledge and time. I pursued B.Ed in 1969 and was selected as a teacher in a government school in the same year. During my service at school, I also completed my post-graduation. I was completely satisfied with my life and enjoyed what I did.

Everything seemed perfect until I was made to realise that I was above 30 and still not married. Being the family's eldest daughter and taking care of the family didn’t go well with the other people. People used to ask me, “why are you not getting married?”, “all your friends are married” and the list went on. I turned deaf ears to all who made me feel demotivated. I strongly believe that things will fall into place at the right time.

Finally, the right time had arrived when I least expected it. I found someone at the age of 37 and was blessed with a lovely daughter at 39. I was now a happy mother and a teacher who was appreciated by many. During my tenure, I taught in 5-6 schools and received the Best Teacher State Award in the year 2000 in Delhi. More than anything my actual awards were my students. I retired as a vice principal and continued teaching on a contract basis. Till today my students call me up with so much love and respect when they themselves are about to retire.” - Gloria Lyall (Khyaal community member)