While talking to her, I came to know that she was thirteen when she was first diagnosed with cancer. She's turned sixteen now and she lives with her mother and sister and comes to the hospital daily for her check up. Her voice did not have the slightest hint of sadness. She was so happy and optimistic that I could not resist asking her what made her so happy. She grinned and replied, "I have cancer, and it does not have to mean that I lack happiness. Everything comes to an end at some point of time. And if I die being sad tomorrow, I'll regret not enjoying my life to the fullest. Some people crave for more and end up being corrupt and sad for the rest of their lives. And there are others who hardly have enough to feed themselves but always make the best out of whatever they have. People usually show sympathy towards me but, I'm happy the way I am. I am being strong for myself and for the people I love. It's a war between me and my cruel fate and I might lose in the end. But, I am already a winner. A winner because of not losing hope, because of fighting till the end. I won't give up."

I was quiet by then and a little smile crept across my face. She was so different and wonderful. She was a real hero, she had done something I doubt I ever could.she was fighting the devil that kept tormenting her everyday. 

Today, a sixteen year old had taught me  more than what I had learnt from my  life in these forty years.

Author's note: I hope you liked this story. Leave your comments below and feedback would be appreciated. :) - Amogha