Then. Now. Always – Class of 2000 Reunion

Back to School – Well, Almost!

They say school days are the best days of our lives — and now I know exactly why. Back then, some of us were in a hurry to grow up. First, we wanted to escape school and head to college, then couldn’t wait to get a job, and now? We’d trade anything to go back to those carefree days — no deadlines,no bills, no EMIs, just a whole lot of fun, friends, and a little bit of studying (usually the night before exams).

When our school WhatsApp group buzzed with plans for the 25th-year reunion (yes, we’re officially vintage now!), I felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty. The event was scheduled for 26th July 2025, and while my heart screamed “YES!”, life’s little complications whispered, “Are you sure ? Maybe not.” I marked myself as ‘Maybe attending’ — the most classical non-committal RSVP known to humankind.

Thankfully, I had my personal cheerleaders — my husband, parents, and close friends — who encouraged me not to miss this rare opportunity. “Go!” they said. “You’ll regret missing it!”And when I heard our teachers would also be attending, my decision was sealed. How often do we get a chance to meet those who shaped our early years? To thank the people who taught you cursive, fractions, and how to dodge a blackboard duster.

As the date approached, I gave myself the much-needed pep talks: “You’re going. No more overthinking. Just go!” I picked out the outfit ( major decision), made arrangements for my daughter to stay with my parents, and started manifesting good vibes. On the morning of the reunion, the weather played along — it was pleasantly overcast Sunday (not too sunny, not raining) with just the right hint of nostalgia in the air.

I booked a cab and headed to the venue, a cozy restaurant with our event on the second floor. As I climbed the stairs (yes, cardio before the party), A floral-decorated easel at the entrance read “Welcome,” and on a nearby table, the words “Class of 2000” brought an instant smile. The reunion had officially begun. Goosebumps? Oh yes.

And there they were — my classmates! Most faces were instantly familiar, others took a moment (and a lot of polite smiling until the name clicked). But once we hugged and laughed, it was like nothing had changed. The same warmth, the same banter — just grown-up versions of our younger selves, just a few extra laugh lines .

The venue was thoughtfully decorated, but the real sparkle came from the people in it — especially our beloved teachers. From kindergarten to class 10, they had taught us with so much patience and passion. Seeing them again, still so graceful and kind, brought an indescribable joy.It was surreal.

And then came a truly emotional moment — when I saw the school helpers who had attended the event. My eyes welled up. These were the silent heroes of our preschool and primary years, who helped us tie our shoelaces, cleaned up our messes, and made school life smoother in ways we never realized as kids. I felt immense gratitude for all they had done.

There was even a keyboard set up! I mean, how many reunions have a live nostalgia soundtrack? We even sang some of our action songs from school — yes, the very same ones we used to perform with over-the-top enthusiasm (and sometimes questionable coordination).The moment our music teacher hit the piano’s keynote, it was like being transported back in time. The sound of that piano, paired with her ever-graceful presence, made me smile.I’ve always said she was one of the most stylish and gifted teachers we had — and that day, she proved it once again.Honestly, if anyone could turn a school song into a concert moment, it was her.That moment — voices rising, laughter echoing, and the piano in the background — was nothing short of magical.

Of course, no reunion is complete without dancing — and yes, we hit the dance floor! I actually hit the dance floor after what felt like a decade (and survived without twisting an ankle!).We clicked countless pictures, relived embarrassing school moments, and laughed till our stomachs hurt.

The food? Delicious vegan fare — because we’re grown-ups now, and we like our veggies disguised as gourmet.

We also gathered for a group photo, a perfect snapshot of joy and connection. It’s one of those memories I’ll treasure — proof that time may fly, but bonds don’t break.

And just like that, it was time to say goodbye. None of us wanted to leave — but time, like school years, doesn’t stop. We hugged, we promised to keep in touch (and hopefully keep them this time) we parted ways — a little more joyful and a lot more connected and memories that will last a lifetime.

I had the most amazing time — the kind you can’t quite put into words. It was more than just a reunion; it was a beautiful reminder of who we were, and how far we’ve all come and how much love still lives in those early friendships.

Until next time, Class of 2000. ♥️