The Unexpected Lifespan of Family Heirlooms: A Panchangam's Journey

Have you ever pondered over what piece of furniture or artifact in your home could be easily discarded if only the key decision-makers in your life agreed? For many, the answer could be as simple as a rusty television or an outdated bookshelf. However, there are some items that are so deeply entwined with family history and emotional value that they become irreplaceable.

The Old Television

One such item in my home is a television that is well over 20 years old. While it no longer serves its primary purpose, it remains a prominent fixture in our living room. Its blue and red hues are nostalgic, but no one watches it anymore. Instead, it serves a different role – a gentle reminder of how technology has rapidly evolved.

My Father-in-Law's Panchangam Collection

Another object that raises eyebrows in our home is the collection of Panchangam. These books, each with their own unique charm, contain Hindu calendars, astrological predictions, and various auspicious dates. This collection spans from 1987 to 2012, and it includes editions from different publishers and authors. It all started when my in-laws presented these books to us, signed with their names and addresses. Our father-in-law, a retired postal official, added his name to each one, making them even more special to our family.

Why Keep These Books?

Each year, my husband gets sentimental when handling these books. They are not just useful, but they carry deep sentimental value. However, they are far more than just books to him. Despite his belief in science and rationality, he insists on preserving these books. He respects the knowledge and expertise of astrologers, even if he doesn't personally believe in it. It's a delicate balance of tradition and modernity that adds layers to our household.

The Real Problem

The real challenge lies in the practicalities. My father-in-law is illiterate when it comes to reading the Panchangam himself. He doesn't even read it, but he still feels the need to keep it for sentimental reasons. This is where the issue arises. I often feel as though these books, though special to him, are clutter and should be placed elsewhere.

The cost of converting a small room for book storage is visible, and my husband's vague attempts to justify the expense are often met with my firm disagreement. Yet, the emotional connection he has with these books stands tall, and it's a conversation we grapple with regularly. Every time he pulls out one of these books, valuable memories are brought back, memories that are not easily forgotten.

Preserving the Past

To find a compromise, I suggested preserving only the parts with my father-in-law's handwritten notes and other unique pages while discarding the remaining pages. However, this suggestion was met with resistance. The books are not just books; they are treasures in a way that he alone can recognize.

The condition of these old books has been a major concern as well. Despite best efforts, some of the books have started to deteriorate, and bookworms have made their presence known. This further complicates the issue, as they are no longer just books but become items that require extra care.

Conclusion

The dilemma of preserving family heirlooms is a tale as old as time itself. In our home, it's a paradox of love, tradition, and practicality. Sometimes, the best solution is to find a way to honor the memories without overwhelming the home.

Note: These books may have a lifespan of only one year, but for us, they span decades. For the time being, they find a temporary home in another room, where they are kept safe but not in the way they used to be.