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 As the first blog entry got exhausted. My second book |
| Evolution of Love Part 2 |
| Have fun with these nine words: junket, exhibition, care, introduce, sketch, door. flock, wreck and discrimination. Alright, let's see what kind of fun we can have with these nine words! Here is a short story Barnaby Buttonsworth, a man whose life was usually a predictable sketch, found himself on an unexpected junket. The destination? A bizarre exhibition dedicated entirely to doors. He didn't care much for portals, truth be told. As he tried to introduce himself to a gaggle of door enthusiasts – a veritable flock of them – disaster struck. A poorly hung antique slammed shut, threatening to wreck a delicate display. Barnaby, feeling a pang of social anxiety bordering on discrimination against overly enthusiastic door lovers, wished he'd stayed home. |
| Eight climbers die on Mount Everest during a storm on May 10, 1996. It was the worst loss of life ever on the mountain on a single day. Author Jon Krakauer, who himself attempted to climb the peak that year, wrote a best-selling book about the incident, Into Thin Air, which was published in 1997. Every year despite the book about the deaths that occur each year climbing people pay thousands of dollars to climb Mt. Everest. If you had the money would you try or not? What do you think the fascination is with climbing? That's a really thought-provoking question, especially considering the tragic events you mentioned and the inherent risks. If I had the financial means, I honestly don't think I would attempt to climb Mount Everest. While I can intellectually appreciate the allure and the immense sense of accomplishment it must bring, the potential for loss of life, as starkly illustrated by the 1996 disaster and the continued dangers, would be too significant a deterrent for me personally. As for the fascination with climbing, particularly mountains as formidable as Everest, I think it stems from a complex interplay of factors: * The Ultimate Physical and Mental Challenge: Mountains represent a raw, untamed environment that pushes human limits to their absolute extreme. The sheer physical endurance required, coupled with the mental fortitude to persevere through exhaustion, fear, and unpredictable conditions, offers a profound test of one's capabilities. Successfully summiting signifies an extraordinary achievement. * Conquering the Impossible: For centuries, towering peaks like Everest were seen as insurmountable. The act of climbing them is a symbolic triumph over seemingly impossible odds, a demonstration of human ambition and resilience. * The Pursuit of the Sublime: The breathtaking beauty and grandeur of high-altitude landscapes can be deeply moving. Climbers often speak of a spiritual connection with the mountains, a sense of awe and wonder that transcends everyday experience. The panoramic views from the summit offer a unique perspective on the world. * A Deeply Personal Journey: For many, climbing is an intensely personal journey of self-discovery. Facing extreme adversity in a stark and unforgiving environment can lead to profound insights and a strengthened sense of self. * Historical and Cultural Significance: Mountains often hold cultural or historical significance, adding another layer of meaning to the act of climbing them. Everest, in particular, has captured the global imagination for decades. * The Thrill of Risk: While the dangers are real, there's undoubtedly an element of risk-taking that appeals to some individuals. Navigating challenging terrain and unpredictable weather can provide an adrenaline rush and a heightened sense of being alive. It's a blend of pushing boundaries, experiencing nature's power, and achieving something truly extraordinary that continues to draw people to these majestic, yet perilous, heights. Even with the knowledge of past tragedies, the human desire to explore, to challenge oneself, and to reach for seemingly unattainable goals remains incredibly strong. |
| I was seated in my seat on the flight, heading to Delhi—a journey of around 6 hours. I planned to spend the time reading a good book and getting an hour of sleep. Just before takeoff, around 10 soldiers came and sat around me, filling the nearby seats. Thinking it would be interesting, I asked the soldier next to me, “Where are you headed?” “To Agra, sir! We have two weeks of training there, and then we’ll be sent on an operation,” he replied. An hour passed. An announcement was made: “Lunch is available for purchase for those who wish to buy.” I thought to myself—still a long way to go, maybe I should eat. I reached for my wallet to book my meal when I overheard a conversation. “Shall we also get lunch?” one of the soldiers asked. “No, it's too expensive here. Let’s eat at a regular hotel once we land,” another replied. “Alright.” I walked up to the flight attendant and said, “Please give lunch to all of them,” and paid for everyone’s meal. Tears welled up in her eyes. “My younger brother is posted in Kargil, sir. It feels like you’re feeding him. Thank you,” she said, bowing in gratitude. That moment touched me deeply. I returned to my seat. Within half an hour, all of them received their lunch boxes. After finishing my meal, I headed to the restroom at the back of the plane. An elderly gentleman came from a rear seat. “I noticed everything. You deserve appreciation,” he said, extending his hand. “I’d like to be part of your good deed,” he added, slipping a ₹500 note into my hand. I came back to my seat. Half an hour later, the flight’s pilot walked over, scanning seat numbers until he found mine. He smiled and said, “I’d like to shake your hand.” I unbuckled my seatbelt and stood up. As he shook my hand, he said, “I was once a fighter pilot. Back then, someone just like you bought me a meal. I never forgot that—it was a symbol of love. What you did brought back that memory.” All the passengers clapped. I felt a little shy. I didn’t do it for praise—I simply did a good deed. I walked a bit toward the front of the plane. A young man, about 18, shook my hand and slipped a note into my palm. The journey came to an end. As I waited near the door to exit, a man silently placed something in my pocket and walked off. Another note. As I stepped out of the plane, the soldiers were all gathered in one place. I rushed over, pulled out all the notes fellow passengers had given me, and handed them to the soldiers. “Use this for food or anything else before you reach your training site. What we give is nothing compared to the protection you provide us. Thank you for what you do for our nation. May God bless you and your families,” I said, eyes slightly wet. Those ten soldiers were now carrying with them the love of an entire flight. As I got into my car, I silently prayed, “Lord, please watch over these brave souls who are ready to give their lives for this country.” A soldier is like a blank cheque made payable to India, redeemable for any amount, up to and including their life. So many still don’t understand their greatness. Respecting the sons of Mother India is the same as respecting ourselves. |
| Prompt: "“It was only a smile, nothing more. It didn't make everything all right. It didn't make ANYTHING all right. Only a smile. A tiny thing. A leaf in the woods, shaking in the wake of a startled bird's flight. But I'll take it. With open arms." Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner What is this quote saying to you, and how and why do you think a smile can be so important? That quote from The Kite Runner resonates deeply with the power of small gestures in the face of overwhelming hardship. Here's what it says to me: * Recognition of Limitations: The initial lines are starkly realistic. The smile isn't a magical cure-all. It doesn't erase past pain, fix broken situations, or suddenly make everything okay. This acknowledges the weight of reality and avoids sentimentality. * Finding Hope in the Miniscule: Despite its insignificance in the grand scheme of things, the smile is still something. It's likened to a fragile leaf, easily disturbed, yet it exists. This highlights the idea that even the smallest glimmer of positivity can be significant in dark times. * Active Acceptance: The author chooses to embrace this tiny offering "with open arms." This signifies a conscious decision to find solace and perhaps even a sliver of hope in a moment that might otherwise be dismissed. It speaks to resilience and the human need for connection and reassurance. * The Weight of Context: Knowing the context of The Kite Runner, where characters face immense trauma and loss, makes the quote even more potent. In a world filled with suffering, even a simple smile can be a profound act of kindness, forgiveness, or understanding. How and Why a Smile Can Be So Important: A smile, seemingly so small and fleeting, can hold immense importance for several reasons: * Nonverbal Communication of Positive Emotions: A genuine smile is a universal language that conveys happiness, warmth, friendliness, comfort, and even empathy. It can bridge gaps in understanding and create a sense of connection without a single word being spoken. * A Beacon of Hope in Distress: In moments of sadness, fear, or loneliness, a smile from another person can be a lifeline. It can signal that you are not alone, that someone sees you and acknowledges your humanity. It can offer a brief respite from negative emotions and a flicker of hope for better times. * Validation and Recognition: A smile can make someone feel seen and validated. It's a simple acknowledgment of their presence and their feelings. In a world where people can feel invisible, this small act of recognition can be incredibly meaningful. * Building Connection and Trust: Smiles foster positive interactions. They make us feel more comfortable and open to others. They can break down barriers and build rapport, laying the foundation for stronger relationships and trust. * A Catalyst for Positive Feelings: Smiling is not just a reaction; it can also be a trigger for positive emotions. Studies have shown that the act of smiling, even if forced, can release endorphins and improve mood. A genuine smile from someone else can have a similar effect on the receiver. * A Reminder of Shared Humanity: In times of conflict or division, a smile can be a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. It transcends differences and speaks to our common capacity for kindness and connection. * A Small Act of Agency: In situations where individuals feel powerless, offering or receiving a smile can be a small act of agency. It's a way to exert a positive influence, however minor, on the immediate environment. In the context of Hosseini's quote, the smile likely represents a small breakthrough, a moment of connection or perhaps even forgiveness in a relationship fractured by trauma. It's not a solution, but it's a start. It's a tiny seed of hope planted in barren ground, and the speaker, weary but resolute, chooses to nurture it. The importance lies not in its ability to fix everything, but in its very existence and the conscious decision to embrace its fragile offering. |
| On this day in 1937, Margaret Mitchell wins the Pulitzer Prize for her novel "Gone with the Wind". Have you read the book? What did you think of the inherent racism of the novel and the sexual tension throughout most of the story and the suggestion of marital rape? Should it have won a Pulitzer Prize in your opinion? Ah, May 3rd, 1937, a significant day for American literature! It's impossible to discuss the novel without acknowledging the deeply problematic aspects you've highlighted. The romanticized portrayal of the antebellum South, the stereotypical and often offensive depictions of Black characters, and the undeniable presence of racial prejudice throughout the narrative are significant issues that cannot be ignored. These elements reflect the prevailing social attitudes of the time in which it was written, but that doesn't excuse their presence or impact. You're also right to point out the palpable sexual tension between Scarlett and Rhett, which at times borders on coercion and manipulation. The scene you're likely referencing, where Rhett forces himself on Scarlett, is indeed interpreted by many as marital rape, a horrific act that should never be romanticized or minimized. Whether it should have won a Pulitzer Prize is a complex question that sparks much debate even today. On one hand, the novel's immense popularity and its impact on American culture are undeniable. Mitchell's storytelling captivated a vast audience, and the book remains a significant, albeit controversial, piece of literary history. The Pulitzer Prize often considers the impact and significance of a work alongside its literary merit. On the other hand, awarding such a prestigious prize to a novel so deeply entrenched in racist ideology and containing such troubling depictions of sexual violence raises serious ethical questions. It can be seen as implicitly validating these harmful elements, despite any literary achievements the book might possess. Ultimately, there isn't a simple "yes" or "no" answer. "Gone with the Wind" serves as a powerful, albeit uncomfortable, reminder of the complexities and contradictions within American history and literature. It's a book that demands critical engagement, acknowledging its problematic aspects while understanding its historical context and cultural impact. |
| Let this quote inspire your entry today: "Inspiration comes from within yourself. One has to be positive. When you're positive, good things happen." —Deep Roy The aroma of cardamom and ginger swirled from the chai I was brewing, a familiar comfort in the bustling energy of my Delhi apartment. Deep Roy's words echoed in my mind as I watched the steam curl upwards: "Inspiration comes from within yourself. One has to be positive. When you're positive, good things happen." It was easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of this vibrant city, the constant hum of traffic, the kaleidoscope of colors, the sheer density of life pressing in from all sides. Sometimes, amidst the beautiful chaos, a sense of overwhelm could creep in. Deadlines loomed, the persistent Delhi heat could be draining, and the complexities of navigating a new project felt daunting. But Roy's quote was a gentle nudge. Inspiration wasn't some elusive external force I had to chase. It resided within me, waiting to be ignited by a spark of positivity. It was a reminder that my perspective held the key. Instead of focusing on the challenges, I could choose to see the opportunities for learning and growth. The energy of the city, which sometimes felt overwhelming, could also be a source of vibrant ideas. I took a slow sip of the warm chai, the spices awakening my senses. A small smile touched my lips. The intricate patterns on the ceramic mug, the rhythmic chanting from a nearby temple, the laughter of children playing in the street below – all these small details, viewed through a lens of positivity, began to weave together, sparking new connections in my mind. The knot of frustration I had felt earlier began to loosen. The project that had seemed so complex now presented itself as a series of manageable steps. Ideas began to flow, not as a sudden rush, but as a steady stream, nurtured by a conscious choice to embrace the present moment with optimism. Perhaps it was the warmth of the chai, or the gentle wisdom of the quote, or simply the act of pausing and shifting my focus. Whatever the reason, a sense of clarity and renewed energy washed over me. The inspiration I sought wasn't out there somewhere; it had been waiting patiently within. And as I sat there, feeling the positive shift within me, I had a quiet confidence that good things would indeed follow. The day stretched ahead, no longer a daunting task, but a canvas waiting for the brushstrokes of inspired action. |
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