Can't stop humming it....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6LYmUTMrQI
Friday, April 17, 2009
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Quote For The Day
Today's quote...
"We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by what we have already done."
- H.W.Longfellow
"We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by what we have already done."
- H.W.Longfellow
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Silence Within And Beyond
While I ate my dinner, I got a call from India. From who? Better left unsaid.
I was happy to talk to her, since I hadn't for some time now. I'm usually happy chatting up and catching up on the happenings back home.I like her as a person. No person is bad. But, this was an experience I wanted to bring up to highlight that side of us humans that is better left unexposed :-)
After all the casual exchanges on how each one of us was doing, there is this conversation on how her recent trip to another close relative of our's was. I was happy to hear those details as well, and to know that those relatives were doing well both in health and in wealth!
Then the conversation went on about how this place in India and the homes and the schools there were 'almost' like in America, how everything else was 'almost' like in here. I was a little surprised.
Why the 'almost' factor? Not that I cared how one fared against the other. Never gave it a thought so far into the conversation, as I was busy lapping up the details of the place etc. As it was being shoved into my face, I then woke up and took notice.
I was a little embarrassed when I realized the deliberate attempt....Details about how much they now have, the great vacations they are taking, the schools they send their kids to etc. etc.
Hmmmm I thought. Why this now? I honestly, from the bottom of my heart do not care about who is doing what - if they are happy very good. If something is wrong, may good times come to them. That's all would be a thought.
Who has the time - our lives are busy as they are :-) right?
BTW, this is not an unique experience - I (and am sure you too) see it all the times. At parties, at casual meetings, at work, in a class. A very contemplated attempt to either show-off or an effort to de-value the person opposite.
I always have and will attribute it to a feeling of insecurity from within. nothing more and nothing less.
When will we emerge from this self spun web of superficial egos? When will we open our eyes to the beautiful world around us?
When will we stop and listen to the silence within and beyond us...
On how to experience that silence. Try this and trust me - this works:
Sit quietly in a silent room (even your work place is fine). Focus on your breath for about 4 minutes. Just observe your breathing. Do nothing.
Inhale the cool air and exhale the warm. Let your mind wander for a minute and then slowly begin shutting off the switches to your thoughts. Push out all the negative and keep only the positive. Happy thoughts, good thoughts!
At the end, chant the "OM" a few times ...very slowly...and stop...
Enjoy that silence after the "OM"...that is the silence we all should strive for...the eternal peace...nothing more and nothing less...
PS:please note that the OM has no religious references - it is a wonderful sound that has magical reverberations on the human mind and body. Enough reserach exists to that effect.
I was happy to talk to her, since I hadn't for some time now. I'm usually happy chatting up and catching up on the happenings back home.I like her as a person. No person is bad. But, this was an experience I wanted to bring up to highlight that side of us humans that is better left unexposed :-)
After all the casual exchanges on how each one of us was doing, there is this conversation on how her recent trip to another close relative of our's was. I was happy to hear those details as well, and to know that those relatives were doing well both in health and in wealth!
Then the conversation went on about how this place in India and the homes and the schools there were 'almost' like in America, how everything else was 'almost' like in here. I was a little surprised.
Why the 'almost' factor? Not that I cared how one fared against the other. Never gave it a thought so far into the conversation, as I was busy lapping up the details of the place etc. As it was being shoved into my face, I then woke up and took notice.
I was a little embarrassed when I realized the deliberate attempt....Details about how much they now have, the great vacations they are taking, the schools they send their kids to etc. etc.
Hmmmm I thought. Why this now? I honestly, from the bottom of my heart do not care about who is doing what - if they are happy very good. If something is wrong, may good times come to them. That's all would be a thought.
Who has the time - our lives are busy as they are :-) right?
BTW, this is not an unique experience - I (and am sure you too) see it all the times. At parties, at casual meetings, at work, in a class. A very contemplated attempt to either show-off or an effort to de-value the person opposite.
I always have and will attribute it to a feeling of insecurity from within. nothing more and nothing less.
When will we emerge from this self spun web of superficial egos? When will we open our eyes to the beautiful world around us?
When will we stop and listen to the silence within and beyond us...
On how to experience that silence. Try this and trust me - this works:
Sit quietly in a silent room (even your work place is fine). Focus on your breath for about 4 minutes. Just observe your breathing. Do nothing.
Inhale the cool air and exhale the warm. Let your mind wander for a minute and then slowly begin shutting off the switches to your thoughts. Push out all the negative and keep only the positive. Happy thoughts, good thoughts!
At the end, chant the "OM" a few times ...very slowly...and stop...
Enjoy that silence after the "OM"...that is the silence we all should strive for...the eternal peace...nothing more and nothing less...
PS:please note that the OM has no religious references - it is a wonderful sound that has magical reverberations on the human mind and body. Enough reserach exists to that effect.
The Song That Takes Over Today !!!
I'm in love with this song this morning - Wow!
It has a very soulful tune and amazing lyrics!
(turn up the volume to get the effect right and the ring in Jagjit Singh's voice)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYh0FpBbOP0
Enjoy!
It has a very soulful tune and amazing lyrics!
(turn up the volume to get the effect right and the ring in Jagjit Singh's voice)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYh0FpBbOP0
Enjoy!
Friday, April 10, 2009
It's A Great Day!
My dear readers, a very Good Morning to all of you!
I, as you can already tell probably, am very upbeat this morning! Reason??? Well, very many :-)
The primary one being that I went to my little one's school last evening for an open house where they show off the mid-year's work. Boy, I was impressed!
Everyone is proud of their offspring - it is but natural. But, I was particularly impressed with her clean, detailed, almost perfect work. It is the attitude I was impressed with! That is the only quality I aspire to imbibe in the little Me- an interest to learn, to enthuse, be a part of the present and to enhance all that we do and live for!
She shows that trait and what more could I ask for!
It is weird that when one is happy from within, how the world suddenly seems like a beautiful place! All people seem to be good and everything around you not so bitter...
I think it is this memory that we strive or should strive to remember. It is this sticky bit, this little thought that we need to live and re-live every time we feel the world will end!
This happiness could be derived from anything - the source does not matter, the goal matters. Simple - may not be so simple in practice. But, why not try it?
I wish this happiness to everyone around me today....
'Sarve Janah Sukhino Bhavantu'
I, as you can already tell probably, am very upbeat this morning! Reason??? Well, very many :-)
The primary one being that I went to my little one's school last evening for an open house where they show off the mid-year's work. Boy, I was impressed!
Everyone is proud of their offspring - it is but natural. But, I was particularly impressed with her clean, detailed, almost perfect work. It is the attitude I was impressed with! That is the only quality I aspire to imbibe in the little Me- an interest to learn, to enthuse, be a part of the present and to enhance all that we do and live for!
She shows that trait and what more could I ask for!
It is weird that when one is happy from within, how the world suddenly seems like a beautiful place! All people seem to be good and everything around you not so bitter...
I think it is this memory that we strive or should strive to remember. It is this sticky bit, this little thought that we need to live and re-live every time we feel the world will end!
This happiness could be derived from anything - the source does not matter, the goal matters. Simple - may not be so simple in practice. But, why not try it?
I wish this happiness to everyone around me today....
'Sarve Janah Sukhino Bhavantu'
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Why Tip?
I went out to lunch with a couple of my girl friends this afternoon to celebrate her birthday, and of course when the meal ended came the check as expected.
And again per the norm, was the section for the tip. We payed our dues and got out!
But, I always wonder these days on why should we tip? May seem like a lopsided question to some of my readers, but this is genuine. What are they doing for us that is out of their way? Isn't service a part of the whole experience that is offered with the meal?
In these economic times, I find it a little difficult to believe that there are still expectations on tipping!
In times where bonuses and salary raises for the normal worker bees are on the decline if not chopped off already - talk about places where they are being even reduced!
Maybe just one of those things you accept as you flow along with life - will figure out some day. Right now, I'm happy - enjoyed the lunch!
And again per the norm, was the section for the tip. We payed our dues and got out!
But, I always wonder these days on why should we tip? May seem like a lopsided question to some of my readers, but this is genuine. What are they doing for us that is out of their way? Isn't service a part of the whole experience that is offered with the meal?
In these economic times, I find it a little difficult to believe that there are still expectations on tipping!
In times where bonuses and salary raises for the normal worker bees are on the decline if not chopped off already - talk about places where they are being even reduced!
Maybe just one of those things you accept as you flow along with life - will figure out some day. Right now, I'm happy - enjoyed the lunch!
Monday, April 6, 2009
25 Random Things About Me!
Played this tag game with a group of buddies - pasting it here for my other extended family of readers.
Pick up a piece of paper and write at least 10 random things about yourself. It is pretty self-introspective!
Want to know Me? Here is a little of Me...
1.I like to keep things simple and straight - it's a different story that they usually turn out otherwise!
2.I dream of publishing a book of short stories some day. I think it's all about sitting down and getting started on it. A memoir one day maybe - my life has a lot of interesting twists and turns - enough to keep my reader occupied :-)
3.Children and good food are something I can't resist :-)
4.I like to believe in the positive things around me - the good side of people, right attitude, love cures everything, truth prevails kinda stuff. Not because I'm in denial, or unrealistic. I know the ugly face of this world - have been there and seen some. But, this is a conscious effort and suits me - helps me being happy when I see this side of everything!
5.Tall/Dark/Handsome with a dash of good humor is my bill of a perfect male ;-)
6.I love to see new places without flying - and am a pack rat when I travel
7.I'm my dad's princess - even today :-)
8.I hate frivolous behaviour by anyone at any age. I take things seriously. Usually :-) Maybe that's a problem?
9.A rainy day, a good cup of coffee, a good book, a blanket, a seat by the window where I can see and hear the rain, good food, hugs from my little one, topped with a good Bollywood movie is my idea of a perfect weekend!
10.I have no special regard for money - I know it is essential to live that's all. I don't believe in chasing it.
11.The theme song "Ek Hasina Thi..." and the instrumental high notes in that song from the movie "Karz" (older version) could get me into a great mood any day!
12.I like people in general and like to believe that they are all good. Cynical at times too :-)
I've also been manipulated by people for trusting them blindly- I can't hate people in the end - my weakness? Maybe...
13.I can't stop myself from suffering along with anyone who shares their problems/bad times with me. And, I wish with all my heart that I could magically turn it around for them to be happy again.
14.I'm not easily influenced - I play along and may give the impression otherwise, but I mostly rely on my own judgement.
15.I expect nothing but a little affection from people around me
16.I get lost in the beauty of Nature! Forests, mountains and all that is green is a fav. Water particularly excites me. Possibly 'coz I'm a Cancerian!
17.I cry when I hear patriotic songs - when I'm by myself :-) That said, I have very rarely cried in front of people though - don't believe in showing my tears to anyone who isn't special to me.
18.I believe in a greater force that will always take care of you and do justice in the end.
19.Love music, drawing. Also love handicrafts, organic food, re-cycling, free spirited laughter, moonlight and sweets :-)
20.Love to read - can read anything. Fiction/ books on human relationships and psychology have a greater appeal! Philosophy in general - books or discussion interests, excites and intrigues me!
21.I'm sensitive to fake accents, false ideals, hypocrisy and double standards.
22.Political moves and strategies - between people, both around me and around the world intrigue and amuse me! I enjoy making patterns out of them and try to predict the next moves!
23.Believe in the positive force at all times!
24.Am not guilty of anything - so far. I believe in honesty - even among thieves!I've always done and even uttered things that I truly believed in. I hate liars.
25.Wish the world to be rid of all the problems - hunger, poverty, illnesses, wars, greed, power struggles, and everything else that makes it unsecure for the future generations to come! Wishful thinking maybe - but doesn't hurt to dream :-)
Pick up a piece of paper and write at least 10 random things about yourself. It is pretty self-introspective!
Want to know Me? Here is a little of Me...
1.I like to keep things simple and straight - it's a different story that they usually turn out otherwise!
2.I dream of publishing a book of short stories some day. I think it's all about sitting down and getting started on it. A memoir one day maybe - my life has a lot of interesting twists and turns - enough to keep my reader occupied :-)
3.Children and good food are something I can't resist :-)
4.I like to believe in the positive things around me - the good side of people, right attitude, love cures everything, truth prevails kinda stuff. Not because I'm in denial, or unrealistic. I know the ugly face of this world - have been there and seen some. But, this is a conscious effort and suits me - helps me being happy when I see this side of everything!
5.Tall/Dark/Handsome with a dash of good humor is my bill of a perfect male ;-)
6.I love to see new places without flying - and am a pack rat when I travel
7.I'm my dad's princess - even today :-)
8.I hate frivolous behaviour by anyone at any age. I take things seriously. Usually :-) Maybe that's a problem?
9.A rainy day, a good cup of coffee, a good book, a blanket, a seat by the window where I can see and hear the rain, good food, hugs from my little one, topped with a good Bollywood movie is my idea of a perfect weekend!
10.I have no special regard for money - I know it is essential to live that's all. I don't believe in chasing it.
11.The theme song "Ek Hasina Thi..." and the instrumental high notes in that song from the movie "Karz" (older version) could get me into a great mood any day!
12.I like people in general and like to believe that they are all good. Cynical at times too :-)
I've also been manipulated by people for trusting them blindly- I can't hate people in the end - my weakness? Maybe...
13.I can't stop myself from suffering along with anyone who shares their problems/bad times with me. And, I wish with all my heart that I could magically turn it around for them to be happy again.
14.I'm not easily influenced - I play along and may give the impression otherwise, but I mostly rely on my own judgement.
15.I expect nothing but a little affection from people around me
16.I get lost in the beauty of Nature! Forests, mountains and all that is green is a fav. Water particularly excites me. Possibly 'coz I'm a Cancerian!
17.I cry when I hear patriotic songs - when I'm by myself :-) That said, I have very rarely cried in front of people though - don't believe in showing my tears to anyone who isn't special to me.
18.I believe in a greater force that will always take care of you and do justice in the end.
19.Love music, drawing. Also love handicrafts, organic food, re-cycling, free spirited laughter, moonlight and sweets :-)
20.Love to read - can read anything. Fiction/ books on human relationships and psychology have a greater appeal! Philosophy in general - books or discussion interests, excites and intrigues me!
21.I'm sensitive to fake accents, false ideals, hypocrisy and double standards.
22.Political moves and strategies - between people, both around me and around the world intrigue and amuse me! I enjoy making patterns out of them and try to predict the next moves!
23.Believe in the positive force at all times!
24.Am not guilty of anything - so far. I believe in honesty - even among thieves!I've always done and even uttered things that I truly believed in. I hate liars.
25.Wish the world to be rid of all the problems - hunger, poverty, illnesses, wars, greed, power struggles, and everything else that makes it unsecure for the future generations to come! Wishful thinking maybe - but doesn't hurt to dream :-)
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Those Monster Trucks
Every morning when I merge onto the freeway I meet those monsters...right in my way, right in every one's way. Big and looming - threatening to engulf the little cars including me and my own.
And every morning I think why can't these monster trucks be kept off the freeways at least till the end of those morning peak hours?
They make their own rules, they decide their own lanes, and they swing dangerously into any lane of their wish.
Ah! give us some space and let us breathe ...
Wish they were literate (to read this!) ...ha! I got them there - yeah?
And every morning I think why can't these monster trucks be kept off the freeways at least till the end of those morning peak hours?
They make their own rules, they decide their own lanes, and they swing dangerously into any lane of their wish.
Ah! give us some space and let us breathe ...
Wish they were literate (to read this!) ...ha! I got them there - yeah?
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
What If You Were Me?
If you were me
What would you do on this beautiful sunny morning?
If you were me
What would you dress up to be this morning?
If you were me
What would you smile at?
If you were me
What would you dream about?
If you were me
What would you finish that was in your task list this morning?
If you were me
Who would you give your special hugs to this morning?
If you were me
What would your random thoughts be about this morning?
If you were me
What would you do with that little tear drop threatening to drop down any minute?
What if you were really me...?
What would you do on this beautiful sunny morning?
If you were me
What would you dress up to be this morning?
If you were me
What would you smile at?
If you were me
What would you dream about?
If you were me
What would you finish that was in your task list this morning?
If you were me
Who would you give your special hugs to this morning?
If you were me
What would your random thoughts be about this morning?
If you were me
What would you do with that little tear drop threatening to drop down any minute?
What if you were really me...?
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Where were U?
Ah! Feels good to be back on home turf...
I recently met a friend at a friend's son's party and she said "what happened, you don't post anymore?" I started out saying yeah no time etc. But, at the end of it I realized that there are people spending those few minutes reading what I write :-)
I'm honored.
The same sentiment got echoed by two other mails asking me why I was slacking...
So, here it is! my first post after I return from my hibernation! a small little dedication to my readers...this song is for you:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPDWl5SijSQ&feature=related
I recently met a friend at a friend's son's party and she said "what happened, you don't post anymore?" I started out saying yeah no time etc. But, at the end of it I realized that there are people spending those few minutes reading what I write :-)
I'm honored.
The same sentiment got echoed by two other mails asking me why I was slacking...
So, here it is! my first post after I return from my hibernation! a small little dedication to my readers...this song is for you:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPDWl5SijSQ&feature=related
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Sunday, March 1, 2009
What Are These?
The rain on the pane
The howling wind
The afternoon that is engulfed by the darkness
A song caught in my heart
A thought bold enough to take shape
A thought afraid to breathe life
Some words being transient
Silence being eternal
Love and hatred that co-exist in the same space
Anger and kindness that take turns to ebb and flow
The fragrance of familiarity
The sounds of nostalgia
Memories vivid with colors
Nightmares painted with the same
A state caught between sanity and insanity
An effort founded on strength
A final push at life with everything at stake
An existence unsure
A wish to let go
A wish to let live
A wish to vanish...
What am I to do with these?
Where do I hide them? What do I mask them as?
Will that be the Truth or a Lie?
The howling wind
The afternoon that is engulfed by the darkness
A song caught in my heart
A thought bold enough to take shape
A thought afraid to breathe life
Some words being transient
Silence being eternal
Love and hatred that co-exist in the same space
Anger and kindness that take turns to ebb and flow
The fragrance of familiarity
The sounds of nostalgia
Memories vivid with colors
Nightmares painted with the same
A state caught between sanity and insanity
An effort founded on strength
A final push at life with everything at stake
An existence unsure
A wish to let go
A wish to let live
A wish to vanish...
What am I to do with these?
Where do I hide them? What do I mask them as?
Will that be the Truth or a Lie?
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