Shravan Raghunath, blogger, poet, student, photographer, friend and country cousin, invited me, the day before, to be a part of his new blog IPhrase!
Dedicated primarily to showcase posts on inspirational quotes and snippets, this blog will be a combined effort and aims at featuring short yet powerful posts that have a meaningful takeaway for its patrons.
Kick-starting my account, yesterday, I posted 'Of Life and Hope' with an iconic picture taken, in 1969, during the People's Park Riot in Berkeley, California. Taken by Ted Streshinsky, this picture became a classic representation of the voice of the people and still evokes strong memories in those who have been witness to the incident.
I will, however, post in this space, using the identity Almost Sunday, which, I believe, is a more ideal character for this enterprise, as I have earlier titled it as "not a person, but a state of being which was chanced upon by me during my endless quest for meaning and purpose."
I wish to express my thanks to Shravan for giving me this wonderful opportunity, something that I have long contemplated doing.
On behalf of team IPhrase, I invite you to this new space, to visit it and sample its contents and hopefully relish them.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
Sunday's wisdom
A great human revolution in just a single individual will help achieve a change in the destiny of a nation, and further, will enable a change in the destiny of all humankind
-- Daisaku Ikeda
On invitation from a friend and former colleague, Rahul Guharoy, I spent yesterday morning with a group of very dedicated and enthusiastic people whose purpose in life is to come together as a united body in combating life's uncertainties and help one another in times of need. They are collectively known as the Soka Gakkai International (SGI) which is a "Buddhist network that actively promotes peace, culture and education through personal change and social contribution." In India, they are known as the Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG), which is an affiliate of the Soka Gakkai International (SGI). Their life values are heavily based on "the humanistic life philosophy of the Japanese Buddhist sage, Nichiren Daishonin."
Among the first things I noticed on arrival was the elevated level of enthusiasm each one of them carried within themselves at all times. Cordial, warm and eager, the very presence of a member was difficult to miss! During my conversations, I realized that these were people who had taken upon themselves to train themselves to inculcate and nurture a change from within, much akin to the philosophy of their 'Sensei' which they follow in very close coordinates!
After a round of introductions, some of them came forward to narrate real life incidents, struggles and victories that ensued. They also highlighted how, as active members of the SGI movement, they have been able to, with conviction, commitment and discipline, make their lives and those of others better and continue to do so with a remarkable sense of passion and unity.
Finally, the floor was thrown open to a hearty discussion on the topic "Human Revolution - The contribution of a single individual to bring about change." Many interesting thoughts flowed through as fellow members and guests nodded as each one spoke. I gave my two cents too, speaking on the need to be cognizant of the world around oneself and to effect change from within, quoting Socrates and Plato! Rewarded with a very patient hearing, and a round of loud applause, I felt greatly appreciated, the like of which I have not felt in a very long time.
I recalled my 1998 meeting with His Holiness Guru Nitya Chaintanya Yati, the erstwhile Head of the Narayana Gurukula Foundation at Fernhill in Ooty. The connect was easy and remarkably similar, talks on oneness, encouragement, positivism and more importantly world citizenship meaning a state of being, free from race, religion and other varied discrimination.
Couldn't have had a more eventful Sunday!
-- Daisaku Ikeda
On invitation from a friend and former colleague, Rahul Guharoy, I spent yesterday morning with a group of very dedicated and enthusiastic people whose purpose in life is to come together as a united body in combating life's uncertainties and help one another in times of need. They are collectively known as the Soka Gakkai International (SGI) which is a "Buddhist network that actively promotes peace, culture and education through personal change and social contribution." In India, they are known as the Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG), which is an affiliate of the Soka Gakkai International (SGI). Their life values are heavily based on "the humanistic life philosophy of the Japanese Buddhist sage, Nichiren Daishonin."
Among the first things I noticed on arrival was the elevated level of enthusiasm each one of them carried within themselves at all times. Cordial, warm and eager, the very presence of a member was difficult to miss! During my conversations, I realized that these were people who had taken upon themselves to train themselves to inculcate and nurture a change from within, much akin to the philosophy of their 'Sensei' which they follow in very close coordinates!
After a round of introductions, some of them came forward to narrate real life incidents, struggles and victories that ensued. They also highlighted how, as active members of the SGI movement, they have been able to, with conviction, commitment and discipline, make their lives and those of others better and continue to do so with a remarkable sense of passion and unity.
Finally, the floor was thrown open to a hearty discussion on the topic "Human Revolution - The contribution of a single individual to bring about change." Many interesting thoughts flowed through as fellow members and guests nodded as each one spoke. I gave my two cents too, speaking on the need to be cognizant of the world around oneself and to effect change from within, quoting Socrates and Plato! Rewarded with a very patient hearing, and a round of loud applause, I felt greatly appreciated, the like of which I have not felt in a very long time.
I recalled my 1998 meeting with His Holiness Guru Nitya Chaintanya Yati, the erstwhile Head of the Narayana Gurukula Foundation at Fernhill in Ooty. The connect was easy and remarkably similar, talks on oneness, encouragement, positivism and more importantly world citizenship meaning a state of being, free from race, religion and other varied discrimination.
Couldn't have had a more eventful Sunday!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Rock On
In this post, I'm paying homage to some of the most inspiring rock marvels and their creators that have been a significant part of our times and before and will remain so long after! Check out the emboldened portions of the lyrics and stop for a moment before it occurs to you that they do reflect parts of your life!
There you go.........
Lay beside me, under wicked sky
Through black of day, dark of night, we share this pair of lives
The door cracks open, but there's no sun shining through
Black heart scarring darker still, but there's no sun shining through
-- Unforgiven II, Metallica, 1998
You were caught on the crossfire of childhood and stardom,
blown on the steel breeze.
Come on you target for faraway laughter,
come on you stranger, you legend, you martyr, and shine!
-- Shine on you crazy diamond, Pink Floyd, 1975
Many times I've been a traveller, I looked for something new
In days of old, When nights were cold
I wandered without you, But those days I thought my eyes
Had seen you standing near, Though blindness is confusing
It shows that you're not here
-- Soldier of Fortune, Deep Purple, 1974
Looking beyond the embers of bridges glowing behind us
To a glimpse of how green it was on the other side
Steps taken forwards but sleepwalking back again
Dragged by the force of some inner tide
At a higher altitude with flag unfurled
We reached the dizzy heights of that dreamed up world
-- High Hopes, Pink Floyd, 1994
There's a sign on the wall, But she wants to be sure
cause you know sometimes words have two meanings.
In a tree by the brook, There's a songbird who sings,
Sometimes all of our thoughts are misgiven.
-- Stairway to Heaven, Led Zepplin, 1971
Now the suns gone to hell, And the moons riding high
Let me bid you farewell, Every man has to die
But its written in the starlight, And every line on your palm
Were fools to make war, On our brothers in arms
-- Brothers in Arms, Dire Straits, 1985
I awake to find no peace of mind.
I said how do you live, As a fugitive?
Down here, where I cannot see so clear
I said what do I know? Show me the right way to go.
-- Spies, Coldplay, 2000
The world is closing in, Did you ever think
That we could be so close, like brothers
The future's in the air, I can feel it everywhere
Blowing with the wind of change
-- Wind of Change, Scorpions, 1990
Sometimes I need some time...on my
own Sometimes I need some time...all alone
Everybody needs some time...on their own
Don't you know you need some time...all alone
-- November Rain, Guns N Roses, 1992
Then fly away from here, Anywhere
Yeah, I don't care, We'll just fly away from here
Our hopes and dreams are out there somewhere
Won't let time pass us by, We'll just fly
-- Fly away from here, Aerosmith, 2001
I laughed and shook his hand, I made my way back home,
I searched for form and land, Years and years I roamed,
I gazed a gazely stare, We walked a million hills -- I must have died alone,
A long long time ago.
-- The Man who sold the World, Nirvana, 1993
I take a walk outside, I'm surrounded by some kids at play
I can feel their laughter, so why do I sear?
Oh, and twisted thoughts that spin round my head
I'm spinning, oh, I'm spinning, How quick the sun can drop away
-- Black, Pearl Jam, 1991
Footnotes:
The aforesaid list is certainly not exhaustive and more inputs are welcome via comments
There you go.........
Lay beside me, under wicked sky
Through black of day, dark of night, we share this pair of lives
The door cracks open, but there's no sun shining through
Black heart scarring darker still, but there's no sun shining through
-- Unforgiven II, Metallica, 1998
You were caught on the crossfire of childhood and stardom,
blown on the steel breeze.
Come on you target for faraway laughter,
come on you stranger, you legend, you martyr, and shine!
-- Shine on you crazy diamond, Pink Floyd, 1975
Many times I've been a traveller, I looked for something new
In days of old, When nights were cold
I wandered without you, But those days I thought my eyes
Had seen you standing near, Though blindness is confusing
It shows that you're not here
-- Soldier of Fortune, Deep Purple, 1974
Looking beyond the embers of bridges glowing behind us
To a glimpse of how green it was on the other side
Steps taken forwards but sleepwalking back again
Dragged by the force of some inner tide
At a higher altitude with flag unfurled
We reached the dizzy heights of that dreamed up world
-- High Hopes, Pink Floyd, 1994
There's a sign on the wall, But she wants to be sure
cause you know sometimes words have two meanings.
In a tree by the brook, There's a songbird who sings,
Sometimes all of our thoughts are misgiven.
-- Stairway to Heaven, Led Zepplin, 1971
Now the suns gone to hell, And the moons riding high
Let me bid you farewell, Every man has to die
But its written in the starlight, And every line on your palm
Were fools to make war, On our brothers in arms
-- Brothers in Arms, Dire Straits, 1985
I awake to find no peace of mind.
I said how do you live, As a fugitive?
Down here, where I cannot see so clear
I said what do I know? Show me the right way to go.
-- Spies, Coldplay, 2000
The world is closing in, Did you ever think
That we could be so close, like brothers
The future's in the air, I can feel it everywhere
Blowing with the wind of change
-- Wind of Change, Scorpions, 1990
Sometimes I need some time...on my
own Sometimes I need some time...all alone
Everybody needs some time...on their own
Don't you know you need some time...all alone
-- November Rain, Guns N Roses, 1992
Then fly away from here, Anywhere
Yeah, I don't care, We'll just fly away from here
Our hopes and dreams are out there somewhere
Won't let time pass us by, We'll just fly
-- Fly away from here, Aerosmith, 2001
I laughed and shook his hand, I made my way back home,
I searched for form and land, Years and years I roamed,
I gazed a gazely stare, We walked a million hills -- I must have died alone,
A long long time ago.
-- The Man who sold the World, Nirvana, 1993
I take a walk outside, I'm surrounded by some kids at play
I can feel their laughter, so why do I sear?
Oh, and twisted thoughts that spin round my head
I'm spinning, oh, I'm spinning, How quick the sun can drop away
-- Black, Pearl Jam, 1991
Footnotes:
The aforesaid list is certainly not exhaustive and more inputs are welcome via comments
Monday, July 20, 2009
The Eagle has landed
Little by little, they grew closer, steady, as if on rails, and I thought 'What a beautiful sight,'one that had to be recorded. As I reached for my Hasselblad, suddenly the Earth popped up over the horizon, directly behind Eagle. I could not have staged it any better, but the alignment was not of my doing, just a happy coincidence. I suspect a lot of good photography is like that, some serendipitous happenstance beyond the control of the photographer. But at any rate, as I clicked away, I realized that for the first time, in one frame, appeared three billion earthlings, two explorers, and one moon. The photographer, of course, was discreetly out of view.
-- Michael Collins, Command Module Pilot - Apollo 11
Launched from Florida's Kennedy Space Center at 9:32 a.m. ET aboard a Saturn V rocket, Apollo 11 included a command module dubbed Columbia and a lunar lander called the Eagle.
The lander was named after the bald eagle in the mission insignia.
Apollo 11's journey to the moon took three and a half days.
During that time the astronauts "just kind of gazed out the window at the Earth getting smaller and smaller, did housekeeping things, checking the spacecraft," Aldrin recalled.
As the craft passed through the shadow of the moon and started its approach, Aldrin and Armstrong got into the spider-like lunar module and began their descent.
The landing process didn't go flawlessly. Alarms sounded when the computer couldn't keep up with the data stream: "Nothing serious—it was distracting," Aldrin said.
"Neil didn't like what we were heading toward, and we selected a safer spot alongside a crater with boulders in it. We landed with a little less fuel than we would have liked to have had, maybe 20 seconds of fuel left."
Aldrin insists that he felt no real fear about landing on the moon.
Nevertheless, he said, "we kind of practiced liftoff [for] the first two hours. … We both felt that was the most prudent thing to do after touching down, was to prepare to depart if we had to."
Finally, with half a billion people watching on televisions across the world, the astronauts emerged from the Eagle to spend another two hours exploring the lunar surface.
The pair planted an American flag and placed mementos for fallen peers.
Armstrong uttered his famous first words, reportedly unscripted: "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind."
Armstrong and Aldrin logged 21 hours on the moon—spending the last and longest portion of it trying to sleep in the frigid lander.
40 years on, this post pays tribute to the moon landing mission that translated a human dream into reality!
Footnotes:
Image Courtesy: Boston Globe, The Big Picture - Remembering Apollo 11
The above post is not my creation. It has been reproduced verbatim from the archives of the National Geographic Channel and is accessible here - MOON LANDING FACTS: Apollo 11 at 40
NASA's feature on the Moon Landing Mission
The prelude to Apollo 11
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
My Values
Watch your character; It becomes your destiny!
-- Pravsworld
We've seen quite a bit about My Documents, My Applications, My Music, My Folders, My Connections, My Files and so on...... I wonder if the list ever ends! No, I certainly do not want to talk about any of those metaphysical aspects of the digital world! Rather, I'm going to harp on how important and significant an asset I consider My Values to be! Sounds old school and possibly archaic? Better, I suppose!
Have you ever wondered how significant you and I are without our integrity? Little? No at all? Or much better, as a lot of people obviously feel, given the fast changing circumstantial world which continues to orient itself more towards the materialistic realm rather than the people part?
If you, like me, find yourself answering two of the former of the three mentioned, then you've won the game of living (purely as per my viewpoint, for I am no authority to prescribe the ways of life), whilst, if you have answered the latter of the three, then I shall choose not to implore upon you to reconsider, for I'm sure this is well thought of on your part!
I'm not one of those who considers my values to be an impediment to my growth, on the contrary, I firmly believe that my deeply entrenched value system enables me to envision a very strong growth path and pattern, one that will be truly rewarding and full of contentment. More importantly, I hope to create a lasting legacy with this wonderful inheritance, thanks to the supremely appreciable efforts of my parents who have at all times, unfailingly, instilled in me the importance of living well, in dignity and as a matter of fact, in the right!
Tell me, would you teach your children something you didn't want to do yourself? Do you not think that it is important to be right than to be nice?
-- Pravsworld
We've seen quite a bit about My Documents, My Applications, My Music, My Folders, My Connections, My Files and so on...... I wonder if the list ever ends! No, I certainly do not want to talk about any of those metaphysical aspects of the digital world! Rather, I'm going to harp on how important and significant an asset I consider My Values to be! Sounds old school and possibly archaic? Better, I suppose!
Have you ever wondered how significant you and I are without our integrity? Little? No at all? Or much better, as a lot of people obviously feel, given the fast changing circumstantial world which continues to orient itself more towards the materialistic realm rather than the people part?
If you, like me, find yourself answering two of the former of the three mentioned, then you've won the game of living (purely as per my viewpoint, for I am no authority to prescribe the ways of life), whilst, if you have answered the latter of the three, then I shall choose not to implore upon you to reconsider, for I'm sure this is well thought of on your part!
I'm not one of those who considers my values to be an impediment to my growth, on the contrary, I firmly believe that my deeply entrenched value system enables me to envision a very strong growth path and pattern, one that will be truly rewarding and full of contentment. More importantly, I hope to create a lasting legacy with this wonderful inheritance, thanks to the supremely appreciable efforts of my parents who have at all times, unfailingly, instilled in me the importance of living well, in dignity and as a matter of fact, in the right!
Tell me, would you teach your children something you didn't want to do yourself? Do you not think that it is important to be right than to be nice?
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Pune Flooded
Of joys departed, not to return, how painful the remembrance
-- Robert Blair
It is July 12th, but the year is 1961!
Pune is under a spell of incessant rains that continue to lash without any respite. The sheer volume of water causes the Khadakvasala and Panshet dams to burst open. Instantly, half of Pune lies submerged. Over 2000 people lose their lives in this calamity and more than 100,000 families stand displaced.
Today, 48 years later, the memory lives on, serving as an ominous reminder of nature's fury.
This post pays homage to the people who lost their lives, their significant others, their homes and all that mattered in life!
-- Robert Blair
It is July 12th, but the year is 1961!
Pune is under a spell of incessant rains that continue to lash without any respite. The sheer volume of water causes the Khadakvasala and Panshet dams to burst open. Instantly, half of Pune lies submerged. Over 2000 people lose their lives in this calamity and more than 100,000 families stand displaced.
Today, 48 years later, the memory lives on, serving as an ominous reminder of nature's fury.
This post pays homage to the people who lost their lives, their significant others, their homes and all that mattered in life!
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Ongoing with life
This week has been hectic and truly arduous, but that's not stopping me from being my normal self and talk in this post about the importance of being happy and content! Happiness, as they say, is a state of mind!
I am currently reading, among others, The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, which more than once illustrates the feeling of true happiness, gratitude and cheerfulness of a young loving soul confined in hiding! I'm truly amazed at how wonderful people, especially children can be in expressing their true feelings and desires!
It's really a wonder that I haven't dropped all my ideals, because they seem so absurd and impossible to carry out. Yet I keep them, because in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart. I simply can't build up my hopes on a foundation consisting of confusion, misery, and death. I see the world gradually being turned into a wilderness, I hear the ever approaching thunder, which will destroy us too, I can feel the sufferings of millions and yet, if I look up into the heavens, I think that it will all come right, that this cruelty too will end, and that peace and tranquility will return again -- Saturday, 15th July 1944
My rare evening walks have been rendered even rarer, but then I do not really regret since I know life has many passing phases and cannot always remain the same! Equilibrium, it seems, should not always be attained, for it brings entities to a grinding halt!
While the monsoons have come calling in bits and pieces, the rains continue to remain elusive, threatening the city's water table levels, a lifeline which is much needed at this point of time. However, a few drizzles have turned the city lush green. But, there is a certain lull in my life which is quite tiring! I do not seem to get a lot of time for myself, to think, introspect, to look up at the clouded skies and watch the bats fly to roost in the evenings! The monotony is excruciating but also provides me a great deal of learning in my area of work, which is very welcome.
Mornings are wonderful, as ever! The short walk to the gym, the refreshing work-out, the walk back home and the luxury of the yet unspoiled air swishing on my face are rich perquisites that are enough reason to remain happy and calm. I do nonetheless wish for my tired nerves to be more relaxed! In any case, it makes not much of a difference, for I have, for quite sometime now, been successfully practicing the art of detaching personal and professional lives, either of which are important I realize, if not in equal measure though.
But I will not complain, as I'm truly happy for going through the grind and coming out a successful learner, if not always a winner, which I realize is more important.
"As long as this exists," I thought, "and I may live to see it, this sunshine, the cloudless skies, while this lasts, I cannot be unhappy." The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quite alone with the heavens, nature, and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. As long as this exists, and it certainly always will, I know that then thee will always be comfort for every sorrow, whatever the circumstances may be. And I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles -- Wednesday, 23th Feb 1944
Most importantly, my happiness arises from no association, reason or object. It is, I realize, unconditional.
Happiness should be elementary, perpetual and not associated with any material object, don't you agree?
Tomorrow being a Friday, is a certain source for some unparalleled happiness ;)
Footnotes:
The Anne Frank Museum
The Anne Frank internet guide
FYI - The emboldened italicized portions in the post are excerpts from the book!
I am currently reading, among others, The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, which more than once illustrates the feeling of true happiness, gratitude and cheerfulness of a young loving soul confined in hiding! I'm truly amazed at how wonderful people, especially children can be in expressing their true feelings and desires!
It's really a wonder that I haven't dropped all my ideals, because they seem so absurd and impossible to carry out. Yet I keep them, because in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart. I simply can't build up my hopes on a foundation consisting of confusion, misery, and death. I see the world gradually being turned into a wilderness, I hear the ever approaching thunder, which will destroy us too, I can feel the sufferings of millions and yet, if I look up into the heavens, I think that it will all come right, that this cruelty too will end, and that peace and tranquility will return again -- Saturday, 15th July 1944
My rare evening walks have been rendered even rarer, but then I do not really regret since I know life has many passing phases and cannot always remain the same! Equilibrium, it seems, should not always be attained, for it brings entities to a grinding halt!
While the monsoons have come calling in bits and pieces, the rains continue to remain elusive, threatening the city's water table levels, a lifeline which is much needed at this point of time. However, a few drizzles have turned the city lush green. But, there is a certain lull in my life which is quite tiring! I do not seem to get a lot of time for myself, to think, introspect, to look up at the clouded skies and watch the bats fly to roost in the evenings! The monotony is excruciating but also provides me a great deal of learning in my area of work, which is very welcome.
Mornings are wonderful, as ever! The short walk to the gym, the refreshing work-out, the walk back home and the luxury of the yet unspoiled air swishing on my face are rich perquisites that are enough reason to remain happy and calm. I do nonetheless wish for my tired nerves to be more relaxed! In any case, it makes not much of a difference, for I have, for quite sometime now, been successfully practicing the art of detaching personal and professional lives, either of which are important I realize, if not in equal measure though.
But I will not complain, as I'm truly happy for going through the grind and coming out a successful learner, if not always a winner, which I realize is more important.
"As long as this exists," I thought, "and I may live to see it, this sunshine, the cloudless skies, while this lasts, I cannot be unhappy." The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quite alone with the heavens, nature, and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. As long as this exists, and it certainly always will, I know that then thee will always be comfort for every sorrow, whatever the circumstances may be. And I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles -- Wednesday, 23th Feb 1944
Most importantly, my happiness arises from no association, reason or object. It is, I realize, unconditional.
Happiness should be elementary, perpetual and not associated with any material object, don't you agree?
Tomorrow being a Friday, is a certain source for some unparalleled happiness ;)
Footnotes:
The Anne Frank Museum
The Anne Frank internet guide
FYI - The emboldened italicized portions in the post are excerpts from the book!
Sunday, July 05, 2009
InsideR
It is perhaps early in the evening, the large clinically white coated set of rooms are bustling with activity with several people intently peering into their console screens that constantly chatter some kind of data that looks gibberish to me! Dull lights illuminate the rooms in an distastefully uncomfortable ambiance. Milling around many geeky techies engrossed in a seemingly exciting chore, uninterested and unacknowledged of my presence, I continue to explore the place with a mix of curiosity and anxiety that borders very closely with fear! The letters USR are boldly emblazoned in several places to denote that this is a research area of the USRobotics. Curiosity is overcome by gut-wrenching fear and chaos as I see myself strapped to a chair with several dozen cables running from my head to a mangle of devices present in vicinity, upon which are focused the intent glares of a dozen or more people!
The scene shifts immediately, and I find myself in a vast lush green corn field more expansive than what the eye can see and the mind can comprehend. It is divided by a thin beaten path and is ominously covered with a mild curtain of mist which seems to make the place more eerie than it already is. Instinctively I am aware of being watched, by beings that are neither animal nor human! There is a mechanical hum that sounds itself intermittently suggesting the presence of electronic eyes that are doing the job of tracking me! I race to safety hardly noticing that I'm in the air and my feet are not in contact with the ground below that is fast receding!
The scene shifts many times during the course of my deep sleep and the morning light brings with it comfort and a soothing reassurance that what I saw hours, or perhaps minutes ago have been mere dreams! But I'm overwhelmed by the intensity of detail that I have seen and tired, as if I've been travelling and physically present in the places that I saw. A mild but annoying headache makes me stay in bed although its long past the waking and rising hour! Thankfully, it is a Sunday morning and I don't have to carry these photographic instances to a complicated workplace. I try to relax a while longer in wait for the Sun to rise before getting myself up and helping my haggard face get a cold burst of water on it in an attempt to wipe away the imposing detail that still lingers in front of my exhausted eyes. I do not look at the mirror, for not wanting to be seen pale and rugged after the night's expeditionary transportation which like many of its predecessors has exhausted me.
As if for comfort, the morning is bright and soothing and I seize the opportunity to savour it before the clamour of the day emerges. The Sun rises in a deep Orange glow. I try to distract my thoughts reminding myself that Orange is perhaps the only fruit, known in name by its colour! The warm glow helps me calm myself and tell me that it is only a dream. The doorbell rings and the paperboy hands me a bundle. I momentarily gaze at my cousin's computer before turning it on and querying for half a dozen news websites that along with the paper will tell me the happenings across the globe.
I'm faintly reminded of the, Robin Williams, Cuba Gooding Jr., movie What dreams may come, which I watched, perhaps, a decade ago. In a matter of minutes the calm morning makes me intently focus on the incoming news and I'm back to reality and more importantly, myself!
The scene shifts immediately, and I find myself in a vast lush green corn field more expansive than what the eye can see and the mind can comprehend. It is divided by a thin beaten path and is ominously covered with a mild curtain of mist which seems to make the place more eerie than it already is. Instinctively I am aware of being watched, by beings that are neither animal nor human! There is a mechanical hum that sounds itself intermittently suggesting the presence of electronic eyes that are doing the job of tracking me! I race to safety hardly noticing that I'm in the air and my feet are not in contact with the ground below that is fast receding!
The scene shifts many times during the course of my deep sleep and the morning light brings with it comfort and a soothing reassurance that what I saw hours, or perhaps minutes ago have been mere dreams! But I'm overwhelmed by the intensity of detail that I have seen and tired, as if I've been travelling and physically present in the places that I saw. A mild but annoying headache makes me stay in bed although its long past the waking and rising hour! Thankfully, it is a Sunday morning and I don't have to carry these photographic instances to a complicated workplace. I try to relax a while longer in wait for the Sun to rise before getting myself up and helping my haggard face get a cold burst of water on it in an attempt to wipe away the imposing detail that still lingers in front of my exhausted eyes. I do not look at the mirror, for not wanting to be seen pale and rugged after the night's expeditionary transportation which like many of its predecessors has exhausted me.
As if for comfort, the morning is bright and soothing and I seize the opportunity to savour it before the clamour of the day emerges. The Sun rises in a deep Orange glow. I try to distract my thoughts reminding myself that Orange is perhaps the only fruit, known in name by its colour! The warm glow helps me calm myself and tell me that it is only a dream. The doorbell rings and the paperboy hands me a bundle. I momentarily gaze at my cousin's computer before turning it on and querying for half a dozen news websites that along with the paper will tell me the happenings across the globe.
I'm faintly reminded of the, Robin Williams, Cuba Gooding Jr., movie What dreams may come, which I watched, perhaps, a decade ago. In a matter of minutes the calm morning makes me intently focus on the incoming news and I'm back to reality and more importantly, myself!
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
My experiments with experience!
Experience is a wonderful teacher, the only problem being that the test comes first and the lesson later
-- Anonymous
Nearly all of my learning has been at-the-hands-of-life or what some may term livened by experience! Although this is a sure shot way of being bruised right down to the core of the ego, I guarantee it to be very effective, for learning acquired via such a medium is unlikely to be forgotten, ever!
Sometimes, I wonder what is it that we ought to do with all the learning that we do during the course of our lifetime, and almost instantly comes the answer of how the purpose is to constantly ascend to higher levels that render us to be better than what we already are.
In today's world where complications and confusions rule everyday life, it is essential to seek true wisdom and relentlessly pursue excellence in a effort to bring harmony within the self and outside of it. And here is where learning plays a pivotal role in shaping the outlook of a people, not just a person! Now, imagine how better off we have become (really?) in many aspects vis-à-vis our ancestors. Wouldn't it be fair to attribute this 'betterment' to a few Millennia of collective learning put to good use which then aided to evolution? Quite similarly, we are mere catalysts, I believe, to make way for a much better generation the primal requisite of whom will be the knowledge that we as an individual, institution and a social system will assimilate!
Ask yourself the question of your purpose and sleep over it a number of times before you come to a definite conclusion. Then, ponder over the answer many a times until the mind is exhausted by the repetitive analysis that you engage it in. What do you get? The compulsive need for ascension to a higher level? Don't let yourself be surprised or intrigued, for that is precisely the way it is supposed to be, except that such a process is certainly not conclusive as we may see it, for it is a continual course of action and not a point of arrival!
Can you imagine a process without a finale? Something that is not governed by time or space, or both? Oh, you and I are already a part of it, trust me!
Ever heard some wise old soul in an emphatically categorical affirmation that 'every learning is an attempt of mere recollection of a knowledge that already exists?'
-- Anonymous
Nearly all of my learning has been at-the-hands-of-life or what some may term livened by experience! Although this is a sure shot way of being bruised right down to the core of the ego, I guarantee it to be very effective, for learning acquired via such a medium is unlikely to be forgotten, ever!
Sometimes, I wonder what is it that we ought to do with all the learning that we do during the course of our lifetime, and almost instantly comes the answer of how the purpose is to constantly ascend to higher levels that render us to be better than what we already are.
In today's world where complications and confusions rule everyday life, it is essential to seek true wisdom and relentlessly pursue excellence in a effort to bring harmony within the self and outside of it. And here is where learning plays a pivotal role in shaping the outlook of a people, not just a person! Now, imagine how better off we have become (really?) in many aspects vis-à-vis our ancestors. Wouldn't it be fair to attribute this 'betterment' to a few Millennia of collective learning put to good use which then aided to evolution? Quite similarly, we are mere catalysts, I believe, to make way for a much better generation the primal requisite of whom will be the knowledge that we as an individual, institution and a social system will assimilate!
Ask yourself the question of your purpose and sleep over it a number of times before you come to a definite conclusion. Then, ponder over the answer many a times until the mind is exhausted by the repetitive analysis that you engage it in. What do you get? The compulsive need for ascension to a higher level? Don't let yourself be surprised or intrigued, for that is precisely the way it is supposed to be, except that such a process is certainly not conclusive as we may see it, for it is a continual course of action and not a point of arrival!
Can you imagine a process without a finale? Something that is not governed by time or space, or both? Oh, you and I are already a part of it, trust me!
Ever heard some wise old soul in an emphatically categorical affirmation that 'every learning is an attempt of mere recollection of a knowledge that already exists?'
Monday, June 29, 2009
Strategic Partnerships - The Way Ahead
14 years ago, on this day Russian space station Mir docked with space shuttle Atlantis for the very first time, paving way for a new level of US - Russian ties to emerge and flourish! Though some acrid memories of the cold war faintly remained, both nations took a significant step to partner with each other aimed to achieve significant results in the areas of life-sciences, filming with IMAX camera, vital logistical resupply of the Mir, recovery of US astronaut Norman E. Thagard and Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiments (SAREX-II), among other things!
Look at what cooperation can do!
Perhaps, a lot of people, corporate establishments and nations too need to learn a few lessons from such strategic partnerships, which during such turbulent economic times can prove vital to one another in the areas of research, people management, cost control and more importantly augmentation of humanitarian efforts!
The way ahead into the emerging world scenario will be built upon the fundamentals of collaboration aimed at establishing symbiotic relationships be it in furthering research, combating disease, feeding the hungry, cultivating wastelands, fighting terror or in exploring the existence of life forms beyond the Earth.
Partnership is not a bad word! On the contrary it makes way for superior intellect, fresh drive, accelerated purpose and strong pursuit of clearly defined goals.
And as Dante Alighieri so thoughtfully asked "Of my sowing such straw I reap. O human folk, why set the heart there where exclusion of partnership is necessary?", why forsake an option that might be the gateway itself?
Look at what cooperation can do!
Perhaps, a lot of people, corporate establishments and nations too need to learn a few lessons from such strategic partnerships, which during such turbulent economic times can prove vital to one another in the areas of research, people management, cost control and more importantly augmentation of humanitarian efforts!
The way ahead into the emerging world scenario will be built upon the fundamentals of collaboration aimed at establishing symbiotic relationships be it in furthering research, combating disease, feeding the hungry, cultivating wastelands, fighting terror or in exploring the existence of life forms beyond the Earth.
Partnership is not a bad word! On the contrary it makes way for superior intellect, fresh drive, accelerated purpose and strong pursuit of clearly defined goals.
And as Dante Alighieri so thoughtfully asked "Of my sowing such straw I reap. O human folk, why set the heart there where exclusion of partnership is necessary?", why forsake an option that might be the gateway itself?
Friday, June 26, 2009
Remembering Michael Jackson
Have you seen my Childhood?
I'm searching for the world that I come from
'Cause I've been looking around
In the lost and found of my heart...
No one understands me
They view it as such strange eccentricities...
'Cause I keep kidding around
Like a child, but pardon me...
I'm searching for the world that I come from
'Cause I've been looking around
In the lost and found of my heart...
No one understands me
They view it as such strange eccentricities...
'Cause I keep kidding around
Like a child, but pardon me...
People say I'm not okay
'Cause I love such elementary things...
It's been my fate to compensate,
for the Childhood, I've never known...
'Cause I love such elementary things...
It's been my fate to compensate,
for the Childhood, I've never known...
Have you seen my Childhood?
I'm searching for that wonder in my youth
Like pirates and adventurous dreams,
Of conquest and kings on the throne...
I'm searching for that wonder in my youth
Like pirates and adventurous dreams,
Of conquest and kings on the throne...
Before you judge me, try hard to love me,
Look within your heart then ask,
Have you seen my Childhood?
People say I'm strange that way
'Cause I love such elementary things,
It's been my fate to compensate,
For the Childhood I've never known...
Look within your heart then ask,
Have you seen my Childhood?
People say I'm strange that way
'Cause I love such elementary things,
It's been my fate to compensate,
For the Childhood I've never known...
Have you seen my Childhood?
I'm searching for that wonder in my youth
Like fantastical stories to share
The dreams I would dare, watch me fly...
I'm searching for that wonder in my youth
Like fantastical stories to share
The dreams I would dare, watch me fly...
Before you judge me, try hard to love me.
The painful youth I've had
Have you seen my Childhood....
The painful youth I've had
Have you seen my Childhood....
Footnotes:
Lyrics - Childhood, May 31, 1995
Michael Jackson - The Official Website
Image Description - Jackson at the White House South Portico with President Ronald Reagan and first lady Nancy Reagan, 1984
Image Courtesy - Archival Research Catalog of the National Archives and Records Administration under the ARC Identifier 198548
Thursday, June 25, 2009
A question of destiny?
Staying with Sundays, this time around, a question in a life column of a certain newspaper foxed me!
The inquisitive enquirer wondered why hard work and unending toil was necessary if every aspect of life was controlled by God and the measure of outcome was already decided to be dished out not a pint more than the allotted proportion that came at the discretion of the Creator! In other words, destiny!
Intriguing question I thought, following the after thought that such questions almost always never have a good answer! Have you noticed?
Now, this set me wondering! I recollected Lord Krishna's advice to a perplexed Arjuna while on battlefield, that humanity is a certain phase that will bring to an end every person living, but that does not mean that one engages in squander of time, considering the certain end that one will approach!
He further cited that a person needs to employ oneself in order to satiate many needs and most importantly keep off from the thought of mortality!
Anyhow, scriptures apart, aren't we, as human beings, supposed to be creators of our own destiny? Life comes with a minimal guarantee that focused effort will yield desired results, doesn't it? And that of the unexplained bit, I'd like it to be associated with Karma!
I do not in any measure will to batter the poor seeker! Who knows what he must have been through in life to ask something so solemn, which brings me to remember Brian Tracy's famous quote "Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation."
The inquisitive enquirer wondered why hard work and unending toil was necessary if every aspect of life was controlled by God and the measure of outcome was already decided to be dished out not a pint more than the allotted proportion that came at the discretion of the Creator! In other words, destiny!
Intriguing question I thought, following the after thought that such questions almost always never have a good answer! Have you noticed?
Now, this set me wondering! I recollected Lord Krishna's advice to a perplexed Arjuna while on battlefield, that humanity is a certain phase that will bring to an end every person living, but that does not mean that one engages in squander of time, considering the certain end that one will approach!
He further cited that a person needs to employ oneself in order to satiate many needs and most importantly keep off from the thought of mortality!
Anyhow, scriptures apart, aren't we, as human beings, supposed to be creators of our own destiny? Life comes with a minimal guarantee that focused effort will yield desired results, doesn't it? And that of the unexplained bit, I'd like it to be associated with Karma!
I do not in any measure will to batter the poor seeker! Who knows what he must have been through in life to ask something so solemn, which brings me to remember Brian Tracy's famous quote "Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation."
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
The pace of my life
Pakistan's victory in the T20 world cup on Sunday was electrifying! It is worth learning a lesson or two on how they stood together in pulling off this win, despite a ravaging war torn situation at home! I was, in the rarest of moments, caught glued to the television screen unable to take my eyes off the spectacular Pakistani pull off at the Lords! But then, that was just the beginning!
A little after the match got over, I set out on a 10 kilometer long walk which took me a little more than an hour perhaps, during which time I was pondering over my current state of life which has suddenly been cast into an indeterminate state, devoid of much activity outside of the line of work!
I had not walked long distances for a long time now and the thought of doing a quick brisk one this time brought me to energetic speed, the like of which I hadn't witnessed anytime recently.
Walking gives one ample time and opportunity to introspect while the body itself is put to work on a very well defined course of action and all the mind needs to do is focus!
I found myself deep in thought, seeking a departure from the current state that I am part of, wanting to embark on a journey that helps me realize my passion, or for that matter, the many such longings that I cherish to do. Information seemed outpouring at mind boggling speeds and still making no sense at all! A lot to do, too little time, the call of the wild, no dreary routines and a fresh perspective and location!
End of the ride, I thought to myself, rather in question, if I had become impulsive or compulsive or both! Maybe plain critically analytical?
Sometimes, it is better to avoid deep thought, don't you agree?
A little after the match got over, I set out on a 10 kilometer long walk which took me a little more than an hour perhaps, during which time I was pondering over my current state of life which has suddenly been cast into an indeterminate state, devoid of much activity outside of the line of work!
I had not walked long distances for a long time now and the thought of doing a quick brisk one this time brought me to energetic speed, the like of which I hadn't witnessed anytime recently.
Walking gives one ample time and opportunity to introspect while the body itself is put to work on a very well defined course of action and all the mind needs to do is focus!
I found myself deep in thought, seeking a departure from the current state that I am part of, wanting to embark on a journey that helps me realize my passion, or for that matter, the many such longings that I cherish to do. Information seemed outpouring at mind boggling speeds and still making no sense at all! A lot to do, too little time, the call of the wild, no dreary routines and a fresh perspective and location!
End of the ride, I thought to myself, rather in question, if I had become impulsive or compulsive or both! Maybe plain critically analytical?
Sometimes, it is better to avoid deep thought, don't you agree?
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
I'm fortunate!
Sunday last, after a luxurious two-day sojourn with a brother who also stays in Pune, I was returning home, a well-rested and comforted man! My mind was filled with a list of official chores that would attack me the next day, it being an ominously manic monday. (Forgive me for not capitalizing the m of monday, which I reckon is reasonable enough not to have been done)
The late evening rush on the road was now a long, slow, snaking line, of many desperate ones trying to edge the other out, in the quest to reach their destiny faster!
On one such traffic stop, thanks to the never ending I-want-to-jump-that-damned-red-light, I waited in patience listening to Unforgiven of Metallica, oddly wondering if I was actually one of those unforgiven ones fighting a constant battle against the odds and frantically demanding Nirvana, as a recompense for a seemingly not-so-rewarding life!
No sooner did I let that thought utilize a fraction of a moment longer than what was necessary, or not perhaps, a small boy of eight years something presented himself to me with a smiling face and an outstretched hand!
Instantly, I wondered how fortunate I was, being myself and having had the luxury of spending a good weekend, quality time, Et al! It took a moment more to shake myself out of the thoughtful slumber, fish out my wallet from which I dug out a certain denomination of the Indian currency and handed it out to the waiting recipient!
You should have seen the look on his face! Off he dashed, smiling to himself and I was left with a few more numbers on the now rapidly decreasing ticker of the traffic signal. Moments later, he reappeared, with what seemed to me a small family, in tow, as if to collectively express gratitude towards my minuscule gesture! I smiled at them heartily and was off in a moment, about to lose myself in the suddenly massive out pour of travellers who were now tasting freedom, relieved from the clutches of what was a terrible impediment to their otherwise smooth travel!
As for me, I was lost in thought, wondering how privileged I was, a very stark opposite of that poor kid on the road! So much for the wantons of the mind and its singsongs, and as the old adage goes - after the incident, even the fool is wise, this time the crime being slipshod wanderings of the supposedly thinking mind!
Not suprisingly, I shifted the soundtrack, to Dido's reassuring voice singing Thank You, ensuring that it was not the Stan version by Eminem!
Bloody hypo-freaking-crite, my mind thought of itself!
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Looking back
I've been doing some much needed introspection now and can safely conclude that I want to make my life as eventful as those wonderful days of childhood, where I lived a life, free of all worries and troubles, knowing not more than the blue sunlight sky, the evergreen meadows of seemingly carefully trimmed expansive lawns and the odd rocky rivulets flowing between them! I wanted to grow up and see the world then, not knowing the tremendous displeasure that it would bring about in my life!
Beetles, Beegees and Leo Sayer, did their magic back then, always adding to the luxury of childhood and the blissful nothingness that was associated with it! Childhood was greenery and expansive blue spread forever with hues of unconditionally soft white, if you know what that means, meant rather!
I step back to think about those Sunday afternoons and Monday mornings often not being very different from each other, barring the place of presence, them being home and school respectively. The excitement was feverishly fearful to those around me!
Tell me what I've done that I'm here now, as the one that I am, far from those wonderful days of pure joy? Why, I wonder, does the child always feel better to be a man? It's not for bloody nuts that Floyd sang "The Child has grown and the dream has gone."
Another sorry tale of the grass being green on the other side? Nay, for I've seen it all and lived it too, and am sure the parallel will someday come!
Beetles, Beegees and Leo Sayer, did their magic back then, always adding to the luxury of childhood and the blissful nothingness that was associated with it! Childhood was greenery and expansive blue spread forever with hues of unconditionally soft white, if you know what that means, meant rather!
I step back to think about those Sunday afternoons and Monday mornings often not being very different from each other, barring the place of presence, them being home and school respectively. The excitement was feverishly fearful to those around me!
Tell me what I've done that I'm here now, as the one that I am, far from those wonderful days of pure joy? Why, I wonder, does the child always feel better to be a man? It's not for bloody nuts that Floyd sang "The Child has grown and the dream has gone."
Another sorry tale of the grass being green on the other side? Nay, for I've seen it all and lived it too, and am sure the parallel will someday come!
Footnotes:
My quest for purpose is intense and you will see more of these 'looking back' instances!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Shift happens
Take a look at the presentation below!
It emphasizes on, perhaps, one of the most important aspects of our lives, personal and professional, that aspect being 'Change'! What is relevant in the context of what we do today, may not always hold the same importance tomorrow.
Some of us may argue that such a cataclysmic and continual shift of focus can only bring chaos, but I'd like to view this as many an opportunity, presented to us to evolve into better beings who take cognizance of happenings around them while not losing sight of their purpose and inner selves!
The easiest way, to overcome the pressures of an overwhelmingly fast-paced and seemingly chaotic life, is to acknowledge that change is inevitable and that it happens for a reason, which some of us understand while some others choose not to accept! Do ponder through, and let me know what you feel about this.
Footnotes:
You may view this presentation by clicking here, in the event of not being able to view the embedded object above.
Monday, June 08, 2009
My new blog on Geo-politics
And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free
-- Gospel of John 8:32, The Holy Bible / Also found at the entrance of the CIA headquarters
I'm often told to be a lot less serious than what I project myself to be! Those part of the inner circle laugh at this! Talk about the many masks one wears! Anyhow, harping on this comment, I wanted to reflect myself even more seriously to the inner of my own self and a tad bit outside too! Justifying one's life, at all times, after all should be a constant endeavour of every human being, I believe!
So, the thought of writing some more serious stuff motivated me, more than ever before, and thus was born Rakesh Vanamali, the thoughts of a geo-political observer! As if I wasn't writing some serious stuff, already??? ;)
I want to introduce you to my new space, which will carry some very pointed and analytical thoughts on the geo-political scenario in India and across the world, and how I believe these situations will shape our foreign policies, approach to general issues and so on ....... more of politico-system, socio-specific type rantings!
I must tell you that this comes as a result of a compulsive need to analyze the socio-political apparatus and is not motivated by what some people think is an influence by the Company, the Firm, La Piscine or some other secret service! I assure that I'm too small a fry for such adventure and in the same breath also assure you that Intelligence, secondary of course, will form an extensive part of this space, which is as a result of a very high admiration for the trade itself, and some folks namely B. Raman, Peter Coates, Nikolas Gvosdev, Brahma Chellaney and Vikram Sood, to name a few!
As always, with utmost humility, I seek your goodwill that will enable me to be better than what I currently am, as in the aspect of learning and development, which I so truly and ardently seek. Do feel free to critique what you may see, for such an action will only thrust me forward, to attain my goal.
-- Gospel of John 8:32, The Holy Bible / Also found at the entrance of the CIA headquarters
I'm often told to be a lot less serious than what I project myself to be! Those part of the inner circle laugh at this! Talk about the many masks one wears! Anyhow, harping on this comment, I wanted to reflect myself even more seriously to the inner of my own self and a tad bit outside too! Justifying one's life, at all times, after all should be a constant endeavour of every human being, I believe!
So, the thought of writing some more serious stuff motivated me, more than ever before, and thus was born Rakesh Vanamali, the thoughts of a geo-political observer! As if I wasn't writing some serious stuff, already??? ;)
I want to introduce you to my new space, which will carry some very pointed and analytical thoughts on the geo-political scenario in India and across the world, and how I believe these situations will shape our foreign policies, approach to general issues and so on ....... more of politico-system, socio-specific type rantings!
I must tell you that this comes as a result of a compulsive need to analyze the socio-political apparatus and is not motivated by what some people think is an influence by the Company, the Firm, La Piscine or some other secret service! I assure that I'm too small a fry for such adventure and in the same breath also assure you that Intelligence, secondary of course, will form an extensive part of this space, which is as a result of a very high admiration for the trade itself, and some folks namely B. Raman, Peter Coates, Nikolas Gvosdev, Brahma Chellaney and Vikram Sood, to name a few!
As always, with utmost humility, I seek your goodwill that will enable me to be better than what I currently am, as in the aspect of learning and development, which I so truly and ardently seek. Do feel free to critique what you may see, for such an action will only thrust me forward, to attain my goal.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Remembering Tiananmen, 20 years later!
June 4, 1989 went down into the annals of history with a grim tale! The day witnessed perhaps the most violent condemnation of free speech and peaceful intent, ever! 7000 innocent unarmed students and demonstrators lost their lives in what came to be known as the Tiananmen Square massacre! This post pays homage to all those who lost their lives at the instance of cruel communist mercenaries who continue to wreck havoc in Tibet.
The following picture which became iconic of Tiananmen, reflects the power of one! Click here to see the video of this spectacular show of strength!
I have included some very interesting links in the Footnotes section that outline the facts concerning the massacre. A large part of substantiated facts come from declassified cables sent by the US Embassy in Beijing to the State Department in Washington.
Footnotes:
Unclassified US State Department Telegram detailing the massacre
The Declassified History - A National Security Archive Electronic Briefing Book
Images Courtesy - Today's pictures
Digital Archives -
Monday, June 01, 2009
International Children's Day
We are surrounded by the ability to grow. All we have to do is reach out and embrace it. The red & yellow, black and white figures represent diversity and tolerance. Our children are the key to peace and tolerance of race, religion, physical, mental, and social diversity. The star, which is made up of the figures' legs, represents light. We can be a light for the world, if we choose. The five points on the star represent the continents. We are all part of one true race, the human race.
The earth figure, which is directly in the center, represents our earthly home and all the blessings on it, which God has given us all to share and respect. The large blue circle engulfing the figures symbolizes peace and God's universal love. It also represents the unity that we can achieve if we reach out to one another in love. Blue symbolizes trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. The blue figure at the top represents God, who is the author & finisher of all things. God loves all of us equally and we should be striving to imitate that love (which is represented by the figures reaching out to each other)
-- Gwendolyn Wells Loiacono, on 22 January 2003
Redefining Oblivion pays homage to the Children of the world on account of the International Children's Day, which is observed on this day! May the goodwill of our children deliver us to our desired destiny, while we ensure their security, welfare and prosperity, at all times, and unconditionally of course!
Footnotes:
Image Courtesy - CRW Flags
Description - Flag created by Jorge Candeias, 3 August 2005, original artist unknown
Children's Day - Wikipedia Page
Friday, May 29, 2009
India ATTACKED
The news of Indian students being attacked in Australia comes as a disgusting shocker! At a time when one expects people to focus on technological improvements, adherence to civil culture and peaceful coexistence, such grim incidents are certainly unbecoming and reflect on the mindset of a social system which is unfortunately harbouring a great deal of racially motivated hate in its thoughts and actions.
Least expected are barbarous acts such as the victims' houses being burgled at a time when the entire community is expected to be offering their condolences and help to the distressed lot. Apparently, this hate and racially motivated mindset is leading to many violent attacks on Indians in this Island continent and the Australian government needs to handle this more seriously and with more maturity.
While fresh incidents of racial attacks on Indians continue to occur, I call upon the Australian people to standby their Indian counterparts in ensuring peace and harmony, and condemn such uncivilized and heinous acts of violence against any community.
Repeated calls for ensuring security of Indian citizens, students in particular, have fallen on deaf ears, as any concrete action remains yet to be taken. It is well past time that the Australian government buckles up and takes some action, while also realizing that an attack on an Indian is an attack on the Indian sovereign!
Footnotes:
Images Courtesy - The Times of India
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