Miracles and men

This morning, my husband and I were meditating on Matthew 8. This passage chronicles a series of miracles where Jesus heals many sick people and even brings a little girl back from the jaws of death.

At the end of the reading, my husband shared an interesting insight that I felt I needed to share with all of you. He said, “All these miracles are initiated by man and finished by God.”

I realized, yes, of course! It’s when we ask, when we exercise our faith that we open up divine channels of healing from God’s throne on to the earth.

May God bless you as you initiate and open up channels of blessings on earth!

A beautiful milestone

My life will never be the same again for last month I gave my life to another. I vowed before God, family and other witnesses to be a wife to a man of sterling character and immense worth. My husband, (I’m getting used to this!) is a physiotherapist. We met at church. And then we became friends. Soon, we were being gently coaxed into that moment where one recognizes with astonishing clarity that we were destined for one another.

Our courtship was a magical time – it lasted a swift year and eight months at the end of which we were married. We are happily married now. It’s been three weeks into marital bliss and I find myself amazed at how beautifully God has designed this institution called marriage.

I can’t think of any other covenant relationship that has as much spiritual significance as marriage.

It’s wonderful!

A happily married wife.

Picture credit: Titanium Wedding Rings

All in a day’s work

As social beings empowered with the ability to think and speak, we have an enormous responsibility to the people around us. Each day we open up or close down cycles – some that are vicious and some very good. A kind word results in a cycle of goodness that could end in several lives being cheered up before the day is done. Similarly, a harsh word can spawn a series of rash acts and unkindness in the lives of people already harried with daily cares. And yet, it takes one kind soul, an alert mind to call a halt to that negativism and turn it into a cycle of warmth and caring.

So what happy cycle did you start today?

Picture credit: en.easyart.com

The well that never dried

Dad has always been sentimental about our home and we’re all, of course, very proud of our home. Dad loves it because he was the only one among his siblings to build a home on ancestral land. He has always felt that there are special blessings because of that.

Until a few years ago, I would just smile politely and never quite understood the depth of my father’s belief. However, during a prolonged drought a few years ago, I knew what it meant.

Our little village is ensconced on the slope of a huge hill. The homes are surrounded by vast, green stretches of rubber trees and palms. The serene green surroundings are refreshing to the mind. Yet, there came a time in this haven when water became scarce.

First the ponds dried up, then the wells dried up. Soon piped water began to be rationed out. The rationing became scarcer and dad realized our well though deeper than usual, had plenty of water. Soon neighbors flocked in for the water, then their neighbors.

And the well had only more to give. I remember expressing a concern about too many people emptying the well, when my dad gave me a classic response – the more water you draw out, the more the well fills up.

Now was there an all-important principle there on giving. Of course, that changed my life! Our little neighborhood had enough water until the skies darkened with rain again.

Ever since, our well has become legendary and I have learnt something very valuable not just about giving but also about being in our parents’ blessing.

Picture credit: keepers-of-the-well.org

My beautiful Home

My Home is full of treasures. The treasures are not so much things as memories. I remember the first time I stayed at Home. The floor was not so smooth. The walls were bare. Electrical fittings were just the bare minimum. It was more of a shell than a home but the rooms resounded with happiness - laughter, playful antics, birds chirping, delicious aromas from mama’s kitchen – the list goes on.

After a day packed with vacation work, I lay down to discover dancing moonbeams on my bed. I got up to find out how they had found their way into my room, as it was the very first time that I had to share my bed with moonbeams. The light summer breeze invited me to participate in their secret dance under the silvery lights of the skies. The stars were plentiful. Tall, majestic trees shadowed all sources of human lights. In the magical light of the night, I saw the undulating hills stretching and rolling over the land as far as I could see.

It was a truly captivating moment. My heart was bursting at its seams with a rare kind of joy. It was then that my Home, incomplete as it was, became the warm nest of my dreams. Now I know why I love going back Home, again and again – it's where my heart is.

Picture credit: allposters.com

My four-legged friend at home

I went home after 6 months. That’s a long time considering I used to be a regular at home every four weeks. Home is a beautiful place surrounded by tall rubber trees where the sun plays peek-a-boo with terra firma. Besides mom, dad, wonderful memories of life, love and laughter, Home is also the abode of a golden beauty called Nancy, a German Shepherd mix. Her gold fur (well, almost!) is punctuated with white on the tips of her paws and her tail. (Which is why I suggested calling her Tipsy and mom was not too excited with the name.) She’s just 8 months old now and I can watch her lively puppy antics forever! Of course, she’s added a lot of color to my parents’ life.

I’ve always been the one with a soft heart for animals. So when she goes through a disciplining session with dad or my brother, I’m eagerly looking for a way to rescue her.

Her eyes are beautiful. When she smiles, my heart sings. To everyone’s happiness, she’s growing up fast, which means she’s already as tall as I am when she stands on her hind legs.

She loves to stand tall and kiss my nose. Of course, she expects a hug in return or I pay for my absent-mindedness with a sharp nip from her.

She’s beautiful, inside-out and I’m so grateful that I share my life with her.

Thanks, Nan.

Picture credit: Amarillospca.org

Home sweet home

What is it about home and family that makes me smile? Why do I feel I can be just me when I’m at home? What secret ingredients are parents made of? What do they do to their voices to get that one special tone can make you feel loved and complete? What exclusive spices does mom use to communicate her love through her cooking? What is it about dad’s assurances that make you feel you can conquer every circumstance in this world? Why does my bro’s bear hug tinged with after-shave linger on even when he’s no longer there?

I don’t have answers to these questions. But, I sure am glad, that there is such an entity as family, created in the eternal wisdom of God.

Picture credit: mnartists.org

Life’s little insights

Each day we are touched by several tiny bubbles, bubbles of insights. Bubbles that float unhindered, unarmed and freely. Some of these bubbles rest on us in unexpected ways. Sometimes they come to us in the smile of a stranger, a bird song on a sunny day, a warm touch from our mother, a gentle tugging of our clothes by a toddler, an unexpected nuzzle from a pet. They warm our hearts and leave an unspoken message only for us to hear. That’s why I had to begin another blog that's dedicated to those messages called Life's Little Insights.

Happy reading!

Picture credit: www.celebratelove.com

Crossing over …

Each of us has significant moments of ‘crossing over’ in our life. It may be significant milestones like crossing over from darkness to light, death to life or life changing moments like insufficiency to plenty or from complaining to contentment. No matter what the crossover entails, the crossing over is usually a difficult process.

There may be times when we are called to cross the Jordan and the water threatens to rise above our heads. We wonder what went wrong. After all, God asked us to cross over. And yet, just when we think we can’t go on or want to turn back, our faithful Father reaches out in love and helps us cross over in His strength. I’ve been going through some crossover moments in my life and just when I thought I could not handle it any more, His warm embrace enveloped me and placed me safely on the other side - warm, dry and triumphant.

Rest assured, my friend. The clouds may be uncertain and the assurance of help, bleak but there is One who is unchanging in His love for you. He will see you through!

Picture credit: Hudsonphoto.com

Be a lamb

Are you a cat, a dog or a lamb?

With all due respect to everyone who reads this blog – I’m NOT calling anyone names. But this thought was sparked off by a friend’s blog on kittens. That’s when I remembered a folk saying:

“Corner a dog, he’ll whimper and cower; corner a cat, he’ll hiss and spit at you.”

I began to think: how do we respond to the tough times of our lives when we feel cornered? Do we sink into a morass of self-pity, or fight for our lives or do we mirror the Lamb who was spat upon, reviled and yet, won the world’s appreciation in His silent strength?

Take heart, my friend. The battle is not about what’s happening around you; it’s about what’s happening inside you.

God bless as you discover the source of your strength.

Picture credit: Morehousefarm.com

A masterpiece in the making

Often we find ourselves caught in the middle of a storm and clueless as to where it came from and wondering about questions like why, where, what and how. But there’s been one thing that’s been holding me steady though the turbulent waters of life – the realization that my life is like a rich tapestry. Sometimes, the Grand Weaver weaves patterns that are incomprehensible and at times, painful. However, it still remains a tapestry. A few pattern changes here and there, a little snipping off, a little trimming are all means employed to enhance the beauty of the tapestry. And why not, after all we are not ordinary. We are ALL destined to become masterpieces in His hands.

Be blessed, my friends. Even if you cannot see it, rest assured. You are a masterpiece in the making.

Picture credit: www.homarugs.net

From mourning to hope

On 26th April 2006, the world remembered those who had fallen victim to the world’s worst nuclear disaster. The pain of the terrible tragedy and the seared memories are the stark realities of those who were spared. However, what grabs my attention in this news snippet is a powerful statement pronounced by the Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko.

"Chernobyl," he declared, "must not be a mourning place. It must become a place of hope."

It was here I found something for all of us.

Our mourning must be replaced with hope – for that is the essence of life. And there is no other way to live either.

Yes, pain is a part of life but, remember, hope is an even greater part of life.

And He who watches over you has promised:

… I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. Jeremiah 31:13

God bless.

Picture credit: CNN.com

Be my anchor

When my heart is weary,
When rocky shores threaten my dreams
When raging waters splash over me
Lord, be my anchor, my refuge in the storm.

Be my anchor, be my refuge.
When I fail to see in the driving rain,
Open my eyes to see you.
Be my anchor, be my refuge.
When all around me is fearsome and gray,
Open my eyes to see you.

When worries spin around me
When the cares of life surge high around,
When I’m tossed in the open sea,
Lord, be my anchor, my refuge in the storm.

Picture credit: www.ans-graphics.com

Dream on …

Just the other day I caught myself thinking of a grandiose future – mountains to conquer, rivers to cross and basically, being successful. Of course, all of them seemed virtually impossible to even comprehend at this time. I was about to tell myself “What ever are you doing, thinking like this?” when another thought popped in. That little thought said, “Well, it’s just a dream. And anyway if we did not have a dream to dream, a hope to look forward to, we would just remain where we are.” That’s when I began to rewind my memory files and go through the lives of some wonderful people I had read about or knew. All of them dreamed dreams bigger than their circumstances, all of them held on to hope when their horizon seemed bleak. Then I could not help the smile that broke out on my face. Yes, that’s what life is all about! Celebrating the good and the positive. It is that which gives us the strength to live, and live very well, a life that can sometimes be dark, unfair and incomprehensible.

So, my dear friend, dream on … And I pray that you will find hope, love and above all the strength to take life head on.

Picture credit: http://edcommunity.apple.com/

Everyday is special!

Last night we had rain after several days of sweltering heat. In the magic of the moment when I stood on my balcony to wonder at this out-of-season rain and enjoy the refreshing breeze, I was hit by a sudden thought. I realized that somewhere down the line my life had ceased to be ordinary. It had become increasingly peppered with too many happy coincidences, pleasant surprises and exhilarating moments. They all just happened. And I thought I was living an ordinary life. A spotted dove on my windowsill, the morning mist, a radiant sunset, a moonbeam on my bed, a warm hug, a loving phone call, a surprise gift, a sunny smile, a compliment, a rich red rose – I can go on and on about a zillion things, small and big, that made everyday special.

So I had to come to the conclusion that I live an extraordinary life! And of course, there’s a HUGE smile on my face. You would have one too, if everyday were special or you made it so.

Picture credit: http://photo1.dukenews.duke.edu/

And then He arose from the dead!

Matthew 28:7 (NIV)
Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."

Mark 16:6 (NIV)
"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him.

Mark 16:14 (NIV)
Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.

Happy Easter!

Picture credit: www.realmagazine.com

The essence of the Holy Week

Isaiah 53: 3 – 5

King James Version

He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

New International Version

He was despised and rejected by men,
a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering.
Like one from whom men hide their faces
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
Surely he took up our infirmities
and carried our sorrows,
yet we considered him stricken by God,
smitten by him, and afflicted.
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed.

The Message

He was looked down on and passed over,
a man who suffered, who knew pain firsthand.
One look at him and people turned away.
We looked down on him, thought he was scum.
But the fact is, it was our pains he carried--
our disfigurements, all the things wrong with us.
We thought he brought it on himself,
that God was punishing him for his own failures.
But it was our sins that did that to him,
that ripped and tore and crushed him--our sins!
He took the punishment, and that made us whole.
Through his bruises we get healed.

Amplified Bible

He was despised and rejected and forsaken by men, a Man of sorrows and pains, and acquainted with grief and sickness; and like One from Whom men hide their faces He was despised, and we did not appreciate His worth or have any esteem for Him.
Surely He has borne our griefs (sicknesses, weaknesses, and distresses) and carried our sorrows and pains [of punishment], yet we [ignorantly] considered Him stricken, smitten, and afflicted by God [as if with leprosy].
But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our guilt and iniquities; the chastisement [needful to obtain] peace and well-being for us was upon Him, and with the stripes [that wounded] Him we are healed and made whole.

God bless!

Picture credit: www.gospeltoall.com

The twists and turns of life

“Sometimes, taking the path that twists and turns yields the best result.”

I’ve lately been picking up quotes. However, I found the quote above as an interesting introduction to an article on painting Easter eggs! If you’re wondering what the connection is – it talks about marbleized eggs. The kind where streaks of colors whirl and twirl to create unique patterns.

Well, that’s what they were talking about but what intrigued me was the nugget of wisdom hidden in that innocuous statement. Isn’t that what happens to most of us? With each storm, each moment of pain, every instance of despair, we just become more like who we’re supposed to be. Of course, it’s hard to understand while we’re walking through fire, but when we look back we see, oh so clearly - the road that twists and turns is often followed by a strength that’s rare and a character that’s beautiful within and without.

Picture credit: www.albertsart.com

Eagles again!

I chanced upon this devotional reading for today by Anabel Gillham and here’s what she shared about eagles:

“Did you know that eagles can fly 6000' above the earth's surface and stay there for some time? The eagle that soars in the upper air does not need to worry about how to cross rivers or climb mountains! Isn't that beautiful? No bird is so solitary as the eagle. Eagles never fly in flocks, as geese do, one or at most two ever being seen at once. And here's another amazing fact: The eagle will sit on a crag and watch the sky as it fills with blackness, and the forked lightnings are playing up and down, and he sits perfectly still, turning one eye and then the other toward the storm. But he never moves until he feels the burst of the wind and knows the storm has struck him, then with a scream, he swings his breast into the tempest, and uses the storm to go up into the sky – borne on the torrential winds."

Read the rest of it here.

There sure is a lot to learn about eagles. And, my day is made!:-)

Dogs vs ducks

Since the beginning of time, a war for control of the planet Earth has been fought by two worthy adversaries. It is a war so secret that it could be happening in your very own living room!

So goes the introduction to a fantastic movie on the longest war in the history of this planet. When I first heard this little speech on the movie trailer for Cats and Dogs, I just laughed to myself. Surely, it can’t be that bad! But I was soon proved wrong. There is an inter species war out there that’s very much alive and happening right under our noses.

How was I enlightened? Thanks, to the dog versus duck battle happening at home.

Combatant 1: Nancy, a Labrador mix, 3 months old, happy, bubbling with energy. She loves shoes, my dad’s trousers and toppling my mom over.

Combatant 2: Donnie, an ornamental duck, recently lost her mate. Has a severe identity crisis – thinks she’s a dog. Prefers eating from her rival’s bowl. Loves to be cuddled. Must bathe when her rival’s being bathed.

But they’ve made a world of difference in my parents’ lives. They’ve made my parents laugh, run after them and discover that dogs and ducks are an unmatched combination.

The silent parallel

I’ve always been fascinated by nature. I’m awed by the diverse, complex and yet, efficient machinery that chugs along silently (except for the birds singing and some frogs showing off) while all of humankind bustles around in search of a better tomorrow. And unlike our fast-paced lives, there’s no noise, no smoke, no pollution. Nature lives on too while what we know as civilization moves on although with a lot of conflict. I wonder if we will be able to live in harmony with nature. Or has it become too late?

Thank God, for those moments of quiet and peace that are still available for those who seek.

When a clock makes me smile

I’ve been an owl for most part of my life. No, I’ve not sprung feathers or learnt to hoot (not yet!) but I love staying up late at night.

It began when I woke up to my innate love for reading. Sleep was inconsequential and finishing a book was all that mattered. Then I entered college. The sheer amount of assignments, class tests, surprise tests and not to forget, the competition, launched me formally into the Senior Owls Club.

And now, of course, being in love hardly helps. When there’s so much to talk and so little time, you have to resort to phone calls that last into the night. So, I find myself unable to go to bed before I say hello to the next day in the wee hours. Naturally, waking up is a struggle.

That’s why this little find put a smile on my face. It’s a clock that does not allow you to silence it. I don’t quite know if I’m up to playing hide ‘n seek with a furry clock first thing in the morning but I think it might help me appreciate more of the morning!

Thanks Gauri! Great idea!

When it’s hard to love …

One of my deepest desires has been to have the kind of love that God has – all-encompassing, not prejudiced and unspoiled by human expectations. It’s near-impossible (not impossible) but I’ve been trying in my own little ways to ensure that there are fewer people I dislike. And that’s why this important lesson that I learnt recently, makes a world of difference.

I had been having some tough times with an erstwhile friend who had gone all out to betray me. I told myself that I would simply cut her out of my life. And yet, deep down, I knew it was wrong. And one day, I asked God for help. I knew I had tried my best but there were no results.

It was amazing! Within just a week of praying about it, I found that I was able to relate to her. In fact, I met her recently and we had a great time. This would have been impossible a week ago! Gone were those feelings of anger, betrayal and helplessness. I know I have been healed supernaturally. Of course, I feel as light as a cloud and as chirpy as a bird in spring.

Lesson 1: Take it to the Lord!
Lesson 2: It’s not worth holding on to negativity when you can find freedom by just asking.
Lesson 3: God cares about these little things too! (Don’t forget, He sees a sparrow fall!)

Soaring like eagles

Recently I was asked by a kindly blogger acquaintance for my profile. So I got working on it. While filling up my profile, the image of an eagle seemed to soar high on my mind. That’s when I remembered a childhood love of mine – eagles. I remember lying on our lawn with the magic of the cool grass, a brilliant blue sky and a solitary eagle. I could watch eagles for hours. I was and still am fascinated with the way it soars, glides and swoops. Nary a flap or mindless fluttering. They just soar taking advantage of the currents. Maybe it’s just a bird, but there’s something singularly exclusive about an eagle.

And that’s one of the reasons why I love that verse (Isaiah 40:31) that says,

“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

What a powerful imagery of God’s love!

The love test

One day at Sunday School, we were given an exercise that is still so very vivid and relevant to me. We were studying the passage of love – 1 Corinthians 13:4 – 7.

Here’s how it I split it up:

- Love is patient.
- Love is kind.
- Love does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
- Love is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
- Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
- Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

And we were asked to replace the word love with our own names.
Oh no! My name would not fit.

It still remains a challenge after so many years. Yet, every once in a while, I do this ‘love test’ to gauge how far I’ve come.

Why do I love God?

I’ve always had a relationship with God for as long as I can remember. At first, He was the God of my parents. In my teens He became a very real part of my life and I learnt to talk to him because I wanted to talk to him and not because I wanted to pray. It was a smooth journey until a couple of days ago, this little voice rose up and asked me an important question – why do I love God?

Is it because He’s been part of my life since I was a baby? Or is it because He does nice things for me? Both the questions make me feel selfish. Is it possible to love God just the way I love anybody else – my family, fiancé and friends. That’s unconditional (to a large extent, I think.) I love them irrespective of whether they do things for me. But is it the same with God? Why do I have a relationship with Him? Well, that’s a lot to ponder on for the weekend.

Finally … Day 3

The day dawned beautifully again – like the other two days. On my way to work, I decided to fill up some petrol. The attendants were sloppy and there was a queue. Finally, when my turn came, the attendant directed me to come forward without paying attention to the soon-to-be-noticed fact that somebody’s toes were in the way. And so, I ran my rear tires on this poor guy’s toes. I was mortified. Fortunately, there had been no damage but the guy just yelled his head off! Naturally. He screamed at me, the attendant and the traffic department. Maybe some others too but I was just too embarrassed to pay attention. Soon I realized the apologies were only carried away by the wind and none had rested on him. I left the bunk after filling up. But those 10 minutes had been enough. I was suddenly gripped with an unreasonable fear. I had been in some kind of cocoon for over a year and I felt as though the protective covering had been ripped off. I felt vulnerable to the elements. It was not a nice feeling at all. I reached office in a daze and took some time to calm down. I got started with my day so I would not have to face the turbulence within me. Well, that was that. I had to take some quick decisions:

- I could not and would not succumb to the irrational fear of circumstances.
- Accidents are accidents and they do happen.
- People do yell at others in public but that’s because they (think they) have a reason to.

All in all, I did not have convincing reasons to give up anything – my driving or my life alone(away from my parents). I’ve decided to file away the past three days as experiences.

Well, that’s that. The days have been sweeter since then. I take less for granted. Yes, sometimes I feel that little thought popping up now and then trying to condemn me for having left the tap open, not double-checking about the bill payment or even trusting the petrol bunk attendant to direct me. But I’m learning to stomp that down and live free. Free from those little fears and worries that nibble away at our everyday happiness.

The anchor holds!

My boat’s getting rocked! Day 2

The day dawned beautifully as it had been declared a holiday and we were going out on an office treat, a lunch and a movie, to celebrate a successful launch. True to the morning’s promise, the day was beautiful.

As I was chatting with my friends late in the evening, I had a call from one of my neighbors. I had left a tap open and now water was flowing out from under my door and onto the stairway and therefore, they had had to shut off water supply to the entire block! I was mortified. I remembered that when I had left home, there had been no water supply, so I might have left a tap open, inadvertently. I rushed back home and apologized to my neighbors for the inconvenience caused. They were all kind in their response. Though I was smiling on the outside, I was mentally simply kicking myself. I felt so stupid. After a year of being the ideal resident, I felt so foolish. But again, all had not been lost. There were small mercies here too!

- Thank goodness the water supply was restored only late afternoon and therefore, the call had come through only in the evening. (My day might have been ruined.)
- I spoke to neighbors who I had never seen before. And now I have new faces to smile at.
- The water had not destroyed anything at home.
- None of my neighbors were rude or blamed me.

I arrived at a conclusion: No matter how perfect and proper I try to be, accidents do happen. And it was an accident. I was touched when an elderly neighbor gently put her arm on my shoulder and said, “That’s okay. We all forget at times.” Thank you ma’am. You have no idea what those words meant to me that day.

My boat’s getting rocked! Day 1

Have you ever had a string of embarrassing moments, moments when you feel a little lonely and moments of utter helplessness? Well, I had times like that last week – three days at a stretch! Here’s my account of Day 1.

Monday, I headed back home after a long day at work only to find my apartment complex cloaked in darkness. There had been a power cut. Then at the entrance, I was stopped by one of the security guys who informed me that the Electricity Board guys had come to disconnect my power as I had not paid my bill for the month. I was stumped for I knew I had paid my bill. My day could not have turned worse. An unexpected delay at work, followed by a power cut and topped off with this news. However, the apartment admin had intervened and therefore, I was not left in the dark.

Now here’s where it gets interesting. Just before leaving office, I had cleaned out my ATM to do some shopping. So naturally, I was not sure if I had enough to pay my bill because I did not know how much I had to pay, fine included. I headed back to my office to pick up my EB Card so that the bill could be paid the next day. I also decided to check if by some miracle there would be money in my account. The chances were slim as I was not sure if my salary had been credited into my account. Anyways, I did and guess what! There was money there!

Now I could have just dismissed it as a stroke of luck working in tandem with the undeniable phenomenon of coincidences. However, only when I got to office the next day, I saw the mail from my accounts team regretting that for some technical reasons, they were unable to credit our salaries into our accounts. That’s when my heart began to race faster. So how come money had become available to me? I do not have the answer but for some reason, my salary had been credited in that 15-minute gap. The next day my bill was paid the EB and that’s when I realized what had been deducted was the annual deposit and not my bill. Anyway to make up for the faux pas, they did not even ask for the fine. And I learnt a couple of things here:

- Sometimes, it seems as though the world conspires against you but actually it only seems so. It’s not a fact.
- Knowledge can sometimes corrupt you. If I had seen that mail from the Accounts team, I might have not even bothered to check my ATM.
- There are usually strangers to do you a good turn like my apartment admin guys who ensured that the power was not cut off.
- Similarly, it was good that I had reached home late that night as the power came back within an hour. Or I would have had to stay in darkness for several hours.

So you see, I really had no reason to complain. It had become a great situation to exercise my faith and get that all-empowering assurance that there was someone out there who looks out for me!

I love froth ...

Recently I realized an unrealized love of mine – froth. I like froth on my milk, my tea and coffee. I like the frilly froth that borders the water’s edge on the seaside. I like working up a lather when I bathe. I like to see my slim glass of orange juice topped with a layer of puffy, white froth. I like it when I’m served milkshake with a thick topping of froth. Oh yes! I love the play of air and water that results in this merry entity called froth. It’s often short-lived like a flower by the wayside but nevertheless, its two or three minutes of existence is enough to make my day. Cheers to the little things of life like froth! :-)

There’s always something good!

A couple of weeks ago, I was introduced to a young lady - just married and already asking for a divorce. Her reasons were complex and the colors of love had not even touched the pathetic picture that she painted of her life. After a few sessions with her, I came to the conclusion that her cure lay in living with her husband alone (she lives with her in-laws now) and getting to know him for who he is. My reasoning was simple – how can a man be all-bad and not have a single good quality?

After a busy day at work followed by a long phone conversation with the lady in question, I silently groaned out to God saying “Was there a chance this lady could start her married life all over again?” The next day dashed any hope I had – her husband had left her! He’d just packed his bags and walked away. I could see all my hopes for her come crashing down. All I could say then was “God knows.” It sounded so bleak to me too. A couple of days later, I received a happy call from the same girl - the husband had come back. There had been a family conference where it had been unanimously decided that this lady would now live alone with her husband! His mother graciously gave this suggestion and blessed them saying, “Learn to love one another.”

Well, that was a miracle that stunned me! When all hope had gone, not only did a glimmer of light appear but a whole rainbow! Of course, I’m elated that miracles still form a core part of human lives!

It was not so difficult after all!

After weighing all the options, and at odd times even deliberating on all the options, I decided to go for the last one. (If you’re wondering what this is all about, read my previous blog or click here). And it was not so difficult. For one, I took the decision only after the emotional reaction had subsided. And the other reason being it was the best option for me to choose. Choosing any of the other options would only have left me angry and bitter. So now you know why. But the little miracle was that all of this happened within 36 hours! I had to meet this person on Sunday morning. I realized, quite contrary to what I had expected, I was able to look boldly into his face and smile and talk and be my usual cheery self. Not a twinge of disappointment remained and naturally, the hurt had all been forgotten. And today, I’m completely free!

The sea is calm and a peaceful azure blue! :-)

One of life’s lessons …

I know this was intended to be a ‘happy’ place with just the nice things. The clouds, the rain, the thorns, the disappointments were kept at bay. Well today, I had to really come to terms with the fact that I needed to treat rain and sunshine alike. Or the roses and thorns alike. And I know I’m sounding so clichéd! It just so happens that I made up my mind I would never ever let on if I was blue. That I would bury myself and hide until I was ready to face sunshine again. And I realized well, that’s not healthy. So here I am, sharing something that I hope will make some sense to others too.

And if you’re wondering what brought all this on, here it is. It was a kind of betrayal. (Sounds like such a strong word. I’ll change it when I find a not-so-strong word for it.) Have you ever felt that strange feeling when someone you value a lot and look up to deliberately does a nasty act that shocks you? It happened to me yesterday for the first time ever and I was, naturally, upset.

And to ensure that I don’t waste more than a couple of days feeling the sadness, I have three courses of action:
- Ignore this person completely. I’m pretty good at it. But then I would have to face the pain if I were to see this person again.
- Retaliate. Well, I would have to think A LOT. ‘Cos it’s hard and I’m not good at it.
- Pretend it never happened and continue relating to this person. Which means when I feel blue the next time, the episode would in all probability cascade into a bigger mountain inside my head.
- Tell myself, it’s a down-phase and accept it.
- Genuinely forgive. Which means I need to come to terms with the episode and even though I try to find a logical reason (my great big weakness) for it, I stand the risk of not being able to find one. And I have to still say, it’s ok. And smile.

I’ll be honest. I don’t think right now I’m emotionally stable enough to do something about it. I’m letting the dust settle. Only for a day, at the most. Can’t afford to go on feeling bad.

My wish list ...

I first saw this lovely poem as a child. It was captured in a cheap frame and hung behind a door with a few cobweb strands clinging to it. I don't think the owner ever realized its true worth. For me, there was a quiet reassurance that took hold of me as I read through those words. I had found words to define my search for a deeper meaning to life. Despite the dusty, faded appearance, the words spoke to me then. I chanced upon it again and I realized, the power of the words had not faded. So, here it is for others who just might be looking for something to see life through. (By the way, Desiderata is Latin for "Things to be desired.")

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

Thank you, Max Ehrmann, for these words that even today stand bright and bold.

That’s two milestones!

Suddenly I find myself having completed a couple of significant milestones. I’ve completed a whole year at work and a year of staying by myself! When I look back today, I have no clue as to how I did it and I have no answers as to what made last year special and whiz past at a deliriously happy pace. I do know that each day, I went to bed happy and woke up smiling at the blue sky. Well, almost every day. The day in between was exciting too! Sometimes bittersweet, sometimes sweet ‘n sour and the rest of the times, mingled with all the other flavors that you can think of.:-)

I feel just great when I look back. It’s been a year of no regrets, tons of surprises and of course, discovering a rare kind of love. My sweetie-pie, thank you for loving me, just the way I am. You’re truly precious. And yes, my very special friends who were always there for me. Thanks guys, you’re just wonderful – Bee, Unnicha, Venks, and Arvind-Devi. Mom, Dad and Dave - What can I say? All the thank yous of the world would not suffice! And my friends at work – Mr. Rajendran, Vidya, Babu and the rest with whom I spent most of my waking hours, a BIG thank you. And God, you’re just super-duper fabulous!

A courage that’s beautiful

Here’s another example of rising beyond expectations. If you were a mother whose son got run over, most reactions on your part would be accepted as natural. You would be free to rant, rave and sue. You could expect everyone, friends and strangers alike, to understand.

And yet, here’s a woman who chose to do something different. Her 3-year-old was run over by an 84 year old motorist who thought he had run over a dog. Ryan was in a coma but eventually recovered. She did the exceptional. She realized that “What was a personal experience for me was a much larger social problem.” And the solution was to provide transportation for the elderly.

So she launched the Independent Transportation Network. Launched a decade ago, the Portland, Maine, area's Independent Transportation Network provided 15,200 rides to senior citizens last year with no taxpayer money for operations.

The concept was astonishingly simple: Elderly people trade in their cars and the value is booked into an account from which they can draw to receive rides. Family members and friends also can add to the account by donating cars or cash, or their time as volunteers.

This story warmed my heart. What a way to live: turning your personal tragedy into a triumph for others. Thank you, Katherine Freund. You’ve exemplified courage in a beautiful manner.

Doctors: Baby Noor is doing great

Baby Noor was discovered several weeks ago by U.S. troops from Georgia's 48th Infantry Brigade while raiding a house in Abu Ghraib. The soldiers noticed paralysis in the baby's legs and what appeared to be a tumor on her back.

The apparent tumor was actually the fluid-filled sac, which contained part of the baby's spinal cord. Doctors said she likely would have died without medical intervention.

One of the soldiers e-mailed a friend in Georgia who is a social worker. They enlisted the help of a variety of organizations, and Noor, her grandmother and her father were brought to the United States late last month. Source: CNN.com

If you’re wondering why I’ve quoted news here, it’s because there was a line that grabbed my attention.

It just took one soldier’s thoughtful e-mail to set this rare incident of kindness rolling. The hospital bestowed their services for free. The doctors did the surgery for free. It was because of that one man whose name we might never know. Thank you and God bless, soldier. :-)