ranDom muZingz..!!

State of mind..!!

2011-09-20T21:20:00.000-07:00

- "Sometimes I get the feeling the whole world is against me, but deep down I know that’s not true. Some smaller countries are neutral."

- "One of life’s mysteries is how a two-pound box of candy can make a person gain five-pounds."

- Wanna be my Chammak Challo – oooh ooh oh

PS: The quotes aren’t mine but they represent the state of my mind. Exactly. Literally. To the point. Not necessarily in that order though!

*Randomly wandering mind

In the moment..!!

2011-09-12T21:19:00.000-07:00

I look at you

An emotion overpowers me

And in the moment

I let myself be

My Being is defined

Around You

To you, I owe

Everything there is and could be

And yet in the cacophony

I hear nothing

The sleep eludes me

The time betrays me

I put my faith

And it erodes me

And in the moment

I let myself be

You are the Creator

The Master

My strong believer

And yet in your eyes

I don’t see me

You are my quintessential necessity

But in the hour of need

You ignore me

I look upto you

And feel complete

My emotions overwhelm me

You are to me

What they’ll ever be

A reason to trust

But be just

A reason to thrive

But survive

And in that moment

I’ll let myself be

Relationship 101..!!

2011-09-05T21:16:00.000-07:00

It’s strange the way relationships mold across the span of our lives. You either grow in a relationship or grow out of them. In life, you create this need for relationships. It’s basically for sustenance. On an average, at any given point, you have a few relationships to foster. Now that’s a different story, some of them become acquaintances in the near future. Relationships give us a reason to live. To love. To prosper. To exist. And to feel complete.

When a relationship ends, it leaves a vacuum which needs to be filled. To fill that hole is when we start finding solace in the spoken words around. It’s the mind’s way of conditioning itself for the lack of something. It is human nature to keep looking for the ultimate reason of being one with another. It is this need for existence is what creates dependence on relationships. And we complete the cycle.

As much as we’d like to hang onto some relationships, they seldom stay the same. People change. Needs change. Priorities change. Time changes everything. And it is when you outgrow the relationship is when it irks you the most. But I guess the law of nature forces you to keep moving ahead and create new connections. Connections with meaning and depth. A fresh new beginning with pizzazz!

My Fervent Admirer..!!

2011-08-29T22:27:00.000-07:00

I am the mirror

Of my soul’s reflection

Enthralled by my esprit

Are thousands of men

Flocking my heart’s corridor

Desiring my company every hour

I am the enchantress

And their raison de’etre

Night and day

They pine for me

Their eyes knit those furtive dreams

Oblivion to self and unknowingly

They now belong to me

I am the black

And the white

End of the dark

Towards the light

I am the beauty behind the veil

Food for their famished soul

Controlling their every reverie

In this world of glitterati

I am the last flicker of flame

For their tainted self

I am an illusion

And I am real

There are no ground rules

There is no magic spell

There are no tricks

As I am The Dominatrix

I am who I am

The mirror of my soul’s reflection

The charmer

And my very own

Fervent Admirer

* Random lines. Randomness personified!

The Paso Doble of my Life..!!

2011-08-24T22:39:00.000-07:00

The thing about Yesterday is that it won’t come back. No matter how hard we try and how desperate we are to turn back the time. And then there is Today, which can never catch up with Tomorrow. No matter how badly we want to fast forward our life into the future.

So what we are left with is Today. Now. This moment. Seize it. Carpe Diem.

This is exactly what I have been trying to do. My daughter is now more than a year old but seems only like yesterday when she was born. It’s been a memorable journey so far. Parenthood has been quite a learning experience. I have learnt by heart now that the only thing constant in my life is change. There hasn’t been a single day which is a replica of a day previous. Each day brings new excitement and adventures to my otherwise chaotic and dull life. I have found new meaning in being one with my daughter. She is indeed the silver lining in our otherwise cloudy life.

I have been trying hard to stop her from growing up so fast but its inevitable. And only thing I can do is just capture these moments. Make these memories to cherish them for lifelong. Even though you can never get your childhood back, they say you relive it through your child. Those exciting first moments of independence – rolling, sitting, solid feeding, crawling, cruising, walking, babbling - are more for the parents to take pride in. We have been fortunate enough to watch her toddle around the house and create special moments for us. She is the dance of my life. Makes me tough and soft all at the same time. Ergo, nothing defines her better than the Paso Doble!

* I haven’t written in so long I realize it now than before. And the itch to write is slowly returning back. So, hopefully, I’ll get back in form by the end of this year. That’s only if I keep writing!

Notes to Self..!!

2009-07-01T21:23:00.000-07:00

"The hardest thing in life is to know which bridge to cross and which to burn."

* Note to Self :- Avoid the darn bridges !!

Forest Gump's momma told him "Life was like a box of chocolates.. you never know what you're gonna get."

* Note to Self :- Always buy your own chocolates !

"I trusted the Sun and I got tanned."

* Note to Self :- Trust no one!

"When I'm good, I'm very very good but when I'm bad, I'm better."

* Note to Self :- Try and be bad all the time!

"Living with regrets is much more difficult than living with defeat."

* Note to Self :- Don't sweat, when defeated!

"A person often meets his destiny on the road he took to avoid it."

* Note to Self :- About time to take a trip to Himalayas!

Just like that !! :-) :-)

Poetic Justice..!!

2009-06-26T13:23:00.000-07:00

The moonlight, tonight, exuded exceptional radiance, retiring the darkness early. It seemed so surreal.

Maybe it was the mind, playing some tricks.

He left me, at the altar, to marry a young upcoming model. And today, she left him for a rich and powerful industrialist.

He burst into tears, helplessly.

And I, somehow, smiled. Wickedly.

PS: Just trying to write 55 Fiction stories.. :-)
PPS: The pic is from the net.

Show me the way..!!

2009-01-15T17:21:00.000-08:00

Aimlessly, I walk around
Of myself, I make no sense
Wondering if things will improve
Or they will ever remain the same

Every heart has a dream

Every heart has an aspiration

But sometimes you need someone

To lead you on

Life offers a lot of complexities

And the beliefs, sometimes, shaken

Times like those

You need a shoulder to cry on

I walk, flustered

Life interrupted

Then, suddenly you come

And show me the way

At the end of a tunnel

I see a light

Here I was, dejected

But you showed me the way

Now I believe

That there is much more to life

Look at me

As I pick myself up again

Conviction is what you have

Conviction is what you now taught me

I had been failing

But you restored my belief

Here I was, sitting

And sulking

But your words cast a magic

And showed me the way

Even when we had a friction

You were clear that failing wasn’t an option

Now I realize

Every heart has a dream

Every heart has an aspiration

It is a matter of reaching out for them

And not being scared of living upto the expectations

PS: I have been hibernating for quite some time now! Just being lazy and the weather isn't helping much. I guess it takes time for acceptance that the holidays are long gone and it's time to wake up.. :-)

Happy New Year to all you guys. Hope you welcomed the year with lot of razzmatazz and may you create beautiful and promising memories as each day passes by! :-)

Free..!!

2008-12-16T18:51:00.000-08:00

A thousand moments to cherish

A thousand dreams to fulfill

A thousand desires to yearn;

Amidst battling these feelings

Are life’s complex choices;

Still, truth be told

All I want

Is - Be

Free

For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others. - Nelson Mandela

The moment I have realized God sitting in the temple of every human body, the moment I stand in reverence before every human being and see God in him - that moment I am free from bondage, everything that binds vanishes, and I am free. - Swami Vivekananda

* Pics from net.

Addicted to you..!!

2008-12-09T09:53:00.000-08:00

Driving down the road

I smile to myself

With thoughts of you

Written all over

I remember

Our bouts of laughter

I remember

Those crazy talks

I irritate you the most

But you always seem unruffled

Having you around

Insanity is always on my mind

Now when I leave

With no hard feelings

I realize

What I would miss the most

I wonder

If you will also reminisce

The place we first met

Seeing each other, when heart skipped a beat

I still go there

Sit down on the same rock

Play our favorite song

Strumming the guitar

The cool breeze reminds me

Of your hair flying in air

The sound of water

Reminds me of your laughter

Something connects me to you

I would never know

But the time spent with you

Would be the time cherished for sure

I wonder why it happens

Sometimes, heart aspires for something

Which one shouldn’t desire

If it’s being crazy then so be it

I wish you well

I wish you all the happiness

And if you should know

Yes, I still am so very addicted to you

Ransom..!!

2008-10-08T19:20:00.000-07:00

SHORT STORY

(Fiction)

“Vinod, Vinod. Come here, fast.” Lekha screamed at top of her voice which could wake up even a dead lion but me. Not that I am a sound sleeper but on Sunday mornings I turn deaf to absolutely anything that comes between me and my sleep. One day of the week which I feel I work hard enough to deserve my peace. Unfortunately, I had to wake up when ignoring wasn’t an option anymore.

“What is it, Lekha? Are you alright? What happened? It’s just 8:30 and I am entitled sleep till 9:00 on Sundays.” I was still rubbing my eyes and hoping this could wait another half an hour.
“Read this and you will know. There are more important things in the world than sleep, Vinod. I was in the garden when someone threw this note along with a box.” Lekha was irritated and sobbing, I could tell.

I was stunned and my sleep vanished.

“Mr. Sharma, your daughter is with us. Safe, until now. As long as you give in to our demands, she will be safe but if you act smart, then we will send her to the point of no return. If you don’t believe us, then open the box which has a small video of her along with the piece of her dress. If you reach out to the cops, then I assure you that you will never see her again. Meet my man, Prakash, tomorrow at 5 pm sharp, right next to Gateway of India. Bring along 5 lakhs in cash and give it to him. He will tell you where your daughter is and this all will end, I promise.”

I read and re read this note over and over again. I opened the box and found the piece of Nikita’s dress and the video. Lekha burst out crying after seeing the video.
“Lekha, don’t worry. Niki is going to be home tomorrow. Even if I have to give in to their demands, then so be it.” There were so many thoughts crossing my mind and couldn’t think of anyone who could play such a dirty joke on my family.
“Vinod, you don’t understand or what. There are no “ifs”. You have to do as they say. Just give them the money and get my daughter back. Please don’t get your mind strategizing to find cues. They will kill her, Vinod. Just give the money to that guy tomorrow.”
“Lekha, you think I don’t know the repercussions. She is my daughter too. I promise you that nothing will happen to Niki and for now let me be alone and think through this. Don’t worry; we will have her back tomorrow. Just go and take some rest and act normal with all the servants.”

I rushed out of the room, straight to Niki’s room. Rummaging through her stuff was in vain as I didn’t know what I was looking for but I still did. I spoke to all her friends of her last few activities. In desperation, I called my friend Ajay, who was a police commissioner, hoping he would be able to track something and sort it out discreetly.

******************************

Somewhere in some hotel, Prakash was getting worried.
“Anil, are you sure, you want to do this. What if he calls the cops?”
“Prakash, stop it. Why will he call the cops? We have made it very clear that we will kill her and am sure he loves his daughter. You just play your part. You have to get the money and that’s it. Don’t spoil it now, we have worked really hard on this. Just be cool when you meet him. Once he gives the money let him know where his daughter will meet him. Prakash, we will be rich in a few hours. All the best.”

*******************************

Suddenly there was a knock on the door. Anil was pleasantly surprised to think that Prakash came so early.

“Dad, what are you doing here?” I could have slapped Nikita who looked so flustered but didn’t want to create a scene in front of strangers. And I was looking for the right words to speak before I blew my mind off.
“Niki, you are just 18 and I have seen more life than you. I would have given in to the demands of these so called kidnappers, had I not found this diary in your room where you have been writing about your new found love for Anil which both your mom and I have been unaware of. I am disappointed with you, Niki. How could you? You didn’t even think once of your mom and me.” And my anger knew no bounds when I looked at the guy. One slap on his face threw him on the floor.
“You really thought you can pull this off. Ajay, you might want to do rest of the talking with him. I have nothing to say.”
“Ok, dad it was my plan. Leave him. He didn’t do anything.” It was all too much for Nikita to grasp. She was so blinded by this guy.
“Nikita, you still are oblivious to all the facts. This guy who says he loves you, isn’t saying the whole truth. This is not the first time he has loved a rich girl. He has been conning girls for a few years now. He lures a girl into loving him and then talks about his weak financial condition and how little help would improve his life. Hence, a ransom of only 5 lakhs which is nothing for someone like your father. The idea is that a petrified but affluent family for whom such amount is meager would simply do as told and get their daughter back. These guys would get money and fly to an unknown destination and become untraceable. If your father wouldn’t have doubted this and contacted me, he would have been successful even this time.”

I was glad Ajay could speak to Nikita because with my soaring temper, I wasn’t thinking much.
“Oh! Dad. I am so sorry. I didn’t know all this about him. I thought we both loved each other and he was genuinely in financial trouble. I am so sorry, dad.”

I wasn’t hearing anything and maybe just thinking of ways she would be grounded now and for how long.

Forgotten..!!

2008-09-27T10:20:00.000-07:00

There was a time

When I saw life here

When the birds chirped

When the flowers bloomed

When the kids played and circled around me

I gave shade to many a visitor
Some would take a nap
While others talked endlessly
The fruit of my branches
Filled those empty stomachs

I enjoyed their laughter
Heard their vows
I gave respite
From the scorching sun

But that was then
When I saw life here
Now there isn’t a leaf that moves
There isn’t the wind that heals

I wait here for that life
When I had it all
Before those slaughterers came by
And took it all away

I witnessed a lot of bloodshed
I saw terror in the eyes
Of innocent
As they were murdered
Ruthlessly

Those few who were left
Fled, to save their lives
Leaving me here
Waiting for life

Hoping they would come back
Again there would be life here
And a season of joy
Hoping I don’t remain deserted forever

Until then
I just wait
As I stand tall
My mood so somber
And state, forgotten
Oh! so forgotten

Stuck with you..!!

2008-09-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

Short story.. Fiction..!!

I woke up pretty early today or maybe I didn’t sleep last night. So much better to blame it on the jetlag from my 3 week trip to India than on the crucial presentation I have today. I lighted the candle in my temple and just stared blankly.

Today is no different a day. Abundant sunshine and Monday morning hustle bustle. Work seems hard after a long break. Luckily, my office, being on the 44th floor and with an extra ordinary view, eases off so much work related stress. With that thought, I entered the elevator and even before closing fully, the elevator opened again.

“Oh great, and there goes my day!” I thought I was murmuring to myself but he did hear me.
“Excuse me..!!” he retorted, sipping his coffee.

“Nothing, can you just not hurry up. I am already late and want to give some finishing touches to my presentation before it starts.” I realized I couldn’t have been curt than this. But he deserved that.
“Oh, Ok! Just to make things clear a bit, I’d much rather walk up all the way to 44th floor than being here with you in an elevator.” Maybe he felt bad for having said that and hence responded with a Sorry immediately.

Siddharth and I work for the same ad agency. He meant the world to me. We both dreamt growing old together and singing lullabies to our grand children. Everything seemed so magical until he kissed her last month.

“What just happened? Why did the elevator stop suddenly? What was that noise? We haven’t even reached our floor yet. What’s going on?” I almost panicked.
“Stop. Just stop, Anushka. Your shouting isn’t going to help.” She still panics. Nothing has changed. Siddharth thought to himself.

“But why isn’t the elevator moving? This is not a good sign. What do we do now? I have to be in office.” My eyes were moving constantly and pushing all the buttons again and again. Nothing happened and my eyes caught Siddharth’s eyes, who was busy sipping his coffee and whistling. I couldn’t take it.
“I am so sure, Siddharth, you are behind this. You really want to mess up my presentation. Don’t you? I knew something terrible is going to happen ever since I got up this morning.” I always blamed him for anything wrong that happened. Nothing changed even now.

“Enough. Calm down, Anushka. I have nothing to gain of this situation. You are over-reacting. Just because I’m not hyper, doesn’t mean I’m enjoying this. You’ve done your bit by screaming for help and pushing all those buttons. All we can do is just wait. So for God’s sake, stop screaming and blaming me.”
“But it is . . .” I was cut short by a third voice which came through a speaker phone.

“Hello. This is Steve Clark, calling from the Admin. There is a technical snag in the elevator. We are on top of this and will keep you posted on the progress. Hopefully, it should be fine in a few minutes. Sorry for the inconvenience and highly appreciate your patience.”

“Oh! Thank you, Steve. You have no idea what you have done here. Thanks for saving my life, man. I owe you.” Siddharth smirked. He always teased me and especially when I was angry. If in 3 years, we did anything differently, it was handling such situations. I always panicked and he acted calm and composed. Wonder how he does that time and time again.

“So, how’s the presentation coming along? I am sure the clients are in for a surprise. You will do well, Anu.”
“First of all, I am Anushka. Let’s keep it that ways. Secondly, don’t try sweet talking me into something. It won’t work. What happens with my presentation is none of your business.” This definitely wasn’t how I expected my day to start.
“Ok, Anushka. I stay clear. But why are you so bitter? You never even gave me a chance to explain. You are the one who isn’t even talking to me.” In a way he was right but then there was nothing to explain.

“What would you say, Siddharth? There’s nothing between us. It’s all over.”
“For starters, I would like to explain my side of the story. It’s really not what you think. She means nothing to me.” I sensed truth in his eyes but couldn’t get myself to believe after what I saw.

“This is what you probably told her as well about me. Isn’t it? You think . . .” Before I realized his finger was already on my lips.
“Sssshhh. Just sssshhh. You know nothing, Anushka. I don’t love her. I never have. She kissed me. And it was unexpected. I had no idea. I was shocked and by the time I shoved her back, I saw you standing at the door. Everyone knows about her reputation in office, so why don’t you trust me? I have tried everything under the sun, ever since then. But you just disappeared. You refused to take my calls. You blocked my email id. I had no way to reach you and my only hope was Preeti. Since she is your best friend, I asked her to be the messenger but she also said it’s worthless.” I remember Preeti explaining everything but then I was too shocked to absorb anything. I guess I just wanted to run away and my India trip gave me exactly that opportunity.

“Why are you telling me this now, Siddharth?” I wanted to hug him. To believe him. But somehow my mind was going crazy with all the thoughts.
“You don’t understand, Anushka. Do you? I love you. Only you. I always have and always will. You complete me. You have no idea how this past month has been for me. You were with your parents and here I was all alone by myself. Being punished for something which wasn’t even my fault. You know, I thought if I get one chance to explain my situation, maybe you will understand. Maybe things will come back to normal. But it seems you have already made up your mind. And I . . .” Suddenly there is a jolt and the elevator’s again on its way.

Maybe I was harsh. Maybe I didn’t give him the chance to speak. Maybe I over reacted. The door of the elevator opened and Siddharth walked out first, wishing me luck.

“Hey Sid, game for lunch. I will be free by 12:30. Same place.”

We both smiled.

Yellowstone National Park..!!

2008-09-12T14:52:00.000-07:00

Last week, we travelled to Yellowstone National Park, located mostly in Wyoming and extending to Montana and Idaho. Part of it, explains my absence from here. I think visiting a new place is one thing but after the trip coming back to your old routine is totally another. But ofcourse, this blog isn’t about my routine, maybe someday I will blog about it too, but right now lets not digress.

Yellowstone National Park is the largest and the oldest national park in US; came into being in 1872. New Zealand and Iceland are known for geysers, but nowhere are there as many as in Yellowstone. Interestingly, at the heart of Yellowstone’s past, present and future lies volcanism. History has it, that huge volcanic eruptions occurred here about 2 million years ago, then 1.3 million years ago and again 640,000 years ago. It is a fact that park’s present central portion collapsed, forming a 30 by 45 mile basin. The magmatic heat powering those eruptions still powers the park’s geysers, hot springs and mud pots. Rugged mountains flank the park’s volcanic plateau and the waterfalls highlight the boundaries of the lava flows and thermal areas.

If you are a nature person, then this is the place for you. It is serene and the air so pure. Luckily for us, the weather was equally good. They had predicted thunderstorms and heavy rains during the second day of our stay but a few showers here and there was all we experienced. Only thing missing during our trip was a convertible car. As if the weather, the rivers, the mountains, everything around was shouting to be as much a part of that awe inspiring beauty. Amidst all this, one memory that I will have close to my heart is the night we were actually driving towards the park. Picture a one lane road with less or no traffic at all. Complete darkness all around and mountains on the sides. So all you have is the light from the twinkling stars. It was a clear sky and all I saw in the sky was stars and in the car it felt like as if we were in a drive thru planetarium. It was a 3 hour drive and half of it, I spent staring out of my car window. Simply star gazing. As if that wasn’t enough, I ended up seeing two shooting stars as well. And maybe for the first time here in US. I remember seeing them in India but here I don't recall seeing them. Or maybe I never stared at the sky as much as I did that night.. :-) It was magical, indeed..!!

So here are some pics of the park in its full glory. I think what excited me the most was to see wildlife, which otherwise you don’t get to see here. But at the same time, I was disappointed that I couldn’t spot any grizzly bears. That’s one animal which has been difficult to spot, keeping aside the fact that we actually reside in the bear state, California.. :-)

The journey begins..

The camera definitely doesn't do justice to these pools which are there everywhere in Yellowstone. The colors aren't captured as they are. This one particularly was Opal Pool.

This one was my favorite - Sapphire Pool. It is one thing to click these pics and absolutely another to be a part of the whole experience while witnessing it with your eyes. I still feel the colors are not exactly as they are, seeing them in person.

This is the most sought after spot for pics. It is called the Old Faithful Geyser. Faithful because it erupts approximately every 90 minutes or so. People who come here, just sit and wait for it to erupt so that they could capture those moments. It is exhilarating.

This is the Yellowstone Lake, one of the largest high altitude lakes in North America. It is centered over the Yellowstone Caldera, the largest super volcano on continent.

And that's a bison. A very lazy one, infact. The first day we saw this bison sitting here as soon as we entered the park and i was all excited to sight it. And the next day, guess what. Same place, sitting almost in similar fashion. Now that's commendable..!! And I thought I have no competition in that department.. :-)

This is the beautiful Lamar valley. God's creation at its best.

Finally, we saw herds of bisons here.

Even though Grand Canyon is in Arizona, this is the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Some historians believe that the name yellowstone was coined because of the colors here in the canyon.

These are the lower falls, the biggest waterfall (308 ft tall) in the park. After Old Faithful geyser, it is the most photographed. Visible from the Artist Point, from where you see the canyon as well.

Can you sight a bunch of pronghorns? Though at a distance.

And this is a coyote and quite a sight to spot this on the road itself. Criss-crossing and cars coming to a halt to take a few pics. For quite sometime, kept walking along side the road. As if searching for something.

This spot is Mammoth Hot Springs. It is a large hill of travertine that has been created over thousand of years as hot water from the springs cooled and deposited calcium carbonate.

I like this pic more so for its name. It is called the roaring mountain. Lot of thermal activity at one spot. How cool is that..

This elk was sighted actually walking on the road. But by the time we could take a look, it had entered the forest. And so did we. Just to atleast have the pic.

This is a mud pot.

Check out the clouds. They have their own say. As if they wanted their own symmetry in the sky.

Don't these two hills look like a mirror reflection?

This was another one of my favorite spots. Grand Prismatic Spring. It is the largest hot spring in US and third largest in the world. The colors here were so beautiful. Absolute treat for the eyes.

And as if the park wasn't exciting enough, God had some more plans for us while we left that place. When we started our journey back, the weather was clear and slowly it became cloudy and then it started raining heavily. It didn't stop there actually, what followed was hail and then snow. Voila. We enjoyed the drive and for some time all the colors were invisible and all we saw was white snow. Quite a sight, it was. Made our journey even more memorable.

The only thing I miss is the time. Though 3 days is enough to scan every nook and corner of the park but it really isn't enough to spend time there and do nothing. Like i saw an old couple sitting by a river with feet in the water and coffee mugs in their hands. Or another couple, sitting on a hill. Husband is busy looking through the binoculars and wife is busy sketching. Or those bunch of people we saw on the top of a small rock waiting for the perfect moment to take a pic. More importantly, waiting for a grizzly bear.

Unfortunately, we didn't have time for any of these. We were literally rushing from one spot to another. Taking pics and hoping we don't miss something as were unsure of our next trip here. More importantly, were unsure of the weather as well. Didn't want to take any chances.

Phew..!! I am so ready for another trip now.. :-)

ps: All pics are mine but there is some info from wikipedia as well.. !!

Beneath a starlit sky..!!

2008-08-27T17:44:00.000-07:00

Beneath a starlit sky

First time our eyes met

And they blessed the moment

When we decided to tie the knot

Twinkling stars illuminate the vicinity
And the trees provide the cool breeze
Just the perfect gathering
At the night of our wedding

With the moon shining so bright
A veil on my face and dressed in white
I hold my father’s arm
And music plays in the background

Seeing me, all the guests stand
They greet me with a smile
As I walk down the aisle
With flowers in my hand

Our eyes meet somewhere in between
All I see is our small world, so serene
My father kisses me
And hands me to him

The priest pops the question to him
He says “Yes” without even thinking
“Would you, my dear” then asks the priest
And all I say is “I do”, sealed with a kiss

I am yours
And you are mine
Vows taken to be together
Beneath a starlit sky

pic from the net & random thoughts.. :-)

Sweet Nothings..!!

2008-08-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

Reminiscing…

The childhood days
Those carefree times
Brimming with mirth

Reminiscing…

The pillow fights
Throwing tantrums in fright
And then running out of sight

Reminiscing…

The singing and dancing
Counting stars in the night, giggling
The yelling and scolding

Reminiscing…

The splashing of water
Licking ice creams
While drenched in the rain

Reminiscing…

Playing pranks on friends
Grimacing to no end
Bunking classes for movie shows

Reminiscing…

Chasing butterflies
Sitting point blank
And staring at the sky
Hoping, wishing, praying

Reminiscing…

The pleasure and the pain
Of growing up
The joys and sorrows
Of the daily chores

Reminiscing…

All those moments
Which make life so exceptional
When God does the trick
And we call it “Magic”

Reminiscing…

Moments when you feel everything
But see nothing
Those “special somethings”
And “sweet nothings”

Life goes on..!!

2008-08-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

Things would never be the same,

Time would never come back;

Let the bygones be bygones,

You would learn on your own.

It is a moment to live in,

It is a moment to enjoy the most;

It is only when the times change,

Is when we wish that everything remained the same.

Things never are the same,

Life has to always move on;

There would always be good moments,

To cherish and reckon with.

Nothing is more important in life,

Than the happiness of the near & dear ones;

It is only when we realize,

Those things would never ever be precise.

Things never would be the same,

It is a gift to enjoy;

What you have today,

As these moments would never come back again.

So, live in the moment,

As all that's there is the present;

Future is something we can't predict,

And past is always behind us.

Things would never be the same,

After all life is an endless journey;

The show must go on,

Irrespective of you are there or gone.

Life would teach you a lot of lessons,

Always have the courage to face them all;

It is not the end of road for ya,

But the beginning of a new era.

Lovers' Paradise..!!

2008-08-11T18:29:00.000-07:00

Enchanting is your smile

Which weakens my heart

Everytime

Sizzling is your dance
Which leaves me
Craving for one more chance

Mesmerizing are your eyes
Which hide a million emotions
Inside of them

The journey of our love
Begins with you

As my quest for love
Ends at you

You are my destination
My life’s only mission
To hold you in my arms until eternity
Is my only necessity

The freshness in your voice
Soothes my palate
Your fragrance lingers on
Even long after you are gone

I wonder if you think the same
Understand, this is no fool’s game
Relationships survive on love and passion
With trust and faith as its foundation

All I can give you
Is an assurance
I will be yours forever
And with me, you will be secure

So, in lovers’ paradise
Do join me
Feel me
Complete me

The moment is now
To weave our own mystical dreams
And create everlasting
Memories

Stranger to me..!!

2008-08-10T19:08:00.000-07:00

I close my eyes. And I remember. Some flashes of the past. Of the years gone by.

*********************************************************

I believe in God. I always did. Something I was told to believe in since childhood. I was told He would always be there to guide me. My best friend. He would give me all the happiness in life which I ever wanted. And thus, I grew up with that belief. And my belief was stronger everyday.

I was born on Diwali day. While others celebrated the festival of lights, my parents celebrated my arrival. My mother, especially. My father wanted to have a son. But over the years, he came to terms with life and it's all sorts of gifts. And I was one such gift for him. They named me Disha. They believed that I came in their life and gave them a direction. Baba died when I was 10 years old. Amma recalls that was the last time she saw me smile. The spark in my eyes that could light up the room, disappeared with the demise of Baba. Unfortunately, I have faint memories of those beautiful 10 years of my life with my Baba. Amma says Baba always considered me his lucky charm. I had 3 siblings. All three sisters. Baba's failed attempts to have a son, who would make his family name proud and carry on the legacy. But all in vain.

I was given the responsibility to be mature at the age of 10. I worked odd jobs with Amma to earn our livelihood so that my sisters could be alive. That was my sacrifice for the family. Unknowingly. But I remember Amma telling me to never lose faith in God. He would always guide me to where I want to be. She told me that these initial tough years would guarantee a life of comforts in the years to come. I believed her. I Believed Him. I had faith.

I was 16 when Amma traded me off for some money. I don't remember much of that fateful day, but there was a man in his late 30s, who came home and gave high hopes to Amma. His lips were all red because of the paan, he ate every 10 minutes. I remember Amma crying and saying again and again that she could not do this to me. That I am still a child. That "brothel" is not the place for me. The word stuck with me, as it was very new to me and unheard of. I didn't understand it then. That night, Amma told me that she has to let me go. That she is trying to secure a life for other 3 girls. That she was sorry. That I shouldn't ask her too many questions now. But just have my faith stronger in God.

I have faint memories of the next morning. I sat in a bullock cart with the same man, whom I saw for the first time the day before. I saw Amma crying profusely. I felt the tears were even more than what she shed on Baba's death. I didn't understand then as she had assured me that it was for everyone's well being. That was my sacrifice for my family. Unknowingly. She gave me a painting of Ganesha. The only one at home and told me He was my protector from now on. I was confused, if God came with me then who would take care of them. But Amma had 3 other daughters.

Shabina Begum welcomed me with open arms. She was a woman of short stature with long dark tresses and kohl eyes. She called me an angel. She trained me in different dance styles and face expressions. There were other girls of my age over here and we all danced and sang together. I loved everything about that place except the nights. Because at night we had to dance in front of drunk old men, who called us all sorts of things. Maybe that's why Amma cried because she knew where I was going. I missed her. I know she did too because I had God. He no longer was at my home. Amma gave it to me for my well being.

Time flew by. Days became months and months turned into years and I blossomed into womanhood. I didn't even realize when I turned 26 but not a single day passed without remembering Amma. I yearned to meet her but Shabina Begum told me I couldn't see her because I was traded off. But she sent money to Amma every month without fail. She told me she did. I believed her.

Then, came fateful Diwali night, the same year. After the dance, Shabina Begum told me there was a man, who was willing to marry me. I didn't want to, somehow I had come to liking this place with Sabina Begum around. I believed this to be my home away from home. But Shabina Begum mentioned that I was "fortunate" that there was a respectable man who asked for my hand in this "brothel" business. The term I understood so well now. She had the same tears Amma had while I left home. Shabina Begum assured that if I say yes, then I would be able to send more money home to Amma. That was my sacrifice for my family.

My husband was in his mid forties and married me for free sex every night. I don't remember a day when he didn't come home drunk and didn't beat me. I don't remember a day when I didn't give in to his screaming. I don't remember a day when I didn't cry like Amma did, sitting alone in the dark. I remembered Amma telling me that God was my protector and I waited for Him to show up. But every night, nothing changed.

Ten long years passed and I couldn't give him a child. So my husband married again and I was left to wander around at home like a maid. But God was there. I know it because my husband sent the promised money to Amma every month. Infact, he gave it to me and I sent it myself with a hope that someday I could tell Amma what I had become. Would she cry the way she did then? Would she hug me tight? That was my sacrifice for my family.

It was the day of Diwali, when I ran away from home. From my husband. From the town where I lost everything and all I got in return was tears. Ramu kaka, who used to send the money to Amma, helped me buy a bus ticket to my home town. To Amma. To go back to where I belonged. To see Amma after so many years. To see those tears again but this time it would be shed in happiness.

Today, I reached home. Finally. Amma saw me but didn't recognise. After all, it was 20 long years. She bid good bye to a girl and I returned today, a woman. She led a healthy and peaceful life, I could tell. My sacrifice didn't go futile. Her eyes were moist when she realized it was me. Her Disha. But she didn't hug me. All she mustered up to say was I shouldn't have come back. My sisters were married and well settled in respectable homes. My sudden appearance would shatter their lives. Amma didn't talk much about me to the other 3 sisters, I could tell. I didn't exist here. Amma didn't ask me about my well being. I didn't belong here. All she said "You shouldn't have come back. You shouldn't have come back. Couldn't you stay in the dark and sacrifice yourself completely for the family?" Now I saw the same tears in her eyes. Tears of letting me go. Tears of not having me back ever. I didn't understand then. I understood now.

I turned back and walked. I stared at the mirror, which Amma had decorated at the entrance door. I saw a reflection there. Not clear anymore of who she was. Looked like a stranger to me. And I closed the door.

**********************************************************************

I open my eyes, as I stand here in front of Shabina Begum's doorsteps. One deep breath. This is where it all began. After all, this is the place where Amma traded me off. My home away from home. For the first time in years, I don't have any tears. No remorse. Maybe God didn't want me there. Maybe I didn't belong there in that world anymore. Maybe He gave me the hints before but I never understood them. Maybe this is my final sacrifice for my family. For their well being. Finally, God did protect me from my miseries. I smile. I walk in and accept the new reality of my life. My identity for as long as I live now.

Randy Pausch - A tribute..!!

2008-08-01T21:41:00.000-07:00

Some times some unknown people touch your heart. They give you the lessons of life which one knows but somehow fails to value them. This is a tribute to one such person, I came to know oflate. I don’t know him personally but my prayers go for him and wishes for the well being of his family.

Randy Pausch
Professor of Computer Science, Human Computer Interaction, and Design
Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.
b. Oct 23, 1960 d. July 25, 2008

Yes, I am paying my tribute to Randy Pausch. For the man he was, for the inspiration he gave others and for the life he lived.

In August, 2006, Randy was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most deadly cancers, with only 4% 5-year survival rate. But I came to know him only when he delivered “The Last Lecture” at his university in Sep, 2007. Basically, Last Lecture is modeled after an ongoing series of lectures where top academics are asked to think deeply about what matters to them, and then give a hypothetical "final talk," i.e., "what wisdom would you try to impart to the world if you knew it was your last chance?" He also commented on the irony that the "Last Lecture" series had recently been renamed as "Journeys": "I thought, damn, I finally nailed the venue and they renamed it." Amidst a lot of media hype and his critical condition, the doctors had given him 3 – 6 months of life max. And he gave this lecture, when he was already past 1 month. To have a sense of humor at a time when your personal life is in shambles is an incredible feet and I am in complete awe.

So did he sob in the lecture? Did he state his sorrows there? Did he question God for why He chose him? Did he look flustered? No. Imagine a person who knows his death is just around the corner, to still be happy and live every moment. Cherish it because he doesn’t know how many of these moments are left. My words can’t describe the lecture he delivered but all I admire is the sense of humor of the man, who is in his death bed. The clock is ticking every second and here he is cracking jokes and spreading optimism. Unknowingly, inspiring so many others to celebrate life and live every moment. Enabling others to achieve childhood dreams for there is nothing grander than being able to accomplish something dreamt in childhood.

I have to admit that after watching that lecture last year, I had forgotten about this kind and spirited soul. I went on, getting lost in the daily chores of life until, last week, when he was again in the news. But this time, only because he wasn’t alive anymore. He passed away on July 25, 2008 and I watched the video again. His wife, Jai, was interviewed couple of months back and she said she was at peace with the circumstances even though she didn’t like what was happening. But she had come to terms after days of crying as their kids were still oblivious to the fact.

Randy mentioned “You cannot change the cards you are dealt. Just how you play the hand.” Of what I read of him now, he truly lived by this quote. He couldn’t change what destiny had in store for him but he made sure that he would spend all his time left happily with his family. Do all those crazy things with his children which he hadn’t. Create sweet memories that they would cherish all their life. Love his wife every minute and make her feel special. And all of this without crying and bickering of what is inevitable in the near future.

“Experience is what you get when you didn’t get what you wanted”.

“Don’t bail; the best gold is at the bottom of barrels of crap.”

“Find the best in everybody; no matter how you have to wait for them to show it.”

“Be prepared: “Luck” is where preparation meets opportunity.”

“The brick walls are there for a reason. They are not there to keep us out; the brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. They are there to stop the people who don’t want it badly enough.”

These are all excerpts from his lecture. Ever since the lecture was posted on you tube last year it has already been viewed by millions of people and the last 2.5 million in the past one week since his death. Very few people can live smilingly after knowing the certainty of their life. The certainty of how the next moment you might not be there. Randy was prepared and prepared his family too. I also finished reading his book “The Last Lecture” today which is simply an extension of the lecture he gave. One small story in the book which moved me was that recently he had gone to a grocery store and how when he swiped the credit card on the self scan aisle for 16$ worth groceries, it didn’t register and he didn’t get any receipt. He swiped the card again and this time he got 2 receipts, meaning his card got swiped twice for 32$ worth groceries. So now he had a choice to make – whether to bring this up with the store manager and get his 16$ crebited or walk away to be with his family. He chose the latter simply because his time was ticking. He knew he’d rather spend those 15 minutes more with his family than bickering with the store manager over 16$.

Now when he is gone, I can only hope and wish that may his soul rest in peace. May God give the strength to his family to go through this ordeal. To his wife, Jai, who had been his pillar of strength for the last 2 years ever since the diagnosis. To his 3 lovely children (Dylan, Logan & Chloe aged 6, 4 & 2 yrs respectively), who would live the rest of lives listening to stories about their father. I feel sad for them, being deprived of the love from their father at such an early age, who was a true inspiration for so many alive today.

Sometimes, we take everything for granted. We don’t realize the worth of time gone by. One realizes the importance only when one doesn’t have enough of it. I feel amidst all the mayhem, ambiguity and distress, what we forget is the moments we are losing out on. The moments of sheer bliss, the fortune of being alive, the hope for realizing our dreams. Randy’s spirit only makes me realize that not everyone is lucky enough to be alive even if they are kind and angel like. And I think for the rest of my life I will always be reminded of what he said in the commencement ceremony in CMU, Pittsburg in May 2008:

“I waited 39 years to get married because I had to wait that long to find someone where her happiness was more important than mine. And if nothing else, then I hope that you can find that kind of passion and that kind of love in your life”.

And love these ending words from the Lecture:

"It’s not about how to achieve your dreams. It’s about how to lead your life. If you lead your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself, the dreams will come to you."

Randy ensured that he lived every moment, cherished every memory he was creating for his family, plan his time well which was cut short by far too many years. Now he is gone, leaving others inspired to celebrate life for we are still ALIVE.

“Kabhi kisi ko mukammal jahan nahi milta;
Kahin zameen toh kahin aasman nahi milta”

A smile..!!

2008-07-18T21:37:00.000-07:00

A smile to God
For listening to our cheers and woes
A smile for my parents
For ever being so benevolent

A smile for my friends
For giving them my perpetual headaches
A smile for my family
For being always there for me

A smile for work
For at times it is indeed some good fun
A smile for colleagues
For being ever so receptive

A smile for teachers
For pushing us towards our goals
A smile for children
For making everyone feel like one

A smile for nature
For the beauty galore
A smile for music
For our terrible mood swings

A smile for dance
For simply rejuvenating
A smile for yummy food
For making our stomach so full

A smile for my car
For taking me everywhere
A smile for strangers
For the sake of a cheer

Last but not the least
A smile for me
For no reason absolutely

Strive for excellence..!!

2008-07-09T18:19:00.000-07:00

There is a thin line that differentiates perfection from excellence. If any one person at any given point would have been perfect then there wouldn't have been enough to do in his lifetime. But this is not the case. Perfection can never be attained. All our lives we strive for excellence as to be the best is what drives us to deliver the best. If we all would have been perfect then we would have been God ourselves who created this world. Everyone has flaws but some have the knack to hide those flaws and show the world their strengths. It is this ability which differentiates a successful person from an unsuccessful one. Everyone has their own weak points but it is the way we would like to project ourselves to the world is what matters the most. Some people brood over the fact that they can't achieve what their peers have while others don't have the time to think about what others are doing. It is the go getter attitude that defines our altitude.

Life is all about permutation & combination. It is how we crack the code is what defines our capabilities for what we can achieve. It is not that we don't get the opportunities but it is about how to capitalize on them. If only we would stop yearning for being the perfect self is when we can create our self in a different platform. It is only when we let our self loose and adapt the changes around us is when we prepare ourselves for excellence which is attainable. It is the craving for knowing the world from a different angle is what creates a successful person. It is all about looking at the Chandelier. It does shine from any angle you see but just that it is that one angle which adds all the glitter to it. So, it is upto us to rummage around for that 'one angle' which can make us shine and thus conquer brilliance.

A dream to be..!!

2008-07-04T21:33:00.000-07:00

I have a dream

To achieve

To believe

But still

Be ME

I have a dream
To create
To evolve
But still
Be ME

I have a dream
To rise
To shine
But still
Be Me

Yes,
I too have dreams
Dreams that make me smile
As there is nothing more beautiful
Than to live in my dream

So, here I sit
Uninterrupted
Just trying to

Dream the dream which is full of hope for a better tomorrow
Dream the dream which will teach me life’s simple pleasures
Dream the dream which is going to bring lots of laughter
Dream the dream in hope of making it a reality

A reality
Which is nothing but simply
Just to be ME
Till eternity

Waiting for a miracle (Conclusion)..!!

2008-07-02T21:19:00.000-07:00

After 6 hours long operation, Karan came out with a sober face. Rahul was jittery and he didn’t want to hear the bad news.
“The operation was successful. Kriya would be in ICU for 2 days under observation. There are no complications and she is breathing just fine. She should be awake in couple of hours and you can see her then. Few days and she can go home but she will have to keep coming back for regular check ups.” Karan told Rahul.
“Thanks, man. Thanks for saving her. I am so very grateful to you.” They hugged.
“But, Rahul there is a bad news. She won’t be able to conceive again. I am so sorry.” Tina had already come there by now and listening to Karan she cried vehemently and just hugged Rahul tight.
Rahul stood there still and tears trickling down his eyes and couldn’t move. As if the whole world came shattering down.

**************************************************

Present:

Today it was their anniversary again. It’s been 2 years since that fatal accident but still is fresh in Kriya’s memories. It still haunts her. Even though Rahul has been ever supportive of her but they both have a feeling of loneliness deep within. All this time, she hasn’t been able to forgive herself. She still blames herself for talking over the phone while driving that day. Tears were trickling down her eyes as she looked out of her home window. Suddenly her phone buzzed.

“Hey, Tina. How are you?”
“What’s with the sad tone, girl? Don’t tell me you are sitting again thinking about the past. Wipe your tears and get ready. I’m coming to pick you up. We will go out for lunch and catch up on the last week’s stories.”
“Tina, not today. I am really not in a mood. Please just not today.”
“You know it, Kriya, I won’t take no for an answer. I’ll be there in 15 minutes. So see you then.” And she disconnected.

They went to a nice Chinese restaurant and were waiting for their order to come.
“Ok! Kriya, first of all, wish you a very Happy Anniversary and here’s a small gift for you and Rahul from Karan and me. I know you don’t like gifts, but I am sure you won’t say no to this. Open it and tell me what you think.”
Kriya was taking her own sweet time to open the gift carefully, making sure the wrapper stays intact.
“Kriya, it’s Ok. If you like the wrapper so much then shall get you in bulk. You can tear this one apart and just see the gift. I am anxious to see your reaction.”
Kriya opened the gift and tears trickled down her eyes.
Tina held Kriya’s hand, wondering the reaction “I didn’t mean to make you cry, Kriya. I thought you will love this.”
“Oh! ofcourse I do, Tina. I couldn’t have been happier. This means a lot, thanks.” Kriya was a strong devotee of Ganesha. Nothing else mattered to her more than her prayers to Him. She had a huge collection of Ganesha in different styles, art, work, paintings, all over her home.
“I knew you would love this and wouldn’t say no. Ok, listen, now there is another surprise for you. Remember, I told you about the 7 day trip that I won for exceptional performance in my team. Finally, I have got the tickets today. Karan and I have decided that Rahul & you definitely need a change of place so instead of us, you both would be flying to Paris.”
“What. Paris. Tina you must be out of your mind. There is no way we can go. Rahul & I don’t have any leave so you guys just go ahead. I don’t need any trips. I have work here which I can’t let go.”
“Yeah, did you say it all or something is still left? You both are going and I am not listening to any of your crap. Full stop. It has been decided. That’s it. You know I don’t take No for an answer, Kriya so why are you even trying.”

After a lot of persuasion from Tina & Karan, Rahul & Kriya flew to Paris. This was their first trip there and they looked at the city in complete awe. It just couldn’t have gotten better. The soft music in the background and the Eiffel Tower in the evening was alluring and for once they seemed to have forgotten their sadness and were back to being their self like before. Their hotel room overlooked the Eiffel Tower and they cherished every moment of exploring the city. Just a day before when they were about to leave, Kriya overheard the hotel receptionist talking about the Magical Fountain where wishes come true. Kriya, curious to know more, enquired about the place and went to visit it.

She reached the fountain and took out the coins from her bag. Somehow gasping for breath, she just sat down for a while, close to the fountain. Her mind was racing with different thoughts but the droplets of water falling on her face gave her some inner tranquil. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. With tears flowing down her cheeks, all she could say was “I would be lying if I say I am extremely happy and contended but I don’t blame you for that. All I want is inner strength and a hope to never lose the faith I have in you. I will wait for my turn if there can ever be a miracle. And yes, even as I speak, I do have faith.” She threw the coins and walked away. Tinkerbell, who was listening to her prayers, was touched by her honest wish. She felt the sadness in her voice and a tear trickled down.

Kriya went straight to her hotel room. Rahul had a surprise waiting for her.
“Kriya, I haven’t said this to you in days or even months but I always have. I loved you even when I didn’t say and I love you even more when I am saying.”
“What took you so long, Rahul? What happened to us? I love you too and missed you so much. These 6 days have been eternity for me. After a long time I have felt being free.” Kriya was crying and hugged Rahul. Rahul took her out on the hotel balcony where he had made the arrangements for a candle light dinner. Kriya was still in tears and he held her tight and wiped her tears. “Come, let’s enjoy us. Let’s celebrate our last day here in Paris.” They both hardly ate and were yearning to be in each others arms. They hadn’t seen each other like this in quite sometime now.

The next day they returned back. Tina & Karan picked them up from the airport.
“So how was your trip? Hope you guys enjoyed and had a nice time. Show me the photos. Ok, what did you get for me?” Tina said it all in one breath and then noticed both of them sitting close and thought it indeed was a worth it trip. Kriya smiled, looking at Tina.
“It is so nice to see you smiling, Kriya.” Tina hugged Kriya while dropping them at their home.
After a few days, Kriya went for her regular check up and found out she was pregnant. All she could think of was to call Rahul. She still didn’t believe what happened but she was happy and thanked God for a second chance.

Tinkerbell felt happy that she could bring happiness to Kriya and glad she granted her wish who waited so long for a miracle.

Waiting for a miracle (Part I)..!!

2008-07-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

“OK! Where the hell did you keep my wallet, I can’t find it anywhere.” Screamed Rahul, trying to leave for office in the morning.
“It is right there on the table, where you kept those papers. Can’t you just see before screaming.” Answered back, agitated Kriya packing lunch boxes.
"You know I am always in a rush in the morning so why don't you keep my stuff all together. Anyways, did you sign those papers for the insurance. I will take them now."
"Clearly, i have my own errands to run in the morning, so you should take care of it yourself, Rahul. I haven't signed the papers, didn't find time. I shall get them to your office by evening."
Rahul slammed the door and left for office in disgust.

This has been an every day story. Both Rahul & Kriya have lost the charm. The magic that used to be there in their relationship has long gone. All that is left today is two strangers sharing the same roof. Two souls who leave in a rush in the morning for office and come back late in the evening.

Things were never like this between the two. They were dating for 4 years before they finally decided to tie the knot. This was 5 years back. But last 2 years have been very difficult for both of them emotionally. It seems like yesterday when they both seemed so happy and yearned for each others company.

************************************

2 years back:

Kriya was 7 months pregnant and every thing seemed so perfect. At times, even their friends used to envy their relationship. One day as Kriya was getting dressed to leave for office, Rahul came from behind and put a beautiful diamond pendant in her neck.
“Hey beautiful, I win again this year. I am the first one to wish you a happy anniversary consecutively for the third year in a row. Now, how does that make you feel?”

Kriya feeling embarrassed only could say “Thanks, hon. Oh! I wish I could do something to my memory. Let me just kiss and make it upto you”. They both smiled and kissed and left for office.

While on her way to office, Kriya called up Tina, her friend of 8 years “Hey there. So, are we all set for today evening?”
“Don’t you worry, dear. I have it all under control. I know with a bloated tummy like yours, you wouldn’t have managed it without me. So, just relax as all the arrangements are done”. Assured Tina.
“You know Rahul just gave me a beautiful diamond necklace and is still thinking that I forgot about our anniversary again this year. Thanks to you, there is a surprise party arranged now which I am sure will really take him on cloud nine.”
“Forget about everything that you just said. I am still hooked onto the first sentence. You got a what. Diamond necklace. Girl, aren’t you just plain lucky. You guys have been together for so many years but still have a relationship so fresh. Karan should learn a bit from Rahul. But honestly, Kriya, am really happy for you. You couldn’t have really asked for more.”
“Ok, now before you get all mushy again let me just hang up as Rahul is calling. I will talk to u later. Bye.”
“You just left 10 minutes back and he is missing you already. Let me call Karan right now then. Bye babes, and don’t worry about the evening. It shall be a night to remember.”

“Hey, sweets. What’s up?” Said Kriya answering the phone.
“Did you reach office or are you still driving?” Rahul sounded cautious as he never liked Kriya driving and talking over the phone. One quality he totally detested but couldn’t do much about it as she had her way.
“I will be there in 10 minutes. Don’t worry I have my eyes on the road even while I talk. Tell me, why you called.”
“Nothing, I just called to know the plans for the evening. I have booked dinner for two in your favorite resta…..”
“Hey, listen, hold on. I told you we have to go for my office party today. We have to be there as my boss is also coming down. Don’t you remember?”
“Yeah! I thought it might ..... what was that noise… Kriya. Hello. Are you there. Hello….. what happened.” Rahul tried to connect again but phone was not reachable.

Rahul panicked and sensed something wrong happened. He picked up the car keys and rushed to Kriya’s office place. On the way he called her colleague but Kriya hadn’t reached office yet. Just few blocks from her office, Rahul saw her car toppled over and another SUV smashed few meters away. His heart skipped a beat. He rushed to the car but she wasn’t there. The cops told him that she was severely injured so the para medics took her to the hospital.

At hospital, doctors told Rahul that her condition was very critical and he would have to decide whether to choose the baby or her. “Save Kriya. Save her, please Karan. Do anything, everything, whatever you can but save her, Karan.” Rahul said frantically without batting an eyelid. He signed few papers and the operation started. Rahul made all the necessary phone calls to family and friends.

********

Conclusion in next post..!!

Fear of unknown..!!

2008-06-27T21:16:00.000-07:00

The lush green forest is a temptation

To explore the unknown

And yet we walk on the trail

Already hiked before

There is a feeling
A feeling of being lonely
A feeling of walking the path
And have some strange encounters

A feeling of being lost
A feeling of facing the danger
A feeling to just be warned
It is times like these
When one yearns for a company

A company
To keep your mind occupied
A company
To make you feel secured

In times like these
A company
Of even foes turn into friends
As together they take on the task
Of walking the mighty jungle

It is this trust
That brings together
Even a cat and a dog
As they know
Nothing could do more harm
Than the fear of unknown

Unicorn in life..!!

2008-06-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

There is a dream

A dream to live

A dream to feel

A dream to believe

Dream where you see
Life with beauty
Life so carefree
Life with no pain

There is a dream
A dream to be happy
A dream to succeed
A dream to be alive

Dream where you know
Sadness has no place
Miracles do happen
Wishes always come true

There is always a dream
And a hope to make it a reality
Unicorn is one such legend
Indeed a dream to reckon

So mystical and yet so alive
So fierce and yet so divine
A beauty so captivating
So pure and gentle at heart

Life needs a unicorn
Life demands a unicorn
Life becomes complete
With unicorn being a reality

Dream Big..!!

2008-06-14T22:24:00.000-07:00

You will always come across dreamers in life as you dream of not 'what you are' but 'what you can be'. There will always be people slogging themselves a little more for that better job, better salary, better status, better standard of living and that extra nudge is what differentiates them from the rest of us. For these set of people the outcome would always be positive and inspiring as they would have wanted it to be. While the rest of us would see them as being lucky, as always getting the right opportunities, as the person who wouldn't have to work so hard ever, as a child prodigy. But is that really so? No. God made us all equal and gave us all the opportunity to prove ourselves. It is upon us to identify our own capabilities to rise and shine. It is always said that your dream is one step forward to success. You have to dream big if you really want to be successful. Things never fall in place without having tried to make it happen.

Time is ever changing and never comes back. If you have to make the most of it then it is now. As much as I would like to believe in getting a second chance in life to rectify so many things, I am always let to believe that it doesn't happen that ways. There is only one life with opportunities galore. One makes mistakes and then gets the opportunity to learn from it. If you don't learn then you repeat your mistakes again. Life is all about learning and moving on and not about brooding and waiting for a second chance. Honestly, life is too short to wait for things to happen when you know, in your heart, that it is all about making things happen.

So, the way I see it 'the key ingredients for grasping a second chance in life' is nothing but an illusion. It is an excuse for us to hold on to something forever and hope everything would be fine. If only we learn to capitalise on the opportunities in life, only then we move one step forward towards glory. After all it is all about 'reaching for the sky'. The decision is solely ours to make it happen right now when we are alive or choose to reach there once we die. Well, I dream to make it happen now, what about you ?

For You, Dad..!!

2008-06-12T22:10:00.000-07:00

I grew up holding your finger

I grew up sitting on your lap

I grew up playing frisbee with you

But still haven’t grown up enough to decide without you

You taught me to ride a bike
You taught me to be polite
You taught me to dream
You taught me to be myself

You didn’t hold me when I fell
Instead taught me how to rise
You didn’t scold me when I was wrong
Instead made me realize what I did

I may not always agree with what you say
I may not always like to be lectured
But I know what it means
To have you
To guide me
To believe in me

To take all my pranks in your stride

I don’t say I love you everyday
But in my heart it is always there
I don’t sit for long with you and talk
But in my heart I hear you always

It is your teachings, what I am today
Though I still have a long way to go
Before I become the one
You would be proud of

I have always known this
And often repeated it
"Dad, you are the best
And you have always left me inspired"

Now when Father’s day is around the corner
Just wanted to tell you how precious you are
To me
To us
And the whole family

A hope..!!

2008-06-05T20:06:00.000-07:00

There is always a hope

A hope

To live life

Filled with happiness

A hope
To look upto God
And have the wishes come true

A hope
To have everyone around
For giving us that special something

A hope
To see the good things
When the bad takes us down

A hope
To be ourselves
And be accepted for that

A hope
To live the present
With zeal that would make the future shine

The break of dawn
Is a ray of hope
That there is always a new tomorrow
After a cloudy yesterday

A hope
That stays alive
Even when every feeling around has died

There is indeed always a hope
A hope
That sees us on the face
And smilingly says “if you hope
Maybe you might have it your way”

So, hope is that ray of the sun
That lightens the darkness spread around

Moment on moment and day on day

Chamber of torture..!!

2008-05-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

Twinkling eyes
Dreaming and making their connection
Walking feet
Dancing on the highway to heaven

Fidgety fingers
Constantly hitting on the keyboard
Riveting thoughts
Compelling the mind to create magical words

Amidst all this
Is Me
Admiring
Wondering
And laughing

It is the devil in me
To cause havoc with laughter
I call it the “devil’s laughter”
In this chamber of torture

Torture because you laugh till it hurts
Tears trickle down the eyes
Stomach starts aching
Gasping for breath
Simply meaning
The uncontrollable bouts of laughter

I love being Me
At times
Or sometimes
Or maybe most of the times
Because I laugh
I make fun
I get hurt
I cry

Too many emotions
But just Me
The playful Me
To battle it out when
Life gets somber
Leaving me desolated
Yet determined
To somehow conquer
And get back my laughter

I am the creator
Of my Chamber of Torture
And to get me back in action
I laugh & laugh in introspection

Yeah, this is what happens
When you miss that laugh
If you love to laugh
Live to laugh
But then I wonder
Even too much laughter
Hurts
But this hurt is the most awaited
And very endurable

So I laugh
Because that is what I do best
Because they say
Laughter is the best medicine
And I let it heal
Soothe and
Exterminate the pain

So next time life becomes “the killer”
You are welcome aboard my "chamber of torture"
Ofcourse, without doubts, our laughtership will be a ROCKER

You & Me..Me & You..!!

2008-05-19T23:13:00.000-07:00

You & Me
And
Me & You
Look in the mirror
And we see each other

A little bit of prankster
A little bit of laughter
A little bit of spunk
A little bit of attitude
A little bit of enthusiasm
In short, that’s what we are

You are so much me
And I am so much you
You speak my mind
Most of the times
And I steal your thoughts
When I get a chance

We look so different
Yet enjoy the same things
We speak the same fun language
And rarely are on a different wavelength

We laugh often for no reason
Especially when we make fun of everyone
I love our song of joy
The dance of our victory
To celebrate nothing
But just the life and the excitement

I look at you with questions
And you have the answers for me
I throw at you my attitude
And you take it all in your stride

I call that being “my best friend”
And I am indeed glad
That I have you
To tell my woes

With you I enjoy and laugh
Even when life gets tough
Because there is nothing more nice
Than just being myself

A little bit of me in you
A little bit of you in me
Well, that is what makes us
And we are the ingredients for our friendship

So, cheers to “US”
And all the joys we have
And all the sorrows we share
You truly are my constant belief
That nothing can ever go so wrong
Thank you, for being my best friend

At times..!!

2008-05-11T23:06:00.000-07:00

At times..
We go our own way
As we need our space to breathe

At times..
We have different opinions
As we disagree on something

At times..
We don’t like each other
As we get into those pointless discussions

At times..
We argue, fight and yell
As we both want to be heard

At times..
We hurt each other
As we speak our minds

But
At all other times..
We
Care,
Love,
And live
For each other
And that’s all what matters

Because
Committed, we are
Now and forever

Because
Committed, we are
To take the walk of life together

Holding each other
To be there
To live in that defining moment
When it is required the most

And all other times
Well,
We can choose
And we choose
To disagree
As if it didn’t matter
As if it wasn’t important
As if it was for entertainment
As we both know and agree
That most of the times
We indeed are two bodies and one soul

To different minds and one same thought
So, committed, yes we are

For your eyes only..!!

2008-05-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

Beauty through my eyes

A smile for you
Oh! Water so green and the sky so blue
A smile for me
Aha! the view so serene

I stand here
At the shore
Enchanted by the divine beauty
And appreciating God’s creativity

I walk on the sand
Leaving my footprints behind
I play with my shadow
If only I could catch it, is all I wonder

I see the golden sun
At the horizon
The waves of the sea
Tickle my feet

I see the stars
Twinkling afar
It is time for the sunset
And for moon to rise again

Far across the distance
I see us
Dancing with the waves of the sea
Playing with the rays of the sun
Also, giving us company
Is the moon in the sky
Spreading it’s pristine light

I sit here
Strumming my guitar
Singing my favorite song
Because this is where we belong
Things that make us happier
And the breath taking backdrop
Couldn’t have been prettier

With this image hovering
I am only left wondering
Isn’t this the beauty
Truly for your eyes only
The vastness of nature - How immaculate and pure
The abundance of joy – How perfect and demure..!!

Sometimes..!!

2008-04-23T23:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes just being there in the moment
Is more than enough

Sometimes just saying you care
Is more than enough

Sometimes trusting me for being yours
Feels more than enough

Sometimes having faith
Means more than enough

Sometimes dancing with you
Is more than enough

Sometimes just talking to you
Means more than enough

Sometimes just being you
Feels more than enough

Sometimes thinking of you
Is more than enough

But sometimes nothing at all seems enough
Sometimes I might hurt unknowingly
But to feel left out kills me

It is in those times
There is silence even in the hustle and bustle
And delirium all around me

After all, sometimes just being loved
Is all one needs
But sometimes even the love
Doesn’t seem enough

How funny is that..!!

2008-04-18T21:46:00.000-07:00

I love watching movies,
But ask me to write a story;
And it would all be failed attempts,
How funny is that?

I love dancing,
But ask me to try my hands on choreography;
And I would be looking around for dance steps,
How funny is that?

I laugh aloud for nothing,
But ask me to write something funny;
And the best i would do is just thinking,
How funny is that?

Some songs sweep me off my feet,
But ask me to sing them as a treat;
And it turns out a nightmare,
How funny is that?

My favorite pastime is reading books,
But ask me to write one;
And I would struggle to choose a topic for days,
How funny is that?

My best thoughts come out through writing,
But ask me to sit & write;
And I will go point blank,
How funny is that?

I am not an actor by profession,
But ask me what I want to be;
And quickly I respond - a doctor, engineer, lawyer, philosopher, painter - all in one lifetime,
How funny is that?

I love traveling,
But ask me to write a travelogue;
And I would miss out the major points,
How funny is that?

Is this what one calls,
Jack of all trades & master of none;
But an honest confession, I am happy what I am,
It doesn’t matter however funny is that

Love is in the air..!!

2008-04-15T10:07:00.000-07:00

Sweet laughter
All around me
The myriad colors
Have made a rainbow in my heart
My heart follows you wherever you go

Don’t you see
My world is glittering
As I have you by my side
Boy oh boy, don’t you feel love is in the air

When you are not around
My heart keeps missing you
And when I see you
All I want to do
Is to make you sit close
Stare at you constantly
And keep talking
Every moment
You weave the magic of your love around me
I dream through the day
Think of you all the way

I feel am in heaven
Since I have seen you
Believe if you can
I am indeed walking on air
You live in my every moment
And the gift of love is
All I have in my heart for you

Come oh dear
Feel my freedom
And celebrate the fun & frolic
Choose me
Hold me
Feel me
And be mine forever
What more should I say
But that for me love truly is in the air

The road less travelled..!!

2008-04-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

I walk the lonely road
To the destination unknown
& with emotions galore

They say dream the biggest dream
Because there you will see what you want to be

They say fill your heart with love
Because then you will get what you deserve

They say never fear from falling
Because then you wouldn’t learn to rise

They say never let anger take over you
Because then you would never think wise

They say always be yourself
Because pretenses don’t take you anywhere

They say love to live life
Because small moments make it special

They say always smile & be cheerful
Because when you cry, you are always left alone

I say who doesn’t want a mouthful of sky
But whether we always get it, is the fact underlying
I walk this road less travelled
With my thoughts uncontrolled
In search of truth behind all the lies
I hope I would realize somewhere along the way
What it meant to be happy someday

They said & I did
I did because I believed
Now I walk this road
Oh! Lord
To seek you
To seek myself
To seek answers
To the questions I asked
To the prayers unanswered
To the blessings I too deserved
So that I also get that one final chance
To say “At last, a miracle has happened”

Ocean of love..!!

2008-03-31T22:44:00.000-07:00

Oh! my love,
Where have you been;
I have been worried,
Searching for you here & there.

Oh! Beloved,
All this while I have been here;
I welcome you with my open arms,
Come, join me here in this Sea of Love.

Aha! What a beautiful place,
But what do you see here;
It is all water around,
Far across the distance there is nothing else to be found.

Oh Beloved,Come hold my hands;
And see with my eyes,
You would feel everything come to life,
The fish & coral speak to me;
The flowers & sand put me to sleep,
They never make me feel lonely;
The air so fresh;
& the water so pure,
Where else would you find love & beauty;
Which would only be called “Yours” & still be this pristine.

Oh! My love You seem to be out of your mind,
What love do you see here;
Don’t you want people around,
To talk to & call them your own.

Oh! Beloved Is that world what you think is peace,
Where nothing I feel is at ease;
Where the body is no more,
But only the soul who also wants a body of her own.

Enough you have said & enough I have heard,
I hate to say, but now is your time to judge;
You want this love here,
Or be with me forever.

Oh! Beloved, I apologise & I regret, I can’t go with you anywhere;
This is truly where I belong,
I wish I could make you understand;
Love is only what I need,
And in this sea of love, love is what I breathe;
For me this is divine,Eternity - where else will I find;
And that is why I call this my paradise.

Music to the ears..!!

2008-03-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

Aha! Spring is here,
With abundant sunshine everywhere;
Wow! what I hear,
Isn’t this music to the ears?

The birds chirping,
The leaves rustling;
Wind crackling,
& the water gushing.

Flowers are blooming,
Trees are becoming green;
And all new colors in the air,
Isn’t this music to the ears?

In the remotest corners of the world,
We can hear someone banging the drums;
Humming a tune,
Playing the flute.

Or simply strumming the guitar,
Things that make them happier;
And play it with no fear,
Isn’t this music to the ears?

Music can light up a gloomy face,
All the disappointments you can erase;
Add some zing to a depressed soul,
Live life larger & whole.

The backdrop couldn’t have been prettier,
Suddenly everything is livelier;
There is picturesque view everywhere,
Isn’t this music to the ears?

Now I welcome this new season,
With my open arms;
And considering that there is nothing wrong,
I simply hum my favorite song.

To make my life brighter,
I owe a big one to nature;
With the pristine beauty all around me here,
All I can say is “Don’t you hear the music too in your ears”?

If Only..!!

2008-03-25T22:25:00.000-07:00

If only you were my eyes,
I would always get those vibes;
That crying for a single minute,
Would be like losing you in bits & pieces.

If only you were my fingers,
I would really handle them with care;
You would help me do all the hand actions,
And my eyes would support with their expressions.

If only you were a chair,
I would sit on it forever;
If only you were a car,
I would happily be your driver.

If only you were a telephone,
I would listen to it all year long;
If only you were a desk,
I would never let it be a mess.

If only you were a book,
I would keep you in a very special nook;
If only you were a pen,
I would write hoping the ink never ends.

If only you were a handbag,
Everywhere, I would carry you along;
If only you were paper,
I would write on you never.

If only you were a plane,
I would fly with you anywhere;
If only you were a television,
I would envy everyone’s admiration.

If only you were here,
Life wouldn’t have missed you everywhere.
If only God didn’t decide otherwise,
You would still be here by my side;

If only we had more time,
I would have finally said “You are mine”.
But now I am sitting here,
Very sure that I would see you somewhere;

As I know there is optimism even in shadow,
To come back is why you were gone long ago.
Now I await that second chance,
When I would open up my heart at the very first glance.

Yes, this would finally be the everlasting unification,
And to God is whom we would owe our gratification;
Thereby happily fulfilling the much awaited goal,
To be "One" with our "mind, body & soul".

Life's speedometer..!!

2008-03-25T21:42:00.000-07:00

I am driving,
I can’t believe I am actually racing;
I know I shouldn’t over speed,
But what other way would I lead.

I am zooming past all the other cars,
Only 2 – 3 cars are afar;
I don’t know how it would end,
Just trying to make the 2 ends blend.

I can hear everyone saying,
You can do it because you have that zing;
I wonder if that is even the case,
As now I have a cop in this chase.

He is in his bike,
And I am in my convertible Lamborghini;
He is trying to bring the speed in control,
As I am the culprit for the entire furor.

My mind isn’t working,
Whether to stop or go on continuing;
I choose the latter,
And begin to see the cop way farther.

I continue zipping across the curvy terrain,
And driving for long has now become a pain;
But soon it will be all over,
When I will emerge a winner.

It all started for fun,
Now took a sad turn;
When I drove past a car,
Completely destroyed in fire.

Aha! I come to the end point,
Somehow am little disappointed;
Simply to find with dismay,
But it was indeed a genuine fray.

I lost by a few seconds,
And the winner took away all the compliments;
I am left here to ponder,
If this video game itself was the cheater.

I lost the bet too,
Sadly, empty handed, walk out the video game parlor door;
But with a satisfaction that makes me feel better,
That sitting here I just zipped through the life’s speedometer.

Bad Luck strikes..!!

2008-03-19T23:07:00.000-07:00

What do you do when you are suddenly hit by bad karma (if i may say that). This is exactly what happened to a London based floor fitter Lefkos Hajji. Honestly, even though i sympathesize with his situation, i still can't stop smiling trying to visualise the whole incident. After all, how far are you willing to go in love and ultimately what happens. Read the full story here:
http://www.reuters.com/article/oddlyEnoughNews/idUSN1439471720080314?feedType=RSS&feedName=oddlyEnoughNews&rpc=69&pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0&sp=true

All i can say is that i can only pray that he & his girlfriend find a cheaper way of being happy rather than going overboard with expressing love. Life is truly about moments & it is in moments like these one feels it would have been better off to propose the traditional way rather than trying to be innovative. In other words, not everyone is as lucky as Saif Ali Khan who feels tattooing Kareena's name is synonym to winning her heart and then life is all hunky dory..!!

An ode to family..!!

2008-03-19T22:58:00.000-07:00

Life comes at you fast. If I may say, real fast then I won’t be wrong. It seems like yesterday when I was born and started making friends. I thought that was the best time in life and nothing could take that away from me. But then as you grow older you realize how things around you change and you overcome your preset notions. There is a time in everyone’s life when they feel that they will lose something so precious to them but can do nothing about it.

Life is ever changing but what I am glad about and know for sure is that there are some things in life that would never change. I think everyone lives their whole life thinking that there is enough time to reciprocate to someone’s small gestures. There is enough time to do something that can be done at the moment. There is enough time to visit someone at a different time. But honestly, life isn’t then, life isn’t when instead life is this..now. I have lived my whole life thinking I have everyone by my side and they shall always be there. What I forget is that nothing is static. Today if I have grown then people around me are also growing and reaching a certain age when they need the love, care and affection that they have always given us. I have been fortunate enough in life to have a beautiful family and an amazing bunch of friends with whom I share absolutely everything.

It is only when the reality strikes you is when you become conscious that living in the moment is what can be done best. I realized this a month and half back when my mother was hospitalized and had to undergo a minor surgery. It struck me then that how important it is to cherish the moments one lives in now rather than complaining about something going wrong. The time is now to give your loved ones the attention they want, the pampering you want. As they say leave it for tomorrow and tomorrow never comes. Appreciate your family now and miss them now because tomorrow when it’s all gone then there would be only regrets for not being there earlier on.

Life isn’t then, life isn’t when.. Life is this..here..now.. Think about it..!!

Must read Book..!!

2008-03-18T22:53:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to play hide & seek with myself I guess. I thought the last time when I came to write, I would stick around but then things happened and I disappeared. And again here I am trying to promise myself that this time I would be here for long if not forever. And I have realized the fact that no matter what you do & when you do, the only thing that counts is how you do.Just the other day I was chatting with my friend and we got into one of our most favourite topics for discussion – books. I think we both are passionate about books & ofcourse the endless usage of words in the English language.

It’s when I ended up discussing some books which are noteworthy, I realized that my blog page has no mention of them and well pointed out by my friend as well. So here I am with the mention of atleast one of the books which is close to my heart. It has been an all time favorite “Conversation with God” by Neale Walsch. And trust me I don’t really need to mention anything about the book. If I am correct in my memory then I haven’t come across a person who has read this book & not liked it. So do read it whenever you get a chance and if you are a strong believer in God then this book is going to make your belief stronger.Until my next pick, keep reading & exploring..!!

Simply You Tube it..!!

2008-01-28T22:38:00.000-08:00

Well, You tube is creating waves. Earlier it was Google, which has now become an integral part of everyone’s life and now it is the age of video google (You Tube). It is amazing how so many videos are uploaded here on a daily basis and anything you would search on, you find the videos uploaded already. This is how branding happens. Like in india, when anyone buys bottled water, all they say is “Bisleri dena” (give me a bottle of bisleri). For the vendor & customer, this simply means bottled water and whether it is Bisleri or Aquafina, it doesn't matter. Simply, Bisleri has become a synonym for bottled water. Similarly, these days anything we want to search for, we unconsciously end up saying “just google it” or “on googling I found out…”. So google has become a synonym for search.

I think the time is not far when we will have everyone saying that “you tube that” irrespective of how it sounds. Just the other day I was searching or googling (as they say) on You Tube for some songs and to my surprise found out some old songs posted with original video. I was absolutely ecstatic and to my astonishment realized that it is an encyclopedia of videos and can find some major videos for sure. And what is most wonderful about it is that it is all controlled by the users as they are the ones uploading those videos. Suddenly, it has grown to become a huge database now.

I guess it is more appropriate to call it the Video Wikipedia. But whatever, we may call it, the purpose is the same. Well bored, then you tube some or serials or some comical clippings. Just name it and am sure you will find it there. You tube absolutely anything that works best for you..!!

India - the Bullish market..!!

2008-01-24T20:30:00.000-08:00

There is an interesting article on how most of the investors are very bullish on the Indian markets and don’t see the downturn in the near future. Find the link below:

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Markets/News__Views/Analysis/India_remains_most_bullish_market_in_Asia-Pacific_ING/articleshow/msid-2724749,curpg-1.cms

India truly is shining. Everyone wants to be a part of the Indian growth story and why shouldn’t they?

SRK in the news - Yet Again..!!

2008-01-24T19:58:00.000-08:00

Well, I am sure all you die hard SRK fans would agree with me if I say that he is never out of media’s eyes. Even if he doesn’t want to make news, he still attracts the attention solely on his iconic reputation. But this time, he shares the limelight with the likes of Mukesh Ambani, Vijay Mallya and few others. He had recently bid for IPL cricket team and won the Kolkata team bid for $ 76 mn. We would definitely have some high spirited cricket games in India now. Right now, IPL has just come out with 8 teams and they hope to build it to 16 teams by 2010. Following are the IPL team owners and their winning bids:

Team ---------------------- Owner ------------------ Winning Bids

Kolkata -------------------- Shahrukh Khan ---------- $76 million

Bangalore ----------------- Vijay Mallya -------------- $112 million

Mumbai -------------------- Mukesh Ambani ---------- $112 million

Delhi ----------------------- GMR ----------------------- $ 84 million

Chennai -------------------- India Cement ------------ $91 million

Mohali ---------------- Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia ---- $76 million

Jaipur --------------------- Emerging Media ---------- $67 million

Hyderabad ---------------- Deccan Chronicle -------- $107 million

For more on this news read:http://www.ibnlive.com/news/rs-69960000000-star-power-drives-ipl-equity/57291-5-p0.html

So would you want to own one, well need to shell out money next year to be on this rat race..!!

Is Younger the new Better..!!

2008-01-23T22:35:00.000-08:00

Look outside and inspiration is all around you. And these days it comes at a younger age, I guess. There used to be a time when we used to hear stories of entrepreneurs making it big in their mid 30s. But now that era is a passé. This is the age of young entrepreneurs who have hit the market with a simple idea but reaping huge profits. To start with, we have the founders of Google, whom nobody can forget. At the age of just 25, Sergey Brin & Larry Page truly showed that it is not the experience or the age that matters. What matters most is what you bring to the table. And they brought a simple idea which definitely has become a necessity these days.

They did leave everyone inspired then and even 10 years hence since google was founded, they still arouse interest. Now we have the founders of Facebook (Mark Zuckerberg, Dustin Moskovitz & Chris Hughes) join the bandwagon, who at the age of 20 founded Facebook. Even though it is a 4 year old company, it has swept the nation with millions of users worldwide. Then ofcourse, who can forget the founders of You Tube (Steve Chen, Chad Hurley & Jawed Karim), who were in their late 20s at the time they founded the website. For those who don’t know, You Tube is a subsidiary of Google now. Doesn’t this leave you inspired enough to change the world and make a mark. Well, hold on as there is one more grand entry to this list. I might have been ignorant of lot of other start ups by young entrepreneurs but this one just caught all my attention. At the age of just 13 years, Anshul Samar has also been bitten by the entrepreneurial bug in the silicon valley and couldn’t stay away or should I be say that he surely did get inspired.

As an 8th grader in a school in Cupertino, when kids his age are just learning stuff and playing pranks, he definitely has come a long way. Only 8 – 9 months old in the business he is already familiar with the jargons of the industry. Watch his video where he is being interviewed and talks about his goals and future of Elementeo, his start up Company.

http://divedi.blogspot.com/2007/05/video-of-day-anshul-samar-on-youtube.html

You can also go to his Company website and read more about him:

http://www.elementeo.com/aboutthecreator

Well, I am still waiting for an idea to hit my mind and get me inspired. I surely would want to do something but yes need some direction. Inspiration is all around me which at times becomes haunting as well. But definitely, in a good way.. :-)

Keep reading & stay inspired..!!

Sensex Crash..!!

2008-01-22T20:41:00.000-08:00

One must remember, in this world, everything comes with its own price tags. At one end, India is the one of the fastest growing economy but still is susceptible to turmoil due to global effects and if it is US in question then even India can’t be spared.This is what happened on 21st Jan ’08 – Freaky Monday - as most would remember it to be. The bloody bath continued on Tuesday as well even though the Sensex recovered a bit. The reason – US economy is going into recession and the Indian markets reacted most strongly to that even though the effect could be seen in all the Asian markets.

An interesting read on this is available in the link mentioned below:

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/ET_Features/Special_Pages/Manic_Monday_Sensex_saw_biggest_ever_fall/articleshow/msid-2719424,curpg-1.cms

Even though it is an imaginative story but the writer has caught the essence of the way stock markets rule lives and a day like this would go down in history as the most horrifying days in the Indian financial markets.But again, the point not to be missed is that this might turn out to be the best time to invest as the markets would recover and turn things around. After all, investing in adverse situations is when you benefit the most in investments. I might not be a professional to talk on this but then this is a straight out fact which many of us would not believe in but would know it sub consciously.Anyone has a different opinion, please share your expertise. I believe the India growth story has just begun and has a long way to go..!!

Somebody's Me..!!

2008-01-18T21:56:00.000-08:00

This is the song from Enrique Iglesias’s latest album “Insomniac”. I liked it the minute I heard it and there is something about Enrique and his voice. It is so intriguing and this song has an amazing choice of words.
Check out the lyrics below: - powerful words

You, do you remember me?
Like I remember you?
Do you spend your life
Going back in your mind to that time?
Because I,
I walk the streets alone
I hate being on my own
Everyone can see that I really fell
And I'm going through hell
Thinking about you with somebody else

Somebody wants you
Somebody needs you
Somebody dreams about you every single night
Somebody can't breath, without you it's lonely
Somebody hopes someday you will see
That Somebody's Me
That Somebody's Me

How, How could we go wrong
It was so good and now it's gone
And I pray at night that our paths will cross
What we had isn't lost
'Cause you're always right here in my thoughts

Somebody wants you
Somebody needs you
Somebody dreams about you every single night
Somebody can't breath, without you it's lonely
Somebody hopes someday you will see
That Somebody's Me
That Somebody's Me

You'll always be in my life
Even if I'm not in your life
Because you're in my memory
You, will you remember me
And before you set me free
Oh listen please

Somebody wants you
Somebody needs you
Somebody dreams about you every single night
Somebody can't breath, without you it's lonely
Somebody hopes someday you will see
That Somebody's Me
That Somebody's Me
That Somebody's Me
That Somebody's Me

Complicated..!!

2008-01-14T22:43:00.000-08:00

After a long gap, I am trying to come back into action and do what i love doing most. I think amidst all the hectic schedules & shuffling between work & home, one thing that always take a hit - "is to sit down & do something that you enjoy". Let's see how long i stay on this time. What a way to start writing again but with a beautiful song like this which i listen to a lot lately. It is called Complicated & sung by Avril Lavigne. I guess some songs just touch your heart and this is probably one of those. Enjoy the lyrics & ofcourse i have the link to the video of the song on You Tube at the end of this blog..:)

Uh huh, life's like this
Uh huh, uh huh, that's the way it is
Cause life's like this
Uh huh, uh huh that's the way it is

Chill out whatcha yelling' for?
Lay back it's all been done before
And if you could only let it be
you will seeI like you the way you are
When we're drivin' in your car
and you're talking to me one on one but you've become

Somebody else round everyone else
You're watching your back like you can't relax
You're tryin' to be cool you look like a fool to me
Tell me
Why you have to go and make things so complicated?

I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated
Life's like this
And you fall and you crawl and you break
and you take what you get and you turn it into
honesty
and promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it
no no no

You come over unannounced
dressed up like you're somethin' elsewhere you are and where it's at you see
you're making me
laugh out when you strike your pose
take off all your crappy clothes
you know you're not fooling anyone
when you've become

Somebody else round everyone else
Watching your back, like you can't relax
Trying to be cool you look like a fool to me

Tell me
Why you have to go and make things so complicated?
I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated
Life's like this you
and You fall and you crawl and you break
and you take what you get and you turn it into
honesty
promise me I'm never gonna find you fake itno no no
Chill out whatcha yelling for?
Lay back, it's all been done before
And if you could only let it be
You will see

Somebody else round everyone else
You're watching your back, like you can't relax
You're trying to be cool, you look like a fool to me
Tell me
Why you have to go and make things so complicated?
I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated
Life's like this you
and You fall and you crawl and you break
and you take what you get and you turn it into
honesty
promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it
no no

Why you have to go and make things so complicated?
I see the way you're acting like your somebody else gets me frustrated
Life's like this you
You fall and you crawl and you break
and you take what you get and you turn it into
honesty
promise me I'm never gonna find you fake this
no no no

You can watch it on :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGXYAJoDWCk

Shall be back with more..!!

Let the reason be love..!!

2008-01-09T21:14:00.000-08:00

Love is a great feeling,

Simply a reason for living;

Love is a state of mind,

Passion of a kind.

When you are down & low,

Love gives you the power to heal & grow;

Love has many definitions,

But most of all it gives recognition.

Love has different forms,

Right from family, friend to that special someone;

You can choose to love,

Or be away from it & aloof.

Sometimes Love can bring pain,

Of that feeling nobody gains;

But as they all say,

"Lucky you, if love came your way."

Love is indeed blind,

The reason, nobody can find;

When in love, you strive for excellence,

And it is love that gives you the life's true essence.

Love teaches you different feelings,

And makes your life most amazing;

You grow in a relationship,

Only when there is a strong partnership.

To love and being loved is indeed fortunate,

As we are what we want to create;

Always appreciate the ones whom you love,

After all it isn't all that difficult.

Sharing leads to SUCCESS..!!

2007-10-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

Well, this is a story I received through email as a fwd and somehow liked it a lot. It is funny how we all define Success and forget the most important fact of liaising with our competitors for achieving the newer heights. This story definitely makes one thing clear that just as “Smile and the whole world Smiles with you” is true, similarly to be successful you need to be in alliance with the surroundings. Read on..:

SUCCESS DOES NOT HAPPEN IN ISOLATION

There was a farmer who grew superior quality and award-winning corn. Each year he entered his corn in the state fair where it won honor and prizes. One year a newspaper reporter interviewed him and learnt something interesting about how he grew it. The reporter discovered that the farmer shared his seed corn with his neighbors'. "How can you afford to share your best seed corn with your neighbors when they are entering corn in competition with yours each year?" the reporter asked. "Why sir, "said the farmer, "didn't you know? The wind picks up pollen from the ripening corn and swirls it from field to field. If my neighbors grow inferior, sub-standard and poor quality corn, cross-pollination will steadily degrade the quality of my corn. If I am to grow good corn, I must help my neighbors grow good corn."The farmer gave a superb insight into the connectedness of life. His corn cannot improve unless his neighbor’s corn also improves. So it is in the other dimensions!

Those who choose to be at harmony must help their neighbors and colleagues to be at peace. Those who choose to live well must help others to live well. The value of a life is measured by the lives it touches.

SUCCESS DOES NOT HAPPEN IN ISOLATION. IT IS VERY OFTEN A PARTICIPATIVE AND COLLECTIVE PROCESS.

So share the good practices, ideas, new learning's with your family, team members, neighbors.

Did You Know..!!

2007-09-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

Some of the facts which i was reading through on a website. Some of them are really good. Enjoy reading them:-

- The highest bridge in the world can be found in the Ladakh valley between the Dras and Suru rivers in the Himalayan mountains. The valley lies at an altitude of about 5 602 m (18,379 ft) above sea level on the India side of Kashmir. Called the Baily Bridge, it is only 30 metres (98 ft) long, and was built by the Indian Army in August 1982.

- The largest flower in the world, the rafflesia arnoldi, weighs 7 kg (15 pounds) and grows only on the Sumatra island of Indonesia. Its petals grow to ½ metre (1,6 feet) long and 2,5 cm (1 inch) thick.

- The tomato is the world's most popular fruit. And yes, just like the brinjal and the pumpkin, botanically speaking it is a fruit, not a vegetable.

- A diamond is the hardest natural substance on earth, but if it is placed in an oven and the temperature is raised to about 763 degrees Celsius (1405 degrees Fahrenheit), it will simply vanish, without even ash remaining. Only a little carbon dioxide will have been released.

- During the 6th Century, it was customary to congratulate people who sneezed because it was thought that they were expelling evil from their bodies. During the great plague of Europe, the Pope passed a law to say "God bless you" to one who sneezed.

- The Antpitta avis canis Ridgley is a bird that looks like a stuffed duck on stilts and barks like a dog. The bird was discovered by ornithologist Robert S. Ridgley in the Andes in Ecuador in June 1998. Thirty of these long-legged, black-and-white barking birds were found. It apparently had gone undetected because it lives in remote parts and, of course, doesn't sing. The size of a duck, it is one of the largest birds discovered in the last 50 years.

- The only place in the universe where a flag flies all day, never goes up or comes down, never flies half-mast and does not get saluted, is the moon.

- He is handsome, tall, drives a fast car, has an unlimited expense account, and always gets the girl. That's just the actor. The character he portrays also has a licence to kill.James Bond debuted in Ian Fleming's novel "Casino Royale" in 1953. The first Bond movie, Dr No, starring Sean Connery, was released in 1962. Since then, the equivalent of half the world's population have seen at least one Bond movie.

- The amount of time that people spend on travel has been consistent at 1,1 hours per person per day in all societies. The average distance traveled is 12 000 km (7,400 miles) per year. In total, the world population travels more than 23 trillion km (16.6 trillion miles) per year, 53% of which is by car, 26% by bus, 9% by rail, 9% by high-speed transport such as airplanes, and 3% by bicycle, boat and other means. It is estimated that, due to developments in high-speed public transport, travel time will drop to only 12 minutes per person per day by 2050. Of the world traffic volume, 35% will be by car, 20% by bus, 41% by high-speed transport, and 4% by rail.- In 1897, Austrian businessman Emil Jellinek, traveled from his home in Nice, France to purchase a car from the Daimler factory in Cannstatt, Germany. On his return to the French Riviera, his sporting Daimler Phoenix caused such a sensation that he decided to enter it into a local touring competition, under the name of "Mercedes" after his favourite 9 year old daughter. Realising the business potential for the new car, he not only placed an order for 36 more, but also secured the franchise for selling them in several countries. Gottlieb Daimler also agreed to having them sold under the name of "Mercedes."

- Soon after building started in 1173, the foundation of the Pisa tower settled unevenly. Construction was stopped, and was continued only a 100 year later. It then became visibly clear that the Tower of Pisa is leaning, tilting to the south. Since regular measuring of the tower began in 1911, the top of the tower has moved 1,2 millimetres (0,05 inch) per year. Today the top of the Tower of Pisa is some 5,3m (17,4 ft) off-centre.

Belief in Thyself..!!

2007-09-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

It is the belief that makes you strong,

It is the belief that makes you realize between the right & wrong;

Some people live by their dreams,

While others have no plans or schemes.

It is the belief that bails you out of tough situations,

It is the belief that helps you in identifying your passions;

Some people have the will to succeed,

While others let someone else lead.

It is the belief that takes you to your goal,

It is the belief that helps you realize the connection between heart & soul;

Some people respect everyone’s thoughts,

While others choose to forget the lessons taught.

It is the belief that helps you create a niche,

It is the belief that ultimately makes you rich;

Some people strive for the best,

While others in life have no zest.

It is the belief that drives you towards excellence,

It is belief that gives you the true life essence;

Some people are always craving for more,

While others find ways to outscore.

It is the belief that defines your attitude,

It is the belief that under crisis gives you the fortitude;

Some people can withstand any big or small issues,

While others need someone for rescue.

It is the belief that defines the inner will,

It is the belief that makes you more kind than cruel;

Some people love to experiment the unknown for the thrills,

While others get the chills.

It is my belief that anything is possible,

It is my belief that any situation could be fruitful;

I define my goal as my search for the ultimate,

Thus, making it easier for others to believe in thy spirit.

It's all about the choices we make..!!

2007-08-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

Life is a funny concoction of good laughs and sorrows. But it is the tough times that make us realize the importance of hilarity in our life. I often sit and wonder what would happen to the world if the age old proverb “if wishes were horses then beggars would ride” becomes true. How the world would be like if nobody has any tensions or sorrows in life. It is strange to imagine those times and as my father always says “when the going gets tough, the tough get going. If it didn’t happen to you then it never was meant to be for you”. I do believe in the fact that everything that happens, always has a reason. It could be God’s way of teaching us some lessons or could be the harsh truths of life which would make us strong. I know this never sounds appropriate when you are going through a rough phase but then once that period has passed and you sit and analyze you always end up saying “in a way it's good that it happened this way”. Atleast I do. I don’t know whether this is a different way of reconciling with your thoughts or accepting reality but then it always does make one feel better. In life, there would always be good and fun times but unfortunately it somehow would always feel that they are short lived. But if you have the strength to face the tough times then it simply means that you would succeed in any challenges life would throw at you.

I might not be the most experienced person to even talk about the harsh facts that many others would have faced but I guess on a daily basis, all of us do face certain obstacles and it is only how we deal with them defines out true character. There is always a dilemma that continues in the mind which keeps us hanging and wondering whether this phase would pass or not. Whether it would be all good or bad. Life is all about choices and what we choose defines our outlook towards life. Not every time we would make the right choice but then as it is said “ always learn from your mistakes” and ofcourse there is no fun in repeating those mistakes again. We can choose to be happy or sad, we can choose to be at the top or bottom, we can choose to be ourselves or a replica, we can choose to love the things we have or live in despair for what we don’t have. There would always be choices and there would always be tough decisions to make but then the outcome is what is always fruitful and as they all say “every cloud has a silver lining”. Whatever happens, happens for the best and it happens because it is meant to be. If only we would be strong during crisis, then we would emerge a true winner with our own self. After all it is just one life to live and it isn’t worth living with regrets but to make the most of it in whatever and however way possible. It is not everyday that life gives you a second chance so feel fortunate if you get one. After all the battle is always with one self and not with others, no matter how much ever we try to convince ourselves it to be the other way round.

My fav. punchlines..!!

2007-08-02T22:28:00.000-07:00

I am not too sure how many people live by phrases in life and to how many do they really make sense. To me it makes a huge lot of difference, something that always inspires me and gives me the kick to do the best.. :-)

I do have my 3 very favorite punchlines which are also my Signature in different email ids. Simple lines and simple words as they may say but definitely hold a deeper meaning.

He who laughs last, laughs the loudest.

There will always be dreams grander or humbler than your own, but there will never be a dream exactly like your own...for you are unique and more wondrous than you know.

Anything Less Than Extraordinary is a Waste of TimeWe are what we repeatedly do; Excellence therefore is not an act, but a habit.

It is funny how certain words/phrases impact your life in so many different ways and you don't even realise it most of the times. I am sure there are whole lot of phrases which i am unaware about but then who said that "I know it all".. :-)

Woman of Substance..!!

2007-07-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

Well, there is another addition to the list of women who have been doing so well professionally. It is amazing how the whole outlook towards women has changed in the last 10 – 15 years and they have been taking up some postions of power & control. The latest addition to this is Mrs. Pratibha Patil, the very first woman to be elected to the highest office of the country. For all those who don’t know, she is the newest President of India. That indeed is something. Wow I feel so proud to be a woman. I think there is nothing a woman can’t do if she puts her heart and soul into it. As a person I don’t know her but have read certain articles on her and ofcourse only time would tell how she fairs. But here is wishing her the very best and may she puts her best foot forward.

But point to note is that being a woman I do agree to one thing for sure. There is one industry where undoubtedly the men do extremely well and way far better from women. Though this is just my personal opinion but I think ‘men make better chefs than women’. I won’t deny the fact that there are surely some women who cook the most delicious food in the world and I can name a few without the blink of my eye but then as a whole the majority of chefs are men and let’s face it they do an amazing job and to prove I really don’t need to go too far to look for one. I think I could vouch for this any day that my husband makes better tasting dishes than I do. He does it from his heart while I do it to finish the work so that explains my prejudice.. :-)

Money in my pocket..!!

2007-07-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

“There are some things money can’t buy, for everything else there is a master card.” I love the string of ads based on this one liner by master card. I like the simplicity of the phrase and yet so meaningful and deep. It is so true that any human being at any given point in time is always running after more and more money. It is amazing how we keep wanting for more and never feel the contentment from what we have. I hear stories all around me about people who have loads of money and yet are not very happy. People who are very successful and yet don’t know what to do with the money. People who work so hard to build an empire and then give it all away. Is it worthwhile to say that those who have money, don’t value it as much as those who don’t have and aspire all their lives to have more. Does money give them the security that they are looking for in life or does it just give us the status that we need for ourselves? It would be foolish on my part to say that I don’t need more money but definitely there is a limit to define contentment. After all at the end of the day what matters the most is about being happy from the inside. It is scary to hear stories about the insecurities that rise because of more money and the sleepless nights one spends to make things believable the next day for the business to keep running.

Recently I attended a seminar where the speaker talked about how having more money has made his life so easier. He spoke about how he had a dream of seeing his parents retired by the age of 60 and not by 65 because he felt the need to do something for them. He worked hard and is very successful today and the major content he has in life is that his dream of his parents retiring did come true. He randomly chose people from the audience to talk about their dreams. There was this lady in early 30s who also had a dream and on her dream everyone had a hearty laugh. When asked what her dream in life is, she said “My dream is to walk into a store and shop for whatever I feel like without looking at the price tags”. It is a paradox that at one point where we see billionaires being unhappy in their lives as they feel money hasn’t bought them happiness yet; there is still a horde of people who strongly feel the need for more. And ofcourse the more is always the beginning but not an end. In the recent past, I also did get a chance to meet a person whose mansion is an inspiration in itself to own a home like that one day. He throws a lot of parties every other day and out of curiosity I did ask him the reason for the same. He says “I don’t know what to do with so much money and these parties take away the loneliness in life”. It might be as a joke he mentioned that but then it is the harsh reality for most of the rich and famous. I guess you pay the price for being rich. One heck of a price to pay but after all they have the money to pay. So do I want a peaceful sleep after a long day of work or would I rather have the money to buy whatever I can? I don’t know but one thing is for sure I choose happiness, fun, excitement over the green paper. And as long as I can do my own thing in my very own small and special ways I am happy but that would definitely not mean that I don’t want to have some more. Isn’t life all about craving for more? After all, like that woman even I love to shop till I drop. Thus, the question still remains whether it is “good to live your whole life with pocket money or have 'that some more' money in your pocket?”

Life after school..!!

2007-07-15T10:20:00.000-07:00

Well, as they say the fun begins when you get to college. Simply it is an extension of your school life but definitely has a feel of independence. You don’t have those morning assemblies anymore, the teachers don’t bother if you are present in their class everyday and ofcourse you don’t have a uniform to wear anymore. Those are the liberties that you get when you join college. My school life was definitely the best but then there is no denying the fact that college did add color to it. Infact it was college where I learnt the facts of life right from the importance of being independent, voicing your opinion, managing your money, making the set of friends which think alike to making decisions about your career. I had a roller coaster ride in college where the life revolved more around friends and things to do. Luckily for me both my graduation & post graduation wasn’t the hardest place for adjustments as I made friends quickly and then went on to enjoy and take life as it comes.

I think the reason for missing school when you are in college is that unlike school college has fewer restrictions. Though it sounds great to have fewer restrictions but at the same time it is about the thrills you get out of breaking certain rules and regulations which were limited to school life. Of my college what I remember the most is the number of house parties that we had and the pocket money always ran out watching the movies in theatres. Something I even laugh about till date is how we had the dedication to watch a movie the very day it released without even feeling the pain of waiting for 2 – 3 hours in the line. I think life continues in different phases and if you happen to enjoy each of these phases then you truly do live your life the best way possible. You learn different lessons of life in each phase and as they say “life is all about learning and experiencing new things”. I am glad that I can reminisce those times even today and have a strong urge to turn back the clock to relive those moments all over again but then why would I want to miss out on the excitement and the adrenalin rush that I have in my life today, my present. Yes, it is complicated and yes it might sound contradictory but given the choice who wouldn’t love to have the best of all. I definitely would, wouldn't you..??

Those were the best days of my life..!!

2007-07-15T07:21:00.000-07:00

I still remember when I was about to complete my 12th grade I was super excited as I knew the day wasn’t far when I would be in college and have my own rules and no more uniforms. Even today i can’t forget what my teacher told me then “you should be happy you are in school as once you leave, these are the days you would love to have again back in your life”. I always wondered why would anyone want to remember the school days where there were so many rules and regulations and exams, mid term tests all the time. And to my belief those are the days I actually miss the most today. Not that my graduation wasn’t good enough and not that I didn’t do well in my post graduation and not at all that I am not as happy today as I thought I would be. No, none of these are the reasons for me remembering those good ol’ days. But the way I see it I think it was the golden era with no responsibilities and no tensions whatsoever even though you always were so pressured to present your best foot forward. The only tensions I believe I had then was to get good grades in exams and luckily this tension used to build up only when the exams were nearing else it was all about movies, games, playing with friends, hanging out and having fun.

I wonder how life was so relaxed and cool and still used to feel the rush to have more excitement, more adventure and more thrills. Just can’t forget the pranks we played on each other and then try to cover up ourselves. It is funny how even after a decade those memories seem so fresh as if it all happened just yesterday. It feels so nostalgic and then the old idiom comes to my mind “Time flies”. I have heard my parents and grand parents saying this so often as they have seen me through different phases of life. Even when I went to college I remember how my parents were astonished that the time went by so quickly and before they realized I was in college. Something I thought i never understood and wondered how can time go by so quickly as for me I felt that time never moved. But now when I look back in retrospect I do understand the meaning of this phrase and the sentiments attached to it. Life does come at you fast and I truly believe in it. It is then we realize that there are so many things to accomplish and so much to do that time just seems so less. It is this vision of ourselves in the future that keeps us going and the support from family and friends that make us stronger towards the harsh truths of life. I have been fortunate enough to have the best days in the school and when I look back now I feel how important it is for all of us to live in the moment and enjoy the present as we can’t be certain about what would happen tomorrow. It is indeed the best time of your life when you learn so many different things but still never take up anything seriously as there is still so much to see and learn from in life. Having said all this about my school life I think it would be absolutely cruel if I don’t mention about my college days which were absolutely wonderful on a different level altogether.. :-)

Friday - the 13th..!!

2007-07-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

It is ironic and funny how my first day of blogging had to coincide with nothing else but "Friday the 13th". Does this mean that this is the first and last time i am going to blog or does this mean that this is the start of a new beginning. I have no idea and neither do i wish to investigate any further but yes having said all this i didn't want to let the most infamous day / date to just go by without me even mentioning about the same. So here i do have some info about the dreaded Friday - the 13th. Read On..:

A Friday occurring on the 13th day of any month is considered to be a day of bad luck in English, German, Polish and Portuguese-speaking cultures around the globe. Similar superstitions exist in some other traditions. In Greece or Spain, for example, Tuesday the 13th takes the same role. The fear of Friday the 13th is called paraskavedekatriaphobia (a word that is derived from the concatenation of the Greek words Παρασκευή, δεκατρείς, and φοβία, meaning Friday, thirteen, and phobia respectively; alternative spellings include paskevodekatriaphobia or paraskevidekatriaphobia, and is a specialized form of triskaidekaphobia, a phobia (fear) of the number thirteen.

"It's been estimated that [U.S] $800 or $900 million is lost in business on this day because people will not fly or do business they would normally do."

Some people are so paralyzed by fear that they are simply unable to get out of bed when Friday the 13th rolls around. The Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute estimates that more than 17 million people are affected by a fear of this day. Despite that, representatives for both Delta and Continental Airlines say that their airlines don't suffer from any noticeable drop in travel on those Fridays. A British Medical Journal study has shown that there is a significant increase in traffic-related accidents on Friday the 13ths.

My first blog..!!

2007-07-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

This is tough. I thought i do have an art of expressing through words but seems like i am short of words here and have no idea what to write.

Well after 10 minutes of thinking, i finally did figure out that leaving comments on friends blogs is much easier than to write oneself. But i think should credit myself for my journey which has just begun and hopefully wouldn't end soon.. :-)

With all the luck to myself i present my blogs from now on. Hopefully they would make sense to the world as i want them to.. :-)