Life is usually not what you expect it to be…

Life is usually not how you think it should be…

Life is what you are living…Life is now ! 

Live life in the now ! 

You Do You

 Recently, I watched a Turkish movie with English subtitles on Netflix- “ You Do You “. It should be added to your “ must watch list”. The movie had the right combination of humour and romance. The story is quite interesting and I liked the line “You Do You “! 

I loved this movie and it certainly brightened up my day and reminded me of a time when I faced challenges at work by adding a dash of humour in them so as to enjoy my work and not be weighed down by the negativity of it all. Never give up when faced with difficulties and try to greet the challenges in your life with humour, strength and determination as then positivity will follow. 

People from all cultures would be able to relate to this movie . In this story I liked the way romance and humour danced around the initial revenge that brought these two people together. In all it was a movie that made one feel good. 

I believe that You should be You all the time ! Just be You ! Do what  defines You ! So don’t loose your essence as just. being you will make you unique. Have your original style that translates you and not anyone else. Life is short and so celebrate who you are in that time! Being different can be interesting and stylish too! :) And never give up on you and your dreams. Believe in yourself and you will always find s way . This is my interpretation and I think the movie echoed some of my thoughts. 

Farewell to a Place called Home

 "A place to call home" is often not easy to find! And often for many, a place they call home cannot be owned just as life cannot be owned. Such is the story of people who have to keep changing homes due to their professions or other reasons. They truly realize the value of a home since they have travelled through different houses to somewhat find it and in that journey they have also discovered the meaning of making themselves at home anywhere in the world. In that journey they have made efforts to find a home only to lose it too but then regain it at another place. What life takes, it gives you back in some ways.  

Each home you have lived in holds tremendous relevance since that place witnesses all your emotions that are hidden from the real world. Each home holds so many warm memories. A place that houses you becomes actually your home when you make it your own by living the way you want to in it and decorating it with some joyful and memorable moments. A place also becomes your home when it protects you from the storms of life . A place becomes your home when it holds you and comforts you  in times of difficulties and distress and yet there comes a time when we must leave that place around which we feel so safe and comfortable.

When the time comes to say farewell to a place that has been your  home, it is never easy as at that time do you actually realize what that home meant to you. You know that you can never come back to it but you are thankful that it was an important part of your life. People who change homes truly live the real journey of life where you have to leave something behind that you hold so dear to go to the next chapter of your life hoping to find it again. People who travel through different homes know what it is to gain only to leave it.

All my life I have lived in different places that felt like home as I come from a military background. On my own the place I have been living in has been my home of three years and this is my third apartment as an independent woman. Each home was different and had it's own characteristics. But each home had its own relevance in my heart because each home saw different phases of my life. Each home represents different parts in the stage of my life.   

The time has come to say farewell... Till we meet again but at a different place in life...Till I find you again at a different place in life...You will house someone else now but I will always be a part of you as once I resided in you...You will always be a part of me because I will always cherish you...

                    

 Food 4 Thought !

One has to go through imperfections to achieve perfection ! To be perfect one has to be imperfect if you know what I mean. One can't be proficient in everything and only  practice makes perfect ! So why be harsh on yourself !? After all mistakes are what makes us learn and instill hope to achieve perfection whereby we work harder to ultimately perfect ourselves in what we are doing.  Not everything can go the way it should be all the time or the way you would like it to be...So don't be hard on yourself and please don't be your worst critic. You are allowed to make mistakes and through it all you also have to  learn not to judge yourself or criticize yourself. Have realistic expectations from yourself  and I say love yourself  since that will bring about the positivity to do and be better. Just give yourself a break ! 

Fiesta De Quinceanera

  

Some months back I watched an interesting program called "Fiesta Quinceanera" on PBS channel. Fiesta De Quinceanera is a celebration of a girl's 15th birthday and her stepping into adulthood. There is music, food and dancing which revolve around a theme at a party. And so naturally the dress of the girl has to be very special and match the theme of her coming of age party. It is celebrated in Mexico as well as Latin communities in America and elsewhere. This event has social and religious significance. 

It was really wonderful to see the heartwarming story of this darling mother who went to lengths to make that event truly special and memorable for her daughter. How a mother celebrates her love for her daughter through this significant occasion is so endearing. Mothers in all cultures are forever so generous and giving. Mothers in any culture would do anything and make great sacrifices to see smiles on the faces of their children. The warmth and affection pouring out of every action of her mother in preparation for the lovely event touched my heart deeply and reminded me of my mother and you would certainly be reminded of the special ways your mother touches your heart too.     

A closure to childhood and welcoming adulthood is what Quinceanera symbolizes.  In sorrows and joys God is there for us and this girl's mother specially tries to restore her daughter's faith in that. I was smiling through the entire program as the interactions between the mother and daughter were so special. Their interactions were even a bit bitter at times but mostly sweet and loving each other all the way in their own way. She wants the party for her daughter that she never had. Mothers want all that they have and all that they could not have for their daughters. In this sense the mothers in all cultures are alike.

The tale of each girl covered in this program was so interesting. Another stitches the dress for her grand daughter. It goes to show that one could make any moment special even without any means. Another family is shown preparing and taking dance lessons together for this special occasion where the girl wants a fusion of both cultures as the theme of her party so as to celebrate where she came from and where she belongs now. Truly family is everything as they would do anything to make your moments special and to capture that smile on your face! 

I think in a way a mother has no nationality or religion as she identifies and recognizes herself only through her children. I feel a mother translates her existence through her children. All the mothers around the world are the same...

This program also reminded me that life is a "fiesta" even in moments of fear and uncertainty. Some of the families don't know when they will see their families because of the situations they are in and yet they put their challenges and complexities of life aside to make that particular moment special for their daughters by pouring their hearts and investing so much in the preparations for that big day. We have so many desires and dreams which can go unfulfilled but the key to make life beautiful is to celebrate moments like this.

Sahel Rosa: A War Orphan's Journey (NHK World-Japan Documentary)

  

The journey of a war orphan Sahel Rosa is a documentary on NHK World Prime that all should watch. The journey of Sahel Rosa and her foster mother Flora who moved from Iran to Japan touched me deeply. And I wanted to share my impressions with all. A real-life story of the deep bond shared by a mother and child who are not related by blood but share a bond that is deeper than any other connections of blood. An inspiring and true story of a sense of belonging, sacrifice, struggle and overcoming of every difficulty that life presents them with. The creation and growth of a beautiful everlasting bond that gives them strength and faith while discovering the meaning of life in each other and with each other.

Sahel Rosa is someone who has gone through so many difficulties in life and yet she has retained her child like innocence, kindness and sensitivity. She has held her belief in life despite still trying to follow a path of self-discovery and searching a sense of belonging in a foreign country which is now her home of many years. Her immense warmth. generosity and sense of giving make her so special. In her loneliness too she keeps building herself through being there for others and truly giving back to the world by helping them out.  

Life may not be a bed of roses but Flora tried to create a bed of roses for Sahel since the time she embraced her in life. According to her, the name she gave her means a sand shore of roses even though roses don't bloom there. Everything in her home resonates that. There are flower motifs on the walls and curtains as well as the clock.  She has spread the fragrance of love in her adopted daughter's life and raised her to spread that fragrance of caring in the entire world. She has added meaning and significance to her adopted daughter's life by embracing her as her own and in the process making numerous personal sacrifices. She chose not to have her own child because she wanted to be a mother to this little girl she discovered. It was as if fate meant them to find a home in each other. Not everyone can wholeheartedly commit their life that easily to a child that does not belong to them, but Flora demonstrated that relationships can be born without blood too and can be thicker than blood too which makes one believe how important it is to share your life with a child who is lost and alone in this world. You can be that much needed anchor for a lonely child. You can be that direction. A foster parent can also cultivate a very beautiful and a much deeper connection with a child. 

In the extreme hardships of being without a home in a country alien to them too, they kept recreating and building themselves...What could have made them very bitter only enhanced the sweetness of their kindness and freshness of their goodness. It reminds us that life can be so unfair and continues to test good people. Their challenges may be continuing with Rosa falling sick but even then, they are living with hope in the beautiful garden of roses they have created on the desert of life. The garden of roses they created at their place of residence would always be a true representation of their lives. The hardships of childhood and bullying in school did not defeat her even though one can imagine the scars and impressions that it could leave on a child's mind. The war that took away her parents could not diminish her. She is still true to her roots and identity despite living in a foreign country where her home is now.

Her journey with her foster mother in a country unknown to them at first is filled with so many challenges and yet that story of their life offers inspiration to those who could be facing similar circumstances and are working hard on surviving all that is dark and difficult in their lives. 

As I say "Jinsei wa fukuzatsu...Demo tsuzuite iku shika nai !"  [ From Japanese-English: Life is complicated/complex...There is no choice but to keep going on]

 

 Not always does someone who can afford luxury can afford manners...

Together and Forever in my Heart-What life tears, your heart holds...

 

Life is what it is...That is what life is...Such is life!

There is no "forever" in life as much we desire. There is a beginning and an end as we know very well. And what matters is how we live in that journey between a beginning and an end. The short time in between the two pillars of life has to be realized and lived to it's fullest and yet we easily forget that. Time is never enough and time is not everlasting though the memories are eternal when treasured in one's heart. 

In this life, not everyone is fortunate enough to experience a lifetime of love and happiness. Only some have the honour and fortune of sharing years of love and togetherness. This story that touched me today is that of a very beautiful and loving elderly couple whose love grew stronger and deeper with time over the years and how they wished to continue holding hands to pass over to the other world. They did not want to let go of each other even when life's end called on them but life as ruthless as it is chose to take one before the other.

I just watched "My Love-Don't cross that river" on KQED PBS. It was a heartfelt tribute to the precious love of a very aged couple who had a history of 76 years of togetherness in which they grew even closer with time and age despite challenges. They lived in the beautiful countryside of South Korea where they celebrated their love for each other every day through simple gestures and things. They did things for each other and cherished each other in each breath that they had left in them. They cared for each other and took care of each other without any help from anyone. But their intense love for each other made them strong and secure even at that age.  

Watching their moments together was so heartwarming and yet so heartbreaking because one knew that these moments would not last much longer. One wished that there would be no end to their special bond in this lifetime. This real-life story showed their moments together when they enjoyed just being together and celebrating their love as well as affection for each other daily. They enjoyed each and every moment and made the monotony of life and routine work so magical with the much expressed caring for each other. 

They played in the snow and they threw leaves at each other only to show that age had not dulled their enjoyment in being with each other. Their hearts appeared young even though trapped in the bodies of old age. They teased each other even while doing simple household chores which demonstrated their involvement in each other. They were there for each other in every way and helped each other by doing things for each other while holding each others' hands to guide each other.

 It was so wonderful to see that romance was not lost to them even at that age. They lived alone at such an old age with their two dogs and yet they seemed so contented, happy, and peaceful. They appeared to be lost in each other completely! They were living alone but living a life rich in love and every day was so meaningful because of the depth of their connection. They were so absorbed in each other that they actually did not need anybody else or require anything else even though their children and grandchildren visited them occasionally.

Such is true love! It goes to show that love has no boundaries of age...And yet the loving relationship is so painfully tragic when it has to face and endure the separation from the other. And the story speaks to us of their feelings as to how they don't want to part with each other even in death. But even then she prepares for his new journey to the other side as is the custom so that he has all his things with him till she can join him in the other world as she says. That really strikes the chords of our hearts and moves us to tears. I was profoundly sad when it came to the part where the husband is fading away from life and how she desperately clings to hope and prays he would live on for some more months. To see her weeping endlessly in bidding farewell to him in the snow before heading back home alone reminded me that how very lonely she must have felt and yet she had to continue living without him.   

 True love actually transcends age and life...True love lives on eternally in the heart of another's heart as the connection is very deep. True love is a commitment of a lifetime and beyond it. That is what makes it so beautiful but painful too...Such is the love story of a lifetime where one grows and blooms in one's love for each other only to wither in the end. What blooms has to wither as that is the norm of life. And yet it is so difficult to accept that... Your heart holds forever what life tears from you.  

          

 

As sleep evaded me, I thought about all that is happening around us. I wonder for how long the world will be enveloped in this darkness of the pandemic. The stillness and the darkness of the night have not ended even though dawn will greet me soon while I write my thoughts...

We are waging a war against an unseen and unpredictable enemy which has not only taken away our lives from us but taken away precious lives forever and divided us in faith. Today the world is divided in belief and not so much in borders. The world is divided between believers and non-believers. There are those who believe that this too shall end and our lives will be given back to us. While there are others who believe that we can never escape from what we are going through. Some days there is hope that prayers will be answered and we will be free again but there are some days when there is only dismay that surrounds us...We may be in a conflict with our own selves too when we are witnessing immense suffering and tragic losses around us. Yet do not let faith desert us...

Today the world is separated in its outlook and responses. There are those to whom it does not matter anymore whether our lives will be restored or not to what it was or whether normalcy would be truly restored since they have already lost so much. And then there are those who are numb...There are some who are very empathetic and going out of their way to care about each other and support each other through this crisis. But there are others who want to continue remaining detached and oblivious to what is happening around them and continue their lives as before with total disregard to how their actions might harm others or disrespect others at this time. It is time that we align our thoughts...

Needless to say that the world is suffering the worst kind of pain and sadness ever. The world requires to be healed and the healing will take longer than expected. The only choice left to us right now is to face whatever may come and stay strong as much as we can...We have to rebuild and restore our lives in every way possible. But we are fighting a very unpredictable and faceless enemy. We have to stand together as one world to combat this deadly virus. And through these difficult times, we must stay committed to being kind and helpful to each other. Strength comes easily when people care about each other.  

As always History will always be a painful reminder to us that so many innocent lives were lost yet again due to the cruel ambition and ruthless intentions of certain individuals. So many had to pay the most terrible price for the most irresponsible and careless actions of some who brought this upon every one whom they even called their own as well as others. But the actions of some cannot be blamed on others. Let not the present times divide us through hate and mistrust but instead let us embrace each other all the more at this time to get through this ordeal together. 

We can just hope and pray that this too shall end like many such destructive happenings before it and we never face something like this ever again! But can there be such sureties in life especially when playing with lives is something that comes so easily to those who may not have a conscience? We cannot trust what time brings us going forward but we can place trust in ourselves in how we deal with it to the best of our abilities. We can also try to place faith in hope for better times to come. I want to believe that there will be light after darkness. In fact, I believe that things will change for the better. Times will change because nothing remains the same for long... that is the law of life! Such is life!   

 

Last week I had watched again a very emotional and inspiring program on NHK- " Regaining Names". It was dedicated to the Miyagi Prefectural Police's search for victims of the earthquake and tsunami. It covered their detail-oriented and endless search for people who lost their lives and finding their remains to help them reunite with their families and thus regain their names. 

It talked about this person's self-imposed mission to trace each and everyone who was lost to their family in that natural disaster. He felt all of them and every last of them should return home and I believe that is the greatest thing one can do for others. Helping someone regain their name and identity is the most significant thing you can do for someone because your name defines you.  This real-life story demonstrates the deep sensitivity of the people involved in it. Here they helped people who lost their lives regain their names and identities. Once again it goes to show that deep emotions matter to Japanese people and that is so much part of their strength! 

I always say that having emotions is not a weakness but a true strength that gives one the courage to do and address things with deep commitment. It is essential to deeply appreciate and honour the feelings of others!

 This program made me think that in life some people who still have life in them also need to regain and find themselves and meet closures in matters of relationships and tragedies. Everybody living or not deserves closure to either regain their identities or regain their lives. We must be there to provide such closures to people to lead better lives or find peace in painful partings. Partings and Separations are never easy but one can help people find a sense of peace through proper closures. 

In the story of " Regaining Names", one person in particular Abe san helped people get closure through the composite sketches drawn by him whereby victims were identified. He taught his son that is important to "approach any task with unfaltering dedication". That is the most beautiful trait of a Japanese person. That is something my parents and grandparents have taught me too. I approach everything with absolute dedication and commitment. Such an approach makes life worthwhile and satisfying. 

Anytime I feel lost and need to establish a direction in life, I find solace in the Japanese way of thought. Japanese way of life and Japanese culture translate my thoughts in many ways. It is as if they define my beliefs and me. I relate so much to it in terms of their sensitivity, appreciation, and creativity towards life. 

All cultures have many positive things to offer and we must learn from them. I come from a very ancient and rich culture too and which is deeply rooted in me. And I often rely on the ancient teachings in my culture to give me strength and purpose in life. Yet it is important to explore other cultures too to understand what is important to others too and deepen cultural sensitivity. I think that in giving to others do we truly find happiness and peace. I believe that in doing for others we find ourselves...    

What breaks you makes you stronger...
What is lost to you makes you deeper...

                                                                          -Simrit 

Teachings of a Balinese Prince

 Experiences not only shapes one's life but the lives of others as well when stories are shared in person or on social media platforms. Online story telling platforms offer a personal way to share one's experiences and knowledge with a larger audience. I always love to be a story teller or a story listener in such online story learnings !

As mentioned earlier, the talks and lectures of Prince Tjok Dje Kerthyasa are very inspiring and captivating. I like hearing about his experiences and stories about his life as they are inspiring, motivating and renew my belief in what I thought is lost to many. I watched "Living Tri Hata Karna- Part 1".

It is nice to see someone valuing his family and traditions so much. I am profoundly philosophical and traditional. Everyone must inspire the next generation to carry age old customs and traditions forward. According to me, traditional values and modernity can go hand in hand. It is all about creating the right balance as the Balinese royal family is doing .Life is about maintaining balance and we believe that too in my culture. It is essential to preserve that balance in life.

I can relate so well to his cultural experiences and beliefs be it regarding Vedic traditions, Hindu customs or yoga. "Pranayama" is obviously well known to Indians. My father knows yoga and has often told me to follow it . My family too uses homeopathy and herbal medicines. Homeopathy and healing remedies have a place in both cultures. I feel that in a way our countries and cultures are deeply connected though some may not entirely agree which makes it really interesting to note the different translations of Hinduism. However I think we are the same basically...

I have to say that his way of presenting his culture, thoughts and ideas through his personal experiences and example is wonderful. Listening to his lectures gives a sense of peace and tranquility at a time when we are trying to reconnect with ourselves in the times of challenges during the world health crisis. As mentioned earlier , I am glad to have been introduced to his discussions as I believe in the way of life that he talks about and agree that we must be deeply connected to Nature. 

Spirituality has great significance in my life too. Having lived in Japan for six years as a child in Tokyo and then later as a teacher in a village in Mie-ken, I visited numerous Shinto Shrines and Buddhist Temples which inspired me to research on the similarities between Shintoism , Buddhism and Hinduism. In both Hinduism and Shintoism, natural elements are worshipped. We revere and acknowledge elements of nature. Fire, Earth & Water have representations. India and Bali both have sacred plants and trees and one of them being the Banyan tree. He compared that to Shintoism in this way that Shintoism also has sacred trees .

 So many of our beliefs and words in our languages are connected or linked. In the beginning of the talk, as a part of his greeting and later in his blessing or prayer in the end. some of the words were the same as Hindi words like "Ohm" and "Shanti".  .

 In India too chanting mantras and purification of homes with holy water or incense is part of everyday life in many households. We even sometimes use salt and light oil lamps made with clay to spread positive energy in our homes. We also have such purification rituals or purification ceremonies. Water purifying ceremony have relevance in some Asian cultures. He beautifully put it that you become one with element of water.

 Like Bali, in India too we  pray and ask for forgiveness for building anything on a land and seek permission from the divine to construct something on it. This Hindi ritual is called "Bhumipujan" and it involves a ceremony for laying the foundation. Before entering a house for the first time, we have the "Grihapravesh" ceremony where we worship to receive the blessings for positivity and good fortune in the house. So I could understand how in Bali too they give offerings to earth and natural elements. Offerings for prayers are often in the form of fruits and flowers in both countries at Hindu temples. Moreover like Bali and India, Japan honours their ancestors too through their own festival of "Obon". 

He talked about how with the sacred bells & mantras during ceremonies we harmonize ourselves with nature and divine. In India it is the same as well and you will find bells at the entrance of Hindu temples. 

It was also mentioned that different dimensions of nature and beings in other realms are acknowledged in Bali. Again I could comprehend that specially because of my personal experience too as a child. And so I wear a "tabeez/tawiz" or "kavach" as we refer to in India which is a kind of sacred symbol locket containing some verses or mantras from the holy book and amulet that protect from evil spirits and mishaps. In Japan they have something similar called " Omamori" which provide protection and blessings too.

 Omamoris are good luck charms that are often sold at Buddhist and Shinto shrines. They are prayers on a small piece of wood, paper or cloth that are then wrapped in small brocade bags. They have omamoris for everything and they are so colourful as well as attractive ! It is interesting how different cultures can have similar beliefs but in different forms. It is amazing as to how our grandmothers too thought alike as mine would advise me not to do certain things at dusk as well. Like we were told not to do stitching at that time or not allowed to lie down during that time. 

We too have an ancient Hindu calendar that the pundits refer to particularly when searching for auspicious dates for a special occasion. There are different days assigned to different Gods in Hindusim in India too. We too have certain days assigned for certain things or certain prayers.  

Tjok Gde mentioned that life is not necessarily about achieving a goal.  I am known to believe that since I follow the Buddhist saying that "enjoy the journey instead of waiting for the destination". Many of his sayings naturally reminded me of the teachings of Bhagwad Gita too .

 He says that it is important to be creators to save the earth and live in harmony with nature. That is absolutely required ! It is important to give back to the earth and I feel that appreciation would definitely be mirrored. So respect nature and respect earth !

Valuable Teachings of a Balinese Prince

 

It is always so wonderful to meet people from different cultural backgrounds and cultural identities since one learns so much more through such interactions. Such interactions enhance one's interpretation of other cultures and fills in the blanks for those parts of other cultures that are invisible or unknown to you. In the present times of the pandemic, there may not be all that many opportunities entirely to be as socially active as before or attend cultural and social interaction events for that matter. But needless to say that one could still have access to knowledge and learning of new cultures through books, television and online resources. Everyday I take the time to watch programs, shows or documentaries on You Tube or TV about various cultural traditions and ceremonies.  I thoroughly enjoy watching such programs specially on KQED,,PBS and NHK here in America. 

On one such day, while watching one cultural wedding ceremony after the other on You Tube did I come across an interview with the Balinese Prince Tjok Gde Kerthyasa in the "Get Lost Education" video. I am so glad that I was introduced to his talks through You Tube. The talk was very interesting and naturally captured my attention completely particularly because I was able to relate to it so much.

 Both as an Indian and an individual I could really connect with his thoughts and beliefs at all levels. As evident from my blog, I also give importance to cultures and spirituality. Thereafter I watched another of his talks and I will be writing more articles on him based on my interpretations of his talks. Not only do I believe in homeopathy, naturopathy and herbal medicines but like him I also have experience of a teacher and an ex-Hotelier. So naturally many of my experiences have been somewhat similar. Hinduism is our common connection too. And like he said India too celebrates natural therapy.  

I too have experienced a few months at a school where the classroom environment may be described as somewhat similar to that of Green School and I shall be talking about that another time. The Green School environment in Bali also somewhat reminds me of the "Gurukuls" in ancient India. Perhaps we too can find the lost education of the Gurukul system or restore some parts of it in it's truest form to prepare the students for real life and keep them connected with their traditions.         

Hearing the conversation with the Prince of Bali on " Get Lost Education" left quite a lasting impression on me and I thought I must write about it and introduce others who have not had the opportunity as yet to listen to his talks. He talks very well and his talks give a much needed direction and purpose in these times to achieve that balance in life and to live in unison with nature. He has his own website which basically means healing waters or healing with water since he uses holy spring water to make medicine. The website is-

 www.tirtausada.com  (healing waters) Holy water spring to make medicines

Tjok De Kerthyasa belongs to two different cultures and in my opinion that is the reason he attaches a profound meaning to cultures as such and appears to have a keen interest in drawing similarities between different cultures. He has a deep appreciation and understanding of other cultures and it is visible that he enjoys sharing his knowledge with people through his talks. I love doing that as well as a cross-cultural consultant and teacher.  I like sharing ideas and knowledge with people through my blog. I may not be from two different cultures but I come from a family that has a place for different religions. So I have always been more tolerant of other religions and cultures. Being brought up in two different religions teaches me to be very culturally sensitive. As always I manage to find some connections or similarities amidst differences of cultures and differences of religions. As a cross- cultural consultant, I find it delightful to bring people together despite their differences and bridge the distance between them. And if at all possible , there is nothing better than aligning people through their traditional or cultural connection with nature and shared interests too.      

 I feel that Prince Tjok Gde has found deep contentment and peace in living his traditions which is deeply rooted in history. I am rather envious of that because he has been fortunate enough to follow the life path that he believes in and that too in one of the countries he is connected with by birth. Many times many of us get far away from the traditional path we desire and go on a path life chooses for us in faraway countries. As much as we may be closely tied with our traditions and beliefs, we get lost in a completely different world being away from our countries in an attempt to adapt well to our new surroundings. But sooner or later it is so important to keep in touch with yourself through your age old traditions. Through his talks somehow I could renew my relationship with me and reconnect with the much loved traditions of my country too.   

He came across as a very down to earth person and somebody who is sensitive to everybody and everything around him.  His mentioning about the traumatic effect of his immigration experience in his childhood days as well as an impression left by a Harry Potter movie to prompt him to take up naturopathy makes it so relatable to any common person. I feel that being fortunate enough to experience and be a part of two different cultures has instilled in him more acceptance, sensitivity and appreciations of other cultures. I think that people with two cultural identities tend to take the best of both the cultures forward to carry forward a much more positive approach to the way of life. The holistic approach and deep acquaintance with nature is so refreshing to see in a person of his stature. He mentions Ayurveda and organic farming which too interest me a lot as that has been a part of my life . Ayurveda has it's roots in India and till date we follow that. Having worked in the Hotel Industry in Napa, I was more closely introduced to the "farm to table" ingredients in cooking by the famous chefs. 

In India too we follow homeopathy and use herbal medicines which may take time to cure but actually cure effectively. Body healing techniques through breathing methods is a part of my culture too through yoga. My mother and grandmothers have great knowledge of nutritional foods and that too that hold compatibility with different seasons. That's why I find it so important to find herbal cures in my kitchen and in certain foods. And so I find it all the more fascinating to follow his lectures. I have faith in natural medicine though there comes a time when one has to take stronger medicines in one's consultation with a Dr. specially relating to surgery or a life threatening disease. Basically it's a call for the need of the hour. But still I still rely on alternative treatment side by side particularly because it has no side effects and I openly discuss it with my American Dr. But at the end of the day it comes down to our individual experiences and perceptions as he conveys. 

I think Tjok Gde could closely observe two cultures very well while growing up and draw his own inferences based on his experiences which fortunately resulted in positive ones. He rightly says that humans have right to take care of their health ! Healing one self is important !  He says that curing is okay but the highest calling is to teach people to heal themselves. Now those are such wise words ! It is really essential to heal from the inside out to cure oneself completely and effectively. He says that nothing is more valuable than health. We can take care of family only if we are healthy. I totally agree to that and always believe Health is Wealth. You can achieve all that you want only if you have good health. He is also right in saying that it is in our power to maintain or destroy our health. My parents advocate that too and with age I have come to realize that. Like him I am a firm believer that our choices have a powerful impact on our lives. According to me, we are what we create of ourselves and we become what we choose to be. So think wisely and choose wisely ! 

Anyone who listens to his talks would be much motivated to explore the world of possibilities he offers through his teachings and ideas that are aligned with Nature which could be adhered to for a happy and healthy life. His messages to the world which are beautiful, meaningful and ever inspiring are as follows in short- 

Important to regain your traditional path if you are lost in two worlds!

Be courageous, move to commitment...then we have consciousness...

Have courage and dare to know.. know by itself. 

Embrace Nature !

[ I write spontaneously as I write from the heart. And it is edited much later as and when I want to add more. Some of his messages might not be written word to word but they convey the same meaning. It is worth listening to his talks. ]  

 

I was watching a program on TV regarding the new definition of air travel in COVID-19 times. It was impressive to see how strict measures are being adopted to make our air journeys safe and secure. Some countries have started touch less elevators too at their airports which is good. It goes without saying how drastically our lives have changed in such dangerous times. We are forced to keep distance from each other to protect all's health...
In times of physical and social distancing, we are having limited interactions with people naturally. In times of lockdown we are isolating ourselves as absolutely essential and in a way we are keeping ourselves isolated from each other. It is difficult to stay in touch with each other except on the phone or through Internet. While lockdowns and stay at home practices must be observed, it is making it enormously difficult for some to be there for each other in times of need and illness. What is highly unfortunate is that some are not even able to say their last farewell to a loved one because of ban of travel in certain places.
These are such challenging and difficult times for all in so many ways. People are heavily impacted by professional, personal and financial loses because of this pandemic. Lives are altered and lives are impacted seriously. On top of it , not being able to access each other easily or not being able to stay in touch is making lives increasingly complicated.
We may not be able to stay in touch with each other all the time now but it is absolutely essential all the more to stay in touch with oneself in these times. Stay in touch with your strengths in crisis. One must not feel alone even in isolation. One must not feel weak even when others are not able to be there for you in person to support you during these times. It is important to rely on yourself and your strengths. One must remember not to lock oneself from yourself even in these new times of isolation from others. Find peace within yourself...
In these times of of lockdowns and "touch less interactions" a lot is bound to change but that does not mean you lose touch with yourself. Find connection with yourself even when alone to remain strong. Stay in touch with yourself always! The path may be rough and tough but be strong ! The path may be lonely and devoid of meaningful human interactions but you are not alone as everybody is going through the same experiences. The entire world is united in facing the same challenges and problems at this time. Find solace in the fact that many are there who can relate and understand your struggles at such a time. So in a way we all are in touch with each other in a way as all are facing this together. 

CHOOSE 2 B HAPPY EACH DAY !

Happiness is a choice...


Happiness is a choice you make to enhance your life and surround it with positivity. And I try my best to make that choice everyday. You can choose to be happy and contented by finding joy in simple things.


Simple things like listening to music, singing aloud, dancing, cooking, nature walks, reading,  interactions with people specially babies or simply enjoying a cup of piping hot chocolate with marshmallow floating in it as I am doing right now as I write can bring such joy and surround you with serenity.


We have forgotten to notice small things in our day to day lives as the world has become so fast paced and demanding. And so all the more we have to set aside some alone time however short it may be to spend with oneself to enjoy and do all the things that we like.


Life may continue to be moody and life may continue to challenge you but it cannot crush you or defeat you unless you allow it to. Let life do what it is known for. Let life be unpredictable and ruthless...But you should not be hard on yourself. Give yourself a break to feel nice and give yourself some time to do things that you enjoy doing to feel good about yourself and everything ! Your living room could be a fancy restaurant or your living room could be a karaoke place. What I mean is that you don't have to really spend money to be happy. You can have what you want or where you want to be where you are by just creating that mood. In such things one can really take inspiration from kids as to how contented they are and how they create a beautiful world of their own with their innocence and belief. One can also be inspired by actors as to how they immerse themselves in the role they are portraying to make it look real. In the sense fake it till you make it...Even if you are not happy fake it till you believe it and you will actually start becoming happy gradually in due course of time. In other words on those not so good days pretend to be happy if you have to just so that gradually you ease into the role of being happy. As someone important once told me that gradually you ease into everything however unknown and strange it may seem at first. But it definitely takes some time and work.


You can be who you want to be ! You can be who you would like to be ! You can go places and you can go to places !  It is just a matter of time.  You just have to give it time...At the end of it, it is your choices for yourself that matters the most...You have to be fair on yourself and treat yourself right. You have to be there for yourself when others aren't. Rely on yourself and believe in hope and your strengths. Don't let life wear you down.


Life may give you enough reasons to be unhappy. Life may try you and test you but do not let it get to you. You hold the power...you hold the power to overcome anything. You hold the power to heal yourself . You have the choice to heal yourself however broken you may be even though that could take long and may not be easy. But still you can do all these things for yourself instead of giving in to being bullied by circumstances and situations in life. As I always believe that when the going gets tough the tough get going !


There will be heartbreaks, disappointments and losses. Life will not treat you royally all the time. But you must take care of yourself through those rough and difficult times when all is lost instead of giving up. Feel and process your emotions however deep...cry if you feel like but don't give up. It was very sad to read about some celebrities tragically ending their lives as they could not handle the pressures and burdens of lives . I wonder what could have brought them to that edge of life's cliff...Unfortunately at that time for some odd reason this may have appeared to be the only choice for them but this is definitely not the right choice at all ! Tragically such lives ended because of wrong reasons taken under pressure. It is sad that those wonderful lives could not be saved and they crumbled under the weight of their problems . It is so tragic to hear that often lives are threatened as they cannot bear the harsh expectations of society . But always remember that famous line "Tomorrow is another Day ! ".  Live to try again ! Live to fight another battle of life however hard it may be. Your life is very precious ! One always has a choice to start over, to turn over...Even in your difficulties and troubles save a smile or two for yourself and others ! One has a choice to be happy if one actually pursues it and tries to believe in it ... You just have to work at it and continuously motivate yourself to feel positive.


Nobody can save you but you ! Know that power is within you and you will have the strength to survive and persevere...Your determination to continue walking in the face of difficulties and challenges should not fade at all...Your determination to maintain your balance in the storm of trials and tribulations should not waver...  

SMILES that SHARING of SWEETS brings

Smiles that sharing of sweets and good times with family and friends brings is so valuable ! This past week there have been so many days of sharing of sweets and good times !  I have spent many wonderful moments with family and friends this festive season through sharing food and sweets . "Dil maange more !" The Heart wants more !

 Sharing is Caring ! It is nice to share the"mithai" ( Indian sweets) boxes I received from my parents and brother with all  my friends & neighbours ! Many must be doing that out here but in my neighbourhood I am setting my own traditions to bring together neighbours and friends through tea and sweets every now and then. That is the best way to interact culturally too. We may be from the same country but we all still have so much to learn from each other as we come from different States.
As Indians we believe in sharing sweets with everyone as it is considered auspicious...Through the sharing of sweets one spreads happiness and sweetness in everyone's lives...And specially in my neighbourhood in Silicon Valley we share so many things specially sweets brought all the way from India . Many friends came over to collect mithai from me this week. Everybody wants a share in it however small and feel honoured to be included.  

"Mithai" brings everyone together ! 🙂 Receiving and giving sweets is considered good in most countries specially Japan and India ! I remember that in Japan my colleagues would also always share sweets as gifts (omiyage) with family, friends and colleagues. In Asian culture giving and receiving sweets is important as it symbolizes moments of happiness and marks auspicious events.

It was so SWEET of  my brother to give me so many boxes of sweets to share with others...
Life is SWEET when you SHARE SWEETS ...:)

Life- A Unique Journey

 Life is many things...

Life is a gamble... Life is an adventure...

Most of all Life is a unique journey...

Life is a journey to yourself. It is a path to explore yourself and define yourself through your choices.

Life is a voyage to happiness and heartaches through which you express yourself. Your responses and reactions to the different experiences in the journey of life portray your thoughts and symbolize you as a person. Thus in time through the ups and downs of that journey do you begin to get acquainted with your strengths and deficiencies...some known and some unknown. Through the trials and tribulations , the journey teaches you deep and valuable lessons. You learn every day along the journey.

In the search for yourself do you discover your purpose along the course of your journey. Life gives but mostly takes as it asks for a price for everything. You receive what you invest in that journey along the way. There are returns for everything and through that Life does give you back yourself in the end...It explains what you gained in your loses and what you lost in your gains.

During the journey you play many roles and you experience different things...In the end you find yourself...          

Humour-A spice perfect 2 add 2 life

"Humour is most needed in trying and difficult times. Humour is the seasoning which may improve the flavour of the not so delicious dishes that life offers you.  It is more needed at times like these where  adding a dash of it to your each day and each moment may enhance the flavour of the most bland situations that life feeds you with..."
                                                                -Simrit

Adversity- An unwanted visitor

In adversity it is important to never lose sight of hope and belief ...Believe that everything will work out on it's own when it is meant to be. It is all about the right timing and your determination and perseverance in waiting for what is called  your time. Things may be rough but have hope that things will turn around eventually. Nothing is constant...
In adversity adopt patience and acceptance...Accept what is happening even though you may not like what is happening around you when your world is crumbling. Prevent yourself from being in a state of denial. In acceptance do we learn to deal with what is happening and find ways around it. Be patient with yourself and do not be harsh on yourself. Sometimes things do not happen the way you want them and sometimes you may reach somewhere you never though you would. But this is life and it cannot always be a bed of roses. Find yourself again and fight back with renewed strength. When the going gets tough, the tough get going !
The road of adversity is not an easy one and is full of challenging twists, thorns of doubts and intimidating turns. But do not lose balance. Remain firm in your beliefs and true to your dreams as at some given time you will reach there no matter what if you truly keep trying without worrying about the results. The good results may not greet you immediately but you cannot be ignored forever and Lady Luck will befriend you soon enough. Just believe in yourself through it all even if others don't. At these times the most important person you can rely on is yourself as you alone can get yourself through this. The bad circumstances may break you and invite insecurity but at times you have to break or fall to form and bloom again.
In adversity never forget gratitude as that will give you peace. Be thankful for all that you have and your blessings. Sometimes life teaches you a lesson to appreciate the things you took for granted and appreciate them even more when you regain them.

A night of riddles

Life sure is a riddle...
Sometimes in gains do we find losses and in losses do we find gains...It seems that gains and losses are closely related as if two sides of a coin. Actually these are the two opposite laws of nature.
Life is a series of losses and gains...
One leads to another as if a person is riding a merry-go-round. Nothing is constant and everything changes...
Some may think that I find delight in writing a lot about life and how I enjoy playing around with words to search the answers to the puzzle of life. But through these words do I find answers and through these words do I discover the hidden meaning of life. Through these words do I find solace and through these words do I find peace. Defining my thoughts in words and learning from others' words of wisdom do I get closer to life.
We all have the right to seek the truth of life and we all can find the answers to life in our own way sometime or the other. Words are comforting and so write or read daily to unveil the answers and purpose of your life...
Words are powerful and thus meaningful and effective when translated by your thoughts wisely. And so through words do I interpret life in many ways in various situations.
The meaning of life is not discovered through masking your thoughts but by revealing them in words that people could share and be inspired from in deep ways.
It is an entertaining night of riddles and questions and words are keeping me company. I hope that some of you who are reading this may write some words of your own too to translate your feelings about any given situation in life and therefore approach the puzzle of life in this interesting way to arrive at some deep answer if not a suitable answer. But it is definite it would make you feel light and satisfied to have this conversation with yourself  in the shape of written words. You could read a book as well too pertaining to the subject in your life