WISH YOU JOY IN THE YEAR AHEAD 😊🎶

There is no better way to bring in a New Year, than by listening to some beautiful songs. Children always know how to share a smile, and I found this wonderful song, in which some little children are sharing a lot of joy, through their melodious New Year song.💕

The second song is also a lovely prayer, that the world may be a better place in the New Year. 

Happy Listening!😊🎶

LIVE IN THE MOMENT, ONE DAY AT A TIME ✨️🌈

Sometimes, the unexpected turns that life takes are so difficult to comprehend and understand. They come out of nowhere just when you think that everything is going really smoothly; and they just hit you so straight in the face, that you don't even have the time to duck.

Close on the heels of one tragedy, the first major illness, made its way into our lives, about 9 years ago. After two surgeries and a prolonged treatment, we thought that it was over and done with. We went on with our lives as usual; and almost forgot about what had happened, as time went by, because we had got busy with everything we were doing everyday.

And then, like a thief in the night, lurking in the shadows, the sickness re-surfaced once again. This time, with a vengeance, and in a part of the body where most treatments, however good and intensive, would most certainly fail.

Still, we went through the grind of another major surgery, followed by numerous sessions of the dreaded chemos. Supplemented the treatment, with the right food and nutrition. Took every precaution under the sun, to avoid infection. Tried to stay exceptionally positive, even through times, when we knew things were steadily headed downhill...and most of all, we constantly lived in hope, that maybe, things might just get better; and possibly, there could be a tiny glimmer of light, at the end of a long and endless dark tunnel, that lasted almost one and a half years.😔

But despite every effort and ceaseless prayers from family, friends and loved ones everywhere; the body just kept growing steadily weaker and weaker. The cells were spreading like wild-fire, and gradually infesting the important organs, one after another, irrespective of the treatment. It was as if the treatment, just hadn't made the slightest dent on the sickness at all; despite being quite intensive.😢

The 'body weight' kept dwindling at a rapid pace. Extensive research (which I eventually became a master at doing, because there really is so much to learn and know about, in the field of medicine and treatment), showed that it is precisely this factor, of rapid and continuous weight loss, which actually takes its toll on the patient, and not just the Cancer itself. So, we tried our best to keep the weight loss at bay too; but despite everything we did, eventually the body gave up.🤷🏻‍♀️

The battle to outsmart this challenging disease, raged on for almost a year and a half. Nothing worked. 

I remember being utterly devastated nine years ago, when I first heard the news that my mother had developed Breast Cancer. To hear that she had developed Pancreatic Cancer, a little over seven years later, just when we thought all was well, was so difficult to handle, especially since there are very few encouraging stories, that you hear about Pancreatic Cancer survivors. The struggle to beat the sickness was long and hard; and finally, even though we did so much, we could do absolutely nothing to overcome it.😔

Words would not be able to describe the ordeal, both of us went through together; and the pain she experienced, constantly every single day, for months at a stretch, was too unbearable to even see.😢 

The sickness literally squeezed out so much life, energy, enthusiasm and everything else, from both of us. God gave us the strength to stay positive for a large part of this journey; but there were many moments, when it was a real challenge, to keep our spirits up.

So why am I sharing, this sad and painful experience. Simply because through everything that we went through and experienced, I learned so much. 

What did this experience teach me?🤔

I think the most important lesson I have learned, is to just 'Live in the Moment'. No one knows what tomorrow holds in store; and it is absolutely pointless, to worry about the future. Just live life 'One Day At A Time', and cherish all the special people you care about, while they are still here; because one day, they suddenly won't be around anymore, and no matter how much you wish you could talk to them again, you won't be able to.💕

'Smile' a little more everyday.😊

'Be Grateful' for the memories and the good times.✨️ 

Just be 'Thankful' for everything and everyone who adds some joy to your life.🙏

'Share a Laugh'.😂 

Cherish every experience. Life is beautiful. Just live life, being a good human being at every step of the way.

Above everything else, have a strong Faith in the Creator. Even though, there may be times, when things may not seem to be going our way in life, He knows what's best for us; and He will always be there, to accompany us at every step of the way, no matter how difficult the journey may be. Always believe that.🤍

I cannot end this post, without the biggest word of Gratitude, to the innumerable number of doctors, nurses, nutritionists and health care professionals, that we interacted with, over the last nine years. They truly are the 'Hands of God' in this world.🤗❤️

I often wonder, how they cope with the stress and strain of the work they do. Their efforts, so often go unnoticed. They may not always be able to work miracles, but they never stop trying to make a difference; and that is so commendable. 

So grateful to have met every single one of them. I may never see them again; but I will always be Thankful, for their role in my journey through life.✨️🌈

YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND IN ME ✨️❤️

     

I often wonder about how so many of my Friendships first began. It's fascinating to think about how two people, whose paths never crossed at all for years, suddenly met one day; and then as time passed by, he or she became a Dear Friend. 

Some may call it a chance encounter; but I think that every person who I call My Friend, was meant to be an important part of my life.✨️

I'm happy God chose to bring each one of my Friends into my life, at different stages of time, over the years. With each Friend, I have special memories, and lasting bonds of Love and Friendship. 

Time and Distance keeps some far away; but the Love we share, will forever stay. Grateful for every 'Special Gift' in Life, that I am blessed to call my 'Friends'.😊  

 

(The adorable Claire Crosby with her Dad, singing 'You've got a Friend in Me', on The Ellen Show.)❤️

BUTTERFLY 🦋

I had the sweetest experience one bright and sunny day, in late September last year. 

A little yellow butterfly,  started flying around me for a few moments; and then quietly came and settled on my green outfit a couple of times, before flying off, in its quest to find another pretty flower.🦋🌻

This joyful moment lasted for less than a few minutes but it made me and a few other children around me smile for those few moments. The joy that those brief moments brought, has lasted right through the day; and it also made me think of this really old song, that I had heard many years ago. 

I still have that old audio cassette by 'Nicole' called 'A Little Peace', which has this song called 'Butterfly' on it. As a child, I loved listening to that cassette, over and over again. It used to be one of my favourites, back then. 🎶  

Was happy to find this song online. Just passing the joy along. Keep smiling everyone!😊

A LITTLE PEACE 🤍💕

   

Moments of trials and difficulties are inevitable in life. They crop up unexpectedly and without a warning; but through every trial in life, there is always a 'glimmer of hope', that things will get better. There is always a new sunrise after every dark night, a bright ray of sunshine after every storm has passed; and a long awaited light at the end of every tunnel.✨️

We just have to believe that a little love and a small prayer, can make a 'big difference'. Together with this, a tiny bit of patience and a little understanding, is all we need to bring about a change.😊

Here's a beautiful song called 'A Little Peace' by Nicole, that has always been one of my favourites, ever since I was in school. I'm glad someone has uploaded this album on YT. It used to be a favourite of mine, when I was growing up. 💕

JUST THOUGHTS THAT CROSS MY MIND ✍️

Even though I enjoy writing, I just haven't been able to find the time to sit and put down my thoughts. However, I still try to post a few of my thoughts on social media, from time to time. So, I've just pulled out some of those random posts from FB, and shared them here.
 
3rd October,2016 ✍️

Each of us is called to be an instrument of love and peace in this world. 

We only have one life to live, so much to give and so much to share. 

There is love to be found, let's look around...There's happiness at every bend and turn. 

Share a smile...Spread the joy.😊😊😊

(Lyrics from the song 'People over the world').🎶

20th October,2016 ✍️

Life is an Adventure...So many memories, friendships and unforgettable moments, at every step of the way, along this journey. I thank God for all the smiles, the special friendships, the precious memories.✨️

26th October,2016 ✍️

I can write a book on all the beautiful memories, spent with my boys on school trips. There have been so many over the years; but I have vivid memories of every single one. Right now, all those memories are floating around in my head; but maybe some day, they will find their way into a book.

Without a doubt, a lot of my students and friends will be important characters, in those happy stories...

A very exciting thought!

Just another thing to add to my long-term 'To-do' list.😊

10th November,2016 ✍️

Happiness comes from just celebrating and re-living, the joyous moments of life, whenever you feel like. 

Life is beautiful, when 'Happy Memories' are your 'Travel Companions' everyday.✨️

4th December,2016 ✍️

Sometimes, there are so many things we want to say...

So many feelings we wish we could express...

A number of thoughts we would like to share...

But then, we choose not to say anything instead. We decide not to express, what we really feel. We refrain from sharing what we really wish we could...

There are times when choosing not to speak out, could be the reason, for allowing a lot of things to go wrong; but sometimes, silence really does speak louder than words.🤷🏻‍♀️

10th December,2016 ✍️

God has blessed all of us human beings, with the beautiful gift of a SMILE.😊

A simple yet precious gift, that enables us to express and communicate our joy.

Let's try and use this wonderful gift more often. Share a smile wherever you are. It won't take long for the world around us, to become a happier place. 

Keep smiling everyone!😊😊😊

19th February,2017 ✍️

There's so much to be thankful for, 

In our lives everyday.
There's so much to smile about, 

And with grateful hearts to pray.🙏

Life is full of countless blessings, 

Of which all the ups and downs are a part.
And each person we encounter in life, 

Leaves an imprint of themselves, on our heart.❤️

Grateful for every memorable moment 

And for every person, who makes life worthwhile.
Thankful for every special friend, near and far, Just thinking of them makes me smile.😊

There's no real reason, 

No occasion, no special day.
But just because I felt like it, 

I'm sharing some love in my own way.💕

23rd February, 2017 ✍️

Our stories in life are shaped by our experiences. 

They may make us, break us, teach us or inspire us.

It all depends on how we respond to every situation. 

There are countless twists and turns in the tale of life; and what makes it so exciting, is that we never really know, what the next page has in store.🤔

ECHOES FROM THE HEART ✨️❤️

There are days when she just wants to sit down and weep,
When her tears fall as quick as the rain,
When she's upset and sad, and hurt beyond words,
When her heart just cries out in pain.😢

There are moments when she feels so lost and alone,
When she longs for a shoulder to cry on;
When she wishes she had someone to share things with,
When she longs for the night to turn to dawn.😔

The world only sees the warmth and the happy smiles,
And hears the cheerful chatter, the joyous laugh.
Friends often think her life is just a breeze,
And that her cares can be measured in half.🙄

People are always mistaken, that someone else's life,
Is much better, than what they go through every day.
They compare, contrast and finally conclude
That someone else is better off, in every little way.🤔

But the reality though, is a bitter pill,
One that's hard to swallow and understand;
Cause while the world is surrounded by those they love,
She often ends up longing, for that one elusive hand.✨️

That one hand to hold, when she's all alone,
That one hand that can reach out and say, "I'm there."
That one pair of hands to extend a warm hug,
That one hand that will always say, "I care."🤗

Her life is filled with blessings aplenty,
With countless happy moments and precious memories galore.
She has met people, who've left an indelible mark,
And friends, as many as the shells on a shore.💕

But amidst all the smiles and the joyful cheer,
There is always a lingering sense of loss.
The wishing and hoping, the yearning and praying,
For the grace and courage to bear every cross.🙏

She sometimes wishes, she could take her loved ones home,
And forever with her, keep them near and close;
But wishes and dreams don't always come true
That's a reality, that everyone knows.🤷🏻‍♀️

So she keeps on Smiling her way through life,
And teaches everyone she meets, to do the same.
While the sadness, the tears and the lonely heart remains,
Hidden behind 'The Perfect Smile', so synonymous with her name. 😊✍️

PASSING THOUGHTS ✍️

June 10, 2016 ✍️

The sun peeps out from behind the rain clouds...

The cuckoo is joyfully singing her song...

A scorching city anxiously awaits those soothing droplets from the skies...

A bright new morning with all its possibilities awaits us...

June 19, 2016 ✍️

A wet day....

A drop in the temperature...

A nice cool breeze...

Sounds heavenly, after the really hot summer and the scorching heat, doesn't it?

But you know what, our human nature will soon lead us to start complaining, about the muck and the puddles, the filth and the dirt.

What if we could react a little differently this year?🤔

If someone passing by in a car, splashes muddy water all over our clean clothes, we may be tempted to say a few unkind words.

Instead, what if we could just look up to heaven, smile and say, "Thank you Lord for the rain. Please let it keep coming."😊☔️

June 22, 2016 ✍️

The sun and shade of life, is something that is part and parcel of our very existence. 

Moments of joy and sorrow, keep playing hide and seek, right through our lives. They are so deeply woven into the fibre of our lives, that they just slip in and out, before we've even realised.

It's easy to smile through the happy times; but the real test, is learning how to 'Keep Smiling', even through the tears.

I pray that more people, will learn how to live each day with a smile; even at times, when the clouds of sadness hide the sunshine in their lives for a while.😊💕

June 25, 2016 ✍️

Just watching the precious drops of rain fall from the skies...

The green trees in my compound, seem even more green and beautiful...

The droplets of rain, continue to hang on to the grills in my window; and each one, almost resembles a little colourless pearl.

The cycle of nature is such a wonderful thing. I can sit and just watch the rain for hours.✨️☔️

June 28, 2016 ✍️

Life is a series of new encounters, new friendships, new beginnings.

I often wonder about, how friendships grow and change, with the passing years. As the years go by, we grow apart from some, and we grow closer to others.

Time and distance, sometimes keeps us away from friends, who were closest to our hearts, at some point in our lives; but somehow, new friends always step in, to fill up the void that their absence creates.❤️

Just the thought, that the constant changes in life, may separate us from the friends we love, is something that we find hard to accept; but I guess, some friendships do last forever. 

No matter how far from one another, life takes us, the bond of love we share, remains strong and lasting...

Grateful for every Friend, who has ever been a part of my life. Always miss the ones who are far away. ✨️🤗

LIFE IS MEANT TO BE COLOURFUL ✨️🌈

 

Somewhere over the rainbow, 

Skies are blue,

And the dreams that I ‘dare to dream’

Really do come true.🌈

In our Annual Day School Musical  this year, the audience encountered Joseph, a young boy who dreamed. The unexpected twists and turns in his life, eventually led him to a place and position, where all his 'Dreams', became a reality. 

As a young child, his father handed him a multi-coloured coat. Little did he know, that just as his father had singled him out, from among his brothers; God too had singled him out, to be an instrument, to bring about a change in the attitude of his brothers, and to help his own people, in their time of need.

Similarly, when God created us, and decided that it was time for us, to be born in this world; He presented each of us with our own multi-coloured coat. 

We were blessed with innumerable gifts and talents. Endowed with these wonderful gifts, each of us is 'A Rainbow of Possibilities'. Every single one of us can 'Dare to Dream', and then work towards fulfilling those dreams, during the course of our lives.✨️

It is up to us to choose, whether we would like to soar into the blue skies like the birds, and fly to that rainbow; or whether, we would just like to let those gifts, lie dormant within us.

Colours make the world beautiful.🧡🩵🩷💛💙

Have you ever noticed the changing hues of the sky, at the break of dawn and at sunset? 

Have you ever cared to observe the many shades of green on the leaves of a single tree?

Have you paused to look at a colourful butterfly, as it flies over a garden of brightly coloured flowers?🌻🦋

The world around us is God’s canvas. As the Master painter, He fills every day with beautiful colours. 'You and I are his Masterpiece'. Each of us is called to continue in His mission, of filling the world with the ‘Colours of Life’, through the way we live.

So let’s all do our part, by always sharing a Smile, with everyone we meet...

Let’s whistle a happy tune at all times. It might just cheer someone up, when they’re feeling low...

Let’s constantly have a song in our hearts, like a melodious bird in the trees...

And let us continue to spread Joy to those around us, like the fragrance of flowers in a garden...

Life was meant to be colourful. 

Let’s try to be the ones who fill the world with colour. 💕✍️

HARMONY AND PEACE - THE EARTH AND ME 💙💚

In her poem 'Meadow Music', Garnett Ann Schultz describes the musical harmony of nature, in these words.

     I hear the meadow singing

     It finds the world complete,

     Across the valley drifts the mist

     Into the heavens sweet,

     Where green leaves meet the blue of sky,

     The mountainside so fair,

     I hear frogs piping in the marshes

     Upon the summer air.

     I held the meadow music

     So closely to my heart,

     The golden sunlight lit the world

     Such beauty to impart.

     All outdoor life about me,

     The bird notes - joyful sound,

     The meadow shared her music

     With God's world all around.💙💚

Mother Nature has a beautiful way of working and living in harmony. Every element and aspect of nature blends harmoniously and beautifully with one another, to create a wonderful melody and rhythm of life.
 
We human beings are also elements and creatures that inhabit this beautiful earth. However, are we always contributing to the harmony of the earth, by our melodic co-existance, with all the creatures that are co-travellers with us, on our journey of life; or are we the discordant notes in that melody, that distort the harmonious and melodious flow of life, in the world around us?🤔

I think sometimes, it's nice if we take a minute, to ponder on whether, we are the ones who build bridges between people; or whether we are those individuals, who cause discord and distrust among people. 

Am I a person who spreads the light of peace and harmony, in my own little space on this planet; or am I the reason for the constant upheaval in my family, friend circle, building, neighbourhood, school or community? 

Am I a bright ray of sunshine, that can brighten up any room, just by being in it; or am I that one discordant note, in a melodious choir, that can ruin the most exquisite musical masterpiece, because I choose to be, out of sync with the harmony.

Everyone prefers peace over war; but peace can be interpreted in so many different ways. Apart from having peace between nations and countries, the world would be a much better place, if every person chose to be peaceful, in their own little corner.🕊

Being a person who chooses to be peaceful, and a 'bridge-builder' at all times, and in all situations, is a choice I make. 

Being a person, who chooses to add to the harmonious melody of the Earth, is a personal choice. 

To be 'a person of peace', who chooses to peacefully co-exist, with every person that crosses my path in life, is my choice.

To be a person who stays away from fights, arguments and from using words and language, that could hurt another person, is my choice.

I think, that if every person, just trains himself or herself, to think peaceful thoughts, works hard at behaving in peaceful ways; and if every person, constantly and consciously, tries to add to the harmonious music in the meadow of life, this world that we live in, would be even more beautiful than it already is. ✨️❤️

THE SALESIAN INFLUENCE IN MY LIFE 😊

I studied in an 'all girls school' as a child; but I remember that many of my friends, in my Sunday School classes, used to be 'Bosco Boys'. Interacting with them back then, as a youngster, I probably didn't know, that I would one day grow up to be a Teacher, in the very school, that so many of my friends used to study in. I think, I was always attracted to Don Bosco School, because of my interaction with them.😊

Besides that interaction, I also remember a few of my friends going for Summer Clubs to Don Bosco, during the holidays; and I used to love hearing about, all the fun activities they had there, year after year. Of course, I didn't really imagine then, that one day, I would be seeing those activities happening right before my eyes, year after year.

I also remember interacting with, a couple of young Salesian brothers many years ago, who are Priests now. Their families lived in our Parish, and they were my Teachers, at the 'Vacation Bible Joy' classes held in our Church, while they were on their holidays from the Seminary. 

Over the years, these 'Brothers', grew from being my teachers to being my friends; and I think, that interaction was probably one of my strongest connections with the Salesians, before I actually joined a Don Bosco school.✨️

200 years after Don Bosco's birth, in the year that we celebrate the Bi-Centenary of his birth, and eleven years after I have been a part of the Salesian family, I have also begun to discover the true joy that Don Bosco brought, to the lives of so many young boys, who just needed someone to show them, that they were 'Loved'.💕

I have recently begun to experience the heartfelt joy, that working in a Salesian Boy's Home brings, through the eyes of a friend, who has the privilege of interacting with a very talented bunch of children, in one of our Boarding schools. 

Unfortunately, our school does not have a Boarding section, any longer. So, every time I hear about the work, done in other Boarding schools, I really feel like I have missed out, on a true original 'Don Bosco experience'.

However,I'm glad that the work that Don Bosco began, so many years ago, is still working 'miracles', in so many lives; and somehow indirectly, I am also a part of those 'wonderful miracles', that happen everyday.❤️

I have just embarked on, the twelfth year of my journey as a Teacher, in a Salesian School. I feel so blessed everyday, to have been Chosen to be a part of this wonderful Salesian family, in the form of an Educator, who tries to walk in the footsteps of Don Bosco and emulate him, as much as I can, and in as many ways as is possible. 

I thank God for my extended Salesian family, all over India, and the world over; and I pray that each child that is touched in the 'Don Bosco Way', may grow up to make this world, a bright and beautiful place, in their own little ways, wherever they are. 

What an Impact you have made on so many lives dear St. John Bosco! I am blessed to be one of those special ones as well, whose lives have been touched by You.🙏✍️

LIFE IS A JOURNEY AND I'M ENJOYING EVERY MOMENT.

    

"So where are you going for the holidays this year?" That has been the question, that I've been asked innumerable times, over the past few weeks.🤔 

The month of May is generally associated with summer holidays, family trips, outings with friends, picnics, etc. I remember spending long holidays in Goa as a child, year after year, during this time.

Some of my 'fondest memories', are of the times I've spent in Goa, with my grandparents and extended family. I remember so many little things, from back then. Playing around in my grandfather's huge house, enjoying the sweet fruits-fresh from the trees, collecting the dried leaves, sitting by the river and watching the barges pass by, going across the river in the ferry boat, dipping my feet in the pond and walking through the fields...

There are so many countless things that I can remember. They are the moments that made holidays during my childhood days memorable. Those long holidays in Goa are among my most cherished childhood memories.✨️❤️

Once my grandparents passed away though, my trips to Goa, were not as frequent as they were before. However, my work began to present me with wonderful opportunities, to travel and discover different places. 

It has always been my wish, to visit as many parts of India as I can, to discover the beauty and variety that exists, in our wonderful nation. 

Over the past decade, I have been extremely fortunate, to fulfill this desire. I have been blessed with so many opportunities, to travel with my boys at school, and to discover India with them. Each and every one of those trips has been a 'learning experience'. 

As I look through the photographs, from the many trips I've been on, the wonderful memories are refreshed. I can remember so many moments, jokes, funny situations, memorable incidents, the beauty of the places themselves, the journey by train, the long bus rides, games, formation of teams, camp-fires and so much more. 

I miss all my ex-students, who used to accompany us on those trips regularly. Although they've passed out of school and moved on in life, the memories of the good times, spent on school trips with them, continue to live on in my heart. I guess those memories will stay with me forever.😊

    

Unfortunately, I do not have any holiday planned for these vacations; and somehow, there seems to be a vacuum. It seems like something is missing. Even though, most of my school trips do not happen during these holidays, it still feels like something is missing.😔

And so, I've been looking through old albums of previous holidays, and re-living the moments over the past week. Every single photograph, has a memory attached to it. So many pictures, bring a smile to my face. 

I remember places, people, past Principals, teachers who've left our institution, ex-students, tour escorts from all the years gone by, experiences, situations, moments...

...and as I think of all these beautiful memories, I say a very big Thank You to God, for every single one of these experiences. They've added so much depth, colour, joy and beauty to my life. 

Each holiday has been a blessing. Every person who has been a co-traveller, has added so much to my life. I thank God for each of these experiences and I look forward to many more in the years to come.🙏✍️

TEARS ARE A LANGUAGE GOD UNDERSTANDS 😢

Right through my life, people have constantly appreciated me for my 'Smile'. I guess, it is one of God's special graces, that he bestowed on me. He has blessed me with the gift of a warm smile, that comes straight from the heart. I'm glad I can smile so effortlessly and genuinely, most of the time.😊

Of course, there have been countless occasions in life, when I have also shed innumerable tears. Apart from the moments of personal tragedy and the loss of dear loved ones, there have also been many other reasons, that have caused the dam of emotions, to just burst in a flood of tears.Little things that people say, hurtful remarks, unpleasant experiences, being accused falsely, misunderstandings - there have been so many moments, when things like these, have stung so hard, that they have caused the smiles to turn to tears.😢

I came across this video in one such moment. It was so 'Comforting', to hear the words of this song. 'Tears are a language God understands'. How beautiful to realize, that no matter how troubled we are, no matter how burdened we feel, and no matter how many tears we shed; God is always there to catch those falling tears in the palm of His hands.✨️❤️

I thank God for always being there for me, in every difficult moment of life. While I thank Him for the smiles, I especially thank Him for the tears, because I truly believe that those are the moments, when He is closest to me.🙏✍️

THANK YOU FOR THE SMILES 😊

It's not so difficult to share a 'Smile', even when you want to cry,
It's not impossible to hide your tears, even when you're asking 'Why?'.
Our lives are full of ups and downs, of countless highs and lows,
With each passing experience, our ability to cope, just grows.

I've spent many years being all alone, and cried many silent tears,😢
I've grappled with sorrow and immense pain, also innumerable fears.
But through it all, each time I stop, to ponder and think for a while,
I realize that it hasn't been so tough at all, to constantly wear a Smile.😊

I guess I've been blessed with some special grace, a Gift just given to a few,
The ability to 'Smile' despite my tears, and to give God the glory that's due.
I'm glad He bestowed and endowed me, with this wonderfully precious Gift,
Without which, I'm sure in an ocean of sadness, I'd surely have been cast adrift.
 
It is only His gentle Hand, that has guided me along,
It is only His tender Love, that has filled my world with Song.
Even in times of loneliness, I just know He is Always There,
My saddest moments in life, with only Him I constantly share.🙏

So I lost my sweet handsome Brother, when I was still a little child,
But I gained a 'Special Angel', in the vast heavens, so meek and mild.✨️
I miss him at life's every step, of that there is absolutely no doubt,
But I know he's always watching, from above where the birds head South.❤️

Strange as it may seem to some, it is the tears that have taught me to Smile,
Unreal, though it may certainly be, 'Genuine Happiness' is the contact to dial.
Every time life throws a bouncer at you, that you simply cannot duck,
Just 'Smile' at it with all your heart, and fresh Courage, right up you'll pluck. 😊✍️

200 YEARS - THE JOYFUL CREATIVE EDUCATOR - A ROLE-MODEL ✨️😊

200 long years ago

Was born a little boy,

Who would one day grow up

And fill the world with joy.

200 long years ago

Was born a loving smile,

That reached the hearts of wayward boys

And they forgot their troubles for a while.

200 long years ago

Was born a fabulous teacher;

He taught with loving kindness

And was not merely a preacher.

200 years and his dream lives on,

The vision he had, has now grown.

As we reach this wonderful milestone,

It’s a pleasure, to make him known.✨️❤️

It's the year 2015, and we're celebrating the Bi-centenary of the Birth of Saint John Bosco. I always think of Don Bosco as the ‘Happy and Creative Priest’, who constantly shared his joy with the young and taught them things, in very unique and innovative ways. 

The boys were attracted to him because 'he loved what they loved'. His Oratory was always filled with music, sports, activity, entertainment and excitement, along with learning. He truly loved the boys with all his heart; and he constantly expressed his love for them, in word and action.

As a teacher in a Salesian school, I hope I can aim to be, a little more like Don Bosco each day. I hope I can always be a 'Happy and Creative Teacher' like he was; and I pray, that I will always be able to let the boys know, that they are Loved, just like he did. 

St.Don Bosco, be my Guide on my journey, as I try to follow in your footsteps.🙏✍️

JUST A REMINDER - 'TODAY' STILL EXISTS!!! ✍️

   

An interesting quote I came across stated, "It's good to have a 'destination or a goal' to journey towards; but it's 'the journey' that really matters."

If we take a few moments to ponder on this saying, we realize how true it really is. In today's world, most of us are so focussed, on the 'goals' we want to achieve in life, that we forget to 'enjoy the ride towards that goal'. In our zeal to reach a target, we're constantly speeding through the moments in our life; and in the process, we don't take the time to stop and smell the roses along the way. We overlook the little blessings all around us. 

While we're busy feeling a sense of regret, about all the things we could have done yesterday; and as we're constantly pre-occupied, with the fear of what could go wrong tomorrow, most of us completely forget about 'TODAY'.🤷🏻‍♀️

Mumbai is often referred to, as 'the city that never sleeps'. The streets outside many railway stations, are alive and busy with activity, well past midnight, almost everyday. 

Most of us, have lived in this city, from the day we were born. As a result, we've become a lot like the city. We're constantly on the move, and always thinking about what we can do next. 

In the process of living life in the fast lane, we are slowly losing touch with the little things in life, like going onto our terrace and watching a glorious sunset, or simply looking up at the sky on a star-lit night, and counting the stars, taking a walk bare-feet, on the soft grass in a garden, or just watching the birds fly past in the sky, and wondering where they're really going.🤔

A little child gets excited at the smallest things. He would probably jump up and down with joy, when he sees an aeroplane; and his eyes literally pop out, at the sight of an ice-cream shop. 

Little children can be our greatest teachers, when it comes to learning, how to really enjoy every moment and to savour every experience. They have no regret about the past, and have no fears about the future. They just live in the 'Now'.😊🌈

As we grow up, we gradually outgrow this sense of 'Wonderment'. Our focus shifts to supposedly more important things, like success, career, achieving something, etc. No doubt, all these things are necessary and important in life, as well. However, I just think that we must definitely not forget the 'little things in life', while we're busy achieving the 'big goals'.

We live in a materialistic world, where gadgets and gizmos rule our lives. The virtual world, often makes us forget the people in the same room. 

Let's press the 'pause' button in our lives. 

Let's learn to appreciate every moment. 

Let's thank God for giving us 'TODAY', which can be much more exciting, than every tomorrow, if we only take the time to enjoy every moment in every day, to the full.✨️✍️

IT IS NO SECRET, WHAT GOD CAN DO ✨️🎶

Lights!  Sound!  Music!  🎶

It's always wonderful, to listen to a  band of musicians performing 'Live', isn't it? Live music has a completely different, almost magical effect on the listener, simply because the sounds you hear, are being played or sung 'Live' on stage, and therefore seem completely real.

Ever since I was a 10 year old child, I've always been part of a group that sings  in church, Sunday after Sunday. I've been singing in Church choirs, for as long as I can remember. My tryst with music, began with songs and hymns, sung in praise of God, as far back as when I was in Class 3 or 4. 

While I've always listened to and enjoyed various secular forms of music, I have always been more closely associated with Liturgical Music, and have enjoyed singing in choral harmony, for Church services, Christmas Carol fests, etc.

As I stepped into college, an associated genre of music also caught my attention. I began to be fascinated by the melodies of Don Moen and others like him. 'Christian Gospel Music' began to form part of the genres of music, that I thoroughly enjoyed listening to. 

The soulful renditions, of lyrics that touched the heart, filled me with joy, every time I heard or sang one of those songs. Time passed by; and I continued to enjoy all forms of music, along with Gospel music.

A few years ago, I discovered that a good old friend of mine, Macklin Lacerda, had put together a Gospel Band called 'OPEN SECRET', right here in the city of Mumbai. Macklin is the lead singer of the group and having known him for many years now, I always had a strong desire to listen to him and his band perform.

However, for a very long time, it just didn't happen. The band had been around for about 5 years; but somehow, I hadn't really got an opportunity to listen to them.

Finally, one day last year, when OPEN SECRET made a memorable appearance at Blue Frog, Lower Parel, I finally got my chance to hear them perform, as I made it there, with a few of my friends from my choir. 

How amazing it was, to hear 'Gospel Music' being played, at a venue that you don't generally associate with Gospel Music at all! To see youngsters, actually enjoying the music was a real treat. What an achievement that was! 

In November'2013, God fulfilled a desire I had in my heart for a very long time. OPEN SECRET played in my Parish as well. A concert to mark the closing of the 'Year of Faith'.🙏

It was such an awesome feeling to hear them play, in my own backyard, so to say. It was exciting and thrilling, to see my own parishioners, revel in the rhythm and sway to the beats, which extolled the wonders that God has done. It was wonderful to hear them, make a joyful noise unto the Lord through Music.🎶

A few months have gone by since then. Just about a week ago, I had another opportunity, to see God at work through OPEN SECRET. I went for one of the fourteen 'The Journey Home' Lenten Concerts, at St. Peter's Church, Bandra. 

A concert conceptualised and based on the 14 Stations of the Cross; it was a wonderful experience journeying with the Lord, through the various stages of  His journey - an agonizing path, that His Heavenly Father had chosen for Him, and which he willingly accepted. 

As each song was played, we made our own inward journey as well, together with our Lord and Master, Jesus. We pondered on and examined, our own lives. We placed all our burdens at the Lord's feet. We tried to see where we needed to make a change in life. 

Most of all, we were given an assurance, that 'Every little thing's gonna be alright', simply because God was accompanying us, on every step of our journey. What an absolutely perfect message to take home from the concert!😊

OPEN SECRET - A small group of young people, who are trying to spread God's message of Love, through the medium of music.❤️

What is fascinating is that these very talented musicians, expect no remuneration whatsoever, in return for their tireless hard work, and the long hours put in, to plan, prepare and practice for the shows, which is a rarity in today's materialistic world. Their complete dedication, is exceedingly praiseworthy; and I'm certain that 'their reward will most definitely be great in heaven'.✨️

It is no secret what God can do; and in this case, God is using OPEN SECRET, to further His Mission of Love in the world. Every life that is touched at their concerts is a living testimony to the fact, that God works in wonderful and miraculous ways. May God Bless the Band and their ever-growing band of Secret Service volunteers, always.😊

OPEN SECRET 🎶

Macklin Lacerda (Lead Vocals / Guitars)
Aggi Agnelo Fernandes (Keyboards)

Calvin Vaz / Govind Gawli (Bass)
Jeremiah D'Silva (Guitars)
Roland Fernandes (Guitars / Bass)

Royston Mathias (Drums)

Rhea Serrao (Vocals)

BE STRONG AND TAKE COURAGE ✨️❤️

 

Death is a milestone along life's path that every single one of us comes across, sooner or later. 

For those who go ahead, I'm sure life is beautiful in heaven. 

For those of us who are left behind, to face life

without the one we love so dearly, life can be hard and challenging.😔

I heard this song at a funeral, some time ago; and ever since then, every time I am sad or I feel low, at the loss of a loved one, this song
fills me with grace and strength.

One of the most beautiful songs, I have
heard. It made a strong impact on me, the first time I heard it; and it continues to have the same effect on me, every single time I hear it.
Just listening to the song, fills me with strength and courage, that only comes from knowing that God is always there for us, no matter what.

Thank you Don Moen for sharing this beautiful song with the world.✨️❤️

(A beautiful Choral version, sung together by many different choirs.)

SWINGIN' IN THE RAIN 🎶☔️

The monsoon this year has brought forth showers of blessings aplenty. It's still the middle of August, and we've already had an abundant supply of water, pouring down from the skies.

The rains are perceived differently, by different people, and in a variety of situations. At the beginning of June, when the summer heat, has literally caught hold of us by the collar and we just can't take it anymore; the welcome drops of deliverance, that rain down from the heavens, are given  a warm reception.What a wonderful feeling, to get completely soaked to the bone in the rain! 

A few days later, when the roads get mucky and a few vehicles, splash the muddy water onto our freshly ironed clothes, on our way out; we immediately begin to curse the rains, and wonder when it will stop. 

When one is about to leave home for work, and the rain decides to play spoilt-sport just then; every drop is looked at, with a frown. However, when we're on a day off from work, sitting in the comfort of our homes; a heavy downpour, brings absolute joy to the heart. Put it together with a hot bowl of soup, steaming hot Maggi noddles or just some lovely bhajjiyas; and the rains, are suddenly a wonderful sight to behold.😄☔️

We human beings are very fickle, when it comes to our perception, of the world around us. Our likes and dislikes keep changing, as suddenly as the very weather, that we constantly grumble and complain about. 

Of course, this post isn't really about the fickleness of the human mind. I actually began writing this piece, because I wanted to write about an amazing experience, that I had yesterday. 

After a whole year, of wanting to go for a show, by a group called 'THE SALVATION SINGERS', I finally made it a point, to go for their show at St. Andrew's Auditorium in Bandra, called 'SWINGIN IN THE RAIN'. I think every single person who was seated in that Auditorium, would have gone home, with a smile on their lips and a song in their hearts.😊🎶

I've heard the 'Salvation Singers', on a number of occasions at the NCPA, when they've performed at the Stop Gaps Christmas concerts, in years gone by. Of course, ever since they've started putting up shows independently, I have been waiting for an opportunity to hear them perform an entire concert; and yesterday, I got my chance. I have to say I definitely wasn't disappointed.✨️❤️ 

Every aspect of the show was great. The simple yet fantastic stage set-up, the backdrop and props, coupled with great stage lights, set the mood for a wonderful evening. The wonderful and very thematic costumes, that included the footwear, matched the colours and hues of the songs, just perfectly. 

The two comperes were absolutely fantastic. Being someone who loves writing, I was completely taken up, by the wonderful script that was put together; and both the hosts, kept the entire audience entertained, right through the show. The fact that they were younger than most people on stage, speaks volumes for their talent. As a teacher, nothing makes me happier, than seeing young children and youth, developing their talents on stage.👏👏👏

This post would be incomplete, till I actually wrote about the music. The props, the lights, the costumes, the hosts were all worthy side-kicks, and they added a lot to the presentation; but the 'Songs and the Music', were definitely the 'Stars of the Show'.🌟

The choice of songs that were picked, ranged from classics like 'Singin in the Rain', 'My Way' and 'Tears in heaven', to  a number of songs that I've heard for the first time, like 'Rain, Rain, Beautiful rain', and many others, which were wonderful to listen to as well. 

The musicians were awesome too. It was fascinating, to see the saxophone and the tabla being played, by young women. The musicians didn't overpower the singing, right through the show; and that's what made the singing, really stand out. 

The instrumental pieces, were wonderful to listen to as well. The 'fusion' using Indian instruments and the Western instrumental pieces, were really lovely. I was also introduced to an instrument called the 'Ukulele' and another tiny instrument, that was used in a Spanish instrumental piece, that I haven't seen or heard before.🎶

Shows like these, give us opportunities to listen to some fabulous music, bump into old friends in the audience, who share the same passion for music as we do, and provide us with the luxury, of spending a relaxing evening. An evening, where we get a chance to enjoy the company of so many other Sopranos, Altos, Tenors and Basses, together with the Accompanists, who 'collectively', like nothing better than sharing their love of music, with the world.

Like some of the songs performed rightly say, Music, 'You fill up our senses', You make us feel like, 'We're walking on Sunshine' and when we listen to Music, we just feel like we're 'Home', and our heart goes 'Sh-Boom' with joy and exhilaration. 'What a wonderful world' this world of Music is.😄 

I didn't know every single person on stage, nor did I know every person seated in that auditorium; and yet, when the entire auditorium sang the popular favourites like 'Country Roads' and 'You fill up my senses' in one voice, there was a 'deep connection', with every person in that auditorium. 

I thank the conductor, Dylan D'Souza and 'The Salvation Singers', together with the entire team, that put this show together; for giving us a wonderful evening, that helped us to just sing all our blues away.😊❤️

TIME TO RE-CHARGE OUR CONNECTIVITY QUOTIENT ✍️

“Hello!…Hello!...Could you just repeat what you said...Just hold on okay…There’s too much noise here. I can’t hear anything you’re saying.”  

I’m sure most of us have had a conversation like this, over the telephone, at some time or the other, haven't we?

Living in Mumbai, the frequent offenders that assist this reduced audibility, would be the loud decibels, emanating from street bands and revelry, during the celebration of a festival, a fast out-station train passing by, a crowded noisy street during a traffic jam, uncontrollable honking at a traffic signal (which is the strangest and silliest thing, since no one is going anywhere, till that signal changes colour)🤦‍♀️, digging of bore-wells and machines at construction sites, the blaring television in our living rooms, etc.

As if these deafening sounds weren’t sufficient, to hamper our sense of hearing, we have gadgets aplenty, to draw our attention away, from the people around us. Laptops, Cell phones, Tablets - complete with the latest games and apps - and lo and behold, we’re 'Visible and Invisible' at the same time. 

Physically, we are 'Visible' to those around us. They see us; but if they try to get in a word, it just won’t get through to us, because with our faces and minds buried in Facebook, Twitter and Whats App, the virtual conversations take complete control of us, and even if someone yells straight into our ears, we wouldn’t really hear it. 

Technology thus has the power, to lure us into a world of chats and instant messaging, that takes us far beyond the world, that we are physically living in. It gently coaxes us, to spend every waking moment in cyberspace, with people we refer to as our ‘Friends'.

...But ironically, after it has systematically ensnared us to such an extent, that we stop talking to the people in the same room as us – mainly our family; we have chosen to name this activity ‘COMMUNICATION’. We even have the audacity to say that our means of communication, have evolved and developed. 

However, when I look at people around me, with all their fancy gadgets through which they ‘supposedly communicate’, I am tempted to ask, “ARE WE REALLY COMMUNICATING??? ”🤔

A little child loves it, when he can pick up a cricket bat, and play a game with his dad, even if the bat seldom makes contact with the ball. 

A toddler, loves to hear his mother read him a bed-time story, even if he has heard the story a million times before. 

Little children enjoy coming home from school, and narrating all the events of the day to their parents, very enthusiastically. 

They are always game for a 'family outing' over the weekend, or are happy just playing a game of scrabble, monopoly or simply snakes and ladders, because it means they get a chance to spend a few precious moments with their mum and dad.💕

Sadly, these treasured moments of togetherness in the family, are overtaken by gadgets and gizmos these days. The nuclear family system, often deprives children of the presence of grandparents, who would have otherwise made up, for the absence of the child’s working parents. 

Hectic work- schedules, jobs that entail working in shifts, deadlines at the work-place, or just the presence of that very intrusive cell phone, that keeps ringing incessantly, at all the wrong moments, are collectively robbing our kids of what is rightfully theirs – FAMILY TIME.😔

As an Educator, who works with children everyday, I observe kids on a daily basis; and based on my observations, I think it is imperative for me, to remind all the parents I know, that they need to make their children their top priority, and put genuine ‘Family time’, back on their daily schedule. 

While the world comes closer together, through the various means of communication, we also need to RE-CHARGE OUR CONNECTIVITY QUOTIENT in our families. I earnestly urge all parents to just ‘LISTEN TO YOUR CHILD’ more often than you pick up a cell phone or chat online.❤️

Likewise, I would also like to remind all the young people I know, especially those who've been my students in the past; that there is no one who loves you, more than your parents. As you grow up into teenagers, you often develop this mistaken notion, that your parents have landed from another planet; and therefore, can never seem to understand you. 

You need to understand though, that in reality, it is quite the contrary. Your parents may not always seem to understand you, because of the so-called ‘generation-gap’; but in reality, you just need to make an extra effort, and try and start opening up a little more, by sharing your thoughts, fears, happiness, etc. with your parents. 

Instead of whiling away the hours on networking sites, ‘START TALKING TO YOUR PARENTS’, in the same way that you would talk to a friend; and before you know it, all the lines of communication in your family will be open.😄✍️