FEELING BLUE ✍️

‘SMILE YOUR BLUES AWAY!!!’😊

About two and a half years ago, when I first started posting on this blog, that’s the name I chose for my blog; because I always thought that having the ability to smile my way through life, was one of my great assets and one of God’s greatest blessings and gifts to me. 

True, life has presented me with countless opportunities in which to smile; but it has also taken me through moments of crisis, stress and extreme frustration, when a smile was absolutely the last thing on my mind. 

Despite that, somehow, I always managed to make it through the dark night. 

My blog though, has received mixed reviews from those who frequent this part of cyberspace. Mostly friends and some casual passers-by have often taken the time to comment on the content, that I’ve chosen to post here. 

Some felt that the 'smiling' was way too excessive for their liking; while others thought, that the 'blues' were always evident through the smiles.

Today, I decided to share an experience about how I managed to get through and cope with one of those 'inevitable blues' in life.

The last two days have been rather stressful. The pressure at work, has been weighing me down in a big way. Things just haven’t been going my way. I suddenly feel incapable and handicapped, and at a complete disadvantage. I haven’t been able to meet a deadline for a particular project, and am not even entirely happy with what we have managed to put together. It seems like a very shoddy and haphazardly done job; and as a result, it goes without saying, I’m very disappointed in myself. Have even contemplated just handing over the entire project to one of my colleagues. I think the best way to put it would be, I have been smiling a whole lot lesser, in the past two days.

I guess feeling a little 'off colour' sometimes, is pretty normal; and so, it wouldn’t really surprise most people. 

However, this morning in school, I had three different students asking me the same questions, 

“Miss, what’s wrong? Where has that smile gone today?”

“Miss, you don’t seem yourself today.”  

“Miss, I can’t believe this is the same optimistic person, we are so used to seeing everyday.” 

I tried to give them a not so genuine smile in response; but knowing me, most of them saw right through it. It was pretty evident. Something was troubling me terribly, and frankly, I couldn’t really pinpoint what that something was. 

My frustration literally drove me to tears last night; and to make matters worse, I didn’t really know the actual reason for those tears. All sorts of feelings and emotions made their way in. To sum it up, I guess I was at an emotional low point.😒

During the course of the day however, I managed to find someone, who lent me a listening ear; and I guess, that was something I needed really badly. The moment I’d offloaded my burdens, by voicing them to another person; I strangely felt so much better. 

This person was neither a counselor nor a psychologist. I wouldn’t even call this person my equal in age, cause the chasm of years that separates us, is extremely wide. All that was provided to me, were some words of comfort and encouragement, and some badly needed 'cheering up', that had seemed to be in short supply, over the past two days. I felt a lot calmer after that conversation and the storm that had been building up inside me, seemed to have quietened down.😊

The news I received just an hour or so later, would otherwise have crushed my spirits completely; because I received confirmed news that the project we were supposed to get done, was far from complete and didn’t even show signs of completion for another day or two. 

In my previous volatile state of mind, I would have reacted very differently to this piece of information. Strangely however, that one conversation, had helped me to handle the situation in a way, that surprised me as well. 

I was upset beyond doubt, that goes without saying. I even geared myself for a severe dressing down from my superiors, the next day. I was saddened and disappointed; but not as distressed as I had been, just a few hours ago.

Just one chat, had helped me to overcome all the pent up worry and anxiety, and had prepared me for any eventuality, no matter how grave or severe the consequences. I still wasn’t smiling; but I wasn’t incapable of doing it anymore.✨️

This experience taught me a very important lesson. It taught me about the importance, of being able to unburden oneself of one’s worries. It showed me how, just talking about something can make one feel so much better. It gave me an idea of how sometimes, the most unlikely person could help you untie the knots in a complicated situation. 

Moreover, it taught me never to give up, even when the odds are not in your favour. I learnt through this experience that no matter how many times one falls, what matters more is to rise up and go on. Strangely, this is something I myself had taught my students through a poem in Class X, only a month or so ago. Today, my own life experience reminded me of that same lesson once more.

I’m grateful to God for sending me someone, who listened to me today; and I’m also grateful to Him for taking me through this experience.

Although I’ve learnt it the hard way, I guess this experience has also taught me not to overestimate my capabilities and to stay grounded at all times. Over-confidence and pride, can be the downfall of the best of the best; and I learnt that, through a not-so-pleasant experience today. 

I’m glad this experience came along though, because now that I’m prepared for the most terrible consequences, I can smile again.😊

GLAD TO BE A TEACHER 😊❤️

What a day! I don’t think I could have gone to sleep today, without putting into words what this day has been like for me. Actually, not just this day, but this entire week has been quite something. Awesome! Splendid! Remarkable! Amazing! I could list out a whole bunch of adjectives; and it still would be insufficient, to really express how wonderful this week has been.😊

Teacher’s Day comes our way every single year, and for me, this day has always been special. This is my 5th year as a teacher; and every year Teacher’s Day has been a day I look forward to, with a lot of anticipation. 

This year, our Teacher’s Day Celebrations were spread out over an entire week. With events ranging from Antakshari, to a Quiz and even a back-breaking marathon Treasure Hunt, which has definitely contributed to some much needed weight-loss and also a terrible back-ache; the week finally culminated in a fantastic programme this morning. All in all, this week has been quite a roller-coaster ride.😄

It was a week in which our X Std. boys put themselves in our shoes for a short while everyday, and managed the school with a lot of confidence and enthusiasm. The panache and fervour with which they stepped into the roles assigned to them, was noteworthy. 

It was a week in which, the latent talents of our boys came to the fore, in a plethora of ways. Their creativity and innovation resulted in quite an incredible combination of fun, entertainment and some unforgettable moments. 

Whether it was picking up the little things we teachers do and say, and then imitating them, or poking fun at the teachers in a rather hilarious way. Whether it was simply dancing their heart away to entertain us, or putting us on the spot, with a short round of extempore speeches; the day was completely power-packed.

Of course, for me, the icing on the cake was the manifold nominations in the 'Top Three' for the Students Choice awards for the year, and actually winning one of those awards as well. Not only did it give me a fair idea of what my boys think of me as a teacher, it also made me feel so great about the fact, that I chose to be a Teacher. 

The recognition on the part of the boys, made all my efforts and hard-work, all the stress and strain, seem worthwhile. Winning the award for being the teacher with the 'Best Smile', once again reinforced my belief, that one needs to be able to find joy in the little things in life. It made me realize once more, what a wonderful gift God has blest me with - The ability to be able to ‘SMILE’ and be happy in every situation in life.✨️

My boys expressed their gratitude in so many ways over this past week. Every performance, whether it was in my classroom by my little chintus of Class 6, or by the older boys on the school stage. Whether it was through the innumerable flowers, bouquets, gifts and extremely special cards that I received. Whether it was the sms’s, phone calls, emails and scraps, or the visits from ex-students I’ve taught in the past 5 years, who took the trouble to think of their school teacher on this day -  Everything the boys did, was their small way of saying Thank You.❤️

I realized that before this day draws to a close, I also need to say a word of Thanks to the Heavenly Father above, for blessing me with all the talents and gifts that I would need, to help me be a good teacher. I need to thank Him for always being with me and guiding me on my journey through this vocation, that I have chosen. 

However, most importantly, I need to thank Him for the gift of every single student of mine, who has contributed in their own small way towards making me the teacher I am today. I can only pray that God may bless them abundantly, no matter how near or far they are from me today, because it is only because of them, that I am what I am today. I am a teacher and I’m so glad I am.💕

MY MEMORIES – MY SOLACE ✨️❤️

If I ever had to pick an Anthem for myself or a Song that aptly describes me and my personality,I guess it would be this song called ‘SMILE’. For those of you who haven’t heard the song before, the lyrics of the song go like this:

'Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it’s breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you’ll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You’ll see the sun come shining through for you

Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That’s the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what’s the use of crying?
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile.'😊

SMILE 🎶

- Andre Rieu and Jermaine Jackson

I’m sure that those of you who know me well, and those who’ve known me over a period of years; would fully agree that this song is ‘Me’ in a nutshell.😄

Just yesterday, one of my friends made an observation about my personality. She said that although I appeared to be all happy and cheerful on the outside, there was a tremendous amount of sorrow buried deep within, that a casual onlooker would not even notice. She felt that I needed to 'Let Go' of everything that I was holding on to and just be myself…From the moment those words reached my ears, they kept going back and forth in my mind, and have caused a tremendous amount of emotional turmoil.🙄

I’d always imagined that I was a pretty 'well balanced individual', and that although the sadness and hurt, which had come my way in the past, had played an integral part in the shaping of my personality; they were not things that I was actually clinging on to. Listening to what my friend had to say however, I gradually began to wonder, whether I really had 'Let go'.🤔

On deeper introspection, I guess I came to the conclusion, that maybe I was holding on. I was holding on to 'Memories'. I was holding on to the few strands of moments, that I didn’t want to part with.

However, gradually, I also began to think, “What was so wrong with holding on?” Not letting go of the past completely, is what gives me 'Courage' to go on in life. It does lead to a lot of anguish and tears; but each time I shed a tear, I become emotionally stronger, and better equipped, to cope with the toughest situations ahead in life. 

It has also taught me, about the importance of enjoying every moment to the fullest. Looking at the way I’ve coped, is an example for so many others around me. 'My Memories' are the well-spring of my 'Creativity'. They account for the sensitive and soulful strain in my writing.✍️

Many psychologists and counsellors would probably concur with my friend, and say that I need to 'Let Go'. Somehow though, I tend to disagree; because I think, that holding on to something that’s dear to you, long after it is no longer a part of your life, is what keeps you 'Connected', with what you’ve lost.

And even if I earn that tag, of being a 'maladjusted individual', because I refuse to 'Let Go' completely, I guess I’d like to still 'Stay Connected to my Memories, till the day I myself become, 'But A Memory'.🤷

THE GIFT OF FRIENDSHIP 😊❤️

Two of my friends got married today. I’ve known them both, since the time I was in school. Over the years they got to know one another, liked each other and that fondness eventually turned into love, which then led them to the altar. It was a real joy to be a part of their wedding celebration today. Seeing the happiness on their faces, made me happy as well. I’d always known they would one day tie the knot, but to see it actually happen is quite awesome.💕

To add to that, this wedding has been like a coming together of friends, that I’ve grown up with, many of who are now out of the country. So, seeing all of them together in one place, filled me with so much of nostalgia. It was so amazing, to be in the company of old friends from school and college. Friends who I only keep in touch with through the Internet, were now once again in front of me, in person. 

So much has changed and altered over the years. Some of them look a little different from what they used to as kids. Some of them are married now, and were there with their spouses. Many of them now work and live in different parts of the world.

Despite all that has changed over time, one thing has stood the test of time, and that is the 'Friendship' that we share with one another and the love we have for one another. We may not see each other for months; and yet, when we meet, it’s like 'Coming Home'. 

Coming Home to the memories of our childhood, 

Coming Home to the times we spent together as we grew up, 

Coming Home to the feeling of being 'Friends Forever'.

I wouldn’t call them my 'Best Friends', because over time I’ve made a lot of other New Friends as well; but they definitely are among my Oldest Friends, and that’s what makes them 'Special' to me.

What a Joy it is, to be blest with Friends! If only the time we got to spend in their company, wasn’t so momentary and fleeting...

...How much more beautiful life would be.✨️😊

VIRTUE AT WHAT PRICE??? 🤔

Patience is a virtue, is what I’ve often heard; and thankfully I’ve been blest with lots of it. Of course, occasionally I do flare up and lose my temper; but I guess, on an average I could be classified as being a pretty patient individual.

I’ve often heard my friends and my students say, “She hardly ever gets angry”, which is mostly true; although there have been moments when I have been known to vent out my frustration and irritation, very vocally and audibly. 

Of course, such instances are few and far between, and therefore don’t register on the radar. That mostly happens at home and only my parents get a taste of my fury, when I occasionally turn on the heat and let out all that pent up anger.

It may be a good thing to be a patient person, but I think all we do when we call ourselves patient, is lie; because I doubt there is anyone on this planet, who is really so patient. I’m sure Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa or even Jesus Christ himself for that matter, would have definitely lost their patience, at some time or the other.🤔

In fact, I think that 'pretending to be patient', is what most of us do. I’m sure there would be many, who have perfected the art of exercising restraint, when they actually want to give someone a thorough verbal lashing. 

While it is definitely considered 'good manners' to do so, I think an over-dose of appropriate conduct, could lead a person’s mental and emotional health, to be adversely affected; and although patience is supposed to be a virtue, I don’t think there’s anything wrong in 'losing it', once in a way. 

If anything, I think it would actually make us better human beings, as we wouldn’t be bottling up so many negative emotions, that we would definitely have as human beings. In the process, we would end up developing into more stable individuals.

So, I guess the next time I call myself a patient person, I think I would first have to go and see who I need to give a very serious dressing down to; and for those who’ve always known me to be a very calm and gentle soul, that would indeed be a true sight to behold.😄

YEARNING FOR LOST INNOCENCE ✍️

Happy and carefree, with not a care in the world,
As little kids, how unperturbed we used to be,
Life was so uncomplicated and simple and secure,
The untainted joy and pure felicity, was there for all to see.

The world was one big roller-coaster ride
And we were having the time of our life;
The ups and downs, and twists and turns on it,
Were just part of the ride and caused little strife.

But as the years flew by, we slowly grew up
And we began to see the world in a different light;
The shades of gray began presenting themselves,
Things were no longer simply black or white.

As the different facets of life presented themselves to us
The confusion and the uncertainty grew as well,
The crossroads in life provided us with such a variety of choices,
Of the resulting anguish it caused, anyone could tell.

Life was no longer an open book,
So clear and unobstructed from people’s gaze;
It had now become a closely guarded secret
It had turned into an actual maze.

That same untroubled life had turned into a real puzzle
And cracking the code was no easy task,
The web we’d woven for ourselves had left us in tangles,
We had concealed ourselves behind a mask.

Why had we let life get so complicated?
Why had our errors in judgement taken control of us?
Why had we given up the reins of our own lives?
Why had we let things so drastically alter thus?

There may have been times when we had hidden the truth,
There may have also been times we’d betrayed those who care,
To lose the trust of people so loving and so dear,
To be so heartless, how could we even dare?

Life – How perplexing it can be sometimes!
How difficult to comprehend and understand!
At times it puts us on top of the world,
At other times, we feel we’re standing on quicksand.

Jolly little creatures, with a look of wonder in their eyes,
As we grow, why do we let that spark die down?
Sometimes I wish I could have been a child forever,
How wonderful, if I never had a reason to frown!!! ✍️

SALAMAT DATANG TO A NEW WORLD 😊💕

Along with all the love and respect that I have received as a Teacher in the past 4 years; and apart from all the joy it brings to me, my job has also given me an opportunity to Travel. 

I have visited a number of places within India, on our 'Annual School Educational Tours' with the boys; and every experience has given me an opportunity, to broaden my horizons. It has exposed me to the immense variety and brought me face to face with the amazing diversity, that exists in our beloved nation.

India is such a wonderful assortment of cultures, language, cuisines, dress, and landscape; and yet despite the multiplicity, there is an underlying oneness that unifies us.

Every trip around India therefore, has been a learning experience for me, and has helped to make the textbooks come alive, right before my eyes. It has given me first hand experience and thereby, made me a more well-informed and knowledgeable teacher, than I was before. 

Now, when I share some information with my boys in class, it’s not merely head knowledge or something I just got off the internet; but it’s a sharing of actual experiences, and that definitely makes the whole teaching-learning experience, more believable and enjoyable.😊

Just over a week ago, my school once again presented me with an opportunity, to take my 'Voyage of Discovery' a step further. It literally took me off my feet and whisked me off high into the clouds, to a place I’d never been to before. 

‘Salamat Datang’- that was the greeting this new world extended to me, as it welcomed me with open arms. Once again I was going to be exposed to a new kind of diversity and was about to be a part of a whole new set of experiences. Only this time, it was beyond Indian shores, in a foreign land, as I visited two of the most sought after tourist destinations in South East Asia - Singapore and Malaysia.💕

CLEAN and GREEN - Those are just two words we keep hearing over and over again, here in India. In those two places however, those are not merely words, but they’ve been actualized and made a reality. Visible dirt is a concept that’s probably unheard of, by the citizens of these two nations; and surprisingly, a large percentage of the population, is made up of people, who are Indians by descent. 

It made me wonder about how, Indians living in a foreign land had learnt to systematically and diligently follow the very rules, that they happily chose to disregard, in their own land.

Malaysia-Truly Asia - How many times, I had seen that ad for Malaysia Airlines on the television; and one of the first thoughts that crossed my mind, as I walked around in Genting Highlands and in Kuala Lumpur, was how true that tag-line actually was. 

There were people from almost every corner of Asia there. It was as if the whole of Asia, in every form, shape and size, had descended upon this country. I never really felt home sick at any point of time, during my short trip. 

Of course, one of the reasons was probably because, I was travelling in a group of 30 people; and we were almost like one big family for those eight days. 

However, the other reason for that was, that we kept bumping into Indians, almost everywhere we went. We heard people around us conversing in Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi and of course Tamil, which incidentally is one of the official languages in those countries, a fact which came as quite a surprise to most of us. 

We also ate things like paneer, dosas, naan and aloo mutter in the Indian restaurants there. Who would have thought, that one would be able to find authentic Indian cuisine, in a totally foreign land. Of course, in the bargain, we did miss out on sampling some of the local street food and delicacies, which is something I did regret to a small extent; but the Tour Operator had strangely preferred to book us mostly Indian meals, during our stay there.😒

Singapore and particularly Sentosa Island, was absolutely beautiful; and took us right into the warm embrace of Mother Nature herself. Birds, animals, and aquatic life - we were literally face to face, with all of them. The rainforest settings had been painstakingly created, over a number of years; and provided the animals, birds and the fish with such a wonderful home, where they were well looked after and taken care of.

One of the thoughts that was uppermost in all our minds, was that we in India have almost as much beauty and natural diversity in our country, if not more. What we need most of all, is to chanelise all those wonderful resources and develop it, just as the governments of these two countries have done. They have turned their countries into amazing tourist spots, simply by going back to nature and harnessing the resources they have, in the best possible ways.👍

This trip brought with it, a host of first time experiences for me. There were so many times when I found myself, looking around at things around me, with absolute wonder. I was completely awestruck by some of the experiences, and at so many times behaved like a little kid, who was seeing some of the things for the very first time in her life. 

The long 20 minute cable car rides to and from Genting Highlands, over the forests and mountains of Malaysia; which started off on a slightly nervous note, soon turned into absolute delight and scenic splendour. It made the shorter cable car ride to Sentosa Island, seem like a cake-walk. 

The large number of escalators and elevators that we went up and down in, took some getting used to initially, for those of us who had always been used to stairs; but eventually, we got used to them, so much so that someone suggested that Fr.Bosco, our Principal, should convert all our staircases in school to escalators.😄

I was also dealing in foreign currency for the first time ever; and it was not so much fun realizing, how expensive things were there, when we converted it into Indian Rupees. For the sake of tourists, let's hope the value of the Indian Rupee goes up soon.

The high point of the entire trip however, was a show on the beach at Sentosa Island, called ‘Songs of the Sea’. It was a mix of music, smoke, water, fire, lights, computer animation, laser projection and a host of things, all rolled into one; making it an absolutely spectacular show. It was so beautifully co-ordinated and flawlessly executed, that it left us completely speechless. 

Everything was perfectly orchestrated as we moved towards the magnificent fireworks display, which marked the finale of the show. Words would be insufficient to describe, what that experience was like. One has to only see it to believe it; but that one show, made the whole trip so worthwhile, and was a fitting end to a fantastic trip.❤️

I’d like to end this section of my blog, with a word of Thanks to my Principal, Fr. Bosco, for organizing this entire trip, and for going a step further and thinking of an 'International Tour' this year. 

I will always remember that my first ever 'foreign trip' was made a reality, because of him. Of course, our Tour Operator Alpesh, from ‘Ashish Holidays’ and his contacts in Malaysia and Singapore, ‘Tourland’, for providing us with the best facilities, hotels, transportation, food, etc. 

This tour almost did not happen for me, as I got my visa in hand, just half an hour before stepping on the plane. I guess I have to Thank God and Aadam and Sunder from Ashish Holidays who went all out, to see that my visa was ready just in the nick of time. 

My 29 co-travellers also made the trip very lively and enjoyable, with their enthusiasm and friendly banter. 

Of course, there are also two people who will be etched in our memories for a long time, Mr.Sundarajan and Ms.Bee Choo who were our guides in Malaysia and Singapore, respectively. They were two very colourful personalities, that we encountered; and both of them made our trip memorable. I also learnt a lot about the history and culture of the region from the two of them.

I thank God for making this trip a reality for me and for keeping his mantle of protection over us at all times.✍️

THE ENDLESS WAIT ✍️

Some years ago, when I was in my Final Year of college, I remember reading a play by Samuel Beckett called ‘Waiting for Godot’. It was a text that we had to study, as part of the English Literature course, in the Third Year. 

The play was a tragicomedy, because it was 'about everything and about absolutely nothing', at the same time. It had two central characters Estragon and Vladimir, who were simply waiting endlessly, for someone called Godot, and it presented, everything that goes on between them, during that long wait.

It just made me wonder about, how we spend so much of our life 'Waiting', just like Vladimir and Estragon:

- waiting for a bus or a train

- waiting to see the result of something, that we’ve started out doing or attempted

- waiting to see the reactions of people, to something we’ve said or done

- waiting for the arrival of loved ones

- waiting for certain sad or troublesome people or situations, to pass.

Living in a country like ours, with a population that’s just bubbling over, we can’t help but 'wait our turn', for just about everything. We’re always standing in queues, and there’re always some impatient ones, who try to jump those queues; much to the exasperation, of all those who are braving the heat and the sweat, as they hold on, to their last strand of patience. 

We grumble and complain, about having to wait; and still, we can’t really do very much about it. It is a fact of life, that we just learn to accept.

While 'waiting' is mostly thought of, as being rather painful, there are also times when waiting for something, can fill a person with a blend of feelings like joy, longing, apprehension, expectation, and so on. 

On the one hand, you have the nervousness and anxiety among students, as they wait for the outcome of an examination; and on the other hand, you have the exhilarating feelings of a pregnant woman, waiting patiently for nine long months, to give birth to her little bundle of joy. 

While a child, is always longing to grow up; a person who has lived a long life, awaits the day, when he or she will pass from this world.

 
Life itself, has been turned into 'One Endless Waiting Room'.🤷 

'Waiting' is certainly a part and parcel of life itself. It is something we can’t do without; and yet sometimes, I feel that in this whole process of 'waiting for what is to come', we kind of 'miss out on the present'. We miss out on the beauty and ecstasy of the moment, because we’re always preoccupied, with what is going to happen in the future. 

So, I just wonder at times, whether it would ever be possible for us, to live our lives, enjoying every moment as it comes; without bothering about what the future holds in store for us, without concentrating on what lies ahead. ✍️

A CLASS APART 😊❤️

I just felt like putting down some thoughts today, about someone who means a lot to me. She’s a colleague, a friend, a guide and a kind of a mentor to me as well. She’s been a teacher in our school for about 10 years now; and has been around, for much longer than me. She’s someone every student in my school, looks up to and respects. She has always been that one person, that no one can mess with. Everything she does is absolute perfection. She can never have anything less than that. 

As a result, there are always a few students who think, she is extremely mean and a little too strict occasionally; but that doesn’t bother her one bit, because discipline always matters most to her. 

Despite her stern exterior however, she has been able to build up such a wonderful rapport with her students, that no ex-student who visits the school, ever leaves without having a conversation with her. She is a teacher par-excellence, and any of her students will vouch for that.

Coming into the institution 4 years ago, as a New Teacher, fresh out of B.Ed. college, I had a lot of fears and inhibitions. I was enthusiastic and determined to do my best; but there was just so much to learn. Teaching in a boy’s school, wasn’t going to be a piece of cake. 

At that time, when I had such a big challenge ahead of me, this colleague of mine, literally took me under her wing. Among all my co-teachers, she was one of the two people I had always looked up to for guidance. Their experience, was what I turned to at every step of the way; and they never let me falter, as I made my way, trying to learn the ropes. They were always there to guide me along.

One of those two special colleagues of mine, left the institution a few years ago; and her leaving, had come as a severe blow to all of us. Her family commitments had made her take that decision. Although I have stayed in touch with her, even after she has left; I feel her absence so many times.

I had just begun to get used to the fact, that she was not around; when I received another jolt. I discovered that this second colleague of mine, was going to be leaving the institution as well. Her life has different plans in store for her and working at this institution, probably doesn’t fit in with her plans. 

While I want to share in her joy and be happy for her, my selfish heart refuses to do it. For me, the fact that she is leaving, means that I am losing that second person as well, who I always looked up to.😒

When I first heard the news that she would be leaving, I just couldn’t hold back my tears, and my eyes continue to well up with tears, every time I think of the fact, that soon she won’t be around. 

No doubt there will be a new person who will take her place; but I doubt anyone would ever be able to replace her. With her leaving, I’m losing someone, from whom I’ve learnt so much. She has helped me to grow in confidence. She has helped me to become better, at guiding the students in extra-curricular activities. She has always encouraged me right through these four years. 

When I’ve had a problem regarding academics, she was the one I turned to, and she was always there for me. I just can’t imagine what life in school is going to be like, without her. While I wish her well, for whatever plans God has in store for her, I also know that I’m going to miss her tremendously.

Thanks Smita, for being such a wonderful person and thanks for everything you’ve done for me. You truly are, A CLASS APART. ✨️❤️

JUST BEYOND REACH ✍️

Not every goal in life is attainable,
Not every mountain can be surmounted,
Not every wish can be fulfilled,
Not everything turns out as we willed.

Our imagination takes us to places
Where we’ve never been before;
Our dreams make us tread new paths,
They fill us with the zeal to make new starts.

Life however, has an uncanny way,
Of showing us glimpses, of just what we can’t have,
After raising our hopes way up high,
It leaves us longing, with a wish and a sigh.

It’s not always easy for us to accept this,
But strangely enough, the best things in life
Are always just beyond reach,
And every situation, has a lesson to teach. ✍️

A DATE TO REMEMBER ✨️❤️

The 2nd of March.

Just another day, in the life of almost every person I know. It comes our way every year and goes by 24 hours later. Even 24 long hours seem to go by without being noticed sometimes, at the speed at which time flies by.

Despite that, this is a day on which 'Time Stands Still' for me every single year. A day that’s unforgettable, because it was that one day, which changed the course of my life forever. 

It’s been 18 years since that fateful day; but every year, as that day draws near, the memories are refreshed in the mind. This is the first time, I’m recounting and trying to put into words, what actually happened that day.😔

The year was 1990. 2nd of March, happened to be a Friday that year. It was a day like any other day. I was just 10 years old. My little brother Nathan, who would be 7 in a few months from then, was fast asleep beside me, when I awoke. If I had any inclination, as to what was going to happen later that day, I would have probably hugged him as he lay there sleeping next to me, and at least said 'Goodbye' to him. He went to school in the afternoon, and so didn’t need to get up at the same time as me.

I don’t remember what happened in school that day; but the events that unfolded when I got off the school bus that afternoon, have been imprinted in my memory. The first thing I was told, when I stepped off the school bus in front of my building was, “Your brother has met with an accident, BUT HE’S FINE NOW.” 

A little girl of Class 4, the impact of those words didn’t really sink in. They seemed reassuring enough. I took her word for it, and went to my neighbour’s place for lunch, since no one was home. Some time later, my grandfather came home and called me home. He too didn’t seem very disturbed, and so I was calm as well. I went back home and started doing my homework, all the time unaware, of how my life was about to change so drastically.

At about 3.00 in the afternoon my Grandfather said, let’s go to Bhagwati Hospital and see how your brother is doing. I’d never been to a hospital before; and so, I got ready and went with him, never once anticipating, what this first hospital visit would be like.

As we entered the compound of the hospital, I met some of the ladies from my building, and they looked at us with eyes that were just waiting to explode; but being a little kid, I smiled at the few faces that I recognized in the crowd. No one said a word. I guess they were just too overwhelmed, to say anything.

My Grandfather and I walked up the staircase of the hospital; and in the distance, I spotted my Dad standing in the middle of a crowd of people. My Papa walked up to them; and then, I remember him letting out a loud cry, probably the loudest cry I have ever heard to date. 

I saw my brother lying on one of those movable hospital beds, that take patients from one room to another; so life-like, but completely still. To look at his face was like looking at the face of the cutest little kid you’ve ever met, even in that state.😢

I was taken home, I don’t even remember by whom. No one told me what had happened. No one explained the situation to me. No one said anything. I reached home and saw my mum sitting on the sofa, with tears in her eyes. She just sat there, looked at me, and put her hands out to hug me. 

Still completely in the dark about what had really happened, I went and sat next to her. One of my neighbours made me and my mom a hot cup of tea. It was a nice hot steaming cup of tea, and I can still remember that, after all these years. 

Upto this time, no one had bothered to tell me what had happened. Actually, coming to think of it, I think no one really did tell me anything. I was just left to figure out everything for myself. Probably, because everyone must've thought, "She's just a child. She won't understand."

(How wrong people are, to think that about little children. I wish people would realise, that even little children see, hear and understand everything, that happens around them.)

People started pouring in by the dozens. Time and again, everyone wanted to know, “How did it happen?” The strange part was, none of the three of us, was actually there when that speeding jeep just knocked down my brother; and yet, we were piecing bits and pieces of the story together, every time we repeated it to someone. 

He was rushed to the hospital by the neighbours and people from the locality, to whom we are eternally grateful. The impact of the accident was too great for his body to take it; and he passed away an hour or so later. Unfortunately, none of us got a chance to talk to him, before he left us.😒

It was just one day and I was just 10 years old. For me to remember something that happened all those years ago, would probably seem difficult and impossible. But, I remember every single thing that happened that day, from the moment I stepped off that school bus. 

I guess it’s because, that was a day like no other. It was the day I officially turned into 'An Only Child'. 

It was the day on which, I lost my little brother forever. 

It was the day on which, I suddenly grew up. 

It was a day on which I came face to face with something as big and as real, as 'Death' itself.

The 2nd of March is here once again, for the 18th time, since that day way back in 1990. I ask myself, how do I feel knowing that it’s been 18 years, since my little brother passed away? 

I feel a deep sense of loss. I feel the void in my life that has been created by his absence. He would have been 24 years old now. I never stop imagining how different things would have been, if he was still here; and I never stop wishing that he were still here.✨️

And yet, my life goes on. No one sat down and explained the concept of Death to me. At the tender age of 10, the concept explained itself to me, as the happenings of the day unfolded before my eyes. 

At a young age, I learned that 'Death comes without a warning'. 

It taught me to 'Be Prepared for the worst, at all times'. 

It taught me to 'watch every word I say to the people I love, because it may be the last word I ever say to them'.

Above all, it taught me to 'value people, friendships, relationships'.

I guess, that would explain why, I ended up being a person, who just wants to be surrounded by the people I Love, all the time.❤️

Yes, Death is the end of Life; but for those of us who stay behind, it’s the 'Beginning of a New Life'.

Learning to cope with Life, without that 'One Person', that we loved so dearly.

...And more importantly, learning to LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST, just as that person would have wanted us to.✍️

Brrrrrrr…IT'S FREEZING!!! ❄️☃️

The sweaters and shawls are receiving their annual airing…Only this time, it’s not just for a couple of days in the whole year. In fact, the blankets have been in use, for almost a month now; and there’s still no indication of when they can be folded and put away until next year. 

A good thing actually, because for us in Mumbai, the cold season is as fleeting as the rainbow in the sky, that is just momentarily visible. One minute it’s here, and then it’s gone…This year however, winter seems to be here to stay for a while.☃️

Cozying up under those blankets every morning, switching off the alarm and going back to sleep because it’s just too cold to get out of bed, standing in front of the wash-basin and waiting to put one’s finger under the water to test how bearable the freezing water really is…these are all things that we Mumbaikars seldom find an opportunity to do. 

So, while many of us are feeling a little under the weather due to the extreme cold, which has taken it’s toll on the health of a lot of people and brought with it colds, coughs and fevers galore; it sure is a good time to be in the city. Hot coffee and a steaming bowl of soup…seems like heaven at such times, doesn’t it? ☕️🍜

Lonavla and Khandala must have definitely felt a dip in the influx of tourists, over the past couple of weekends, especially those driving down from Mumbai; because considering how cold it has been here, not many may have ventured, to head off in the direction of a hill-station. When you can experience the same thing right here in one’s backyard, people wouldn’t really have felt the need to go elsewhere. 

At the back of our minds, we know that it’s not going to last very long but I guess just like ice-cream, we’re going to enjoy it while it lasts.🍦

A thought just crossed my mind though. I was just wondering whether we should really be happy, at the fact that we’re shivering right through the day, in a place like Mumbai. Is this an ominous sign of things to come? Are all those predictions about drastic climatic changes, made by those that are concerned about the environment, coming true in our city as well? Is the fact that we’re actually experiencing a ‘proper winter’ for once in our city, something to be happy about; or is this a warning sign to us, that we need to stand up and take note of the rapidly changing environmental situation?…I think the answer to these questions would be a very strong and emphatic, YES.

YES, we can be happy and enjoy the cool weather that is such a rarity in our city...

YES, it feels good to snuggle and curl up under those, oh-so-warm blankets...

But at the same time, we also need to say YES, this is nature’s way of telling us to wake up and pay attention. 

This is her way of sending a 'chill down our spine', to make us realize that we need to become more cautious, of the way in which we deal with the earth.

This is her way of trying to make us aware that things could get worse, if we human beings don’t start doing something about it...

Let’s just start listening, to what she’s trying to tell us; and do something about it as well, in whatever ways we can. ✍️

MISS YOU MOST AT CHRISTMAS TIME 😢

It's that time of the year, when there's a lot of festivity in the air. It's Christmas and apart from all the preparations for the birth of Jesus, there are also weddings galore. Everywhere you turn, you see shops all lit up and decorations adding colour to the facade of every store. 

One can hear the sound of music and carols floating through the air. The smell of Christmas sweets coming out of every kitchen, makes your mouth water instantly. One may also catch a glimpse of people totally engrossed, in making Christmas cribs and stars, at every nook and corner. There's so much of activity all around.😊

I enjoy this time of year thoroughly, because of all the joy and happiness that comes along with it. Christmas is a time, when everyone seems to be back in town. Friends who live in different parts of the world, those working on ships and those who work in different countries abroad, all decide to come back home for a few days at Christmas time. It’s a wonderful time to catch up with friends, that you may have not seen in years.

Apart from that, Christmas is one of the two times in the year, when I get to spend a lot of time with my Choir, practicing Christmas carols and having a good time. 

This year, I was also part of another group of young people in my parish; and we were putting up a 'Christmas Musical' together. So, that again, involved long hours of practices, which were extremely fun-filled and enjoyable. Being in the company of friends always brings joy to my heart.🎶

On Christmas day itself, I will be spending the afternoon with all my cousins and my extended family, as an aunt of mine celebrates her birthday on the 25th of December. So, Christmas day is one day, when I get to catch up with my cousins, who I barely see right through the year, except on special occasions and family functions. Christmas lunch at my aunt’s home, is definitely something I look forward to every year, precisely because of that.

Amidst all this festivity and joy however, there is one person I always miss tremendously at this time of the year; and that is my little brother, Nathan. I really wish that he was still around. I envy my friends, who get a chance to spend time with their siblings, during Christmas time. Putting up the decorations, the Christmas tree and the crib together, probably singing a carol or two with their brother or sister, popping some sweets into the mouth, as it is being made, and being yelled at for that - The things that siblings can do together at Christmas time, are only things I dream about and imagine every year. 

I keep wishing and hoping, that I could also have a Christmas like that, spent in the company of my brother; but that was not part of God’s plan for my life. While I understand that He probably had better things in store for me, when he took my Nathan from this world; at times like these, when you’ve got to spend a time like Christmas, deprived of these simple joys of life, you can’t help but wonder ‘WHY?’🤔

Answers to questions like these, are not easy to find; and try as hard as one wants to, they’re not easy to find solutions to either. 

So I guess, I just need to be grateful for the people that I still have around me at Christmas time. My parents, my friends from my choir and my youth group, my cousins and the rest of my extended family. Each of them has their own family to spend Christmas with; but for the few moments that I spend with them, they become my family. They help fill the space created by the absence of my brother in my life.

...And when I get back home and am all alone once more, that’s when I miss you the most my dear Nathan; and I can’t help saying this over and over again, even so many years after you’ve passed away, I wish you were still here. I love you Nathan and I’ll keep missing your presence in my life for as long as I live; but most of all, at Christmas Time.✨️❤️

CHANGE IS WHAT KEEPS US GOING ✍️

One of the people who frequently reads my blog, recently made an observation, that he can almost predict what I’m going to say next on my blog, thanks to the fact that the things I write about, revolve around the same people, issues, situations, with a lot of focus on my school and my students. He also felt that I was 'Excessively Positive' in my outlook towards life and situations, which made it 'Less Realistic and More Utopian'.🤔

Looking at what he said as 'Constructive Criticism', I decided to write about something that was drastically different. I decided that I would try and walk through uncharted territory, march through unfamiliar landscapes, wade through unknown waters and fly over mysterious lands for once. 

That decision made, the next situation that faced me was; so then, what do I actually write about? What is it that would be far removed from my normal experiences? What would constitute a totally different and unique topic? What could I write about that would not allow me to drift back, into my normal style of writing; which apparently seemed to be an overdose of goodness and optimism?😄

I thought to myself, since I’m attempting to change something about my style of writing, why not talk about ‘Change’ itself; but then I immediately realized, that I’ve already written a piece on change earlier, right here on this blog. 

The next thing that cropped into my head was to talk about some negative emotion, to counter the 'Excessive Optimism', that my writing is usually known for. Immediately, I felt incapable of doing justice to the topic. I don’t think I would be able to write enough about it.🤷

So finally, I’m up against a blank wall. I’ve reached a complete dead-end. Maybe I’m afraid of attempting something different, or maybe I just lack the ability to do it. 

So, while I’m grateful to my friend for being critical of my style, which was a good observation; and made me think of doing things a little differently, I guess I still lack the skill, to try it out. 

Maybe, if someone who reads my blogs, could offer a suggestion, I could try working on it. It would also give me an idea about how many people still frequent my blog. So, all those who read this, send some suggestions my way. Will be looking forward to them.😊

TEACHER’S PET…IS THAT YOU??? 🤔

Remember that rhyme we learnt as kids…

'Teacher’s Pet - Is that you? Yes! Yes! Yes!' 

As a student, I remember my friends often accusing me, of being one of the teacher’s favourites, simply because I was a 'Prefect and House Leader' in school, and was frequently running errands for the teachers. I also got an opportunity to participate in a lot of activities in school, and as a result I interacted with my teachers much more than other students. Automatically, that resulted in being tagged as the ‘Teacher’s Pet’.

After a span of eleven long years, I have heard that term once again; and I’ve been thinking of that nursery rhyme once again today. I happened to hear a comment in school, that there were certain students, who I was favouring more than others. I was never fond of that tag as a kid in school, and it is even more disconcerting, to be associated with that same tag, now that I’m a teacher.😔

In the past three and a half years, I have always tried to be as fair as I could, to every student that I’ve interacted with. No Favourites!!! That has always been, what I aim for. There have definitely been students, with whom I have interacted more than others, in the various activities that happen in school, right through the academic year; and so automatically, a closer bond has developed with those students. In certain cases, that teacher-student relationship has gradually turned into friendship, as the student grew up. Despite that, I have still tried my best, to be neutral as far as I could.

However, I guess I’ve always been a person who tends to get attached to people faster than others. Unknowingly, I think my boys in school, kind of fill up the empty space created in my life, due to the loss of my own younger brother. Without actually meaning to, I think I tend to display a great fondness for certain students, which is not appreciated by the others.

We are human beings. As hard as we try, I don’t think we can take away emotions and feelings from our interactions. Those emotions could sometimes be misinterpreted by some people; and as a result, cause unwarranted stress for the people concerned. I guess life is like that though. 

This makes me think of another line I’ve heard before. ‘You can please some people some of the time; but you can’t please all the people, all the time.’🤷

So, to each his own. I know what I am, and what I do; and as disturbing as the insinuations may be, I guess the best thing to do, would be to keep being myself; and no one or nothing, should be able to alter that.

DON’T WORRY!!! BE HAPPY!!! 😄

‘Hakuna Matata!’- Timon and Pumba’s problem free philosophy in the movie, ‘The Lion King’, may seem too far-fetched and unrealistic to a sceptical mind. 

JOY! DELIGHT! HAPPINESS! ELATION! 

In a world that’s torn apart with violence, depression, anxiety and sadness, these words are seldom used. Moments of sheer bliss and uninterrupted pleasure are hard to come by. The world we live in, seems to have become so cynical and pessimistic, that there’s no place for a few occasional laughs.🤔

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a very cheerful disposition. Anger and extreme negativity, have not been a very integral part of my character. Being the kind of person I am, I’ve often wondered why certain people find it so difficult to be 'Happy'. Why does it cost some people so much to 'Smile'? What stops people from getting rid of their inhibitions and worries, and just giving flight to their joy?😊

I’ve had a lovely day today. I spent lots of happy moments in the company of different groups of friends; and with every group I’ve mingled with, I found something different to 'Smile' and 'Laugh' about. In every circle of friends, there was someone, whose 'Presence' was sufficient to 'Make my Day'; and those few moments of untainted 'Joy', have stayed with me to this moment, at the end of the day. As I look back on the happenings of the day, there’s a Smile on my lips, a Song in my heart and tons of Gratitude to the Lord above, who makes it possible for me to be simply 'Happy'.🎶😄

There may be those who read this piece, and feel that I’m being a little too 'Optimistic' about life. After all, life isn’t as rosy, as I’m making it sound. My answer to that point of view would be, “It is!!!” 

'Life is Beautiful' and it’s simply amazing to be alive. Everyday that we live is a 'Miracle'. Every individual we encounter, introduces us to something new. 

Sure, life has its hurdles. There will definitely be days when nothing seems to go our way. There will certainly be people, who get on our nerves and rub us the wrong way, and make us feel really terrible. So what!!! 'Life is still Beautiful', because I choose to look beyond the negativity. I choose to be an 'Eternal Optimist'. 

Call me an 'Idealist', or tell me that I’m 'Over-Romanticizing Reality'. The fact remains, ‘I’m Happy. I find something to 'Smile' about at every step of the way. I choose to be in the company of people, who radiate 'Joy' I love the company of 'Cheerful People.’ At the end of it all, that’s the only thing that really matters.

So stop cribbing, about everything that doesn’t go your way. Stop whining, about the situation that cannot be altered. Turn those frowns upside down; and in the words of that well known song, DON’T WORRY!!! BE HAPPY!!!✨️😄

WELCOME TO MY WORLD, STRANGER!!! 😊💕

Friendship day is just round the corner and that always makes me nostalgic about old friends. It makes me think of especially those friends, who were a part and parcel of my everyday existence till a few years ago, and today are so far away, that months and sometimes years go by, before I hear from them.

On the other hand, I’ve recently bumped into a few people, quite out of the blue. We’ve never met before but we just have a few common friends, because of whom we stumbled upon each other; or they’ve just been casual visitors to my blog and now, these complete strangers have become a part of my daily existence. People who I didn’t even know till a few weeks or months ago, have now become people I talk to almost everyday.

These facts made me ponder on something really important about life. It made me think about how 'Time' sometimes turns the best of friends into complete Strangers, and turns absolute strangers into Friends.

I don’t even remember the first 'Friend' I ever made in my life. Maybe our parents introduced us and got us to talk to one another. Maybe I just saw an attractive toy or chocolate in his/her hands, which drew me to them or maybe we were just destined to meet.😊

Moving from kindergarten to high school, into college or university, and then later on to our place of work - All through life, we encounter so many people. With some of them, we form life-long bonds of friendship too; but then, things like career and work come along, that take us onto completely different paths.

Strangely, for every Old Pal we lose touch with over time, and for every empty space that is created in our lives, due to the fact that a close friend moves to another country or something like that; there’s always a New Stranger who comes into our lives and fills up that void

...And that’s how Life is. It keeps going on. We meet so many people, as we walk through life. Some stay with us, for long periods of time. Some are just like a passing breeze.🤷

To all those old pals, that time and space has separated from me, I’d just like to say. I really miss you all. I remember fondly all those moments that we’ve spent together, at some time or the other in the past.🤗❤️

And of course, I’d just like to Thank God for every 'Stranger', who has ever crossed my path in Life, and who has eventually gone on to become a 'Friend'; because if I hadn’t met you guys, the 'Circle of Friendship' would have come to a complete standstill, when from Old Friends I had to part.💞

SHOW ME THE MONEY ✍️

After a short hiatus, I’m back. To those of you who drop by this part of cyberspace occasionally, it may have seemed like I had done the disappearing act once again. Actually, I hadn’t really fallen asleep, nor had I vanished into thin air. 

It’s just that the new academic year began about a month ago. I guess those of you who’ve ever had a friend, who is or was a teacher, will know that when school begins, that friend almost becomes extinct from his or her social circle. The reason being ‘work pressure’, as there are always a million things happening at the same time in a school.

For a teacher, the work-load comes with the territory; and it’s something we are well aware of, when we choose to take up this profession. It is hammered into us, right through the B.Ed. year. We are repeatedly told, that teaching is not the cake-walk that people think it is. It is not all half-days and holidays, that people in other professions envy us for. Of course, as much as you think you are prepared for it; you can never really fully comprehend the enormity of the situation, till you actually start working in a school.

The expectations from a school teacher, have gone up by leaps and bounds in the last few years. He or she is almost expected to be Superman, He-man and Giant Robot, rolled into one. Super-human powers are the order of the day, in the teaching profession these days. One is expected to be on one's toes 24/7; constantly churning out novel methods of teaching the age-old material, making it relevant to a bunch of youngsters who are accustomed to using all their senses and faculties, thanks to the speed at which technology is racing ahead. A shoddy or unprepared teacher, is considered to be incompetent by the students, who are much more aware, than students in the past ever were. Walking into the class, without arming yourself with additional information and an extensive knowledge of the latest developments in the world around us, could prove to be the downfall of any teacher today. The students we cater to, have changed to that extent.

Considering all of this, one would expect those in the teaching profession, to be remunerated accordingly. Sadly, in reality the teaching profession seems to be the one profession, where the teachers are not given their due. The employees of BPO’s and other corporate houses are literally squeezed to death by their employees, both in the amount of work that is extracted from them, as well as in the working hours that they are expected to put in.

However, unlike the teaching profession, they are remunerated well. Teachers today put in so much of work. Standing and talking for 6 to 7 hours a day or more sometimes, organizing innumerable activities in school, sitting back to correct books and mark papers, spending long hours even when they’re supposed to be resting at home, preparing for the next day and doing countless other jobs that need to be done for school. For all that, they are paid the salary of a waiter in a 5-star hotel or a watchman in a big company, or maybe even lesser.😔

I chose to be a teacher; and so I was aware of the fact that I wouldn’t be paid the same as my friends in other professions, right from the start. Besides, since I’m still living with my parents and don’t have to support my family with my income, the situation is still not as grave for me, as it is for my other colleagues.

But, I have often heard my friends at work, grumbling about the fact that teachers are paid so little, for all the hard work that they do. I have heard repeated complaints in the staff-room, about why the Government, has such a callous attitude towards those in the teaching profession, who are actually the ones that are shaping the future of the country. 

The engineers, doctors and lawyers were all taught by school teachers as children. They grow up and earn hefty pay-packets, in their respective professions; and the teachers who made them who they are in the world, are left earning in one year, what their own students earn in one month. 

It may be something that teachers were fully aware of, when they stepped into the profession; but the question that comes to my mind is, does that make it fair and right???

I remember one of my teachers once saying, that people who are already financially secure, should be the ones who take up teaching as their profession. This teacher of mine was an extremely intellectual and well-respected individual. His reason for making such a statement, was that as compared to other lucrative professions today, teachers get paid a mere pittance; and so, just one teacher’s salary, would be insufficient to raise a family. The income of the others in the family had to be substantial, if one wanted to live a comfortable life and be a teacher at the same time. 

He was a teacher with a lot of experience, and when I see my colleagues struggling to balance their lives with what they earn in school, I understand the wisdom in his words.

Of course, I can’t stop myself from wondering why this has to be the way it is. Why do we teachers need to settle for something that is so unfair? Why is it that the worth of a teacher is not recognized by the powers that be? 🤔

A REAL NEED OR AN UNNECESSARY CRAZE!!! ✍️

In less than a month, the new academic year will be upon us. Everything about it will be fresh and new. New books, new teachers, in some cases, a re-vamped new syllabus, new uniforms probably and a host of new concepts, terms and information that students will be bombarded with, right from the word go. 

In the midst of all this novelty however, there lurks something, that I personally refer to, as the bane of the modern education system; and that is, the big bad wolf called ‘TUITIONS’. It’s always on the prowl at the beginning of the academic year, ready to devour every student that it lays its eyes on. With every passing year, the number of its victims has steadily increased; and the species of students who study independently, will soon be extinct, if some corrective measures aren’t taken immediately.🤦‍♀️

I’m sure, a lot of you may disagree with my point of view completely, especially my fellow teachers. After all, tuitions are supposed to be a way, of helping students who can’t manage studying themselves, or those who can’t cope with a particular subject. 

In reality however, those are not the kind of students being offered assistance, through this method. That’s precisely the bone of contention, that I have with this whole issue. 

Tuitions, if required, were only meant to be an aid, to those who were really in need of it. Today, it has become a ‘crutch’, that even those who are not intellectually challenged, are making use of. 

In effect therefore, a student attends 'Two Schools' everyday, which leaves him or her with next to 'No Study Time' and worse, 'No Play Time'. To add insult to injury, all of this is done, in the name of the increasing ‘Competitiveness’ in the world today.

My question to parents especially is, ‘Do you not realize, how you are robbing your precious kids of their 'Childhood', in the name of Competition? Can’t you see how this whole 'Tuition Culture', is completely eating into your child’s development and your pockets as well?’🤔

As a Teacher in a School, I also feel very hurt to think, that the parents of the students I teach, 'actually require to send their child for tuitions'. I can understand, if a child finds it hard to cope with the studies, and then goes for tuitions. But when good students, who secure a First Class and more in school, also have to resort to a tuition teacher, to explain everything to him or her all over again (after we School Teachers, have done a pretty good job of doing the exact same thing, in school already); that’s like 'a slap in the face of a dedicated and hardworking School Teacher'.😔

I would like to say this to all parents reading this, “You know your child and his ability, better than anyone else. Don’t cripple him, by providing him with so much assistance, that he forgets how to walk on his own.”

LIFE ✍️

It could seem like a burden
When things don’t go your way,
Or a really, big mess
When everything’s going astray.

It could seem like a steep hill
That’s too difficult to surmount,
Or a pile full of troubles
That’s just impossible to count.

It could seem like an ocean
In the midst of a severe storm,
Or a problem, so gigantic
That it breaks every norm.

Life has a fascinating way
Of making us feel weighed down-
It cares not about wealth or fame,
Spares not even a king with his crown.

What matters is how well we learn to cope
With every situation in this rat-race,
Whether we let it tear us down,
Or encounter it, with a smile on our face.

The problems will persist,
They come with a lifetime guarantee.
What matters is knowing
That from their grasp, we can be free.✍️

UNFORGETTABLE PEOPLE!!! CHERISHED MEMORIES!!! ✨️❤️

I just got back from Goa a couple of days ago. Spent some days there with a few colleagues from school, a few of their family members and my Principal. A nice lively group of 14 adults and 3 kiddies. We had an amazing time and just didn’t want the trip to end. Even after coming back to Bombay, I find my mind drifting back to the enjoyable moments we spent together.😊

Goa is my hometown. Although I was born in Amchi Mumbai and brought up here, there is some kind of connection with that land of the sun and sand. (Unfortunately, I’m not very fluent in Konkani; and my friends thought I wasn’t fit to call myself a Goan because of that.) 

Anyway, I’ve been going to Goa ever since I was a child. Spent my long summer holidays there, with my grandparents. My holidays in Goa are among some of my most cherished childhood memories. I loved my Grandfather a lot; and the two of us shared a very special bond. So, going back to Goa brings back all those precious memories, of the times I spent with him. I have an emotional attachment, to the place where we lived in Goa, especially because it reminds me of my dear ‘Papa’. The house we lived in, sadly doesn’t belong to us anymore; but going back to that little village called Corjuem in Goa, even for those few minutes, reminded me of the fun times I had spent there as a child. It brought my Papa back to life for me, right before my eyes.✨️💕

Leaving Goa had always been hard for me. I remember that I always had tears in my eyes, on the bus-ride back to Bombay, just as we were moving out of Goa, every single time. It’s been many years now since my Papa passed away. Despite that, I somehow couldn’t stop my tears when the bus was leaving Mapusa, a couple of days ago. They just came out of nowhere, and streamed down my face in a hurry.

I guess some people, some memories and some moments, are just impossible to forget and wipe away, from our minds and hearts. I miss you Papa. I think I always will.✨️❤️

FRIENDS FOR LIFE ✨️❤️

Friends – An essential part of all our lives. I’ve often wondered about the basis on which I’ve made my friends. Is there some common characteristic that makes us gel as individuals? Is it common interests and activities? What is it that makes me get along so well with certain people and not so well with others? What is it that makes me sometimes connect with someone almost instantly?

In the process of introspection, I discovered that the friends I’ve made during the course of my life have become my friends for a wide variety of reasons. 

There have been those who became my friends by default; due to the fact that we lived in the same building, or because we happened to be in the same class in school or college. But then again, not every person who lives in my building and every classmate was a good friend of mine. So, what then was that secret ingredient in my special friendships that made us such great pals?

In most cases, I think it was just some common ground that existed between us. Common interests, similar value systems, a common outlook or way of looking at life and things like that. In the case of some of my friends, I think we liked and enjoyed the same things, like music for example, because of which we ended up being great friends. With some of my friends, the connection was instant. It didn’t take long for us to become friends. With others, the friendships didn’t happen overnight, but they grew with time.

When I sit back and think, of all the friends I’ve made in my life, I realize that I have generally associated with ‘happy’ people or people who spread joy, just by being themselves. The people who I’ve loved to hang around with, have always been people with a very positive attitude to everything in life. People who love to smile and make others smile, were topmost on my list of friends. 

This brings me to the conclusion that most of the good friends I’ve made in life, have been those who were like me, in some way or the other. I guess we like to associate with people, who possess and reflect similar character traits.

I’ve made innumerable friends in the past 27 years; and every single one of them has been my friend for a reason. Whatever the reasons, I’m just glad to have been blest with so many friends. Each of them has been a part of my life at different stages of my growth; but each of them has been an invaluable part of it. From every single one of them, knowingly or unknowingly, I’ve picked up something or the other, that has helped to shape the person I am today. For that, I am 'Grateful'.

I may not be in touch with every single one of them today; but they will always be my FRIENDS FOR LIFE.✨️❤️

FLEETING MOMENTS OF TIME ✍️

Time flies by -
In the twinkling of an eye
The moment vanishes,
The day draws to a close,
The months float away,
And years disappear into nothingness.

Time flies by -
Unseen, unheard
It wanders off.
No mortal being
Can even make an attempt
To stop it in it’s tracks.

Time flies by -
It takes with it
Every angry word spoken,
Every unpleasant occurrence
And every tiny second,
That could have been put to fruitful use.

Time flies by -
It leaves behind,
Precious memories
Of unforgettable moments
Shared with loved ones,
To hold and cherish forever.

Time flies by -
And paves the way
For new people to come into our lives,
For fresh memories to be created,
For exciting events to occur,
For exhilarating new beginnings.✨️✍️

WINDS OF CHANGE ✍️

Some of my friends, who didn’t know me when I was a child, recently saw a picture of me as a 4-year-old child. Apart from the smile, most of them found it really hard to believe that the cute little girl in the picture was ‘me’. Time has changed the way I look to such an extent, that the baby version of me, bears hardly any resemblance to the grown-up me. The features have altered a lot and the same person, now looks like two completely different individuals.

As I looked at the two pictures of myself, I thought of this saying that I’ve often heard. It states that, ‘Change is the only constant in life’. 

Looking back at my life thus far, I realize how much truth there is, in that one statement. As ironic as it may sound, it is the constant changes that happen in our life, that keep our life on track. If not for them, our life would be like a stagnant pool of water, lacking energy and vivacity. 

The varied experiences that we have everyday, the different people that we encounter at every stage of our lives and the diverse situations that we come across, somehow all contribute to the steady progress that we make in life. They help to spice up our lives and make it worth living.

From the day I was born upto this day in my life, 27 years later; so many things have changed in my life. 

I was born in Bandra and then 4 years later, moved to a new suburb that was to be my home for most of my growing years. Now, having lived in Borivali for over two decades, I’ve grown so accustomed to this place, that I wonder what it would feel like, if I ever have to leave it, to go and live somewhere else. 

Bidding farewell to my school, I was anxious about what college life would be like. However, by the time I had to leave college, I had grown so attached to it, that parting ways from the place and the friends I’d made there, was heart-wrenching.

My life as a student, started off sitting on one side of the classroom amidst my peers, looking at my teachers with so much of expectation in my eyes. Today, I find myself standing on the other side of the classroom, with 60 pairs of eyes looking at me, with that same expectation.

The building where I reside has seen its share of alterations as well. Many of the neighbours that I grew up with, have moved away over the years. I’ve seen old neighbours pave the way for new ones. So many of the friends I’ve grown up with in this vicinity, now have spouses and kids of their own. 

There’s just no end to the list of things, that have changed in and around me. There are times, when these changes have happened gradually. At other times, the swift pace at which the change has taken place, has literally taken my breath away.

I’ve realized that if I went on to list out, all the changes that have taken place in my life, I would completely run out of paper; thereby proving the statement, that change is indeed one of most constant aspects of life itself. As long as life exists, things will evolve and keep changing. Sometimes, these changes will be acceptable to me. At other times, it may bring pain and a sense of loss. There may also be occasions when changes are a sign of new beginnings and fresh starts.

All in all though, change is something that is difficult to do without. The earth and the universe itself, is constantly evolving; and if the mighty universe, cannot withstand the winds of change, then we are but mere mortals and our efforts to resist change, would be totally insignificant. The only way to cope with the constantly changing world therefore, would be to go with the flow and live life one moment at a time. ✍️

THE YOUNG ONES ✍️

A LESSON FOR LIFE -
'FROM THE MOUTHS OF LITTLE KIDS COMETH FORTH WISDOM'.

“In the Education of children there is nothing like
alluring the interest and affection;
otherwise you only make so many asses laden with books.”
- Michel De Montaigne, French moralist and essayist.

As an English Teacher, one of our aims is to help our children, develop the art of communicating in the English language, both orally and in writing. In the process of our classroom interactions, there are many instances when my students and I, go way beyond the topic at hand. 

Children at a younger age have an extremely active imagination, that is still to be tampered with by adult minds. Their thought processes are unadulterated, and their hearts are pure.

Contrary to what most adults believe about little children, I have always been of the opinion, that the young children in today’s world, are extremely aware and conscious about things that happen around them. Their tender minds do think about complex issues, that they watch on their television screens, or that they hear their parents speaking about. 

What is required of me as a teacher therefore, is just to help them, to channelize their thoughts and feelings.

Some months ago I conducted a small exercise, for the students of Class 5 at school. For us in Mumbai, the memory of the 7/11 bomb blasts was still very fresh then. Many of the children had someone known to them, who was either injured or killed in those blasts. 

So, I first spoke to them about the issue and asked them how they felt, having experienced something as terrible as this, at such a young age. While fear, anxiety, sadness and anger were very common feelings, there were also a few who said that they wondered why such a thing had happened to our city. I realized that so many of them had stories to tell. 

Mumbai is such a large city, with a population literally spilling out of it; and yet, almost everyone knew someone else, who had been affected by that tragedy. I discovered that little children in Class 5, had grown up well before their time. This incident had weakened some of them, and toughened others. It had made some of them worry, and some of them think about revenge, at the tender age of 10 and 11.

After giving them a chance to express their feelings about the event verbally, I focussed my attention on 'Mr. Terrorist'. I tried to help the children understand, that the whole Muslim community was not to blame for acts such as these, just because the suspects happened to be Muslims. 

Having established that fact, I then asked the children to write 'A Letter to Mr. Terrorist', telling him how they felt about all that had happened, on and after 7/11. 

Most of the children, wrote about how they were frightened, when their parents came home late that day. Many of them mentioned feelings of sadness, at the loss of so many innocent lives. 

However, some of the answers literally surprised me. It taught me, how little children think so differently, from mature adults.

Here are some extracts, from the letters that had a slightly different tone to them,

“Everyone says you don’t have a heart, but that cannot be true, since every human being has a heart”

“People say that a terrorist can never change, but I know that you can change”

“I pray to God that he may not punish you, if you can only try to do some good deeds, to make up for what you did.”

These answers came 'straight from the heart', and they touched my heart as well.

We teach our children to be 'Forgiving'. This activity taught me that little children are ready to forgive, even the gravest wrong. Their power of expression, communicated a valuable lesson to me as well. ✍️

TWO MONTHS LATER

A lot of people have been visiting my blog recently and as a result I’ve been walking with my head in the clouds. I’m absolutely loving all the compliments and the good things that people are saying about my 'Writing'. Besides being extremely encouraging, it has also filled me with a lot of Joy, to know that there are lots of people out there, who enjoy reading what I put down on my blog.😊

When I first started this blog, sometime in April this year, the first couple of articles that I posted, were things that I had already written earlier, (since I've really always been writing, ever since I was a student in Primary School).

Gradually, I began writing about my school, teaching, my friends, the 5 musical wonders who also happen to be my friends, and just random things about life and people in my life; things and individuals, that in some way or the other had some connection with me.

Over a period of time, I’ve realized that I have a knack for writing things, that emerge out of my own personal experiences. I have an ability to put my encounters with people and situations onto paper. It’s a God-given ability and talent that I am extremely grateful for, because in moments when I’ve been happy, I’ve sat down and written about it. In my moments of dejection and loneliness, I’ve picked up a pen and put my pain into words. At times when I’ve had no clue about what was happening in the world around me, I’ve sat before my computer and tried to make some sense of the senselessness in the world around me, by putting my thoughts and feelings into words.✍️

(I had planned to post at least twice every month; but I’ve managed to skip one month in between. Have just been extremely busy with school. The Second Term tends to be more packed than the First Term; and so, I’ve just been pre-occupied. Will try and make sure that I don’t take a two month long holiday, before my next appearance.)

WHEN DEATH LAID ITS ICY HANDS ON A CHILD 😢

I’m sure every single one of you who is reading this post will have experienced 'Death', in some form or the other. For some of us it must have been a sudden personal loss of a family member or a close friend. For others, it could have been watching someone fight a long and hard battle against cancer. 

If we have been lucky enough, not to have had a close encounter with death among the people we know, we have definitely come face-to-face with death, thru’ the innumerable acts of terror we watch on our TV screens or read about in the newspapers every single day.

I too, have had a 'close encounter with death' in the very early stages of my life. I lost a younger sibling, when I was just 10 years old…There was no warning. My family and I, were totally unprepared for that loss. Without any prior intimation, death swooped down upon us and whisked away the youngest member of our family. 

When that happened, we cried. When something happens that suddenly, it is initially difficult to fathom, what has really happened. After the initial shock, the truth gradually began to sink in. Over time, we cried some more and we keep crying, every time the old memories, decide to take a walk thru’ our minds.😔

I remember looking at my little brother in his coffin. He looked so 'Alive'. Even after he was buried, I kept wondering whether he would suddenly wake up inside his grave, dig his way to the surface and come back home. 

As a child the concept of death is extremely difficult to perceive and understand. You understand that the person is gone forever; because that’s what everyone tries their level best to explain to you. You see everyone who is close to you, sobbing and weeping bitterly; and you know that something bad has happened. Then you see the body in a coffin, so life-like, yet cold and still. That’s enough for you to know, that something has gone terribly wrong.

Although you cannot fully comprehend, the things that happen in front of you, your mind takes pictures of all that is unfolding before your eyes. The film takes a few years to develop in your mind’s eye. 

As you grow up, those pictures begin to be accompanied, by feelings of loss, pain, separation, longing and a lot of questioning. The “what if” stage lasts forever, because our imaginative mind keeps playing tricks on us. It makes us want to ask the same questions, over and over again. 

What if he were still alive? What would life have been like if he were still around? Would he be a handsome young man? Would we be happier than we are today? I find myself asking these questions time and time again.🤔

Generally, people tend to become bitter towards life and people, when they experience a personal loss. Thankfully, I was born in a family that believes that 'God has a Plan', for everything that happens to us in our lives. Although, we may not be able to understand what kind of a sordid plan he has in mind, when we lose someone dear to us; if we live with the belief that ‘GOD KNOWS WHAT HE’S DOING’, then even something as difficult as the death of a loved one, becomes easy to deal with.

For us as a Family, the pain has never gone away. It’s always there in the cozy home it has made for itself in our hearts, and makes an appearance from time to time. 

But it has taught us a very valuable lesson; and that is, to make the best of the time we have here. It has taught us to 'Value Relationships' of all kinds – Relationships with family, friends and other people who are dear to us. It has taught us to be 'Thankful' for what we have, rather that grumble about the things, that we do not have. 

Above everything else, it has taught us to be grateful for every breath that we take during our life, here in God’s beautiful world.✨️✍️