%%USERNAME%%    %%ACCWORDS%% %%ONOFF%% |
 As the first blog entry got exhausted. My second book |
| Evolution of Love Part 2 |
| 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. |
| "Do you love this world? Do you cherish your humble and silky life? Do you adore the green grass, with its terror beneath?" Mary Oliver Please respond to Mary Oliver's questions. Ah, Mary Oliver's words always strike a chord. Yes, I do love this world. It's a messy, complicated love, full of awe and frustration in equal measure. I cherish this fleeting, human life – the small moments of connection, the warmth of the sun on my skin, the taste of good food. It's not always silky; often it's rough and challenging, but it's mine, and it's precious. And the green grass... yes, I adore it. The way it feels cool and soft underfoot, the vibrant color that signals life and growth. But I also recognize the "terror beneath." The unseen insects teeming, the constant struggle for survival happening just below the surface. It's a reminder that beauty and fragility often coexist, that life is both a gift and a fierce battle. There's a profound beauty in acknowledging both the wonder and the inherent dangers of this world. It makes the moments of joy and peace all the more meaningful. |
| Prompt: “But, if you have nothing at all to create, then perhaps you create yourself.” C.G. Jung What does this quote mean to you and do you agree with Jung that we create ourselves? That's a thought-provoking quote from Jung! To me, it speaks to a fundamental drive for meaning and purpose. If we find ourselves in a situation where external circumstances don't offer readily apparent avenues for creation – be it art, work, relationships, or tangible achievements – then that inherent creative energy doesn't simply vanish. Instead, it turns inward. In this context, "creating ourselves" can mean a few things: * Developing our identity: We actively shape who we are through the choices we make, the values we adopt, and the beliefs we cultivate. This is an ongoing process of self-discovery and refinement. * Finding our inner resources: When external creation is limited, we might focus on cultivating inner strengths like resilience, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. These become the building blocks of our character. * Finding unique meaning: Even in seemingly barren circumstances, we can create personal meaning by how we interpret and respond to our experiences. This involves finding purpose in the everyday and developing a unique perspective on life. * Transforming our inner landscape: We can actively work on our thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior. This internal "creation" can lead to significant personal growth and a more integrated sense of self. Do I agree with Jung that we create ourselves? Absolutely, to a significant extent. While we are undoubtedly influenced by our genetics, upbringing, and environment, we are not merely passive recipients of these forces. We possess agency, the capacity to make choices and shape our responses to the world. Think about individuals who have faced immense adversity. Their external circumstances might have offered little in the way of traditional creative outlets, yet many have forged remarkable inner strength, wisdom, and unique perspectives. They have, in essence, created themselves in the face of hardship. However, I also believe that the opportunity for external creation often enriches and informs our self-creation. Engaging with the world, building things, contributing to society, and forming meaningful connections can provide valuable feedback and new perspectives that further shape who we become. It's often a dynamic interplay between our inner world and our engagement with the external. So, while Jung's quote beautifully highlights the power of our inner creative potential, especially in the absence of external opportunities, I see self-creation as an ongoing dialogue between our internal drives and our interactions with the world around us. |
| T. S. Eliot said, April is the cruelest month in his1921 poem The Waste Land. Are you familiar with the poem The Waste Land? Do you agree or disagree with his analogy.? Yes, I am familiar with T. S. Eliot's highly influential poem, The Waste Land, published in 1922. The line you're referring to, "April is the cruellest month," opens the first section of the poem, titled "The Burial of the Dead." In this context, Eliot's analogy suggests that April, typically associated with the renewal of spring and the awakening of life, is actually a time of profound pain and discomfort. He contrasts the gentle stirring of new growth ("Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing / Memory and desire, stirring / Dull roots with spring rain") with the unwelcome intrusion of memory and desire into a state of dormancy that winter had provided ("Winter kept us warm, covering / Earth in forgetful snow, feeding / A little life with dried tubers."). Whether I agree or disagree with this analogy is a matter of debatable perspective, however I can analyze the effectiveness and the resonance of Eliot's comparison: Arguments for agreeing with Eliot's analogy: * Disruption of a fragile peace: After the dormancy and perhaps the numbness of winter, the arrival of spring can force a confrontation with feelings and memories that were dormant. This awakening can be painful, especially in a "waste land" context of emotional and spiritual barrenness. * Unfulfilled potential: The burgeoning of life in April can highlight what is dead or barren within oneself or the surrounding world, creating a stark and cruel contrast. The promise of renewal might feel like a taunt when juxtaposed with inner desolation. * The pain of memory and desire: As Eliot suggests, spring stirs "memory and desire." For individuals in a state of disillusionment or loss (as depicted in the poem), these stirrings might be agonizing reminders of what is gone or unattainable. Arguments for disagreeing with Eliot's analogy: * The inherent hope of spring: For many, April represents hope, renewal, and the joy of life returning to the natural world. The sensory experiences of spring – the warmth, the blossoming flowers, the longer days – are often seen as uplifting and positive. * A necessary awakening: While the stirring of memory and desire can be painful, it can also be a necessary step towards healing and growth. Avoiding these feelings in the "forgetful snow" of winter might be a temporary comfort but not a long-term solution. * Cultural and personal variations: The experience of April can vary greatly depending on geographical location, cultural associations, and individual circumstances. For someone in a place where winter is harsh and spring brings genuine relief, April might be a welcome and gentle month. Ultimately, Eliot's line is a powerful and thought-provoking metaphor that captures a specific feeling of discomfort and pain associated with the arrival of spring in a context of disillusionment. Its effectiveness lies in its inversion of the traditional positive associations with April. Whether one agrees with it depends on individual experiences and interpretations of the poem's themes of loss, fragmentation, of the evolving world. |
| Albert Einstein once said: "Weak people revenge. Strong people forgive. Intelligent people ignore." Here are 9 timeless lessons I’ve learned from him: 1. Don’t Overthink the Future "I never think of the future. It comes soon enough." The future is uncertain, and worrying about it steals today’s joy. Focus on what you have now and keep moving forward. 2. Dare to Think Big "I believe bold speculation will take us further than the mere accumulation of facts." Daring ideas have changed the world more than safe ones ever could. 3. Keep Moving Forward "Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." Don’t stand still. Progress, no matter how small, is still progress. 4. Politics Is Harder Than Physics When asked, “If man discovered the atom, why can’t we solve political problems?” Einstein answered: "Because politics is more difficult than physics." Brilliant minds still struggle where emotions, power, and ego take over. 5. Embrace Simplicity Einstein believed in “Einstein’s Razor” — removing what’s unnecessary and holding on to what matters. Simplicity is power, as long as it doesn’t become oversimplification. 6. Education Should Teach You to Think "The aim of education should be to train minds to think, not to memorize facts." So read more. Reflect more. Let your curiosity be your best teacher. 7. We All Belong to One Tree "All religions, arts, and sciences are branches of the same tree." Humanity thrives when we grow together, not apart. We are more connected than we think. 8. Stay True to Your Conscience "Never do anything against your conscience, even if the state demands it." Let your principles guide you — especially when it's not easy. 9. What Is Relativity? Einstein once joked: "Sit with a pretty girl for two hours and it feels like two minutes. Sit on a hot stove for two minutes and it feels like two hours — that’s relativity." Perspective changes everything. |
| Prompt: Women need solitude in order to find again the true essence of themselves." Write about this quote in you Blog entry today. Finding Myself in the Quiet: Why Solitude is Essential for Women Virginia Woolf famously wrote about a "room of one's own" as a prerequisite for a woman to write fiction. But I believe the need for a dedicated space, both physical and mental, extends far beyond the realm of artistic creation. Today, I want to explore why solitude isn't just a luxury for women; it's a fundamental necessity for rediscovering and nurturing their true selves. In our daily lives, many women navigate a complex web of roles: partner, mother, daughter, friend, colleague. We often find ourselves pouring our energy and attention into the needs and expectations of others. While these connections are vital and enriching, they can also inadvertently lead us away from our own inner compass. The constant demands and external noise can drown out the quiet whispers of our own desires, dreams, and authentic selves. Solitude offers a sanctuary from this external clamor. It's in those moments of quiet reflection, whether it's during a solitary walk in nature, an hour spent reading undisturbed, or simply sitting in stillness with our own thoughts, that we create the space for self-discovery. It's in these moments that the layers of external expectations and societal conditioning can begin to peel away, revealing the core of who we truly are. Think about it. When are you truly free to hear your own voice, unfiltered by the opinions or needs of others? When are you able to connect with your intuition, your passions, and your deepest values without the pressure to conform or compromise? For many women, the answer lies in those precious moments of solitude. This isn't about rejecting connection or isolating ourselves. It's about intentionally carving out time and space to nurture our inner landscape. It's about giving ourselves permission to just be, without the need to perform, please, or produce. In this space, we can process our experiences, identify our true needs, and reconnect with the wellspring of our own strength and creativity. Solitude allows us to: * Hear our own thoughts: Without the constant input from the outside world, our inner voice can finally be heard clearly. * Process emotions: Quiet moments provide the space to acknowledge and work through complex feelings without distraction or judgment. * Recharge and replenish: Stepping away from demands allows us to rest and restore our energy, preventing burnout and fostering resilience. * Cultivate self-awareness: In solitude, we can reflect on our values, beliefs, and aspirations, leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves. * Foster creativity: Many brilliant ideas and insights emerge from moments of quiet contemplation. In a world that often glorifies busyness and external validation, prioritizing solitude can feel like a radical act. But it's an act of self-care and self-respect that is essential for women to thrive. By embracing moments of quiet reflection, we empower ourselves to reconnect with our authentic essence, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. So, today, I encourage you to find your own quiet space, even if it's just for a few moments. Allow yourself the gift of solitude, and discover the profound wisdom that resides within. You might be surprised by the clarity and strength you find when you finally give yourself the space to truly listen. Men, unfortunately, do not always understand a very simple truth: the woman, when she loves... is intensely reciprocal. Female nature is like an echo, an emotional reflection. Let's absorb man's attitude towards us on an intuitive and energetic level — his words, his actions, his intentions... and if these match each other. And then, just... we give it back. What goes around — comes around. Sometimes like tenderness, care, peace and a home to rest from the world. Other times... like coldness, distance and a closed door forever. Because a woman is not a grudge It's not vindictive. It's a mirror. And it reflects exactly what you have put into it. Do you want a garden? Take care of it. Do you want love? Love her. Do you want loyalty? Be worthy of trust. If you have a calm, warm, loyal and loving woman by your side — it's not a coincidence. It is the result of your actions. And if next to you there is coldness and emptiness, it's not a coincidence either. You are a reflection of what you sow. Look at your woman... and you will see who you really are. Because she is your mirror. This is all I can say about the statement made. |
| Prompt: “Good people are good because they’ve come to wisdom through failure.” William Saroyan Is it always true that people gain wisdom when they fail, and have you ever gained wisdom from any failure? That's a thought-provoking quote from William Saroyan! While the idea that good people gain wisdom through failure holds a lot of truth, I wouldn't say it's always the case. Some individuals might possess an innate sense of empathy and morality, guiding them to do good without necessarily experiencing significant personal failures. Others might learn valuable lessons and develop wisdom through observing the mistakes of others or through thoughtful reflection on various experiences, not just their own missteps. However, I do believe that failure is a powerful teacher for many. It can strip away illusions, force introspection, and build resilience. When we stumble, we have the opportunity to analyze what went wrong, understand our limitations, and develop more effective approaches for the future. This process of learning and adaptation can certainly contribute to the development of wisdom and, in turn, influence one's actions and character in a positive way. As for me my Guru says that failure and vacuum in life teaches the best of lessons. As in nature wherein everything is illusory, a person or an organisation can prosper at the expense of someone or something. To come out of the worldly illusion failure is the best teacher. |
View Portfolio
Visit Notebook
Send Gift Points
Awards
Badges
Send Email
Community Newsfeed
General Discussion
Sponsored Items
Book of Trinkets
Static Items
Books
Groups
Interactive Stories
Audio
Campfire Creatives
Community Notes
Crossword Puzzles
Documents
Folders
Images
In & Outs
Madlibs
Photo Albums
Polls
Product Reviews
Quizzes
Survey Forms
Web Pages
Word Searches
