After completing my O-Levels, I gained more freedom from my parents to explore and discover new things. Travel was limited to short distances, primarily due to the ongoing civil war and frequent bomb blasts in our country. We were particularly discouraged from using public transport, especially to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital. However, my pursuit of computer knowledge often necessitated trips to Colombo, as it was the hub for most computer courses.
By this time, I had become adept at using English-medium computer books to supplement my learning. My go-to bookstores were Sarasavi’s branches in Maharagama and Nugegoda. Their selection of computer science books was limited, but I often spent time there, uncovering interesting reads. These books, mostly printed in India, were expensive, so I would save up pocket money in addition to what my parents contributed. My parents never hesitated to spend on books, but I felt a personal responsibility to contribute as well. This act of adding my savings to purchase books brought a different sense of commitment and responsibility, teaching me to make informed choices.
The greatest discovery, however, happened by accident. While wandering in Pettah, Sri Lanka’s bustling wholesale market, I stumbled upon a small sign for ‘Expographic.’ It was an old building, and it took me a moment to realize that the bookstore was upstairs. I wasn’t expecting much, but to my surprise, I had found a paradise of books!
After overcoming my initial shock, I spoke to an employee and was directed to the aisle of computing books. The collection was vast compared to what I had seen in Sarasavi.
One incident from this visit stands out. A man, who was intently browsing through the computing books, smiled and asked me, “Which university are you from?” This question was an eye-opener for me.
As our conversation unfolded, I learned he was a computer science student at Colombo University. Although we never met again, his question profoundly impacted my thinking.
It made me realize that sometimes, even when the answers aren’t immediately clear, the right questions can open up new dimensions of thought.
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