Whose dream am I living?

Have you ever looked at your life and wondered whose dream you’re living? Maybe it’s the career your parents thought was best, or the path society deemed most acceptable. Sometimes, without realizing it, we follow a script written by others, one that doesn’t truly reflect who we are.
For years, I did the same. Growing up, I found solace in poetry and writing. Words felt like a natural extension of my soul, a way to give life to the thoughts swirling in my mind. But as I got older, the world around me convinced me that writing wasn’t practical. So, I tucked that dream away and followed a more traditional path.
But the yearning to write never left. It lingered, quietly waiting for me to listen. Recently, I decided to pick up my pen again, not to achieve recognition, but to reconnect with myself. I began writing blogs, pouring my thoughts into words. It’s not about how many people read them; it’s about how alive I feel while writing them.
Writing hasn’t solved all my problems, but it’s reminded me of something important: borrowed dreams will never bring fulfillment. Only when we embrace our own passions, no matter how impractical they seem, can we start living authentically.
So, ask yourself: Whose dream am I living? If it doesn’t feel like yours, it’s time to rewrite the script. Start small. Do one thing that aligns with your passion, just for you.
Because the most beautiful story you’ll ever write is the one that’s truly yours.

 Karma and the Afterlife

I deeply believe in karma and the afterlife, two concepts that shape how I navigate life. Karma, the law of cause and effect, teaches that our actions, big or small, have lasting consequences, not just for us, but for the world around us. The afterlife offers a sense of hope, a belief that our deeds are never in vain, and that there’s a cosmic balance beyond this life where every good intention finds its reward.

For me, this belief sometimes means allowing others to take advantage of my kindness. It's not about being passive or letting myself be exploited, but rather, choosing to prioritize someone else's happiness in the moment. When I make this decision, I do it with faith that the universe is watching, and that this small act of selflessness will pay forward in the next life. I don’t expect anything in return right away. In fact, I find comfort in knowing that karma will unfold on its own terms, perhaps when I least expect it. I trust that, in the afterlife, the intention behind my actions will be recognized and rewarded, even if it’s not in this lifetime.

However, I’ve learned that kindness doesn’t mean neglecting my own needs. It’s crucial to set boundaries and ensure that my compassion doesn’t come at the cost of my well-being. I believe karma is about balance, not just in how we treat others, but in how we treat ourselves too.

At its core, I view every act of kindness, no matter how small, as part of a larger cosmic flow. Every moment we choose to give, without expecting anything in return, ripples out into the universe, creating a lasting impact. I trust that these acts of love and understanding will eventually come full circle, even if it takes a lifetime or several.

In the end, I believe that what we put into the world, with pure intention, never truly disappears. It’s all part of a bigger journey, where every good deed contributes to the harmony of the universe, and where the afterlife is a continuation of the spiritual work we do in this life. As Albert Pine wisely said, “What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.” It’s in the love we give, the kindness we share, and the lives we touch that our true legacy lives on.

I jotted down my experience of the vasovagal episode that followed a few hours after the dog bite, as I lie in bed, waiting for my fracture to heal and hoping to avoid surgery. 

This Too Shall Pass

I took my dog, Charlie, for a walk at day's end,

The evening calm was my time to mend.

But from behind a gate, another dog came,

Fierce and swift, like a storm untamed.

I lifted Charlie, held him tight,

But he slipped free, charged, ready to fight.

In the chaos, I reached, I tried,

And felt sharp pain as teeth sank wide.

Seven or eight marks, deep and sore,

Pain pulsing like waves on a rocky shore.

The nurse and doctor set me right,

With meds and rest to ease the fight.

Then came the night, pain surging anew,

My swollen hand, my world askew.

I rose in darkness, weary and sore,

Only to find myself fainted on the bathroom floor.

With twisted foot and bruised-up skin,

I struggled, crawled, and found strength within.

The medics came, X-rays revealed,

Three broken bones that time might heal.

A podiatrist spoke of screws and plates,

Or perhaps a cast if the swelling abates.

Now I hobble and hop, my left hand sore,

Finding new ways to do less, yet more.

The road is rough, the pain runs deep,

But with patience and time, this too will sleep.

Though moments feel endless, hard to surpass,

One truth remains: This too shall pass.

 Friday Night Reflections

It’s been one of those weeks where it feels like there are more tasks than there are hours in the day. The to-do list stretches longer with each passing moment. Instead of focusing on how much work remains, I’m choosing to think about how best to tackle what’s already in front of me. It’s not about doing more but it’s about doing better, finding the balance, and making every effort count.

At the end of the day, progress isn’t measured by the sheer volume of tasks completed but by the impact we create. That’s what motivates me, even through the most challenging weeks. Yes, the energy we put into our work can leave us feeling drained at times, but it’s the milestones we achieve, the relationships we build, and the lessons we learn that reignite our passion. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth, not just for ourselves, but for the teams and people we support.

It’s the sense of forward movement, however small, that makes the journey meaningful. So, here’s to always showing up, giving our best, and embracing the progress that propels us forward. Because what we create is more than just work; it’s the future we’re building together.

To everyone balancing multiple priorities right now, keep going. Prioritize, pace yourself, and remember that small steps forward are just as valuable as the big leaps.

 A Personal Reflection Inspired by Mother Teresa

Throughout my 20+ years in the retail industry, I’ve encountered a myriad of challenges navigating the complexities of politics and bureaucracy while fostering a culture of collaboration. In this journey, one poem that has profoundly impacted me is “Do It Anyway” by Mother Teresa.

Her words remind us that, despite the hurdles we face, we must persevere and act with conviction. Sharing a few reflections inspired by her timeless message:

Pursue Your Passion: In a world filled with doubt and negativity, stay committed to your passions. Your dedication to your work and values can inspire others, even when faced with skepticism.

Build Resilience: We will inevitably encounter setbacks and obstacles. Embrace these moments as opportunities to grow and learn. Resilience is not just about bouncing back; it's about evolving and becoming stronger.

Nurture Authentic Connections: Not everyone will support your journey, but that shouldn't deter you from forming genuine relationships. Seek out those who uplift you and share your vision. Authentic connections create a supportive network that enriches both our personal and professional lives.

Stay True to Yourself: In the midst of challenges, hold fast to your principles. Authenticity will not only guide your decisions but will also resonate with those around you, attracting like-minded individuals.

Celebrate Every Step: Each milestone, big or small, contributes to your unique journey. Take the time to appreciate your progress and share your experiences with others. Your story could be the spark that ignites someone else’s courage to pursue their dreams.

In the spirit of Mother Teresa’s wisdom, I encourage you all to “do it anyway.” Whatever your challenges, take that step forward with confidence. Your actions can create a ripple effect of inspiration, encouraging others to embrace their own journeys.

Let’s support each other in this pursuit of resilience, authenticity, and growth! 

 The Hidden Dangers of Being Too Open with "Friends"

We’ve all been told to “be yourself,” especially around friends. But sharing your true self with others isn’t always as safe as it sounds. While authenticity can build deeper connections, it also has its risks—especially when dealing with so-called "friends."

Just because someone is friendly doesn’t mean they have your best interests at heart. Some people are around for convenience or personal gain. Sharing your true self with them can lead to exploitation, as they may use your personal insights against you.

Opening up means trusting someone with your inner world. But not all friends handle that trust with care. A betrayal—whether intentional or through gossip—can leave you feeling exposed and hurt, damaging your trust in others. Not everyone will understand or appreciate your vulnerability. You might share your experiences hoping to grow closer, but instead be met with indifference or judgment, leaving you more isolated.

Constantly opening up and seeking validation from the wrong people can leave you emotionally drained. Protecting your emotional energy is essential, and it’s okay to keep some things private. Sometimes, sharing too much can change a friendship’s balance. You may start to feel like you're being judged or pitied, as if your vulnerability has made you seem weaker.

Authenticity is powerful, but it’s also valuable. Be selective about who gets to see the real you. True friends earn that right through trust, empathy, and mutual respect.

Remember, being yourself doesn’t mean sharing everything with everyone—it’s about knowing when and with whom to be vulnerable. Choose wisely, and protect your emotional well-being.

Have you ever had a negative experience sharing your true self? Let’s chat in the comments!

 My 2 best friends - the Yin and Yang of my life

Today, I want to share with you a tale of friendship—of two companions who have been with me through every adventure, every challenge, and every moment of self-discovery, and to be honest, self-destruction too! They have been with me since childhood, and I am lucky to have them. They are my two best friends, each with a distinct and totally opposite personality, and yet, both equally influential in my life.

The first of my best friends is the adventurous one—I call him the dreamer. This friend has always inspired me to push beyond my comfort zone and embrace the thrill of new experiences. He is that inspirational friend we all have who always encourages us to follow our dreams, do what we are passionate about, find that thing we were born to do, and find work that feels like play. However, my second best friend is the pragmatic one—I call him the realist. That’s the friend of mine who always encourages me to do things that are responsible. "No, no, no, don’t do that; that’s too risky. Lots of people who do that end up homeless, lots of people who do that end up really unhappy. Get a secure job to create a stable stream of income." This friend keeps me grounded, reminding me of responsibilities and practical considerations.

Throughout my life, these two friends have engaged in spirited debates, each advocating for their own perspective. There have been countless arguments over dinner, —now, you are being too realistic; you are gonna end up living a boring life. Well, you are being too crazy because you are gonna lead people to try things then fail and then never get anywhere. It’s a constant pull and push I have always experienced with these friends of mine.

It’s really interesting to reflect on, right? When I was young, my dreamer friend would always encourage me to do the things I love and turn those into a profession. It was amazing because of my dreamer friend, I started teaching Math as a part-time job, and I still remember how close I was to making a decision to become a full-time Math teacher, but it was my realist friend who intervened and asked the tough questions about financial sustainability, long-term planning, and the potential risks involved. This wisdom from the realist friend helped me make informed decisions and navigate challenges with resilience.

This dynamic influenced my relationship with my dreamer friend for years. We drifted apart as I leaned more towards the realist's advice.  But after years, when I realized how boring my life had become and how badly I was missing my dreamer friend, I reached out to my dreamer friend, reconnected, and we talked for hours—everything became normal, and I started to enjoy life with both of my friends.

I recall a time when I went skydiving because it was my dreamer friend who whispered, "Take the leap, embrace the unknown," and I'm grateful for that exhilarating moment of freedom. It was my dreamer friend who encouraged me to try new things whether it be late-night bars or restaurants or horse riding, ziplining, feeling the excitement of gliding through treetops. It was a moment of pure exhilaration, a testament to the dreamer's belief in chasing moments of joy and excitement.

While the dreamer urged me to explore new things and pursue unconventional paths, it was my realist friend who advised me to stick with reality, ensuring stability and financial security, and living like there will be tomorrow so don’t get wasted.

Back then, I always inclined towards one or the other, but As I've matured, I've come to value both friends equally.  I need my dreamer friend as well as my realist friend by my side. I talk to them on a regular basis and feel blessed to have them in my life.

If you have not grasped it at this point, I’ll reveal it to you. These are not the two different friends I am talking about—these are the dreamer and realist within me. And, these dreamer and realist friends live within you as well. I believe we should not value one over the other because they are both really important. Here is the analogy I use—when I just listen to the dreamer within me, sometimes I fly so high, I fly straight into the sun and get burned. And, other times, when I only listen to the realist in me, I never end up getting off the ground, and I never know what it feels like to fly and soar. So the dreamer in me ensures that I get to get off the ground and fly, experience the exhilarating feeling of doing something I love, doing something I am passionate about, feeling all the wonderful feelings associated with soaring in life. And, the realist in me keeps me grounded enough so that I don’t fly into the sun and hurt myself. They are both just as important as the other.

Together, my two best friends , the yin and yang of my life, form a harmonious partnership, guiding me through life's ups and downs with wisdom and resilience. They are the unsung heroes of my journey, the silent mentors who teach me valuable lessons every day.

Now, I invite each of you to take a moment to reflect on your own 'dreamer' and 'realist.' What lessons do they offer? How can you nurture and learn from these invaluable aspects of yourself?

Embracing Change

From the moment we are born, change surrounds us. Our bodies change, our environments change, and our relationships change. Yet, despite its omnipresence, many of us resist change, clinging to familiarity and the illusion of stability. However, as Heraclitus wisely said, change is the only constant, and embracing it is key to living a fulfilling and dynamic life.

Change often brings with it uncertainty and the unknown. It requires us to step out of our comfort zones, confront our fears, and embrace new possibilities. I recall the time when I left India and moved to the USA. It was hard to embrace the change at first, but by seeing it as an opportunity for growth, I discovered hidden talents and strengths I never knew I possessed.

Change is not always smooth or effortless. It can be accompanied by challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. However, it is during these times of adversity that our resilience is tested and strengthened. I've experienced personal and professional challenges that seemed insurmountable at the time. Yet, by embracing change with resilience and determination, I emerged stronger and more resilient than before.

One of the most beautiful aspects of embracing change is the opportunity for learning and growth. Every experience, whether positive or negative, teaches us valuable lessons and expands our perspective. I've learned to approach change with a curious mind, eager to learn from every twist and turn in life's journey. Each change has been a catalyst for my personal and professional growth, shaping me into the person I am today.

In a world that is in a constant state of flux, the ability to adapt to new realities is paramount. Whether it be technological advancements, cultural shifts, or global challenges, embracing change enables us to remain relevant, innovative, and resilient. I have witnessed firsthand how organizations and individuals who embrace change with open arms not only survive but thrive in dynamic environments, seizing opportunities and shaping the future.

Embracing change is not just about accepting it; it's about welcoming it with open arms, learning from it, and allowing it to shape us into the best versions of ourselves. As we navigate the currents of life's transformative journey, let us embrace change as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for growth, resilience, and endless possibilities.