Luck By Chance

2009
02.05

A wise man once said “There are no secrets to success: Don’t waste time looking for them. Success is the result of perfection, hard work, learning from failure, loyalty to those for whom you work, and persistence.”

But, what should I say in my case ?

Tuesday, My friend Pooja called me and said there is a job opening in some company in ggn, and Vinay (another friend) doesnt want to go there, so can I go there ? I said ‘Yeah ! Why not ?” Then after sometime consultant called and fixed an interview with HR n Techie ppl out there. So, I got excited not because I have the interview planned but for the visit to gurgoan (which means shopping with friends n movie at PVR ggn).

Wednesday, I got ready and reached there for the interview and one after the other I had 3 rounds and I cleared all and got the papers in my hand.. I thot to discuss the package with my friends over lunch .. and Voila ! everyone was happy and so do I. Pooja and me decided to watch movie so as to celebrate as everyone else was occupied that evening.

Thursday, Today, I am in new office and njoying my welcome here. It is a small company so you can imagine there is warm welcome by everyone. I was thinking that I will have lunch with my sape friends, but my new collegues offered for lunch which they call as 7-course meal. :-) Once again, I am enjoying new office with my new desk/machine/people….

I still dont know whether this was Luck By Chance or my Hard Work ?

Journey Together

2008
12.31

You know how lazy I am.. These days I am busy packing n wrapping up… I will write in detail very soon.. 

To be written soon…

Last Day

2008
12.12

“As all good things come to an end to open up ways for other good things in life”, my wonderful journey at Kodak ends today, at least for now !!” 

It was indeed a tremendous pleasure working with the team…  I thank them for making my stay memorable, I am sure I will miss them..

3 Cheers !!! this time

2008
11.23

~Mochachino Single Cup Cake for Two Love Birds !!

As the time slips by I often forget, 
My feelings for you I don’t always express..
I just take for granted That you must know, 
These feelings that I have I don’t always show..
Today is a good day to Tell you how much, 
I cherish your love And your gentle touch..

Happy Anniversary !!

Used to..

2008
10.31

In my office, there are cubicles for everyone, as opposed to my previous office, where we had the open desk culture.

Yesterday, when I was deep down in my work, my desk phone rang. It was from Manish asking how I am doing. The talk got over in few minutes, and I got back to my work.

After sometime, I blurted, “kuch khana wana nahin hai aaj, vinay coffe peene chalein…” ** while I was typing some junk code.
[en_EN: ** Is everyone not hungry or what? Vinay lets go for coffee]

I looked in front of me, there was computer and behind that there was a wall, There was only me in the cubicle speaking to myself.

As I was working, unconsciously, my mind took me back to my previous company, where Vinay used to sit opposite to me and I used to ask her about almost everything from food to stocks. Pooja used to sit right next to me, and Anshita used to come from some other floor, sometimes Srishti used to join us !

Most of the times, we three used to eat/gossip/work/eat/crib/gossip/work and go on n on…

Gurls, I miss you all here !!!

Shubh Deepawali !!!

2008
10.28

 

~Rangoli outside our home @ Delhi, India

Miracles

2008
10.23

Seeing, hearing and feeling are miracles, and each part and tag of me is a miracle.

- Walt Whitman quotes ( Poet, 1819-1892)

Does anyone believe in miracles anymore? I think there are miracles all around us, we are just too self-centered in today’s lime-light that we can’t see them happening.

They don’t have to be Big… big enough for us to realize that something has happened. Is it not the miracle that we have again made it through something impossible, something we thought would break our spirit.

Whenver we are in trouble, we pray for a miracle…a miracle occurs, but we refuse to see it, feel it, or sense it.

I guess, there are miracles around us which makes us going, which makes our families more n more caring, which makes this earth, rather whole universe a worthwhile. It is upto us to sense them…

Ooo, another one just happened, Didn’t you realize ? You just read my post and received a bear hug >:D< !!!

First Day at Office

2008
09.22

Though I have 8 yrs of work experience, still first day at work reminded of my first day at my first job. Freelance work never gave that feeling.

The feeling of morning rush, waiting for project person to take you inside the office, signing-in for the first time in your new machine, meeting / greeting people. “Nice to meet you’, ‘Just drop by to say hello’, ‘Welcome to Our Company’, ‘See you around’ etc. etc. are few blurbs, I heard a lot today.

I love to praise myself, but seriously I have been a good team player / star performer in my previous companies. So, Lets see how it goes @ new one.

Wish me Luck!! Thanks, Love to all.

My First Pizza

2008
09.18

Yes, I made the pizza @ home for the first time. Not to mention, I love cooking but pizza was something, I was postponing for long time. I dont like the concept of getting the pizza base and cook on top of it. I wanted to make pizza base at home… I was just being lazy all this while.

Accidently manish switched to Food channel when we both were watching TV this afternoon and you guessed it right, they were making pizza. That was the kick for me, and we went for grocery and started the cooking.

Since we were so hungry, we thought we can easily eat 2 pizzas. Me and manish loved it so much, but By the time we finished one, we realized, we both were wrong. But, We were neither want to refregrate the pizza nor eat it.

So, We literally went out for a walk and caem home and had pizza once again…

The Last Lear

2008
09.16

The Last Lear‘ … I loved it. It makes fascinating and uncompromising journey in one’s thoughts.  

The Last Lear is only about Harry (AB), how he is persuaded to act in a film and his concealed regrets. He always wanted to enact King Lear but due to some ambiguous reasons, could not.

Amitabh Bachchan played the role of Harry. Moody like the English weather, he expects everyone to be well-versed with A Midsummer Night’s Dream and recognise it’s the Tempest that he lovingly quotes. 

The role of Ivy, a nurse, played by Divya Dutta outperformed by her accent used in the movie. Shefali Shah (urf Vandana in movie) played a very sponstaneous character. and yeah not to mention the lead actress Preity (urf Shabnam) in not her so-called-bubbly role, amazingly perfomed the role. But above all, Harry had been the powerful old guy. 

The movie is an indulgent celebration of a larger-than-life personality, a classic consumed, for better or worse, by his art. In this case, Shakespeare. 

Though, I am not a big fan of Shakespeare, but this movie has made me.

Indifference

2008
09.11

“Once one has given up attachment to actions as a means of obtaining rewards as well as giving up the desire for the rewards of actions one becomes tranquil and content without any need for acquisition or accumulation. Such persons although sometimes appearing to be engaged in actions naturally or prescribed, factually do nothing as all their activities are actually inaction.”

-B.G. Ch. 4, Verse 20

So true, so content, May be thats y wise people say that Shri Bhagavad Gita is the way of life.

My Notepad

2008
09.09

Who doesnt like surprises, but it is more heart-touching, when you receive from your loved ones… Yeah you guessed it right, I got another surprise gift.

I got my notebook from Manish. As per him, it is my karvachauth gift :)  

I love my laptop, it is a tablet pc and now I can write my blogs in my hand-writing and the hand recognition facility will convert into the readable format…(everyone knows my hand-writing is very bad)

Thanks honey ! I love it.

Cracked Pot

2008
08.22

Worth read, Here is a story I recently received as fwd…

Once upon a time, there was a water bearer, who had two large pots, each hung on the ends of a pole which he carried across his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it, while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water.

At the end of the long walk from the stream to the house, the cracked pot arrived only half full. For a full two years this went on daily, with the bearer delivering only one and a half pots full of water to his house. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, perfect for which it was made. But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do.

After two years of what it perceived to be a bitter failure, it spoke to the water bearer one day by the stream. “I am ashamed of myself, and I want to apologize to you. I have been able to deliver only half my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house.

Because of my flaws, you have to do all of this work, and you don’t get full value from your efforts,” the pot said. The bearer said to the pot, “Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of the path, but not on the other pot’s side? That’s because I have always known about your flaw, and I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you’ve watered them. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table. Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house.”

Each of us has our own unique flaws. We’re all cracked pots. But it’s the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and rewarding.

Statue Of Liberty

2008
08.20

People come from all over the world to visit ‘Status of Liberty’ in NY.  They stand hours n hours in the queue irrespective of scorching hot, chilly winds, raining cats n dogs. Once they get to ride on the cruise, then all the pain pays off. Some among them turn into professional photographers, kids jump with joy, parents join them too, teenagers mark it as titanic moment, old crowd just sit back and relax with loved ones. Everyone is just happy.

14th May 2008

This summer, my in-laws came and not to mention, we took them to ‘Statue of Liberty’. Me and Manish have already seen it, so we thought to skip it and rather walk around wall street. Just because it was summers, the place was crowded like a fish market. Long queue for tickets and then longer queues for boading the cruise. So, we all ladies (me, mummyji and aunt) decided to enjoy the shade in park and Papaji n Manish joined the queue for tickets. They did all the hard work of getting tickets. But seriously speaking, Buying tickets online would have helped. All readers, please buy online, it will save you from long queues and scorching heat. Anyways, finally we got tickets and they joined the boarding line. Me and manish waited for them to enter security. It took around 45 minutes for them to enter security, until then we all were perspiring in the warm weather. We decided to meet them near ticket counter after 2 hrs. Me and manish head towards wall street. We took coffee from Starbucks and preferred to sit inside. I always like to sit near window so that I can njoi the view, So we grabbed the window seat and watched people running around. Some were going to work, some were rushing to subway trains, some were getting late for date, and some were visitors, amazed to see the tall buildings…We both were so glad and thanked God that we have such a peaceful life in Rochester where everything is at leisure.

Well, With people running for the race of life, our time also ran…We checked time and rushed toward the tickets counter and voila, we joined rest of the crowd…rushing n running. What we saw, they were already there, having coffee and discussing something…

& that discussion was about the Tourism Authorities. Management cancelled the trip to ‘Statue of Liberty’ which they were about to board, for which they visited new york and waited so long in queues. Though authorities gave their money back, but no one could ever pay back the time they spent in long queues for tickets, boarding, security and then waiting for us…

The Keyboard

2008
08.16

It was June. I was cooking lunch. Manish usually comes home for Lunch. I think it was middle of the week, he came home for lunch. He was holding some bag. I thought he has got some golf clubs in a long bag. so, I didn’t bother to ask him and continued making chapatis. I served the lunch at table and was coming out of kitchen…& I heard some notes…

& you know what, It was keyboard for me. I have always longed for learning Piano… but I never got chance…I was jumping with joy. In this all happiness, we realized we were hungry.

We both started our lunch and finished with Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

Celebrating 60 years of Independence

2008
08.15
“Happy Birthday to India”
On this day, I am not in India, but hats off to the creative people out there…
BoazImages

Courtesy: BoazImages

Friend

2008
08.02

A friend who notices the change of your tone, a friend who asks how you feeling when you change your display picture is more than what you need. Even a person whom you never met in real life, but glad to see you laugh/smile, is what we called, friend.

A friend who would remain quiet when you are crying, a friend who would reply you instantly when you say the magic words, “I need someone to talk to.” A friend who has all ears just for you, a friend who doesn’t need to be your friend, to do what friends do. A person who claims to be your best friend, though you both only chat once in a while, or gossip big time. Yes, Gossips. A person who doesn’t need to message you 24/7, but shows up unexpectedly, giving you a smack right on your back, is what we need in life. Friend.

You may once think you have only one friend like this, but think again. Times flow and things change. They will show up in any phases of your life, and one by one, they will leave, without a trace. A few best friends aren’t enough, but with a bunch of friends like this, life is complete.

I thank all my friends for making my life complete. I Love you all.

We & Wii

2008
05.30

As I mentioned, my in-laws were around and they cant sit idle. Of course no one can, so even the seep couldn’t help at one point of time. They were bored of being in US as, there is no noise, no gossips around as no maids around, no work, no sabzee walas/kabadi walas, no gardening, no cribbing on weather…. either all was well for them or nothing at all…

We went to grocery shopping, as soon as we finish that, we started window shopping (we as in 3 ladies: me, mom-in-law & aunt). Manish n Papaji hates that, Still willingly or unwillingly, Papaji accompanied us. Manish went to GameStop and bought something.

We asked him throughout the way, but he kept smiling sarcastically..we were left with guessing n waiting until we reached home.

He opened the bag and here it was - Wii. No one knew how to play, so manish did all the setup and played couple of times, everyone was suggesting something or the other in the background.. and finally one by one everyone could play…. Papaji enjoyed the Golf very much, Mummyji grabbed the Bowling like crazy, My aunt became pro user in golf n bowling, I became pro in tennis n golf, I guess manish was pro in every game.

The fun started again, Until they stayed, everyone started as a child and ended as a PRO. We all enjoyed playing Wii.

For those who dont know what Wii is? It is video game with difference, it has unbelieveable motion sensing controls. So as you play golf or tennis in the ground, the same way u play it here. Here the club or the racket is ur Wii Remote. It is like working out in a gym.

Know me more…

2008
05.18

I have been tagged by my bestest friend. It is special for me, as it is from my bestest friend and secondly, it is not from any site or link, it is a verbal compliment for me. :)   Here you go…

Last Movie You Saw In A Theater:
Laga Chunri Mein Daag, a movie with good music

What Book Are You Reading:
Conversation with God

Favorite Board Game:
Pass…

Favorite Magazine:
I dont read…

Favorite Smells:
Smell of Raat ki Rani, Smell of Wet Mud, Esp after rain

Favorite Sound:
Rainfall, Sound of Nature

Worst Feeling In The World:
Someone deceiving someone

What Is The First Thing You Think Of When You Wake? :
Is it Morning? so early…

Favorite Fast Food Place:
Pakodas from my Kitchen 

Future Child’s Name:
Future

Finish This Statement. “If I Had A Lot Of Money I’d…”:
spend half of it in World Tour n buying Diamonds, and Half of it will go to NGOs.

Do You Drive Fast? :
I am a Rash Driver

Do You Sleep With A Stuffed Animal?:
Yes, but not stuffed.

Storms-Cool Or Scary? :
Scary

What Was Your First Car?:
My Husband’s Santro 

Favourite drink:
Water

Finish This Statement, “If I Had The Time I Would …..” :
Study

Do You Eat The Stems On Broccoli?:
Nopes

If You Could Dye Your Hair Any Color, What Would Be Your Choice? :
Same as now

Name All The Different Cities/Towns You Have Lived In :
Delhi(IN), Bangalore(IN), London(UK), Reading(UK), Rochester(NY)

Favorite Sports To Watch:
Golf

One Nice Thing About The Person Who Sent This To You:
She inspires me in every way…

What’s Under Your Bed?:
Nothing

Would You Like To Be Born As Yourself Again?
Yes

Morning Person Or Night Owl?:
Usually Night owl, these days Morning Person.

Over Easy Or Sunny Side Up?:
Over Easy

Favorite Place To Relax:
In my Dream Home, on couches from where i could see water, sky, and greenary

Favorite Pie:
i don’t like pie

Favorite Ice Cream Flavor:
Caramel Malibu

Of All The People You Tagged This To, Who’s Most Likely To Respond First?
Have tagged none yet

Thanks for tagging me… :)

Seep

2008
05.02

Finally, the day arrived. Me and my husband Manish were expecting my in-laws and an aunt to visit us.

They are home now.  As they entered in the house, the house turned to Home, a Home with laughter, talks, blessings, gossips, joy….as if someone was showering the flowers on a bride. They relaxed for couple of hours and then, we left for a Mall nearby. Everyone was so exicted, no one was interested in sitting at home and wait till weekend. They all wanted to roam around and see as much as they can in limited time.

Couple of days passed, the routine continued… We have been jogging, eating, sitting, watching tv, eating, sleeping, eating, etc…. But, some activity would have been bonus.  All the Malls were covered, nearby attractions were also covered (we are in rochester, ny…so you can understand). We have to go to Washington DC, New York City, Atlantic City and Boston, but that is planned for next week. So, Now what ?

Its friday today, but weekend spirit is lost, there is not much to talk as if we are done talking, not much to laugh about, …. though, Manish is home early to see what is the plan for weekend. but question remains, now what ??? An idea tickles in my aunt’s mind >> guess what ? Playing Cards…

Seep …. and the fun is back…

She got it…

2008
04.27

Yeah, the letter i wrote to my Nanima, she received it… Oh ! i cant express my feeelings when i heard from her on telephone. She was so happy and so touched and so did i :-) to see her happy.
We laughed, talked, cried, talked, laughed again.. and it continued for hrs..

Just like we click fotos to cherish later on, wish i could capture the feelings in jar or something to cherish forever.

Expect Unexpected

2008
04.24

Day: April 22, 2008

A man (Rajesh Uncle) in his 40’s has 3 kids (jyoti, gini, kunal), mother (maaji) and wife (Sunita) as dependent. He is just another man but honest, dedicated, trustworthy, kind and God-fearing. He is younger out of two siblings. They both own a flat and are separated. His brother is well educated, smart and financially rich. But, He sits near to poverty line. He is not educated well and drives autorickshaw for living. But, he wants his 2 daughters (jyoti, gini) and 1 son (kunal) to be well-educated and happy in their 40’s. He works hard for them and his wife supports her as his second hand. His wife is home maker and his mother is a heart patient and her medication is going on. It doesnt matter, But ppl may ask, How do i know him ? Am i asking for money or help, blah blah ? No, Rajesh Uncle is in our neighbourhood (@ my mother’s place).

Same Day, Morning Time: He gets up at 5, after daily chores, He drops his jyoti, gini at school. Elder one is in 5th std, younger is in 3rd std. Comes back, cleans the auto, enjoy breakfast with kunal, sunita auntie and maaji. He leaves for his work around 8ish. He drives the autorickshaw throughout the day,

Same day, Evening Time: He comes home at 7′o clock, talk to his kids, wife and mother. But today is Tuesday, so Rajesh uncle, Sunita auntie, and Kunal leaves for Hanuman Mandir (a Temple). Every tuesday, they go to temple if not all, atleast uncle goes.

Same day, Night, at 8pm: They are at temple, praying to God and making offerings. They get prasadam and they leave. As Uncle started his auto, kunal asks for ice-cream, “ek ice-cream dena bhaiya” (give me an ice-cream bro) Uncle said. Kunal is jumping with joy… so as auntie and uncle, to see him happy. And …everyone head towards home.

Same day, Night, at 9pm: I am talking to Ma, about how will they go to my in-laws place on saturday to meet them before they leave for US. She said, ” that’s not a problem beta (daughter), I will speak to your Rajesh uncle tomorrow, for saturday, if he can give us ride,”. We generally hire him when we need auto, as he is good driver and we pay him little extra, though he never accept but Ma is elder and swears him…

Same day, Night, at 10pm: They are on their way to home. Everything is going so smooth, financially they may not be strong but their moments of happiness, moments of sharing, moments of his care toward family, is what makes him going and hence the family.  Everyone is happy, Kunal is feeling bit sleepy. Home is just 15-20 mins close, so it is fine. Suddenly, in the blink of an eye, Sunita auntie gets a hit on her head, Kunal started crying, Rajesh Uncle is rolling towards one side of road and auto is on the another side, shattered. 

It was an accident, a high speed car just banged the auto @ red-light, it was green for Rajesh uncle and red for that car. It was blood everywhere. Immediately police arrived (not usual in delhi), and took all three to hospital, doctor said there are minor fractures, uncle should be home tomorrow morning. His brother was informed, he took Sunita auntie and kunal to home and went back to hospital, making sure that no one panics at home. Sunita auntie is brave lady, she dint cry so as not to panic the children. She took them to sleep and sat near to maaji and waited for the call from his brother-in-law.

Following Morning, 4am : Everyone from Sunita auntie’s mother side reaches home (her mother ’s family, her mothers’ sister’s (2) family, mother’s brother’s (4) family….around 200 ppl). Everyone knows but not sunita auntie. She is told but she is not accepting the fact.

Rajesh Uncle is dead. 

Life throws at you unexpectedly the never expected things… 
what will happen to Sunita aunite, three kids and maaji ? They say God is there for us, when we need. It is wrong, Was there a single thought about their food, education, clothes, need for father… while God was making this plan ? This was not fair from His side.

Daakiya Daak Laya…

2008
04.18

Story Plot: Early 70’s, In a Village.
There is a group of people sitting under the shade of an old banyan tree, Mansukh Kaka (one of them) is smoking Hookah, few are discussing about the seasonal crop, ramu (a young chap) reading newspapers to all old ones… Few meter away a group of ladies, what are they doing? gossiping of course, Mausiji (one of them) is milling on chakki mill/disc, one is busy making plait of Lali (elder daughter) who has just finished school and looking for college admission.

It is a pleasant weather; wind is blowing carrying fresh sand smell… A bicycle bell rings, suddenly the scene takes a 360o turn… the person on bicycle drives whole attention, and everyone drops his or her work… He calls ramu, lali, mansukh kaka, “lo mausii tumhare liye bhi hai”, delivers the Chittiyaan & leaves with another sweet sound of bell…leaves with happiness on everyone’s face…leaves with good and sad news…leaves with a hope of coming back with new Chiitiyaan…

What a memorable moment!!! I remember those days, when I used to write to my friends when I changed school and wanted to be in touch with my best friends. I used to have the colored writing pads, with drawing of flowers, sky, and teddy bears… But as I grew up, I learnt email, telephone, web camera, online chatting, and video conferencing…. and never looked back on snail mails. Though invention is good… but does it convey the same message, does it convey the feeling of hand-written letter?

Story Plot: This Feb, when I was in India:
It’s just me and my sister, the two siblings of our parents. We both are through with our studies.

me and my sis are sipping coffee, chatting the old days, Ma comes into the room and says, “Beta, Please clear up your book almirah, donate, sell or keep few, dont sit idle…”. So, We both gets into action. While checking the books, what I see ? a bunch of letters, from friends, a cousin and an aunt. As I am reading those letters, my feelings are coming out…as tears, as laugh, as smile, as silence, as satisfied…. Those letters are treasure to me. I love them.

To make new treasures, I have started writing snail mail to my nanima, before this tradition (necessity-cum-desire) goes extinct.

Promise from GOD

2008
04.17

मेरे मार्ग पर पैर रख कर तो देख, तेरे सब मार्ग न खोल दूँ तो कहना |
मेरे लिए खर्च करके तो देख, तेरे लिए कुबेर के भंडार न खोल दूँ तो कहना |

मेरे लिए कड़वे वचन सुनकर तो देख, कृपा न बरसे तो कहना |
मेरी तरफ़ आकर तो देख, तेरा ध्यान न रखूँ तो कहना |

मेरी बात लोगों से करके तो देख, तुझे मूल्यवान न बना दूँ तो कहना |
मेरे चरित्रों का मनन करके तो देख, ज्ञान के मोती न बरसे तो कहना |

मुझे अपना मददगार बना के तो देख, तुझे सबकी गुलामी से ना छुडा दूँ तो कहना |
मेरे लिए आँसू बहा के तो देख, तेरे जीवन में आनंद के सागर न बहा दूँ तो कहना |

मेरे लिए कुछ बनके तो देख, तुझे कीमती ना बना दूँ तो कहना |
मेरे मार्ग पर निकल कर तो देख, तुझे शांतिदूत न बना दूँ तो कहना |

तू मेरा बनकर तो देख, हर एक को तेरा न बना दूँ तो कहना |
मेरे मार्ग पर पैर रख कर तो देख, तेरे सब मार्ग न खोल दूँ तो कहना |

Do we do anything in name of God ? Oh yeah we do… whenever something goes wrong, whenever we fail, whenever we want name-fame, we do it in name of God (physically only). Bhagvad Gita says, ” Wherever you may live, whichever job you are engaged in, first of all realize your Supreme Self. Then whatever you do will be without a sense of doership (karta) and hence will not bind you.

Watch what you say…

2008
04.16

Three words ‘I Love You’ have changed lives miraculously while the three dreaded words ’I Hate You’ have often triggered off violence. ‘Sorry’, ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’ have worked wonders. Some words can give you depression, stroke or bruised egos.

Be cautious in speaking. when you injure another with your words the bond of friendship breaks forever. Even if the relationship is mended there will always remain a knot.  

“Blind man’s son is blind too,” laughed Draupadi, when Duryodhana slipped and fell in the palace of the Pandavas, mistaking the glass floor for water. Draupadi’s words of mockery set the stage for battle in Mahabharta.

However, “Harsh words cannot cause trouble if we refuse to react in a negative fashion”. Says Sant Shri Aasaramji Bapu, “Do not let any one’s harsh words govern your mood. Why should envy, fear, anger, lust, attachment and greed cause a storm in you? Be calm and you will always be happy. Only in a happy heart can spirituality unfold itself. To achieve self realisation you must be happy and successful. Lust and anger destroy tranquillity and prompt us to run after illusory objects to gain a temporary feeling of satisfaction and a delusory feeling of fulfilment. ”

Many times it has happened to me that I get upset when someone says something to me and sometimes i reciprocate the same…

People are same; they give back what they receive from you. Yet, day in and day out people inflict poisonous darts on each other. Please ignore what Kabir once said :

ऎसी वाणी बोलिए, मन का आपा खोये,
अपना तन शीतल करे, औरो को सुख होए |

(in English)
Speak such words, sans ego’s ploy
Body remains composed, giving the listener joy

 

Mission Accomplished

2008
04.15

It’s such a lovely feeling when you move from corporate apartment to your own rented house, you feel responsible, organized and most importantly, you become an interior designer. Well ! Don’t know about others, but I became one.  

From Day 1, I was so keen in personalizing the Hallway wall. Though it is not that long, but it measures about thousands of nanometers. :) hahaha. All the credit of making it personal goes to HGTV channel which I have been watching regularly for past few months.

I spoke to my husband about buying some photo-frames to put pictures on the wall… The pictures which I clicked through my very first digital camera, but never got it printed due to time crunch. I was able to sell my idea and He agreed.

But, here comes the hurdles…It’s me. I have been postponing the same for past 3-4 months, as I was lazy enough to sort the pictures from my library and get it printed. My laptop was slow, the pictures were on ipod, need to get it on my laptop, categorize it, print it in different sizes. You can imagine it is so much work for a lazy person like me.

Finally, this weekend my husband reminded me of the same and we went shopping, and bought some photo-frames, my husband extracted the pictures on his laptop and I got them printed in different required sizes. My husband measured the size of photo-frames and then pinned the nails and we together decorated the wall. By this time it was 2am.

We went to bed with a feeling of accomplishment !!!

My Best Friend is here…

2008
04.14

Whenever i think of the people who makes a real difference in my life,I think of friend I can talk to, really open my heart to, Because she understands me…

And I think of friend I have fun with just doing whatever, whenever, Because it feels so good being together…

I think of the friend I can count on, the one that I turn to so often, Because I know she’ll never let me down…

And I think of friend who inspires me, who always keep believing in me, Because she does…

And whenever i think of these wonderful friends, & all that they’ve given to me, I think of how lucky i am to have found all of them in You !!!

I’ am so glad, You are my friend and here ..near to me…

Happy New Year

2008
04.13
A New begining 
Quite Strange !!! in the middle of the April, you all must be astonished to see a New Year blurb…. 

Well don’t be, It is a New Year as per Hindu Calendar, which we often forget (to all Hindus there…). It is not just Baisakhi, It is:

1. Ugadi in Andhra,

2. Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra,

3. Baisakhi in Punjab,

4. Puthandu Vazthukal in TamilNadu,

5. Vishu in Kerela,

6. Poila Baishakh in Bengal &

7. Bohaag Bihu in Assam…

So many blessings on one day, as opposed to HNY on 1st Jan as per Georgian calendar.  Choice is ours…

Well, I think with this new year, i have a new beginging, a new sketchpad and new friends :0)

Wish you all very happy new year, May a new chapter in your life brings happiness, success and peace.

Whenever, wherever and whosoever read this blog, i thank them and wish them the happiest life.
Keep Smiling :)

What You believe is your destiny ….

2008
04.07
Your beliefs become your thoughts.

 

Your thoughts become your words.

 

Your words become your actions.

 

Your actions become your habits.

 

Your habits become your values.

 

Your values become your destiny.

Live n Let Live

2008
04.06
In few words, MG defines and describes the purpose n way of life. 

“Live simply, so that others may simply live.”

 

~ Mahatma Gandhi

Anger

2008
04.05

Lust, greed, attachment, pride and anger are the inner enemies that rob you of the treasure of Self-bliss. Among all, anger is the most dangerous.

 

If a thief enters a house, some items (furniture etc.) still remain un-stolen. But if a house catches fire, everything is reduced to ashes. If the fire of anger overtakes our mind, our entire treasures of Japas, Tapas and virtues are destroyed.

 

Therefore, beware of anger. It is all right to act out anger, but be alert not to allow it to possess you.

Meaning in Action

2008
04.04

An action is meaningful only if it brings good to others. That action will result in peace of mind. If action ismotivated by selfish interests it will lead to entanglement in sense-pleasures, diseases and increase indesires. On the other hand, if action is for the benefit of others, it yields peace of mind, enhanced capabilities and fearlessness.

There is peace before and after an action.

Then what is the motive behind an action? If your actions are meant for worldly gains, motivated by selfish interests, they are futile. On the other hand, if they are aimed at realizing God, attaining spiritual peace, you will be freed from miseries and experience perennial bliss. Don’t for sake the immutable bliss and power of the Self by identifying yourself with the body that is subject to change.

April 1st…

2008
04.01

“April 1st: This is the day upon which we are reminded of what we are on the other three-hundred and sixty-four.”
-Mark Twain

Basically no one knows exactly where, when, or why the celebration began. What we do know is that references to ‘All Fool’s Day’ (what April Fool’s Day was first called) began to appear in Europe during the late Middle Ages. All Fool’s Day was a folk celebration and elite participation in it was minimal (which is why it’s so difficult to trace the exact origin of the day, because the people celebrating it back then weren’t the kind of people who kept records of what they did). But what is clear is that the tradition of a day devoted to foolery has ancient roots

See what google does on this very day:
Google Hoaxes
Google Search for April Fools

Njoi being a Fool !!!

Happy Republic Day

2008
01.26
Jai Hind !!!
Soldiers in colourful headgear marched smartly
~ Source: BBC UK

Absolute Truth

2008
01.25

Every verse in Srimat Bhagwat is very inpisring and eye-opener. Here comes a verse from ‘Divinity and Divine Service’

kamasya nendriya-pritir
labho jiveta yavata
jivasya tattva-jijnasa
nartho yas ceha karmabhih

Life’s desires should never be directed toward sense gratification. One should desire only a healthy life, or self-preservation, since a human being is meant for inquiry about the Absolute Truth. Nothing else should be the goal of one’s works.

Chor-bnam-sadhu

2008
01.24

There is the story of a thief who went on a pilgrimage to a holy town, and on route he and the other pilgrims stopped to rest overnight at an inn. Being addicted to stealing, the thief began making plans to steal the other pilgrims’ baggage, but he thought, “I’m going on a pilgrimage, so it doesn’t seem appropriate that I should steal this baggage. No, I shall not do it.” Nonetheless, due to his habit, he could not keep his hands off the baggage.
So he picked up one person’s bag and placed it in another place, and then another person’s bag and placed it elsewhere. He spent all night placing different bags in different places, but his conscience bothered him so that he could not take anything from them. In the morning, when the other pilgrims awoke, they looked around for their bags and couldn’t find them. There was a great row, and eventually, one by one, they began to find the bags in various places.
After they were all found, the thief explained: “Gentlemen, I am a thief by occupation. Being that I am habituated to stealing at night, I wanted to steal something from your bags, but I thought that since I am going to this holy place, it is not possible to steal. So I may have rearranged the baggage, but please excuse me.” This is the characteristic of a bad habit. He does not want
to commit theft anymore, but because he is habituated, sometimes he does.

Thus, one who has decided to refrain from his immoral habits and make progress in Lord Krishna consciousness is considered a sadhu. Lord Krishna mentions in Bhagwat Gita:

“Even if one commits the most abominable actions, if he is engaged in devotional service, he is to be considered saintly because he is properly situated.”

~Source: B.G. (Ch.9, XXX)

Your Worries

2008
01.22

“I worry day and night. What should I do? I don’t want to worry and yet I do”

Every morning, in front of the Lord’s picture, put your hands together and pray, “Dear Lord, you have said not to worry at all because to do anything, or make others do, is all in your hands, yet I worry. What should I do? My wish is not to have a single worry. So, give me your blessing and give me such energy that I never worry again.”

Then if your worries continue, you can pray to Him again. You will stop worrying if you continue to do this. In doing this, you are tying a bond with the Lord. When there is a bond, you have the right to challenge and question Him.

Why would you have any worry if you are a true devotee of Lord Krishna and your intentions are pure? What is wrong with telling Lord Krishna the truth?
Source: Shri Bhagwat katha

I really find these very positive and effective, it worked for me many times.. i thought i should share with you all…. as you know worries never end…until we want them to end.

Chinta lene ka nahin dene ka, Bindaas fwd ur worries to GOD, He has plenty of time to sort things out for us.

Have you stopped ?

2008
01.22

“When every day seems the same, it is because we have stopped noticing the good things that appear in our lives ”
~ From: The Alchemist

I stopped for sometime and felt bored with my life. But then, i read this one, and it really inspired me…
I am back to my passion of loving life and making most out of it.

Have u started noticing the good things in your life ? What? No? Hey you read my blog, you can still see, breath, eat n drink, you are my friend, you can flirt…if noone around, then me, now you are smiling…you do have good things…

so ask yourself over n over, “Have i really stopped ?”

Negative Thinking

2008
01.21

While reading the monthly magazine of our Guruji, i came across a very interesting story. it did not mention the reference to any religious book, but it is educating something:

Once while roaming around, a person reached a serene and scenic region in the Himalayas. The atmosphere there was simply celestial. As the man felt tired, he lay down under the tree to take rest. That tree was the special tree named : Kalpa-Vriksha.

A thought flashed through his mind as to how nice that would have been had he got something to eat and drink. The moment he thought so, delicious foods and drinks appeared on the spot. He savoured the delicacies. Then he felt sleepy and fancied having a bed to lie on. And a bed appeared as well. After some time the cold weather of that place disturbed his sleep and he wished for a blanket. Then and there he got a blanket as well. He was very puzzled as to how it was that all his wishes were being instantly fulfilled.

He was not aware that he was sitting under a Kalpa-Vriksha. A doubt cropped up in his mind that a demon might be providing him with all those things. Plagued by suspicion and fear, he wondered as to what would happen if the demon came and devoured him. And lord! A demon came there and gobbled him up. Inspite of sitting under a Kalpa-Vriksha, that man met with an untimely death purely due to his own negative thinking.

This story may be a fiction; nevertheless it is verily true, As one thinks, so he becomes.
If we think of other’s good virtues, sooner or later we would develop those virtues. And if we contemplate on other’s vices, we would end up with those very same vices in ourselves. Therefore, they say: we must refrain from finding faults with others.

Dharma ?

2008
01.20

You are our daughter-in-law, you should get up early and do pooja in the morning/evening,
You are my son, you should sweep my ashes in Holy river Ganga,
You are my friend, you should come with me to Mosque,
You are my father and mother, it is your duty to feed me.

We all want something or the other from everyone around us, and mention it is duty / dharma.. What is dharma…:

Once upon a time, Lord Shiva was engaged in penance in the Himalayas. Maa Parvati went to Him and asked, “What is the nature of Religion or Duty? How indeed do men, not aware of the details of Religion or Duty succeed in observing them?”

Lord Shiva said, “Abstention from inflicting injury on others, truthfulness of speech, mercy towards all beings tranquility of soul restrain over the mind and the senses, and a propensity of donating to the best of one’s ablility, form the foremost duties of a householder. Abstention from sexual union with any woman other than one’s own wife, safeguarding the wealth and women committed to his care, reluctance to appropriate what does not belong to him, and abstaining from meat and liquor, are the five chief duties. Indeed, Dharma has many branches, all of which yield happy results. These are the duties for those embodied creatures who consider dharma as superior. These are the sources of merit.
~ Source: Mahabharata, Anushasanaparva, 23 to 27 verses of chapter 141

It explains all, i think…Where do i stand on the scale ?? Do my actions lead me towards it ?? well i am vegetarian, does that count… no jokes, i think i will do an assessment of my actions and share with you all…

Till then, you too watch your actions/dharma :)

As you sow so shall you reap

2008
01.19

As i said earlier, actions make you happy. Here again, I emphasis on the same concept, i have experienced it myself, it works…and i share with you, as you all are dear to me.
They rightly say ‘Give what you want in return’. If you suffer the pains of others, if you pay respect to others, seeking none for yourself; you will always be happy. One who doesn’t do good to others, who does not even think for the good of others; can never maintain his well-being for long, whether he is a recluse, householder or officer; whether he is rich or poor.
The law is that you get only what you give. Verily your words and deeds do come back to you in due course. All your utterances return to your own region, similarly what you give does come back to you. A cheater is cheated by a smarter cheat. Those who torment others find somebody to cause agony to them. Those who are happy seeing others healthy and happy, developing others’ intellect and bringing good to others are always full of bliss and beatitude.
Do you know why does a rose appear pink? Those who have studied science know that it is because out of the seven colours of the sun, the rose has reflected the pink back and absorbed the others. By reflecting pink, it is left with pink. Why does a flower appear white? It has reflected white and therefore has become white.
Why is somebody respected? Because he has been giving due respect to others, he has become respectable. Why is another insulted? Because he has insulted others. Why is somebody worried and miserable? Because he is transmitting thoughts of worry and misery to others, he is beset with such feelings. ‘I am miserable… I am worried… I have nobody to call my own…’ root out such negative thoughts from your mind. Replace them with thoughts like, ‘I belong to God; God belongs to me. The world is but a dream. O Lord! You are mine! Aren’t you?’
I request you with folded hands; please change your way of thinking and…
…Throw away These Six Sharp Swords:
1. speaking haughtily,
2. harbouring malice,
3. attachment or lack of renunciation,
4. watch your speech,
5. anger,
6. selfishness,
So, be kind enough and start giving to others what you want for yourself.

A Gift

2008
01.19

Sometimes quotes are so content, you just want to throw it on the table, for someone to pick and get inspired…

We are not powerless specks of dust
drifting around in the wind, blown by random destiny.
We are, each of us, like beautiful snowflakes unique,
and born for a specific reason and purpose.
~ Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

What you are is God’ gift to you,
what you become is your gift to GOD.

~Source : Bible

W/O Sense of Doership

2008
01.18

Oh ! there is so much to learn. I mentioned earlier, we should watch our actions. Here again, i read this beautiful story in Mahabharata which goes like this:

After the war of Mahabharata, a distressed Dhritarashtra once asked Vedavyasji, ‘O Lord! How is it that all my hundred sons have been killed and I, the blind old father, remained alive’ I have not committed so grave sins in this life as to face such an irony of fate, and I must have earned some virtues in my earlier lives to be born as a king. Then what is the cause of my terrible suffering”
Vedavyasji sat in meditation to see Dhritarashtra’s past lives and found that in his earlier lives he had been a deer, an elephant and then a king. Thereafter he came out of his samadhi and told Dhritarashtra, ‘124 years back, you were a king and had gone hunting in the jungle. You saw a deer and chased it but could not hunt it as it disappeared in the woods. Seething with rage and with a hurt ego, you set fire to the jungle which burnt down the grass and dried leaves. But in the fire some offsprings of a snake were also burnt alive and the mother was blinded. You are suffering the consequences of that action in this life. You were born blind and all your children have been killed.’

Wherever you may live, whichever job you are engaged in, first of all realize your Supreme Self. Then whatever you do will be without a sense of doership (karta) and hence will not bind you.

The Lord has made the world action-bound. Hence what one gets is only the reactions of one’s own actions.

Wherever you live, whatever actions you perform, do them without a sense of doership (karta) and they will not bind you. Otherwise, with the sense of doership (karta) prevailing in your mind, even insects killed while strolling around would constitute your actions worthy to be stored up. Whether you offer a glass of water to someone or usurp something belonging to another, all these actions are stored up. But the same actions performed without the sense of being a doer create no bondage at all.

A Free Bird

2008
01.17

Today, its a bright sunny day… you know those days of clear sky, with some white clouds (as if deliberately placed to enhance the beauty), with Sun giving warm smile, and with a soothing cold wind… just make you crave to fly as bird. A free bird.

You feel wish you could have been bird, wish you could rise high from the world, wish you could feeel the solitude, wish could understand why you are stuck in the materialistic world…

well, i do feel that…

A bird who is flying high by being indifferent to the world, who is free from self-sense and ego, pain and pleasure, who is kissing the clouds as if greeting Guru, who is singing loudly to show her crave to meet God…

o..o…o…o…o…
I am the bird of the vast expanse of the sky,
I am the continuous flow of nectar,
I am completely quiet, blissful and eternal,
I am a luminous star of bliss.

~ thats Me, the bird signing about to meet GOD

Wrinkles

2008
01.17

Recently, i got into a habit of brushing my teeth before going to bed… hey hey, that doesnt mean i was not brushing in the morning.. i do brush in morning.

Before going to bed, brushing the teeth, it just gives a fresh feel. Intially, i could not sleep as it was brushed too. but, then i got into routine.

Many things are happening recently, i got this night cream too.. so thought, since i am brushing so lets wash the face and put on the cream as well. Again my sleep got a hit. It was gone not for an hour… but for hours… :-( my husband was on a constant note for not having this fancy habit.

finally, got into routine… Today, while putting the cream, i realized that i have got wrinkles near my eyes.. :-( told my husband… He first laughed and then saw it gently himself. he took my hand in his and politely said, ‘you are old now, dont wori i will grow older with you’… and gave that winky smile…

what ? we both laughed and went to bed…

आलस्य ~ Laziness

2008
01.16

Yeah, person get trapped in the spider network of Laziness… and then the problem starts in life… you know what the main problem in human’s life is laziness,

see me, i started this year with a beautiful thought of writing the blog, about whatever i learn on day-to-day basis. I was regular initially but – ‘आलस्य ~ laziness’ i got trapped in it.

for past 3 days, i am like should i write the blog ?
How about Post Lunch ? humm, let me take a quick nap…
At 5 pm ? i think better when i have coffee…
8ish ? wow, dinner is over, lets watch ‘reba’ and then go for sleep.

where is blog ???

It was not mandatory to write but it was about keeping a promise i did to myself, a niyam (some discipline ?) – exercising on a power to keep heart and mind in control, not to be get overruled by them ?
i think, Laziness is the state where mind / heart rule you.
Well, That is my state currently. ‘I became lazy and could not write, but moving forward i will not skip it…’ is that something i should say it to myself ? for how long i should be reminding the same thing again n again ?

May be i should learn from the Ants…. those tiny creatures, who keep on climbing the wall until they reach there, without the fear of falling, getting trapped, even death … they dont know what laziness is..

If i want to play safe, i may say – May be its God’s way of testing a person whether he/she is practising the Niyam rigorously or not. and then thank God for testing me. and letting me know that i stand nowhere, still You Love me.

I rather confess here that i was lazy and will try not be the same again.

Who is dear to God

2008
01.12

Although it was saturday, a lazy morning, but not for me… i culd not sleep properly, so thought to arrange the books … and came across the Holy book : Shri Bhagwat Gita.
Just randomly opened the book, and found this beautiful shloka, (with English translation):

“He who has no ill will to any-being,
who is friendly & compassionate,
free from self-sense & egosim,
even-minded in pain & pleasure
and patient,
who is ever-content, self-controlled,
unshakeable in determination
with mind and understanding
given up to ME
- He is dear to ME.”
Source: Bhagwat Gita (Ch. XII 13-14)

It describes beautifully who is loved by God, what we should be doing to have His Love.
While reading again n again to grasp it, i questionned myself, do i do any of it to have His Love ?? I think i am just friendly and compassionate with people around me… seems like i am progressing :-) God bless me so that I can have Your Love.

Actions will make you happy

2008
01.11

During my lifespan, thought its not that long, but whatever it is. .. I came across many good people and bad people. and i have seen this trend, yeah u can say The Trend, the people who are bad , they are happier than good people. i questionned the same to my aunt, she is very patient, kind and pious lady.

She said, the bad people are happy as they have done good deeds in their last birth and could not utilize their Punya and hence they are given the same in this birth… and good people are not happy because of their deeds in their last birth….
But, if you ask both of them, u will find that Good people may not be happy with their materialistic world around them, but there are satisfied at their heart. whereas bad people pretend they are happy, actually they are not at heart.

Before coming to US, i visited one of my friend, he is good friend, but never spoke to her mom face to face.
so this was the first visit to his house and speak to family members, He introduced to his mom, before i cud say something, his mom ordered him to water the plants immediately.. i could not understand the hurry but ….
His mom and i had little general intro talk… She looked very upset, i asked her politely what happened, u look tensed, can i help ? lets talk. she started, her son is not geting married, uncle (her husband) is not getting time to look for girls for her son, another son’s is not becoming father, the age is right, relatives are making fun at them…. blah blah all household problems, she had… in b/w the talks she was abusing the maid for not cleaning properly…
a bell rang, she went to see …… the maid came to me and asked whether i need something… i said nothing and asked her how is she and suggested she should not mind whatever auntie says as she is upset.

to my shock she said, ‘ hum to badiya hein didi, thoda bukhar hai bus, yeh to inka roz ka kamm hai, tension mein rehti hein bina matlab, sab kuch hai fir bhi roti rehti hein, achcha hai humare pass itna kuch nahi hai.,..’

Speechless me pat on the maid’s back and left the place.

i thought, thought and thought, may be its their good deeds in last birth that they get all the wealth in this birth but it is primarily one’s actions that makes one happier at heart…
“Do not do unto others what you would not want them do unto you.”
Source: ‘The Golden Rule’ from Holy Bible

May be because she is not good at others, she is not getting good in return… Or May be that maid was not good in last birth, but in current birth, she is satisfied, forgetful and that is what makes her happier at heart…

I am sad

2008
01.11

I was shocked when i heard one of my good friend expired. I was stunned, she was of my age…

For the first time, I met her in UK, then we became good friends in bangalore,
we used to have lunch together, went to places. i cant forget the rides we shared at WonderLa, near bangalore.

She and a best friend came home and we ate aloo paranthas with lassi like hell…. we had so much fun. :( She was energetic, fun-loving, outgoing, shopping spree…..she used to bring life to the conversation.

Oh, those moments, make me cry.. she had to see the world yet.. God, why did u do this to her…. you would have taken me instead of her ???

For past few weeks, i have been trying to learn, practice and share various spritual lessons, but when it comes to real life… we just take a u-turn and get along with world around us. I guess, God also look for good people.

I accept here what God has done, there must be some purpose… May God bless her soul !!! thats all i can say and pray.
:-(

Life is short

2008
01.10

I was shocked when i heard one of my good friend expired. I was stunned, she was of my age… For the first time, I met her in UK, then we became good friends in bangalore, we used to have lunch together, went to places. i cant forget the rides we shared at WonderLa, near bangalore.

She and a best friend came home and we ate aloo paranthas with lassi like hell…. we had so much fun. :( She was energetic, fun-loving, outgoing, shopping spree…..she used to bring life to the conversation.

Oh, those moments, make me cry.. she had to see the world yet.. God, why did u do this to her…. you would have taken me instead of her ???

For past few weeks, i have been trying to learn, practice and share various spritual lessons, but when it comes to real life… we just take a u-turn and get along with world around us.

I guess, God also look for good people. I accept here what God has done, there must be some purpose…

May God bless her soul !!! thats all i can say and pray. :-(

Come Tomorrow

2008
01.10

NOT TODAY, it will take more time than expected, may be day after tomorrow ? (In Office, when asked for deliverable)
NOT TODAY, i cudnt get the time, I will do it tomorrow positively ? (At Home, when asked for ironning of clothes)
Oh man, i forgot the rent this month, oh know there is a 25$ late fee :-(
Oh Lord, i missed the pooja this morning. it was tuesday.

i am not talking about time management here but over all Lazy behaviour of a person. We tend to postpone things to later date/time.

we are not sure what we might be facing in the coming moments yet we plan for whole life and keep on slipping.

I read this very interesting story, which describes there is no tomorrow, whatever it is, is Today. if we know there is tomorrow then we would have taken pledge over Time.. which not different than God..can we really do that ??? i dont think so..

Once upon a time, a beggar came to Yudhistar for help, Yudistar mentioned that he is busy at the moment so beggar should come next day.
In those days, ppl used to blow bigul for announcements/events. when Bhima listen to this converasation, he started blowing Bigul. People gathered and asked what is the news.
Bhima told all that Brother Yudishtar has today taken ictory on Time. Yudistar was understood all and embarrased, called that beggar and helped him with money and clothes.

Are we so ahead of Maharaj Yudistar (who was known as DharmRaj) that we can take victory over Time..???

Sant Kabir ji has also said:
काल करे सो आज कर, आज करे सो अब
पल में परलय होएगी, बहुरि करेगा कब

Ek Omkar

2008
01.08

Ik­oaʼnkār saṯ nām karṯā purakẖ nirbẖa­o nirvair akāl mūraṯ ajūnī saibẖaʼn gur parsāḏ.
Jap.
Āḏ sacẖ jugāḏ sacẖ.
Hai bẖī sacẖ Nānak hosī bẖī sacẖ. 1
Socẖai socẖ na hova­ī jė socẖī lakẖ vār.
Cẖupai cẖup na hova­ī jė lā­ė rahā liv ṯār.
Bẖukẖi­ā bẖukẖ na uṯrī jė bannā purī­ā bẖār.
Sahas si­āṇpā lakẖ hohi ṯa ik na cẖalai nāl.
Kiv sacẖi­ārā ho­ī­ai kiv kūrhai ṯutai pāl.
Hukam rajā­ī cẖalṇā Nānak likẖi­ā nāl. 1

Source: Guru Granth Sahib, Page 1 Click here for Literal Meaning

These lines are so content. It summerizes God is One. Whatever you do, think, eat, sleep, He is untouched. then, how to come out of Maya (illusion) and be truthful to God ? it says : There is only one way to come out of the illusion is Obey His Command and walk in His way of Will.

Thanks Guruji for guiding me the path to my God!

Satya

2008
01.07

The word Satya (Truth) is derived from Sat, which means ‘being’. Nothing is or exists in reality except Truth. That is why Sat or Truth is perhaps the most important name of God. In fact it is more correct to say that Truth is God, than to say that God is Truth. But as we cannot do without a ruler or a general, such names of God as ‘King of Kings’ or ‘The Almighty’ are and will remain generally current. On deeper thinking, however, it will be realized, that Sat or Satya is the only correct and fully significant name for God.
And where there is Truth, there also is knowledge which is true. Where there is no Truth, there can be no true knowledge. That is why the word Chit or knowledge is associated with the name of God. And where there is true knowledge, there is always bliss (Ananda). There sorrow has no place. And even as Truth is eternal, so is the bliss derived from it. Hence we know God as Sat-chit-ananda, One who combines in Himself Truth, Knowledge and Bliss.

Devotion to this Truth is the sole justification for our existence. All our activities should be centered in Truth. Truth should be the very breath of our life.

Source: From Yeravda Mandir (Ashram Observances), by M. K. Gandhi

Gandhi’s Talisman

2008
01.06

After school days, this is my second glance on Gandhi’s Talisman ::

“I will give you a talisman. Whenever you are in doubt, or when the self becomes too much with you, apply the following test.
Recall the face of the poorest and the weakest man [woman] whom you may have seen, and ask yourself, if the step you contemplate is going to be of any use to him [her]. Will he [she] gain anything by it? Will it restore him [her] to a control over his [her] own life and destiny? In other words, will it lead to swaraj [freedom] for the hungry and spiritually starving millions?Then you will find your doubts and your self melt away.”

- One of the last notes left behind by Gandhiji in 1948, expressing his deepest social thought.
Source: Mahatma Gandhi [Last Phase, Vol. II (1958), P. 65].

When i read, even now while writing, i am in tears and questioning, am i doing something for those who are struggling to survive ? am i helping my motherland in any ways ? No. I am like one of those, who just sit, watch, laugh on my motherland… from far off ….in US. :-(

Satisfy yourself !

2008
01.05

Sant Eknaathji was married to a girl who was kindhearted, patient, and religious. Eknathji was very thankful to GOD that he got married to a girl who has similar thoughtprocess as sant eknathji maharaj had. He mentioned to God that “sthri ka sang nahin, satsang diya hai”

another saint, sant Tukaramji was married to a girl who was very rude, selfish, and impious. Tukaramji was very thankful to GOD that he got married to such a girl who motivates him to Vairagya and he can listen to his eternal voice. he mentioned to God that “mujhe karkasha patni de hai mera bahut bhala hua”

They both are so satisfied in their situations and very happy.

Sant Narsingh Mehta’s wife got expired and he was happy and mentioned:

भलुं थयुं भागी जंजाल सुखे भजीशुं श्री गोपाल
(mean: it was good that she died as i can now do Shri Gopal’s bhajans whole heartedly)

What a thought… one saint has favourable wife, another has unfavourable, third one just lost her wife. still they all are very very happy in their situations.

Human being should always thanks God in what he gets and stay calm and satisfied.

So, Whatever you have, thanks God for giving that, and satisy yourself.

Preparation for Death

2008
01.04

Light man, halwaii are settled, flower laces are on balconies, girls are outside shopping, kids are running around, tent wala is just shouting for space, what is this chios ?

what the hell is going around in this house ? hahah, there is a marriage of a girl – this is a scene of 15th day before the wedding day. relatives are coming in, cards are printed and distributed, blah blah…tons of to-dos.

So much of preparation of marriage, which is stay going to stay for one day, post that everyobe will cry and depart for their houses. Immediate family like, Mom n dad will also settle down in their office and household works respectively.

Have we ever thought of Death in same way ? Where is a preparation for Death ? yeah Death ?

lets say i am dying next Friday ? what have i done yet to have a peaceful death ? People say Death is not peaceful, ppl cry while leaving, why ? as they face all the bad deeds that they did throught their lifespan. they have to summarize their bad n good deeds to God.

No one looks back, Death is the only time when ppl realize if they can get more time to correct themselves. just like year end, there is a income tax return, when we look for the income tax advisor and get rid of issues. that is for one year. imagine the tax return of bad deeds for whole lifespan ?

If we start preparing for death from today then instead of fearing from it, God will come Himself to drive us till Moksha – where there is no comeback to earth :)

Offer it to GOD

2008
01.03

I have to finish work 1, work 2 , work 3 blah blah.. time is running by, we have no time for God, whenever we need Him, we visit temples. we have to go on world tour, tonite is a party in disc… list goes on…..
Time for God doesnt mean you have to block your day to temples/keep fasts/leave families and go to himalayas… sit for hours in Jap dhyan.

Time for God means just remember God whenever and whatever you do. Offer it to God every second.

The same way Gopiyan used to do, they used to say yeh makhan to kanha ke liye hai, yeh upale to kanhe ke hein, hum to kanhe ke liye pani la rahi hein ….

i still wonder how beautiful the place would have been… may be that y the Kalyug is here so that we take inspiration from Gopis and make our lives worthwhile.

Pray to GOD

2008
01.02

It doesnt matter what we pray and how we pray, if we just:

- close our eyes and put hands together
- bow our head in Temple / Pooja sthal
- do vandana (like Om namah bhagwate vasudevay for Lord Krishna)

We are heard by God, God gets happier when He see we are just doing vandana of him.
he just want us to do it whole heartedly. The moment we start our prayers where we ask for money, girlfriend, studies, job etc., our connection with God goes off.

so, remember whenever you are in temple or praying to God dont ask him what u want, he knows already what u need, just pray to him whole heartedly.

Where is Lord Krishna ?

2008
01.01

We visit temple / char dhaams to look for God. We do social service to feel the satisfaction of helping the needy. We do offerings to Cows, Dogs, Fishes… but when we are home we yell at our wives, husbands, moms, dads, sisters, brothers, whosoever comes in front. Still, we say we are religious, we want to me God. Where is God ?

The thought for the day lies here ‘Only way to meet GOD is to understand that : The God is in person you are talking to, He is between me and this keyboard, God is within us. ‘ The moment you feel that way, you will realize the world around is at peace and there is no way you can’t meet the God.

there is a perfect example, ‘Gopiyan of Gokul are always very happy as they cud see the param parmeshwar shri krishna in every thing they do, every where they see, in every one they talk to… thats y they cud see the Krishna and be with Him. ‘

another example is Meerabai. She used to sing for Lord Krishna and go mad in love for God. but ppl used to say her Mad.

Sant Shri Aasaramji Bapu says:
तुझ में राम मुझे में राम, सबमें राम समाया है,
करले जगत से प्यार ओ बन्दे कोई नहीं पराया है |

Happy New Year

2008
01.01
____________________________(New year eve in downtown rochester)
We will open the book. Its pages are blank.
We are going to put words on them ourselves.
The book is called Opportunity. its first chapter is called New Year’s day.  

Wish you all a very happy and prosperous 2008.

love
~kv

I Am Legend

2007
12.14

From the Day 1, since i watched the trailer, i was like ‘i have to see this movie….’ so finally watched Will Smith’s I AM LEGEND this Friday. It is a thriller but it chills very soon.. there are many disturbing sequences, be it post-apocalyptic New york city landscape, Sam (the dog) chasing a dear in dark for no reason, entry of Anna with his brother, their desire to go to Vermont, a survivor colony.

Though Will Smith, a lone man, a scientist, was super sexy as usual, his performance was fantabulous.

I would say, ‘I Am Legend’ was a person’s science-fiction tale with mind and a heart, a person who was a thinker, scientist and only Human Being.

Hummmm, its just a movie…with disappointing end… I hope there will be another one with some alternate ending :) will there be ?

Saat Phere

2007
11.24

Haha, I am not going to start a new Ekta kapoor’s serial here.

it is about me and manish, yeah we got married this day and celebrated the anniversary in New York city this time. it was our first visit to Times Square and in the middle of the road, Manish started…

“…. Mein tumse aur sirf tumse pyar karta hoon. meri har saans meri har dhakaan meri har pal mein sirf tum ho sirf tum….mujhe yakin hai ki mein sirf isliye janma hoon ki tumse pyar kar sakoon, aur tum sirf isliye ki ek din meri ban jao, tum meri ho…..aur tum apne dil se poochogi to yeh jaan logi ki mein sach keh raha hoon”

i was speechless, stunned …then emotional… it was one of the most romantic thing i heard from him.. though, later he told me he learnt that from Dil Chahta hai !!!

Oh Lord ! this was the best gift for the anniversary…

Shubh Deepawali !

2007
11.08

I wish everyone a happy and joyous deepawali :)
Love
~kv

My First Class

2007
09.01

Bonjour !
J’mapplle Komila ! Je suis Indienne !
Au revior !!!

Yes, these are first french blurbs i spoke first time in my first french class.

Yeah, you guessed it right, i have started learning french and today was my first class. It reminded me of my school days, when i used to be very enthuziastic about new sessions, new dress, new books, new bag (even new lunch box, water bottle)…

Today, i missed all that, but yes that enthu was still there, that passion of going back to school, and there was much more, meeting new people, speaking in altogether different language, understanding their culture, imagination…..

and the zeal continues …..

Just say YES !

2007
02.17

YES! is a POWERFUL, POSITIVE, AFFIRMING word !

Yes is magic and opens hearts – no blocks heart.
Yes improves love life – no destroys love.
Yes opens for direct communication – no ends communication
Yes opens for direct love and creates flow of love through both – recipient and source of love and YES thus creates happiness ! – no separates lovers.
Yes establishes a link of love – no cuts that link
Yes creates the flow of love needed for healing of body, heart and soul – no stops healing
Yes creates oneness – no separates
Yes creates holiness – no creates ego
Yes creates divinity – no creates destruction and disaster
Yes creates peace – no creates tension
Yes is the beginning of happy marriage – no is the end of marriage
(I found this @ Kriyayoga)

Wake up every morning saying “YES!” Repeat it, repeat it, repeat it. Flood yourself with YES. Smile and be excited when you wake up! You will feel silly or embarassed at first, but it really helps put your vibration at a positive level. Look into the mirror and say YES!

If you’re a fan of the Secret and positive thinking, you know in order to manifest, we think postive, and feel like it has already happened. So if you want to be slim ;) , say YES, I CAN DO WORK-OUT! If you want to meditiate more, say YES, I FEEL SO HAPPY WHEN I MEDITIATE, so I WILL CONTINUE THE SAME FOREVER.

By repeating yes, it will set your mood, tone and vibration for the day!

YES, HAVE A GOOD DAY.

Very True…

2007
02.15

Shaher ki es daud me daud ke karna kya hai? Jab yehi jeena hai dosto to phir marna kya hai? Paheli barish me train late hone ki fikr hai Bhul gaye bhigte hue tahelna kya hai?

Serials ke kirdaaro ka saara haal hai malum par maa ka haal puchhne ki fursat kise hai? Ab ret pe nage pao tahelte kyu nahi? 108 hai chanel phir dil bahelte kyu nahi?

Internet ki duniya ke to touch me hai, lekin pados me kon raheta hai jaante tak nahi। Mobile, Landline sab ki bharmaar hai, Lekin jigri dost tak pahuche aise taar kaha hai?

Kab dubte hue suraj ko dekha tha yaad hai? Kab jaana tha shaam ka woh banana kya hai? To Dosto Shaher ki es daud me daud ke karna kya hai Jab yahi jeena hai to phir Marna kya hai?

~ Excerpts from Munna Bhai MBBS movie

I really liked these lines, I guess we have been so busy focussing on ourselves and sometimes forget that there are other things in life which are equally important…

isn’t it ? wat do you say about it?

Blood Diamond

2007
02.09

Watched Blood diamond movie from Edward Zwick, an action thriller but it cant hide the facts that Zwick wants to teach audiences another history lesson and lecture them on political correctness.

Apparently, in one of the dialogues Zwick becomes philosphical and highlights on people and their actions.

“They are just people. Its their deed which make them Good or Bad.”

“I sometimes think, ‘Will GOD ever forgive us for what we have done to each other?’, but then i realize that GOD has left this place long time back.

I totally agree with the statement. How about you? Any views, just shoot….

My First Day – Going Public

2007
02.07

This is the first day of my Splendid Life when i am entering into The Blog World again. My first blog was somewhere in Oct’ 2004 (camella_mathew) but then i stopped. Reason, Humm.. crazy work hours, studies, client pressures, career growth, family, relations .. never ending list.

But, this birthday 29th jan o7, i thought let me study myself and see where i stand now. Well, I did not do any quantifiable assessment but listed what all i did in past 3 yrs (2003-2006) and what i should be doing. To my surprise i was just earning money, under stress, got married, travelling alot, away from family, trying to be happy in each moment of life. Whereas, on the other side of the mirror, i was living a completely different life.

It clicked to my mind: that was not the way i wanted to live.

but How do i want to live then? ‘ Live life king size ‘ isn’t it very open statement? there should be some tangible answer to the biggest question. what will be the answer then ?
- Set an example to others ? is that an answer ? or
- Financially Strong and well bonded family ? or
- The way it comes, thinking everything is predecided by GOD ? or
- …….
-………….
well, you know what? It’s 11pm, lets sleep king size.
whenever, whosoever will read this blog, i thank them and wish them the happiest life.
Keep Smiling :)