May this year take you closer to the people whom you love,
May this year bring you closer to the people who care for you,
May this year give you lot of time to be together,
May this year shower you with success,
May this year bring smile to your face,
May this year make you the reason for others to be happy,
Say Cheers,
And welcome the new year!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR
The month of "Margazhi" remains special to most of Madrasis (or Chennaites) and I am no different. Though I am in Bangalore for the last 6 months, I have not missed Chennai life much. May be I travelled often to Chennai. Or may be balancing work and home has not given me time to think on these lines. But last few days everyday as I open the door, I miss Chennai.
I miss the rangoli, the smell of coffee, the suprabatham by M.S amma (M.S. Subbulakshmi) followed by Thiruppavai, Thiruvempavai and Thiruppalliyezhuchchi, the retired Mamas accompanied by Mamis in traditional dhotis and 9 yards saree, the Pongal from temples, in short the divinity in Chennai air. In Bangalore I can listen to only M.S. amma's songs.
There are very few people who make you feel elevated looking at them as if they are taking you to a calmer world. M.S. is one of them. M.S. to me is a combination of Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Lakshmi. Every time I see a picture of her, I feel there is a divine power in her and the divine power flows in her voice. No wonder that people thought her as "new Meera", after seeing the film Meera.
The days when I wake up at 5 AM and listen to the suprabatham, my mind is at peace. I get energized and I feel the presence of God more than any other time. The feeling gives me the needed motivation to face the day and be successful. Like most of the people in Chennai, I also love listening to "kurai ondrum illai" (Translation: "No regrets have I") in the magical voice of M.S. Irrespective of whatever problems I face, listening to the song gives you a sensation that He will take care of all your problems and you are set free.
In her own words - "if one sings with sincerity and devotion, such music has the capacity to move the audience to divine experience, irrespective of their religious beliefs, their language and the countries to which they may belong". Well, she definitely knows what she is speaking about.
When I started this blog, I wanted to record my thoughts, my ideas and creations. I never wanted to log any of the forwards I receive or others opinion. But I am making an exception today. The below story was received as an email forward and touched my heart. I want to share this with all those whom I knew.
Approximately 10 years ago, on a freezing July night, the cold, hard, truth hit me like a freight train.
NO ONE WAS COMING TO MY RESCUE.
On our bedroom floor, my wife was giving birth to our son, he'd come so quickly that we had just called the hospital to tell them we were on our way. But we never made it out of the house.
The complication was he was breech, and when he had come out to his shoulders, the contractions stopped and he stopped coming. My wife and I stayed calm, but for all my trying I just could not get his head out.
While this was happening my sister had called an ambulance, but we were stuck in this position for about 15 minutes before they arrived and were able to fully deliver him.
What I didn't realise was that the umbilical cord was obstructed and our baby was suffering asphyxiation. When he was finally born our boy was blue, and his heart rate was 40 beats per minute when it should have been 140 beats per minute.
As the paramedics worked on our son, pumping oxygen into his lungs, with a hand pump, I went outside to talk to God.
I'd been studying faith at a local church for a while, and had achieved some small successes. One of the scriptures that has always impressed on me the most was Mark 11:24 "Whosoever shall say unto this mountain, be though removed and be though cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he says shall come to pass. He shall have whatsoever he says."
This scripture told me I had to take responsibility in the situation, and not wait for something to happen, but make something happen.
I felt strength flow through me as I reminded God what this scripture said. I told God that I was not going to ask for anything but that I was going to take control of the situation.
I had a strong belief that parents are supposed to protect their children, not just naturally but spiritually as well.
I also could not accept the idea that a child would be born just to die ten minutes later.
After my conversation with God I felt fearless and determined. When I went back into the house the main paramedic pulled me aside and asked me if he could have a word with me. With a grim look on his face and a professional tone in his voice he told me, "I don't think the little blokes gonna make it."
This was a defining moment, I refused to become afraid and accept his opinion!
Looking directly into his eyes I replied "No he is going to be fine." I know I must have had a look that said I meant business, because the paramedic backed off immediately with a quick reply "Yer Okay".
It's amazing how quickly people will change their mind and come into agreement with you when you are clear and absolute about something.
Upon entering the hospital I repeated with conviction "No he's going to make it, He's gonna be just fine," to any one that spoke to me.
As I stood back and watched Doctors and Nurses buzzing around my son in a hive of activity, things became surreal.
A smiling woman in a white coat approached, "You know when they called in, I thought they'd be bringing in a dead baby, but it's a miracle, they've done a great job, he's looking good."
Of course our baby did survive.
But the next day he was placed in intensive care. At a meeting with the head of intensive care, the Doctor explained to us that our baby was "fitting" and this was most likely because he would have suffered brain damage and organ damage due to the lack of oxygen he received during birth. At this point, once again I reassured the Doctor, "No, don't worry, he's going to be just fine." Because of what we had just been through, I thought there's no way I'm going to start backing off now.
About this time we were interviewed by the hospital psychologist, to see how we were handling the fact our baby would be severely handicapped. After the meeting my wife sneaked a peek at the psychologist's clipboard and notes. Among other things, my wife noticed the statement "This couple is not prepared for failure."
It was not written as a positive statement, but I found it incredibly empowering.
The ward is divided into ten sections. Section one for the sickest babies and our son was in this section. Some babies are in section one for months and some never get well. However, within two days our son was in section three and in three days he was in section nine. Within another three days we were taking him home in absolutely perfect condition.
Since that time I have pushed myself to learn as much as possible about this incredible power that saved my son's life.
What I have learnt I have applied to many different areas of my life, I have used this power to transform my near bankrupt, failing business into a thriving prosperous company that has allowed me an income that has totally changed my lifestyle.
I have seen this power make cancer and arthritis completely disappear from people's bodies.
I have seen it transform children with learning difficulties and sleeping problems into peaceful intelligent, happy kids.
I have seen it do many incredible, wonderful things in relationships, and every area of life. I believe this power controls the world, and I believe it exists for the benefit of mankind.
I truly believe it's the answer to every obstacle we face.
"And you shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free." John8:32
Shayne Hammond
After reading the title, what do you think the post is about?
Nah… !! The title is just to tell people that I understand the ill effects of foot-boarding in bus. But I find it exciting… :)
I had to travel to my office by bus yesterday. The bus was crowded and since I had to get down at the next stop, I did not want to move into the bus. So, I got a wonderful chance to foot-board the bus. I LOVED IT. As the bus climbed the newly constructed bridge, I was as excited as a small kid in a candy shop. The rush of air in face as the bus was climbing on the bridge was exhilarating. (Of course, there were a few guys in the foot board testing my body parts. I think travelling in bus for long had just made me thick-skinned. :( So, I safely ignored them.)
A few years back, I was travelling in 47 from IIT Madras to Villivakkam at 9:00 PM. The bus had some repair and broke down near Annanagar roundtana. It was already 9:45 PM and I wanted to get back home as early as possible. I saw another 47 bus which was waiting at the signal. I decided to catch the bus. When I was about to catch the bus, the signal turned green and the bus started moving. I was in no mood to wait for another bus and got into a running bus… :) The conductor looked at me and reprimanded me in some native Tamil words. But I felt great. I had this look of achieving something which eluded me for years.
After that, there have been so many days when I have travelled in steps. Unfortunately, girls do not get a lot of opportunities. :)
Before you give me a lecture on how wrong it is, how it will take my life, how a girl is not supposed to do all these (I don't know why people say this), let me tell you I don't intend to do it every day. But I would not miss it if I get a chance once in a few months. And I tell you, travelling in foot board is much better than standing in the bus among a few ******* who think you as a public property.
First time I saw you,
I knew you will be my friend.
We said Hello and smiled,
We chatted over lunch and snacks,
We shared our interests and problems,
We criticized every show on TV,
We talked God, prayers and Hinduism,
We discussed marriage and relationship;
Every time I saw you,
I told you my problems,
I cried to you,
I felt your warmth,
I felt better,
I was happy to spend time with you;
Every time I see you,
You are the care taker,
You perform every responsibility of yours with ease,
You look like Head of the family,
You are becoming my role model.
I like reality shows. No no… I am not referring to "Rakhi ka swayamvar" or "Pathi pathni aur woh". These are not real and I hate them. But there are some shows that I really like. One such show is 'Tim Gunn's Guide to Style' in AXN. Before you think I am interested in fashion or style, let me clarify that I am still in 90's when it comes to fashion. :)
I normally like watching shows which shows the creative side of people. In fact when I finished my college and was at home for a few months before joining office, I watched a lot of television programs. Some of my favorite programs were
Well, you get the point. I just love watching these shows. These days I don't want to miss even a single episode of Tim Gunn's show. The show is about people who want to look grand for a special event in their life. Tim reviews their current wardrobe and their body physique and helps them understand their bodies better and tells them what will look good on them.
The best part about the program is when Tim takes the person to a Top designer. The person tries high quality designs that the designer has made over the years. When the person tried those clothes, you should see the expression on their face. The dress changed their body language all together. The confidence with which they wore those dresses is just lovely to watch.
As they say Success is an addiction. Once you touch the highest level, you cannot come back to lower level. Similarly, once these people on the show try these designer clothes, they want to wear high quality dresses that will make them look good.
I always like watching successful women walking with confidence. And at the end of every show, I feel the person will be successful. That's the confidence with which they walk. And really that's why reality shows are telecasted right? To make people look and feel better.
There is a marriage hall across my office. As with every other marriage hall in the country, this one is also booked almost on all days. I seriously wonder these days, if this can be the best investment. Build a marriage hall and customers will come to you. What more do you want :)
Anyway, today as I was crossing the hall, I saw a girl with teary eyes come out with a few relatives. I could not help stopping myself for a few seconds. I so dearly wanted to give her a tight hug and say – "Do not worry dear. You are not losing anyone. You are going to add a few wonderful people to your world. Life will be happier."
Have you seen the Tamil film "Mouna Ragam"? It is one of my favorite films. I would have watched it over 50 times. There is a scene where Mohan, the hero says,
"குழந்தை ஏன் அழுதுட்டே பிறக்குது தெரியுமா? இந்த உலகத்துக்கு வர பிடிகாம இல்லே, புது இடம் புது மனுஷங்க அதனால"
[Translation: "Do you know why a new born baby cries? Not because it does not want to come to this world. Because the place, surroundings and the people are new."]
I am sure anyone listening to these words, will feel much better about the change. That's the power of words. A few positive words at the right time can bring the much needed comfort.
So, my question is – What will be your words to the newly married girl / boy?
I would say – "You are going to share your life with him/her. It will be beautiful. Spread love and affection and you will get it back. Also, if there is any misunderstanding, don't regret. Misunderstandings are needed to understand a person better. Live life happily. God bless!"
But in reality what do we say?
Isn't this a negative thought? Why cannot we give him/her the confidence that life will be happier and marriage is truly a bliss?
I am confused. Do you eat more when you eat together with friends? No, I am not referring to those lunches, where each one of us bring lunch boxes and eat our own or may be taste others…
What I am referring to is having one big basket full of food and everyone eating from the same plate. In those cases, do we eat more?? Or even eat those items that we may not have eaten otherwise.
I think the answer is YES.
I normally don't like sweets. I have heard my mom crib so many times about me not tasting the sweets that she painfully makes on all those festival days. I did not even eat sweets outside. I just had no interest in it. (Noticed the use of past tense. :))
But these days, the story is completely different. At my office, any good news is celebrated with sweets. Now, for someone who does not like sweets, I have eaten 2-3 pieces of milk sweet, 4 pieces of sonbapodi cake, and Mysore pak this week alone. If I start mentioning the sweets that I have eaten over the month, I am sure it will be about 10 different items.
If you think I have just understood the magnificent taste of these sweets and am compensating for those lost years, wait till you read the next sentence. The surprising part here is I did not eat any of these sweets during Diwali at home and even hated them. So, what has caused this change??
I think it is because, we all sit and eat together and have so much fun, though I am not sure. Does anyone have the same experience??
I am an instinctive person. Everything in my life is decided based on the voice from the heart than head. I choose my friends based on my instincts. In the first few minutes that I speak to a person, I know the level of bonding I will have with the person.
Similarly, when I perform an activity, I know if it will be successful or not. I know from my heart that the output will be good. Don't get me wrong. I am not saying I feel EVERYTIME. But some days I can feel it more than other days. I am not sure how I am able to feel it. May be because in school days, I loved being alone and speaking to myself that I hear the voice inside me even now. I am not sure.
Every time I am confused, I listen to my heart. To quote a few instances,
If you are wondering, why such a post, let me tell you the feedback I received last week.
Someone told my current lead –
"Whenever she asks a question to you and if the answer does not convince her, she will never some back to you. She will complete the work herself."
I have to say – That's a pretty good assessment of who I am. But, unfortunately I am not able to accept to it fully. It's more like this.
"If I speak to you and if I am not comfortable with you or your answer, I would never come to you for anything."
Because sometimes I am happy with an honest answer. It can be "I don't know". I respect the honesty. But if I see someone beating around the bush and wasting my time or using inappropriate words or disrespecting someone or correct answer in a wrong tone, I am sure I would never go back to him.
How about you? Do you listen to your instincts? Let me know.
The ability to be a team player is one of the most important requirements for success in today's job market. This is a distinct turnaround from, say, 20 years ago when individual accomplishments were the all-important. Employers would put the emphasis on individual performance, although getting along in the workplace and with work colleagues has always been important.
But in today's competitive environment, every organization is looking for ways to better their own performance. How can we achieve this without improving existing work process? And to propose better solutions, we need to be creative.
This article tries to find an answer to this basic question – What is the most important attribute to succeed in today's global world – Creativity or Teamwork?
Teamwork
There are few jobs that don't require us to interact with colleagues in a team। For the most part, we need to work cohesively with others at our workplaces to achieve the organizational goals.
Work teams play an important role in a modern organization. From software engineers who collaborate to write code to the board of directors who gather to make strategic decisions, teams are increasingly being used worldwide as the foundation of work. We know from our everyday experiences, however, that effective teamwork is not achieved as easily as getting a collection of individuals together.
The following characteristics should be present in a team for it to succeed.
Even when all the above mentioned characteristics are present in a team, can we ensure the team members will be happy on a long term basis? We usually find employees looking for a change.
A team that destroys itself in the course of accomplishing its mission is no team at all, even if everyone is a team player.
This brings us to an important aspect of teamwork: the manner in which a team interacts. Dynamics play a big role in the successful completion of a project. Regardless of the ideal of reaching a common goal, every person has a different viewpoint. In a single group, one may find pessimists, control freaks, eternal optimists, and fence-sitters. The control freak will ride roughshod over others. The fence-sitter will avoid taking responsibility. The one who will suffer the most in the group will probably be the optimist, who will continually propose solutions and continually find his or her ideas rebuffed. In the meantime, work will suffer directly or indirectly in the form of decreasing interest and enthusiasm among those who are likely doing more than their fair share.
So, the challenge lies in ensuring these differences of opinion are taken in a positive manner and collectively the team succeeds. The joy of working in a close-knit team and completing the goal is unmatched.
Individual Performance
In today's world, life has become so mechanical and every one suffers from stress related problems. What is the reason for this pattern? Is it because of tight deadlines and work pressure? Or is it because of repetitive or unsatisfied work?
When we enjoy what we do, there can be no stress. Whenever there is a bit of you in the work that you do, the work will truly be enjoyable. Remember, Creativity has nothing to do with any particular work. Whatsoever you do can become creative if you know what creativity means.
Creativity means enjoying any work as meditation, doing any work with love. Be a little innovative – that's what creativity is. Innovate new ways, new means. Try something new that nobody has ever done. And you will find that you love your work because you know you have contributed a little and that feeling will keep you energized.
When a person brings a new idea, it is like fire. It kindles newer ideas in other minds too and brings fresh energy to the team.
Today we find that organizations spend time and money in training their senior management and giving each employee an opportunity to learn other disciplines in their work. What is the reason behind this? They are trying to refresh the mind of each individual so that the organization as a whole benefits.
We should try to bring this initiative in smaller teams. If any one of the team member, spends some time on proposing a new idea, the entire team will be rejuvenated and we can see ideas flowing.
Think Alone, Work Together
We understand the benefits of team culture and no organization can ignore it. The challenge remains in keeping the team members motivated and finding out new ways to refresh the minds. The mind can be refreshed only when the thought process is evoked and new ideas are proposed.
Can we think together? Every man has his own thoughts and ideas. We inherit the products of the thoughts of other men. We inherit the wheel. We make a cart. The cart becomes an automobile. The automobile becomes an air plane. But all through this process, what we receive from others is only the end product of their thinking. The creator in each man takes this product as material and uses it and originates the next step.
Men learn from one another. But all learning is only the exchange of material. What he does with his learning and how he interprets it is based on his own mind. No one should control it.
Hence, each man should think alone, express his ideas and be ready for others to express their opinion on the same. Many ideas grow better when transplanted into another mind than in the one where they sprang up.
The powers of the mind are like the rays of the sun dissipated. When they are concentrated, they illumine – Swami Vivekananda.
There should be variety, but that does not make us separate. Variety makes life richer.
No man is an island. To implement an idea, we need to co-operate with others. And hence a team is formed and for the team to be successful there needs to be synergy in the team. The team should work together by free agreement and each should be free in his proper function. Synergy catalyzes, unifies and unleashes the greatest powers within people. It means that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
The most important responsibility of a manager is to keep his team motivated and rejuvenated. He should ensure he keeps his mind fresh and open a new idea for discussion to the team. If the team decides on a progressive change, the manager should be able to incorporate the same into the work process.
Any change will have inconvenience but we should remember that there will be no progress without change. Hence each member in the team should think alone and express his ideas. The team should then decide on the best approach and implement the same with a common goal.
Conclusion
If one does not love work, one is always unhappy in life. In order to be truly happy in life, one must love work.
We should never forget that the team comprises of individuals. Unless, each member in the team is satisfied and happy, the team cannot be at its best. Any individual can be happy when he enjoys his work. If you can perform your work creatively, lovingly, totally, you will have the taste of life. When happy individuals come together, the work they produce will be of high quality and the organization will truly become a great place to work.
Sometimes how much ever you plan for something to happen, it just does not work. And then the same thing happens totally unexpectedly.
What do you call those? Life's unexpected moments they are.
Today was one such day for me.
Last month when I went to Chennai, one of the things I soooooooo….. wanted to do was meet J. She is at such an important phase of life and I was so excited to meet her. But as luck would have it, I just could not find time to meet her. Weekends both of us were busy and weekdays I had to go to office. So, the meeting never happened.
I was disappointed and told myself – "Expectation leads to disappointment".
And today morning, as I was doing my household chores, I got a call from an unknown number. Guess who?? It was J. She called me from Chennai airport and she was coming to Bangalore. (I guess she was not sure about the trip until the last moment and hence waited until she reached the airport :) ) How could I miss another opportunity to meet her??
So, I left from office early (should I say very early? It was 2:30 PM when I left :) Never mind.) and reached the hotel where she stayed. I was so happy to meet her. And we chatted for a couple of hours and I tell you, "When friends meet after a long time, hours seem like minutes :("
I think some days "No plan is the best plan, because you can accommodate anything to your schedule." :)
Take care buddy!! God bless you!!
I had traveled to my in laws place to celebrate Diwali. I was sure there will be quite a few charges against me. So, I was mentally prepared to remain calm for anything that I may have to encounter. I had to really choose a strong weapon which will safeguard me against any opposition. And I chose this.
Let me tell you – this is truly a powerful weapon. Few instances of its usage are given below.
When someone hinted me to quit my job and "take care" of the husband, my reply was ":)"
My actual reply was – "Oh I did not know that to take care of someone you have to quit your job. Pardon my ignorance. So, will my husband also quit his job? Because I assume it's also his responsibility to take care of me."
When someone told me that I am not telling them any good news, my reply was ":)"
My actual reply was – "Oh am sorry, I forgot to say today is Diwali. Will that categorize as good news for you?"
When someone told me that the quantity that I cook is less and hence my husband is weak, my reply was ":)"
My actual reply was – "Oh is it? I did not realize. From now on, I will consider that I have two husbands and will cook for three. Will that solve the problem?"
When someone told me that I do not get involved in all the matters of the family, you know what I would have replied.
My actual reply was – "I do not consider your family as mine and please do not consider mine as yours."
Trust me, after sometime I got so used to this that when the dog (my in laws have a dog at home) barked at me (NO PUN INTENDED :)), I did this :) to the dog.
And the weapon worked so well that I really did not get tensed at all and seriously I started enjoying this game so much.
I am indebted to my in-laws for teaching me this game. :)
"My mother drew a distinction between achievement and success. She said that achievement is the knowledge that you have studied and worked hard and done the best that is in you. Success is being praised by others. That is nice but not as important or satisfying. Always aim for achievement - success will follow."
Helen Hayes
1900-1993, Award Winning Actress
I just love this quote. How true is it. Sometimes even when you are not at your best, others praise you. Does that make you happy? Not me. And sometimes you give your best effort, and you are on the losing side. Does that make you feel bad? Yes but only for a few minutes. But then you realize you have fought well and that gives you satisfaction.
Set your own goals and standards................. and judge results yourself.
This week I had a chance to listen to the CEO of my company speak. If I say I was glued to him - that would be an understatement. It's been a long time since I have heard someone speak so very confidently and with so much authority. He was on the money, no mincing words.
As with every company, the last year has been tough for my company too. There were less projects, job cuts and change in policies to reduce operating costs. All this meant there was no growth last year. And hence just as we sense that the market will open up, the CEO meets every leader in the company and conveys his message absolutely clearly.
Few of the points that impressed me are:
He was successful in infusing his priorities in everyone's mind and the message is absolutely clear - He means business.
Being in Bangalore,
Under the care of my husband,
I keep thinking of you,
And pray for your happiness.
Miss you dad & mom.
When I am in Chennai,
Surrounded by love and affection from my parents,
I keep thinking of you,
And every time you say the food was not good,
I feel guilty.
Not a day passes without me feeling bad,
Thinking I have not fulfilled my role,
Either as a daughter or as a wife,
Is it the way all women feel?
I believe this dilemma will end,
When my brother really grows,
And provides emotional and physical support,
I hope the day comes soon.
Last couple of days at office has been tiring. Its tiring not because of the amount of work, but because any information that I want is answered with the same response – "we do not track this kind of data." :(
For e.g.,
How many projects are executed in the company until now?
What is the average project size?
Can you categorize the number of projects executed as development, maintenance, modernization, advisory solutions, etc.?
How many resources are certified in X, Y, Z technologies?
How many resources you have in X technologies in A, B, C regions?
And many more…
Which has made me wonder – "Isn't it important for any company to have the data regarding their day to day operations? Especially if you want to sell your company isn't all the above questions important? Why is it not tracked?"
Seriously, if you are a software company and you say you do not have software which has the information on projects and people in your company, doesn't it sound odd?
I think there is a huge market for a product which can capture all the information about the projects executed in the company, something like a PROJECT DATABASE.
Read the following quotes at a restaurant's menu card. I found it interesting.
If you are ever at a loss to support a flagging conversation, introduce the subject of eating.
Absolutely agree. Everyone has an opinion on food.
Coffee in England always tastes like a chemistry experiment.
If toasts always lands butter side down and cats always land at their feet, what happens if you strap toast on the back of a cat and drop it.
ROFL :) Imagination runs wild…
I am not a vegetarian because I love animals; I am a vegetarian because I hate plants.
I am a vegetarian because I don't like the shops that sell fish / chicken / mutton.:(
Researchers have discovered that chocolate produces some of the same reactions in the brain as marijuana. The researcher also found similarities between the two but cannot remember it.
I am not so interested in chocolates. Am I missing something?
He could not see her eyes. He felt his body twist and those emotions he had controlled for the past few years wanting to come out of him. He met her accidentally today at a mall and she invited him to her home. It's been 5 years since they had met. "Time flies" he thought to himself. He was avoiding her eyes and was looking at her new home. He thought – "The house was so much like her". It has a sense of calmness around. He saw the paintings that decorated the house and remembered the moments from the past when he had commented and made fun of them. It brought a smile to his face.
They had a normal conversation trying to understand what they had been up to for the last 5 years. He told her about his new job and the reason for the change. She encouraged him with her positive words and wished him best. He asked her about her job and she told him that she joined this company a year back. She said she liked her job and it was satisfying.
After a few minutes, she asked him if he wanted tea or coffee. He said "Coffee" and she replied "Strong Coffee" with a smile. "She still remembers my likings", he thought. When she went inside to prepare coffee, he walked towards those new and old paintings. He reached the door of her bedroom and from outside he saw a photo of a man with flowers on it. He was shocked. He did not know how to respond. The last time he saw her was at her reception and she was accompanied by the man in the photo.
She came with two cups of coffee and they continued their conversations about life. He was feeling uncomfortable and wanted to leave as early as possible. He finished his coffee and told her that his friend is waiting for him. He wished her good luck and reached his home.
He was reliving his past and thought about the day when he was impressed by her.
He was new to the team and they were having lunch together. He was mostly a silent spectator.
In one of those conversations, a team member was referring to the new silver flowers that she had bought. She was adding to the advantages of using these silver flowers. She said that the silver flowers are great. It is an one time investment. You need not but the ordinary flowers every day to do pooja. And the time it took the clean the pooja room is also less. And everyone seemed to like the idea.
"It is not about natural or silver flowers, it is about the time spent with the God. If I want to reduce that precious time, I would look at these silver flowers. I love the natural flowers and changing these flowers every day shows my love and devotion towards God." – She replied.
He loved her reply and as days went by, he was in love with her.
He again saw the photo in his mind and did not know if the paper flowers on the photo reflects her loveless past. He was confused if he should feel sorry for her past or present.
It was a rainy day and the clock was showing 5:30 PM. As usual Shyam completed his work for the day and was waiting for the clock to tick 8. He had a call with his US counterparts at 8. Last 2 years, his work has been his life. He came to office early. Planned his work meticulously and ensured he had completed his work before 6 PM. He then waited for the onsite calls to happen and went home satisfied.
The results for his hard work were evident. He was promoted twice in the last 2 years. He was leading the team now. His colleagues respected him and had full confidence in him. If anyone had any problems, he was always there to resolve it. He had also grown personally. From the shy and introvert 2 years back, he had become a true leader. He was a bundle of energy, motivating his team, cracking jokes instantly, ensuring everyone enjoyed the work and moved ahead in their careers. Between 6 and 8, you can find Shyam either helping someone complete a deadline or hanging out with his team. His team members felt his care and hence were absolutely dedicated to his action plans.
It was a similar day today. He had helped few of his team members and it was 5 minutes to 8 PM. He joined the call and he was his assertive best explaining his actions and ensuring everything is on track. His efforts were appreciated. After the call, he locked his system, switched off the monitor and prepared to leave. He said Good Bye to a few colleagues in the floor and was running down the stairs deciding on the hotel to have dinner.
As usual he started his bike and took a left, when a lorry coming in the opposite direction hit him. It was sudden; he lost his control and was on the floor, with his bike over him and bleeding. The lorry did not stop and the street was not crowded. An auto which was behind him a few moments earlier stopped and a lady stepped out. She realized what had happened and looking at the blood she decided her next course of action. She took his bag and mobile phone and with the help of auto driver, drove him to the nearest hospital. He was unconscious.
He had cuts in his stomach and legs and was taken immediately to the emergency. The doctors examined him and had decided that his leg needed minor operation because it was fractured. They wanted a relative's signature before proceeding. When asked if she was his relative, she decided in a split second and signed her name in the papers. The doctors had started the operation.
She searched his bag and mobile phone for details. She learnt his name and the company where he worked from the notes in the bag. Thankfully his phone worked once she switched it on. She saw his contact list and called his dad informed him politely about the accident. She introduced herself as his friend and told him not to worry as it was minor injuries only. He said he will be at the hospital in 15 minutes. She went to the reception and waited for a few minutes. 20 minutes later, an elderly gentleman walked up and was enquiring about his son who had met with the accident. The receptionist pointed him to the appropriate ward.
Seeing the gentleman walk towards the ward, she decided that her job was done and took the same auto and went home.
Next day, Shyam becomes conscious and has his usual cheerfulness in his face and enquires the doctor about his injuries and tells the doctor that he will be fine in a couple of days. J He asks the doctor about the person who admitted him and the doctor shows him the admission form and leaves the room. He sees a signature in straight lines and the name below is Geeta.
He closed his eyes and tears roll down his cheeks…
Geeta….his friend, philosopher, guide, lover and much more. She was his soul mate. And 2 years back she said Good bye to him. Her last words were – "I will be with you always..."
"How true…!" he thought.
I really donno what happened
When you called me today,
There was an immediate rush of blood inside
And I wanted to be with you.
I was in office,
Looks like God knew my mood today
And decided to spare me from any work,
And even as I browsed hundreds of pages over the internet
I kept thinking of you.
I miss you dear,
I am thinking of being in your arms
In the coolest night possible at Bangalore
And just keep smiling…
A few more days here,
Before I come to you,
I hope I remain calm,
And have a happy smile when I meet you
Miss you dearest!!
In response to my post on how to enable my mobile rings for just one person and remains silent for others, one of my friend suggested the below method.
I am supposed to create 2 groups of contact, say Group A and Group B.
Group A: Contacts for which you would like the mobile to ring
Group B: Contacts for which you prefer your mobile to remain silent.
For group A, assign your favorite ring tone. For Group B, use the recording function in your mobile and record silence as a ring tone. Assign the recorded ring tone to this group.
Ppl – Seriously tell me, do I need to take all these pains to achieve this?
I think the method I followed is better than the above. You want to know what I did. Simple, when someone calls me at improper timings, I tell him/her very politely (at the peak of my voice range) not to call at that time. I tell you the news spreads. I followed this and from then on I do not receive any unnecessary calls.
Bindhu!!
"Detached Attachment" – A phrase which intrigues me and makes me put my thinking cap often. I do not remember how I heard this phrase. To be honest I have no clarity on the concept or what I am going to write. I am hoping at the end of this post, I have some level of understanding on this. J
What is detached attachment?
You love doing something or being with someone. For e.g. I love writing. I am attached to it. I write for an hour but I am not satisfied with the output. Will the output make me unhappy? I don't think so. I enjoy the process of writing and it makes me happy.
You love someone and you try to help them. You tell them what is right and what is wrong. Yet they make the wrong decision. Will that make me feel bad? No, I did all that I could do. I did my best.
This to me is detached attachment. You are attached to an activity which makes you dive deep into it and give your best. But you are also detached from result, which helps in providing a different outlook and which helps you understand the mistakes and appreciate the best moments.
As Lord Krishna said, "Thou have the right to act, but not to the fruits of action." The Upanishads declare, "Action cleaves not to a man."
One more interpretation of the same phrase can be:
You love something in life. You know irrespective of what happens in the world, it is yours. When you truly own something, there is no fear of losing. You do not mind others opinion on the thing you love. It does not matter.
For e.g., MS Dhoni wanted Saurav Ganguly to captain for a few overs during the India Australia series, which was the last match for Saurav. When can someone do this? Only if he is confident of his own position and he has no fears about it.
Or consider this: Hritik Roshan was first contacted to play the Hero role in the Hindi film "Bunti aur Babli". And he suggested Abhishek Bachan because he thought Abhishek will be a better fit for the role. Hritik loves acting. But he is also detached from it to appreciate others positives and even judge who will look better on screen for that role.
Detach yourself a little from things you love and you will find new ways to love the same.
Bindhu!!
PS: I wanted to write a post on this for long time. Somehow could not do it. Every time I would write a couple of sentences and then decide not to continue further. So, I am happy that finally I have managed to complete it.
Violence is the last resort of the incompetent
- Isaac Asimov, 20th century Novelist, Biochemist
Ironically, I wrote a post yesterday on the same topic. I wrote 4 paragraphs about why people depend on violence, and today I come across this quote. What can I say!! How to summarize 4 paragraphs in a sentence is the lesson learnt… L
How does it feel to be appreciated? Feels good.
And if it happens to be a skill which you are not confident? Just what you want.
And if you are appreciated in consecutive days? You feel great.
And if you are also recommended to others? You are on cloud nine.
That's exactly what happened last weekend.
Saturday:
Last week one of my friends from Chennai had come to Bangalore on an official visit. I had invited her to my house. She promised to come on Saturday for lunch. But she wanted Pradeep, our friend to accompany her. Why Kamala wanted Pradeep to accompany is still a mystery to me? I think I know Pradeep well to say he would have definitely denied her request at first. Anyway, she called me on Saturday, after I had completed preparing the food, and informed me Pradeep is also coming. I was surprised (should I say shocked).
The menu for the day was pudalangai kootu, vazhakai poriyal, rasam, more and appalam. I could not have prepared anything else given that nothing else was stocked in the fridge. J
So, Kamala and Pradeep had lunch at my home and surprisingly they liked it. J Kamala liked the kootu very much while Pradeep prepared rasam (without tomatoL). I was HAPPY. J
Sunday:
My brother had made the trip to Hosur for some official work and had come to my home on Sunday. I had prepared all his favourite dishes. He loves Chow Chow pulipu kootu and adai and that was the menu on Sunday. And he liked it. J Additionally, I had got a shirt for him which was also great on him. JJ
As the blog reflects, I am a loner. I love being alone. So, rarely do I have friends at home. And this weekend was such a change and I just loved the way I played the host on both days. I hope they also enjoyed their time at my place. Now that my culinary skills are approved, I would like to play the host frequently. JJJ You all are invited.
Dear Sir,
Good Morning.
My name is B and my father is S. With immense gratitude, I am writing to you. Thanks for providing timely help once again. I am sure you know the dedication that my father has to you and his work. But, in this world where no one recognizes the intangible things such as honesty, loyalty, sincerity, dedication, hard work…, you come across as a person who knows his business and the people behind the business.
There are times when my mother had expressed opinion about my dad earning lesser than what he should and you getting the maximum out of my father. But those comments were more because of our financial problems than any. My father refused to work in Competitors Company, who promised a much higher salary, because he felt they were using incorrect means to grow and always felt indebted to you because you helped him when he needed.
You are such a source of comfort and strength to my dad. I can imagine the happiness and smile in his face when he told me over phone that you have helped him. My mom, my brother and I have very high regards for you.
I cannot express how much I owe you because you have done something that I am not able to do (because of the stupid society we live in. Damn these people).
With tears and thankfulness,
Bindhu!!
PS: My mom feels you could have done more. Your comments?
Two months back, as I was getting ready to move out of Chennai, I wanted to buy a book in Tamil. I think I was getting emotional and wanted to carry a few things that will make me feel at home. J So, on the day of travel, as I was waiting in the station, went to Higgin Bothams and got a copy of the popular Tamil novel, Ponniyin Selvan.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book. When I read an English novel, I would normally get bored at those sections where they describe the country side and the locations, because I cannot visualize it. But reading PS was such an enjoyable journey.
I consider myself fortunate and blessed to have spent a few days of my life at Srirangam. I treasure those days. The days when I used to get up early, help my athai (aunt) in picking flowers from trees and making a garland, listen to my cousin playing Violin, spend time with river Cauvery, visit Ranganathar temple and involuntarily cry L, visit the market on Sunday with my cousins, apply mehandi at hands and endlessly listen to devotional songs – wonderful memories. Those look like a distant world now.
The character I loved in the book – It has to be Alwarkadian Nambi. I have listened to the fight between the devotees of Lord Vishnu and Lord Siva all my life and could enjoy the character of Nambi so much. J
I am happy I bought the book, against the advice of my father who thought I will never complete the book because of my proficiency difficulty in Tamil. The book literally took me to another world, a world which I enjoy totally. It has strengthened my wish to settle at Srirangam later in my life.
Bindhu.
Anyone who has spent a few minutes with me will know that I am a person with values. And I NEVER compromise on them. I am extremely sincere and dedicated to any work I do. In case mistakes happen, it will be because of my ignorance. I also ensure those mistakes are not repeated. If you ask me what is the feeling that is most important to me in life - No not love, its RESPECT. And if I respect someone they are special to me.
In case you are wondering why such a post, it is because someone at office doubts my sincerity. And it really hurts when you have been with the company for 4 years. It happened yesterday and I still can not get over it.
God give me some peace of mind.
It hurts more when you do not have your friends with whom you can vent your anger with the comfort that they will listen to you and help you get back to normal. I miss my friends and happy that I have my blog to give me company.
Bindhu!!
Inspired from this post.
Reading the last paragraph on Tamil films that reflects Ayn Rand's Objectivism, I am reminded of "Velli Thirai" (Translation: Silver Screen) which is a close resemblance to Fountain Head. I have seen the film more than 5 times and every time I am in love with the characterization of the hero. In the points below, I have provided my reflections on the film.
And here is the best of all.
At one point, Saravanan directs a film in which Kannayan acts as the hero. Because of ego clashes, Kannayan refuses to continue the film. To complete the film, Saravanan uses his intelligence and with the help of few of his friends, fools Saravanan and captures his real life emotions and uses it in the film. I am again reminded of the scene in Fountain Head, where Roark uses his intelligence and designs a project for Peter Keating.
PS: I have not seen the Malayalam original version of the film or the English film from which the story is inspired.
Bindhu!!