As the first blog entry got exhausted. My second book |
Evolution of Love Part 2 |
Prompt: “But, if you have nothing at all to create, then perhaps you create yourself.” C.G. Jung What does this quote mean to you and do you agree with Jung that we create ourselves? That's a thought-provoking quote from Jung! To me, it speaks to a fundamental drive for meaning and purpose. If we find ourselves in a situation where external circumstances don't offer readily apparent avenues for creation – be it art, work, relationships, or tangible achievements – then that inherent creative energy doesn't simply vanish. Instead, it turns inward. In this context, "creating ourselves" can mean a few things: * Developing our identity: We actively shape who we are through the choices we make, the values we adopt, and the beliefs we cultivate. This is an ongoing process of self-discovery and refinement. * Finding our inner resources: When external creation is limited, we might focus on cultivating inner strengths like resilience, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. These become the building blocks of our character. * Finding unique meaning: Even in seemingly barren circumstances, we can create personal meaning by how we interpret and respond to our experiences. This involves finding purpose in the everyday and developing a unique perspective on life. * Transforming our inner landscape: We can actively work on our thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior. This internal "creation" can lead to significant personal growth and a more integrated sense of self. Do I agree with Jung that we create ourselves? Absolutely, to a significant extent. While we are undoubtedly influenced by our genetics, upbringing, and environment, we are not merely passive recipients of these forces. We possess agency, the capacity to make choices and shape our responses to the world. Think about individuals who have faced immense adversity. Their external circumstances might have offered little in the way of traditional creative outlets, yet many have forged remarkable inner strength, wisdom, and unique perspectives. They have, in essence, created themselves in the face of hardship. However, I also believe that the opportunity for external creation often enriches and informs our self-creation. Engaging with the world, building things, contributing to society, and forming meaningful connections can provide valuable feedback and new perspectives that further shape who we become. It's often a dynamic interplay between our inner world and our engagement with the external. So, while Jung's quote beautifully highlights the power of our inner creative potential, especially in the absence of external opportunities, I see self-creation as an ongoing dialogue between our internal drives and our interactions with the world around us. |
T. S. Eliot said, April is the cruelest month in his1921 poem The Waste Land. Are you familiar with the poem The Waste Land? Do you agree or disagree with his analogy.? Yes, I am familiar with T. S. Eliot's highly influential poem, The Waste Land, published in 1922. The line you're referring to, "April is the cruellest month," opens the first section of the poem, titled "The Burial of the Dead." In this context, Eliot's analogy suggests that April, typically associated with the renewal of spring and the awakening of life, is actually a time of profound pain and discomfort. He contrasts the gentle stirring of new growth ("Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing / Memory and desire, stirring / Dull roots with spring rain") with the unwelcome intrusion of memory and desire into a state of dormancy that winter had provided ("Winter kept us warm, covering / Earth in forgetful snow, feeding / A little life with dried tubers."). Whether I agree or disagree with this analogy is a matter of debatable perspective, however I can analyze the effectiveness and the resonance of Eliot's comparison: Arguments for agreeing with Eliot's analogy: * Disruption of a fragile peace: After the dormancy and perhaps the numbness of winter, the arrival of spring can force a confrontation with feelings and memories that were dormant. This awakening can be painful, especially in a "waste land" context of emotional and spiritual barrenness. * Unfulfilled potential: The burgeoning of life in April can highlight what is dead or barren within oneself or the surrounding world, creating a stark and cruel contrast. The promise of renewal might feel like a taunt when juxtaposed with inner desolation. * The pain of memory and desire: As Eliot suggests, spring stirs "memory and desire." For individuals in a state of disillusionment or loss (as depicted in the poem), these stirrings might be agonizing reminders of what is gone or unattainable. Arguments for disagreeing with Eliot's analogy: * The inherent hope of spring: For many, April represents hope, renewal, and the joy of life returning to the natural world. The sensory experiences of spring – the warmth, the blossoming flowers, the longer days – are often seen as uplifting and positive. * A necessary awakening: While the stirring of memory and desire can be painful, it can also be a necessary step towards healing and growth. Avoiding these feelings in the "forgetful snow" of winter might be a temporary comfort but not a long-term solution. * Cultural and personal variations: The experience of April can vary greatly depending on geographical location, cultural associations, and individual circumstances. For someone in a place where winter is harsh and spring brings genuine relief, April might be a welcome and gentle month. Ultimately, Eliot's line is a powerful and thought-provoking metaphor that captures a specific feeling of discomfort and pain associated with the arrival of spring in a context of disillusionment. Its effectiveness lies in its inversion of the traditional positive associations with April. Whether one agrees with it depends on individual experiences and interpretations of the poem's themes of loss, fragmentation, of the evolving world. |
Albert Einstein once said: "Weak people revenge. Strong people forgive. Intelligent people ignore." Here are 9 timeless lessons I’ve learned from him: 1. Don’t Overthink the Future "I never think of the future. It comes soon enough." The future is uncertain, and worrying about it steals today’s joy. Focus on what you have now and keep moving forward. 2. Dare to Think Big "I believe bold speculation will take us further than the mere accumulation of facts." Daring ideas have changed the world more than safe ones ever could. 3. Keep Moving Forward "Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." Don’t stand still. Progress, no matter how small, is still progress. 4. Politics Is Harder Than Physics When asked, “If man discovered the atom, why can’t we solve political problems?” Einstein answered: "Because politics is more difficult than physics." Brilliant minds still struggle where emotions, power, and ego take over. 5. Embrace Simplicity Einstein believed in “Einstein’s Razor” — removing what’s unnecessary and holding on to what matters. Simplicity is power, as long as it doesn’t become oversimplification. 6. Education Should Teach You to Think "The aim of education should be to train minds to think, not to memorize facts." So read more. Reflect more. Let your curiosity be your best teacher. 7. We All Belong to One Tree "All religions, arts, and sciences are branches of the same tree." Humanity thrives when we grow together, not apart. We are more connected than we think. 8. Stay True to Your Conscience "Never do anything against your conscience, even if the state demands it." Let your principles guide you — especially when it's not easy. 9. What Is Relativity? Einstein once joked: "Sit with a pretty girl for two hours and it feels like two minutes. Sit on a hot stove for two minutes and it feels like two hours — that’s relativity." Perspective changes everything. |
Prompt: Women need solitude in order to find again the true essence of themselves." Write about this quote in you Blog entry today. Finding Myself in the Quiet: Why Solitude is Essential for Women Virginia Woolf famously wrote about a "room of one's own" as a prerequisite for a woman to write fiction. But I believe the need for a dedicated space, both physical and mental, extends far beyond the realm of artistic creation. Today, I want to explore why solitude isn't just a luxury for women; it's a fundamental necessity for rediscovering and nurturing their true selves. In our daily lives, many women navigate a complex web of roles: partner, mother, daughter, friend, colleague. We often find ourselves pouring our energy and attention into the needs and expectations of others. While these connections are vital and enriching, they can also inadvertently lead us away from our own inner compass. The constant demands and external noise can drown out the quiet whispers of our own desires, dreams, and authentic selves. Solitude offers a sanctuary from this external clamor. It's in those moments of quiet reflection, whether it's during a solitary walk in nature, an hour spent reading undisturbed, or simply sitting in stillness with our own thoughts, that we create the space for self-discovery. It's in these moments that the layers of external expectations and societal conditioning can begin to peel away, revealing the core of who we truly are. Think about it. When are you truly free to hear your own voice, unfiltered by the opinions or needs of others? When are you able to connect with your intuition, your passions, and your deepest values without the pressure to conform or compromise? For many women, the answer lies in those precious moments of solitude. This isn't about rejecting connection or isolating ourselves. It's about intentionally carving out time and space to nurture our inner landscape. It's about giving ourselves permission to just be, without the need to perform, please, or produce. In this space, we can process our experiences, identify our true needs, and reconnect with the wellspring of our own strength and creativity. Solitude allows us to: * Hear our own thoughts: Without the constant input from the outside world, our inner voice can finally be heard clearly. * Process emotions: Quiet moments provide the space to acknowledge and work through complex feelings without distraction or judgment. * Recharge and replenish: Stepping away from demands allows us to rest and restore our energy, preventing burnout and fostering resilience. * Cultivate self-awareness: In solitude, we can reflect on our values, beliefs, and aspirations, leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves. * Foster creativity: Many brilliant ideas and insights emerge from moments of quiet contemplation. In a world that often glorifies busyness and external validation, prioritizing solitude can feel like a radical act. But it's an act of self-care and self-respect that is essential for women to thrive. By embracing moments of quiet reflection, we empower ourselves to reconnect with our authentic essence, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. So, today, I encourage you to find your own quiet space, even if it's just for a few moments. Allow yourself the gift of solitude, and discover the profound wisdom that resides within. You might be surprised by the clarity and strength you find when you finally give yourself the space to truly listen. Men, unfortunately, do not always understand a very simple truth: the woman, when she loves... is intensely reciprocal. Female nature is like an echo, an emotional reflection. Let's absorb man's attitude towards us on an intuitive and energetic level — his words, his actions, his intentions... and if these match each other. And then, just... we give it back. What goes around — comes around. Sometimes like tenderness, care, peace and a home to rest from the world. Other times... like coldness, distance and a closed door forever. Because a woman is not a grudge It's not vindictive. It's a mirror. And it reflects exactly what you have put into it. Do you want a garden? Take care of it. Do you want love? Love her. Do you want loyalty? Be worthy of trust. If you have a calm, warm, loyal and loving woman by your side — it's not a coincidence. It is the result of your actions. And if next to you there is coldness and emptiness, it's not a coincidence either. You are a reflection of what you sow. Look at your woman... and you will see who you really are. Because she is your mirror. This is all I can say about the statement made. |
Prompt: “Good people are good because they’ve come to wisdom through failure.” William Saroyan Is it always true that people gain wisdom when they fail, and have you ever gained wisdom from any failure? That's a thought-provoking quote from William Saroyan! While the idea that good people gain wisdom through failure holds a lot of truth, I wouldn't say it's always the case. Some individuals might possess an innate sense of empathy and morality, guiding them to do good without necessarily experiencing significant personal failures. Others might learn valuable lessons and develop wisdom through observing the mistakes of others or through thoughtful reflection on various experiences, not just their own missteps. However, I do believe that failure is a powerful teacher for many. It can strip away illusions, force introspection, and build resilience. When we stumble, we have the opportunity to analyze what went wrong, understand our limitations, and develop more effective approaches for the future. This process of learning and adaptation can certainly contribute to the development of wisdom and, in turn, influence one's actions and character in a positive way. As for me my Guru says that failure and vacuum in life teaches the best of lessons. As in nature wherein everything is illusory, a person or an organisation can prosper at the expense of someone or something. To come out of the worldly illusion failure is the best teacher. |
Unkempt, shabby all in black and white danced on the screen, without any hindrance and lo there he was: a figure pretty shabby recognizable, a silhouette against the stark backdrop always ready to do anything. The Little five feet something Tramp. He shuffled into the frame, challenging the viewers with a collection of contradictions and yet relatable steps across all age group. An attitude personel yet detached so very unique across the century. Baggy trousers like penguins that seemed to swallow his short legs, a too-tight coat straining at the buttons and rarely without them, not to miss the oversized boots that threatened to banish him with every other step. Perched jauntily on his head was a small bowler black hat, and a delicate, almost comical, hitler mustache adorned his upper lip. A cane, twirled with surprising speed, served as both an aid and a weapon, a tool in his silent ballet of survival. This wasn't just a costume; it was a character born,absorbed and improvised from the harsh realities of Charlie Chaplin's own impoverished childhood in London. The ill-fitting clothes mirrored the hand-me-downs of poverty, the resilience hinted at in the jaunty black hat a defiance against hardship mostly in a black and white movie setup and a brief writeup to enhance the viewers experience. Ah! the story here, set against the backdrop of a bustling city street, the Tramp was trying to earn a meager living so very realistically captured in b/w. He attempted to sell trinkets, his hopeful and heart touching smile quickly fading as indifferent and occupied crowds hurried past. He tried his hand at sweeping, only to create more chaos than cleanliness, earning the ire of a stern and sharp shopkeeper. Hunger and inner turmoil gnawed at him, a constant companion so very relatable by the old generation. Yet, amidst the struggle, there was an inherent self confidence and dignity. He always fumbled and stumbled, and yet he always maintained a certain gentlemanly and serville air, tipping his hat to aristocratic or genteel ladies and attempting acts of kindness, however misappropriate. One scene showed him encountering a young and nubile flower girl, her face etched with sadness. He had nothing to offer, but with a series of expressive gestures – a mimed offering of an imaginary flower, a sympathetic tilt of his head – he conveyed a sense of shared loneliness and unabridged hope. Later, as usual a protagonist or bully twice his size threatened the flower girl, attempting to steal her meager earnings with towering act of cruelty so subtly captured. The Tramp, despite his physical disadvantage, bravely intervened with fearless moves. His fighting style was less about brute force and more about cunning, perfect timing and dynamic agility. The cane though unexpectedly became an extension of his wit, tripping the larger man, hooking his leg, leading to a comical, albeit effective, defeat. But victory was often fleeting for the Tramp. In the end, the flower girl, though grateful, had her own path to follow, one that didn't include the innocent and yet gullible Tramp. The final scene though heart breaking showed the Tramp walking away, his small figure receding into the urban landscape. There was a touch of melancholy in his gait, but also an undeniable resilience. He might be down, but he was never out. He would face the next day, the next challenge, with the same blend of Chaplin-esque humor and underlying humanity that had captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, proving that even in silence, a character could speak volumes about the human condition and struggle with limited resources and oportunity. |
It has been 15 days since the death of wife. People's coming and going was stopped now. He was sitting alone lost in old memories that suddenly he found a letter written by his wife. It was written in the letter: Dear life partner, Now I am convinced that I have very short time left. The doctors may not have said anything, but my heart has understood it all. I know this cancer is my end now. And I also know you've staken everything in my treatment—all the jewelry, the small plot we bought from big dreams—all. Do you really think you could hide it all from me? I am your better half, joining you in every ups and downs for the past twelve years. Every single line on your face describes me your situation. But the most pain is that I can't even wipe your tears. When you cry silently, I know... Let's see... And I break myself too. How ironic is it that we are not able to share each other's pain even after being so close. Perhaps this is the hit of time. Now that people have stopped coming and the house is empty again, I want you to read my one last letter. Maybe when you read this, I won't be. You have my habit, I know it. You look for me every evening after returning home. But I won't be there anymore. You have to handle yourself. Gotta have to have courage. Tell the kids mummy gone to the Lord, will come soon. I know, you'll never let them miss me. You used to say I cry real quick. But look how strongly I'm enduring it today. Not a single tear shed... Just because I care about you. Even though our togetherness didn't last long, but it was beautiful. The way you loved me, he has settled in my soul every moment. For your love, for your company, for every little thing... Thank you. Stop being a kid now. Because you now have to handle yourself and our children too. Keeping myself strong, by keeping my memories in your heart. Eating on time, sleeping on time, taking care of yourself—because I won't be the one to bite you anymore. Don't get upset now, because you won't have a wife to convince. Don't break now, because I will no longer be there to support. Strange isn't it, life seems too long to those who don't want to live. And for those who want to live, there are short breaths. Now hands are shaking, eyes are getting heavy. You haven't slept for two days, so today while you are in deep sleep, I thought I'd hand this letter to you. Now just want to take a look at you. Who knows if my eyes open the next morning or not. Today is the last time, I want to have a peaceful sleep in your arms. Yours for ever... A loving wife |
Prompt: Pets What is the most important reason for having a pet? And which kinds of people shouldn't have pets? 🐾 POEM OF A DOG I'm the one who's always waiting for you. Your car has a special sound that I have imprinted on my senses, I can recognize it in a thousand. Your steps have a magic bell. Your voice is music to my ears. If I see your joy, it makes me happy!. Your scent is the best. Your presence moves my senses. Your waking up wakes me up I contemplate you sleeping and for me you are my God, I am happy watching your sleep. Your look is a ray of light. Your hands upon me, hold the lightness of peace and the sublime display of infinite love. When you leave, I feel a huge void in my heart. I keep waiting for you again and again. I am the one who will wait for you all your life today, tomorrow and forever: I am yours forever. The above poem justifies a pet dogs point of view, hence a dog as a pet is always a value addition thing irrespective of the person. |
Visitors to the famous Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh would know this Pipal tree (Ficus religiosa) well and may have enjoyed its shade, but this Pipal is a story. A man named Gyan Singh from the village Ramnagar Bhangimajre came from the army without a pension because he had contracted TB disease. Even after decades of marriage, he was not blessed with any children. He thought, "If there are no children, let's put my sign in the village and put the Pipal tree!" After a few years, Gyan Singh passed away, but his father Nand Singh took care of his son's sign like his 'grandson' and kept it green. Ramnagar Bhangimajre village was demolished for the development of Chandigarh. All the trees were being cut down to construct the bank of the lake, and finally, it was the turn of Gyan Singh's 'son'. It was good luck that Kulwant Singh Alapur, who was working in the construction team, knew the story of this Pipal as he was a grandson (dohta) of Ramnagar village. He got adjusted the map of the lake in such a way that this Pipal tree was saved. From that day till today, this Pipal is standing firm. We sometimes feel that this 'ageless son' remembers his father, Gyan Singh. When you come to Sukhna Lake, please stand under this Pipal tree and take an oath that we will plant trees around us; you never know when and how the saplings you planted will adorn a place. |