Small Joys Unlimited

Stumbling

2012-02-01T22:28:00.000-08:00

Just finished Daniel Gilbert's "Stumbling on Happiness" and I'm madly recommending this book to anyone who's literate. Why? Well, cause I found out, much to my own dismay, that perhaps I don't really know what makes me truly happy. Very liberating.

Actually, the whole thing started when I read a book called "The War of the Worldviews" ( a very good book in its own right), where a scientist and a philosopher duke it out about life and stuff.
Funny, both guys used Stumbling on Happiness as a reference point, and I got intrigued enough to read that book first... has anything like this happened to you? You go into a bookstore, say, wanting a particular tome, and come back out with something else in your hand. Switch on the TV wanting to see your favorite show, and get stuck someplace else. Head out to meet someone, and end up yakking with someone you meet on the way.

Stumbling through life, one of life's misunderstood small joys.

Bokuju's Revenge

2011-07-22T03:59:00.000-07:00

Bokuju- my cat, or so I'm told,

Makes a play ever so bold,

Stretches and observes the rain outside swirl,

and sticks his tongue to the dogs of the world.

He looks around a bit, circles himself twice

Admires his tail and shuts his eyes.

Dogs and Men looking at him

Wonder what they did wrong

to toil and spin

When they can curl up better than he

with tea and a book or three.

Bokuju opens one eye in repose

and mocks the one life that we fast close.

"I've got nine, all mine

to live this divine."

Hello, Goodbye

2011-07-18T20:28:00.000-07:00

Damn. Swagat's shutting down, and it makes a BBC (Bevda Brahmin Club) member weep. They are taking the building down, and of course a new apartment block coming up wouldn't want a rabble rousing establishment down below (Ek taraf mera ghar aur neeche Maikada anyone!)

Anyhoo. So us roisterers decided to say goodbye to swagat, and it continued to live up to its billing. Not the impeccable service or delectable food; or the regulars; or the slightly swaying gentleman in the corner going out to take a call.... it was the sheer unpredictable nature of the joint that made one sit up and take notice.

This time, a local goon type had got a rottweiler in. A dog! Huge beast, reminded me of the Baskerville Hound if anything... he sat quietly while goono finished his tipple.

Swagat welcomes everyone, I guess. But not for long.

The Other Side of the Fence

2011-01-17T00:39:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I happened to be on the other side of the fence- a spectator- for a local 20-20 cricket match my friends were playing in. Deccan Gymkhana gleamed in the winter sunlight. In the pavilion, the atmosphere was cool, pleasant, almost sleepy at times. Not all times, though. Players shouted encouragement, a few whistles were heard here and there, and the action on the ground was engaging. Twenty-twenty; so a lot of sixers and fours.

I realised that I used to do this fool thing a few years back. I could see the underlying tension then, the knot in the stomach when a wicket fell in the dressing room; the confabulations between the captain and some senior players;the silly superstitions coming out in full force and the hip hip hurrays when the game was won. The crazy thirst that happens to only a cricketer when water is a luxury which people outside just don't get. (why should they ask for drinks all the time? :))

I also realised that cricket was so enjoyable as a spectator sport, on the ground. There is something strangely calming about the game; something you don't see on TV.

From the other side of the fence, cricket is chess played on a green.

Blue Skying

2010-12-23T23:06:00.000-08:00

I was wondering what the new year had in store

Blue skying

Full of possibilities, and some fears to keep score

Blue skying

and then I came across this wonderful gift and clue:

http://www.ted.com/talks/jill_bolte_taylor_s_powerful_stroke_of_insight.html

as I continue blue skying. Goodbye, 2010.

New Wine in an Old Bottle

2010-12-14T22:11:00.000-08:00

I recently visited the Alma Mater ( http://www.mica-india.net/). I was a key note speaker at their leadership summit, and boy, was the trip was one of a kind.

On my journey back to reality, replete with the wonderful experiences, I wondered what it was that was so wonderful.

Was it nostalgia? Nah. The place has changed so much that it is unrecognizable. Was it the heady experience of the speech? Nah. More likely, I was humbled by all the other guys who were speaking alongside me. Was it meeting interesting people who I'd love to connect with more in my life? Maybe... while that's true, it ain't the complete truth.

So was it me being plain pampered then, by the alumni team? Yep. There it is. This wonderful, young, bunch of students made my stay memorable. They took really good care of me, and made me feel respected and not old (that's a fine trick, that is). From getting me a cuppa in the morning, to arranging various things with glee- and making sure that I enjoy the ride as much as them.

Thanks you guys. New People in an Old Memory. Cheers!

It's the Song, not the Shower!

2010-12-07T20:48:00.000-08:00

Just today, in the shower- have no idea why but I started singing an old old song without realising I'm singing.

Now we all love bathroom singing, don't we- but sometimes the choice of song is also a very good indicator of your current mood (ephemeral though it may be!). Sometimes, its a love ballad, while one pretends to be Axl Rose, sometimes it is "I wanna be a rock star".... you may be singing ghazals but you get da point, doncha.

So I was singing this nonsensical song (Hum jo hai jo do aur do paanch bana de) which was from a slapsticky Amitabh film. I hadn't sung it in years, and whoops, there it was, transporting me back to singing the same song, swinging a school bag walking back from school, sun on my back, back to play with my best friend and terrorize some pets.

Do you have a song that connects you to that happy go lucky child within? Sing it now then- don't wait for that inspiring shower.

The Jerk in all of Us

2010-11-14T21:59:00.000-08:00

All of us have a hidden jerk lurking about within. A nasty moody person who's surly and crap to be with. Unfortunately, this ba.....d is the same guy who can be more daring, creative and impact- creating than the rest of our personality.

Now I'm not for a moment advocating that we let this jerk rule who we are completely, but don't we need to find a balance between different parts of who we are and accept them? Even the jerk inside us.

That's what the "Social Network" did to me: it showed me how different personalities and value systems play out when confronted with an idea. A mind blowing film, it makes you think about so many things: loyalty, differing value systems, an inventor's mind, a supporter's mind- and what it really takes to make an impact on the world. Without really delving into the film and being spoiler, I'd like to recommend it for the absolutely absorbing watch that it is. I love the treatment: there is no right or wrong.

It just is.

Radical Residue

2010-11-09T21:14:00.000-08:00

I have recently read, re- read and started actively using a "gem of a book" called Radical Honesty. My favourite professor recommended it, and after I read it, he told me to re-read it. He was right.

This book changes your life, and I wish I'd written it. There. Said it. Biggest compliment a writer can pay to another one. Not that the author Brad Blanton needs my compliments. In fact, he'd probably cuss me out in case he reads this blog. He's that kind of guy and yeah, this is that kind of book. You either hate him or love him. I ended up hating him and loving his book (happens!)

This book is raw. Needs polishing and editing. But I wouldn't change anything in it. Not everyone's cup of tea though- honesty is a bitter poison to begin with. So I know that most of y'all won't read it. So I thought I'd leave you with the main residue that I had when I finished the book:

Whenever there is a choice to be made in life, ditch the principle and go for the truth. Always.

(You may have a different residue if you brave the book. That's the beauty!)

Nature's Fireworks

2010-11-02T22:49:00.000-07:00

This Diwali, I will also look towards nature to supply me the fireworks. I thought the snap above signifies just that: paying attention to our surrounds while we celebrate Diwali may be the way ahead for all of us. Don't these flowers light up your Diwali as much as the lamp in the middle does?

Maybe celebration doesn't always have to be at a cost. Both can co-exist, balance each other out. We don't need to take an extreme position.

A Happy Diwali, everyone!

Idea Worth Spreading

2010-10-31T22:26:00.000-07:00

There are times within your day when it is kind of blah and you are just in between things. Now you could use this time to watch something really fascinating: minds and ideas of extraordinary people. These people give you a glimpse into their world, and its all free to boot. Usually of very short duration, you can typically listen to a presentation while you say have an office lunch (what I do)

I'm talking of TED talks- being a recent convert to this wonderful free content service. Eclectic, heartwarming, inspiring- I guarantee you that you will find a few speeches/presentations that will connect with you and make you wonder at life all over again. In a good way of course.

Since I'm very interested in technology, nutrition, leadership patterns, and quantum physics, those are the areas I searched for the most. You could search and find whatever you need. I can guarantee that you won't be disappointed- www.ted.com

Wonderful stuff.

What's your Gift?

2010-10-19T02:18:00.000-07:00

I may be naive, but I believe everyone has a gift that they are born with. This is the main theme around my second book which has just been launched (The Gift of the Gab: Success has a Language)

I feel that once you get your gift, you get a whole new world at your doorstep. And I don't think you have to be super lucky to understand what it is- but you do need a method to reach this place consistently.

I'm hoping that everyone reading this blog likes reading my book as well. Likes it as much as I liked writing it, to quote a well worn cliche.

Book Details:

Price: Rs. 150

Publisher: Leadstart Publishing, FrogBooks

Should be available soon across cities and stores. You can also buy it off Ebay, Amazon and a host of other sites as well.

Roald Dahl's Book Factory

2010-10-17T22:39:00.000-07:00

I was recently gifted a wonderful set of Roald Dahl's children's books. You know- Charlie and the Chocolate factory, Matilda, Fantastic Mr. Fox and many more delights. I read these out to the brats at night, ensuring both sweet dreams and nightmares in equal measure.

I'd never thought that he was such a wonderful children's storyteller- he always was macabre in his adult version short stories. What is awesome is the immediate impact it has on kids when you read the stories out. I think kids understand that it is all bizarre but are able to suspend their judgement on reality far better than us morose adults. They know there ain't no such thing as hair toffee, or that magic fingers don't really exist, or.... but they are willing to listen and be entranced.

I find myself getting as wide eyed as them with every book in this wonderful author's book factory. A must read.

A funny kind of hero

2010-10-05T03:54:00.000-07:00

What a nail- biter India won. And while India's fickle public will praise Lax to the skies and ask his head to be chopped off when he has an off day, all those who remember his contributions over the years, especially against Oz, will know that we are very very lucky to have him around.

He is a funny kind of hero. He isn't too much of an athlete; can't run and looks like Dev Anand when he bowls. He always looks as if someone has scolded him a lot and he's suffering from the aftermath of that shouting. He doesn't look smart at the wicket either and he looks like he is sleepwalking some of the time. No one asks him to endorse their products.

But give him his wand and watch him bat. Just watch him bat. Nothing else. He destroys you- while looking totally inept between deliveries. As the opposition, you are taken for a ride. This can't be the guy who's walloping us.

But he is, Ricky, he is.

What's Your Sweet Spot?

2010-09-26T23:25:00.000-07:00

I've noticed that all of us have a certain "sweet spot" - a place where you can just let all worries melt away and rejuvenate yourself. Even if you picture them in your mind's eye- you feel both- the rush and the peace. My first sweet spot: the view from my terrace. My second : Kashid beach. My third: The quarry off Vetal hill, Pune. My fourth: University Garden, Pune. So many more, but these come to mind right now. And when they do, I feel light and happy.

What's your sweet spot?

Judging my Book from the Cover

2010-09-23T01:47:00.000-07:00

This is the almost- final cover of my new book! Some elements like the final price and ISBN number need to be ironed out, of course, but this is basically it.

They say don't judge a book by the cover- but I'd like all of my friends to see this fab cover ( super retro styling and design by Mishta Roy/Leadstart Publishing), click on the image to enlarge it and read the back copy. Tell me what you think the book will be about.

It's going to be out in stores very soon and I hope that all of you pick up a copy and spread the word as well... will keep you posted!

It's In The Atmosphere

2010-09-07T23:26:00.000-07:00

I've recently completed a gem of a book by Isaac Asimov (Tales of the Black Widowers). Asimov's known as a science fiction writer, but boy, does he know how to create a wonderful atmosphere for short, cerebral mysteries!

Without giving any tale away, I'd like to draw your attention to the construct of the book: A group of men meet up, once a month, away from their prying wives, and one of them invites a guest -a guest who needs a mystery to be solved by this group. They have to rely on their brains to solve it within this party's time. Of course, they have a lot of fun- they call themselves the Black Widowers- and are served some delish food and drink by an unobtrusive waiter ( a pathologically honest guy called Henry) while they try to solve this problem. Their personalities often clash during this "grilling session" ; something that adds more spice to proceedings.

The twist to each tale is that Henry, the waiter, manages to solve every mystery after this stag group has tried and failed. All the stories are nice and uniquely gripping, but the atmosphere and the construct remains the same. There's also a connect between stories, but its never burdensome. And the author notes at the end of each story are a delight.

I conclude: Sometimes, it's not the story. It's in the atmosphere. Ask Wodehouse, or Arthur Conan Doyle. Or ask my rumbling stomach yearning for a food fix when a master writer creates a mood.

The Guide's Alchemy

2010-08-31T00:16:00.000-07:00

Got a freshly minted mind courtesy the Konkan coast, where I'm back from. The rains kept away for two days; it was enough for me to try and see the Janjira fort. It looked like a battleship from afar -see the photo above- you literally see no sign of an island till you are inside the fort. From outside, it looks like the fort's walls have risen ominously from the sea to quell any misguided opportunist. You feel like an intruder yourself when you endure seedy-looking surrounds and a rocky boat ride, all the way till the hidden gate. But when you enter, it's a different world. Or is it?

I'm not going to bore you more about the architectural marvel that this fort is; nor am I going to ramble on about its Abyssinian history. I'll skip every detail about this fort so that you are as pleasantly surprised as I was. By the stories your guide shares with you.

If we hadn't hired the guide, all I would have seen was a ruined, uncared- for fort. With his alchemy, I could see the courts being called to order, a special prayer place, the queen's multi -colored bathing chambers, a secret passage that led you out of the island, and so many other magical things.

Ruins transformed into a different world by an alchemist.

Bara Gavche Paani

2010-08-22T22:38:00.000-07:00

I didn't really know what to expect.

I could guess what my old school mate Vikram Sathaye will make me do: laugh out loud uncontrollably. I've met Sunandan Lele, the veteran journalist, before, and knew that he has a rare sense of humor- he could get me and the others in Balgandharva Rangamandir to smile at his memories as well.

But what I didn't expect was for Harsha Bhogle to speak so well, in Marathi, and with a lovely Hyderabadi lilt that made the most khadoos Punekar warm up to him. There was so much to learn from what he said. Like how Sachin Tendulkar believes that bats talk to him. Like how Geoff Boycott doesn't spare his fellow commentators. Like...

These guys have made a career out of something that requires so much of ego bashing- and have had so much fun! I'd recommend you to catch this show if they ever do this again.

Their wonderful journeys still remain with me- with pit stops at Sir Viv's house, exclusive coverage of India winning (not seen on TV) and Frank Worrell's epitaph.
And just when things got a bit mushy, Vikram's imitation of Karunanidhi ensured a stitch in the side and made the old blood pressure go down a notch.

Hope you cover more places, guys, have more fun if possible- and keep us in the loop!

The Minute before Inception

2010-08-09T02:43:00.001-07:00

As you can guess, I'd gone to see this film on the weekend at E-square. I have mixed feelings about the film itself, but not about the minute before the film started. It was a beautiful rendition of our national anthem.

It was a film showing the Indian Army raising our flag in obviously tough conditions (blizzard- like; bleak and windy). Some people had groaned when they saw the notice "please stand up for the national anthem" but I dare say that they felt a little bad about that reaction the moment they saw the visuals.

I think doing the national anthem before a film is a good idea (although bad possibly for popcorn carriers- all that juggling- and you can't really look solemn carrying popcorn, can you) . Having a film that gives goosebumps accompanying it is one step better.

Bill Bryson's World

2010-08-05T21:28:00.000-07:00

If you ever need to get yourself out of a rut, get hold of a Bill Bryson book. He writes about the places he visits. He covers them, warts and all, and has a delicious sense of humor to boot. He effortlessly takes you through the geography, history and charm of each eclectic place as he rips it apart. The good thing about his writing is that it is very real- he talks of the tedium of traveling as well as the joys, and I could certainly connect with that.

And your benefit is that you get that holiday, in your mind at least. And you don't get the blisters and insect bites that he does!

My favourite books are "Notes from a small island"(Great Britain) ; "A walk in the woods" (covering the Appalachian trail) ; and the last one I finished- "The lost continent" (covering small town USA)

And when he writes about having a "steamy, lavish bath" after a day out chasing some monuments, his infectiousness gets you to have one as well. No kidding.

Different Points of View

2010-08-03T21:38:00.001-07:00

I teach every Saturday at Symbiosis, Lavale. As I drive up, I get to see some spectacular views. The first image that you see below is on the way up the ghat. The second one is a fantastic view of the valley after I get out of my car. The third photo is when I step inside the good looking institute. These beautiful images form my point of view. Scroll down and see the fourth photo as well to get a different point of view as well.

My students probably feel different. I imagine this depicts things from their perspective: Prison!
.

Once Upon a Time There was a Story

2010-08-01T22:31:00.000-07:00

I'd seen my fill of disappointing films for the year. Shrek 3 and Iron Man2 disappointed. I didn't dare watch Kites or I Hate Luv stories.

Then I saw some posters I was really intrigued with, for a movie with a rather long title (Once upon a Time in Mumbaai). I tried my luck once again. Glad I did.

The film was a surprise and a delight. A very good script makes for powerful viewing. Yes, everyone's acted well, and the 70's era in Mumbai looks well shot; but the heart of the film is a wonderfully written script and dialogues(sure, some were corny, but I thought that was a nice touch within the film)

A good script prevents hamming and allows integrity to remain in a film. Watch the film and I'm sure you'll agree with me.

Worth a Thousand Words

2010-07-29T00:58:00.000-07:00

Well, these little beauties opened up in all their glory on the terrace last night. The pictures don't do justice- but words would fail more. Brahmakamal - what a brave, mad flower!

How to be when you are old

2010-06-28T01:58:00.001-07:00

I'd hate it if people avoid me when I'm really old and craving for company(And yeah, wise guys, I'd hate it if people avoid me now as well. And no, I'm not really that old to begin worrying about this). But now I know that in order to get this wish of mine, when I get that old, I need to be an interesting person to younger guys. But how? Now I know - got to see a couple of role models a few days back.

These role models are 75+, have questionable health, and have lived long enough to repeat stories about pre-independance times and the like. Over dinner, I saw this couple swap such stories, quibble with each other endearingly, and chill out in general.

But most impressively, they saw the present moment as much better than their past. And there in I felt was the difference. They saw hope for a future that they may never get to see; I loved that about them.

We bear old people, shut out a few things that they say, because we don't want to get into needless arguments about how things were different and better then and in how golden everything was.

We want to learn from old people. We don't want condescension. I'm hoping this lesson I learnt from them does not fade away.

Bitter Sweet Breeze

2010-05-25T23:17:00.000-07:00

I woke up to a breeze today. It was flowing in from Sinhagad, and as I turned the old noggin to the sky, I could see an early invasion of pre-monsoon clouds advancing from the southwest.

This is such a bittersweet breeze. The promise of better weather. The agony of school starting again (I still get a weird feeling in my stomach when school starts- do ya?). The sadness of Alphonso mangoes changing their taste to "overripe". The yummy taste of Jambhul and later, cherries.

Soon, this advance guard of fluffy white clouds will be replaced by their meaner, darker brothers. The landscape will change and be touched by green magic. The Gulmohor will look forlorn, beautiful and out of place when it finally does tip.

Bring it on, I say.

What's the big deal in this?

2010-05-20T03:27:00.000-07:00

I met up with my neighbor for a drink at the good ol' watering hole yesterday. We had a great laugh and interesting conversation. So what's the big deal about this?

Well, I wasn't out with the guys I normally hang out with- this was someone I was catching up after quite some time. Someone who had such a remarkably different life from mine that it was utterly refreshing. The conversations were nice and offbeat and fun. I guess I was lucky as well, since my neighbor is an intelligent, self effacing person who doesn't blow his horn all the time.

But that's not really my point. I've noticed that as we grow older we tend to (unnecessarily) have less fun- we revisit the same patterns even when trying to have a good time. Meeting someone new also has its dangers- because you might end up completely hating the guy.

But how about meeting someone again, someone you've always liked, but doesn't fit into your current routine? It's no big deal, and you can have a great time instead of an ordinary one.

Castles in the Air

2010-05-16T22:45:00.000-07:00

I wonder how many of y'all are watching "Castle". If you haven't- worth a watch: StarWorld, Mon-Thu, at 10 pm.

A TV serial of good premise- and good promise, too. A spoilt rotten author worms his way into NYPD to study his muse( a hot looking detective) and create his new bestseller. He ends up solving mysteries along the way.

I do hope it doesn't go the "Heroes" way, though- that serial had started out interesting but just got tedious. (a bit like Mandrake gesturing hypnotically and making the villain's gun a banana or something every single time- kind of loses its cool quotient after a while.)

Anyhow- back to Castle- I like the lead pair chemistry, I like the sub plots, and I like the whole muse thing because I'm an author as well, and I know how hard it is to get inspired to get over the whole "writer's block" thing at times.

You need to have a good dose of reality to build "Castles in the Air".

Decoding Mumbo Jumbo

2010-05-12T23:17:00.000-07:00

When I'd heard the term "Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)", I'd instantly started yawning. It seemed to me one of those new agey- fad-like- mumbo- jumbo things that no one really understands. Although people still kept throwing it in as a buzzword in a conversation as if they knew what they were saying. It also put me off because I thought it mainly consisted of "how to brainwash and manipulate others" kinda thing.

Talk about forming an opinion before really understanding a subject! In my defence, NLP is such a poor name for something so strength-giving.

I changed my mind when I read (and subsequently re-read) a wonderful book by Sue Knight called "NLP at work". The book explains terms like hypnosis, changing your mental scripts, using NLP for work-life, coaching, mentoring and life in general.

While I don't agree with all of the concepts presented- I still think there's a lot there that can make your life better.Written in a very easy to read, non- mystical and non- arrogant way, its for anyone who wants to change their life's script for the better.

Mumbo- Jumbo decoded. Worth a read.

The Second Chance

2010-05-12T04:56:00.000-07:00

Something really nice happened the other day. I was with my daughters, watching them converse with each other. (One's 8 and the other 6)

One of 'em was recounting some story about what happened to her to the other one. It was a "tall" story. I could see that it had some embellishments to it.

First kid: "and then I was skipped for 15 minutes straight!"

The other kid started a countdown: " 10- 9- 8-7...."

First kid: "Ok- Ok. Maybe it was only for 5 minutes....."

So the first kid had taken back her white lie when the second kid began her countdown. When I asked them about this, the explanation was that the countdown was a second chance to the white lier. Apparently,if you change your story back to the truth before the countdown was through, a wolf doesn't come and bite your bum.

What a neat way to stick as close to the truth as possible! And to think that they've come up with this themselves. A second chance.

Wonder if it will work with grown ups?

Spice Cream

2010-04-14T03:10:00.000-07:00

A blazing hot day. On Fergusson Road, around lunchtime. I see an interesting sign: Zaika Spicecream. As an Icecream aficionado, needless to say- I'm tempted to go inside and see what it's about.

I see strange icecream flavors. Lavang. Star Anise. Spicy and strangely, Indian. I order a scoop, taste tentatively- and - love it!

Cheesy, heady, rich, cold and fun. And for a change, what I like about this whole icecream experience is that they aren't aping anything western. An Indian product, innovative and unique.

I don't think I can eat packs of the stuff, though- will be too much. But this icecream is worth trying, guys: let's encourage good taste and originality that is Indian!

April's Fool

2010-04-01T00:49:00.000-07:00

Mother Nature has a sense of humor if today's weather is to be believed. Blue sky, bright sunshine, not too hot, and wonderful summer smells everywhere- like mogra and chapha in the terrace, if you know what I mean. Fools you into thinking everyday is gonna be like this one, but nope it ain't, be rest assured on that one. So enjoy this one while it lasts, guys!

As a FaceBook friend says (just to show you guys that I've not gone bonkers and there is atleast one more soul who agrees with me):

"Bright summer sunshine tempered by a cool breeze that gusts every now and then... Oh - to be lying on a chatai in the cool shade of a mango tree, reading Wodehouse, eating kairee slices with tikhat/meeth and washing it down with ice-cold panha! Yes, I can confirm that summer is here in all its glory! :)"

This is as good as summer gets. I couldn't have said it better. Beware though, and April Fool!

Summer Storms

2010-03-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

It really tipped a few days back. I was immediately transported to childhood- getting wet, eating the raw mangoes that obligingly fall down, putting hailstones in your mouth, and paradoxically, eating ice-cream. (sometimes pot ice-cream- that's heaven)

Before air-conditioning became the norm, it was the night when you could sleep really well. Also, when it really becomes dark and monsoon-like, you get a glimpse of the beautiful season that awaits you after the mangoes get finally over.

Of course, these rains had to be in April or May, unlike the downpour we had yesterday. As a school going child, I would have been grumpy to miss all the fun. Which parent is going to send the kid out when - I still get a shudder- exams beckon?

The next day, you are always a bit let down- the summer sun reminds you who the boss is. But at least when you wake up, the dust has settled down a bit, and your memory has sharpened up about the really small and delicious things in life.

I'm waiting for the next summer storm.

About Turn

2010-03-10T21:36:00.000-08:00

I heard this little nugget from an old friend I caught up with yesterday. The story is about the Goddess of Wealth, Laxmi. It's a Marathi story, I hope the essence ain't lost with my translation. Here goes:

A devotee of Laxmi's prays long and hard for wealth, success and pots of it in front of a Laxmi statuette in his little home-temple. And lo and behold, Laxmi appears in his dream and tells him to forge ahead in whatever he's doing and she'll be behind his efforts all the way (mi tuzhya pathishi ahe!)

So the devotee wakes up, thanks her, and every single day prays even longer and harder in front of the statuette from then on. However, six months downstream, nothing much has changed in his life, and the guy gets frustrated. So he asks Laxmi again: why is she not fulfilling her promise?

He has a dream again that night, as Laxmi answers him: "I'd said that I'd be right behind you, my son. Why aren't you forging ahead, instead of facing me all the time with your prayers? See what happens when you turn your back on me- I'll follow you all the way!" (tu path tar dakhav mala; bagh ma kay hote!)

I loved the story. To make your dream real, you need to roll up your sleeves and turn your back on the Goddess of Wealth. She recommends it as well.

Virtual Chemistry

2010-03-07T22:02:00.000-08:00

I love watching "Bones". It isn't the most intelligent police-detective serial ever (in fact, it can get quite gross at times). However, what I like viewing is the amazing chemistry between the lead pair of Brennan and Booth. You know, the man's man cop and the unemotional lady scientist are quite a packet on screen.

You never know whether there is anything more than a deep platonic friendship between them. In fact, there are times when I've found myself wishing they'd get together, and times when I'm quite happy that they aren't.

This kind of chemistry is often the thing that saves many a film, serial or book becoming very blah. It need not be the opposite sex all the time- I thought Jude Law and Robert Downey Junior's wisecracks between themselves were the high point of "Holmes". I still love the old Erle Stanley Gardner books, where Della Street and Perry Mason flirt lightly with each other without things evolving.

I guess, in real life, relationships evolve, and people behave differently with each other as life changes. That's why "virtual chemistry" works in serials like Bones. I'm not complaining at all.

Attention to Detail

2010-03-01T22:50:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, I was treated to a superb meal at Zafran (courtesy my brother). Highlights: New Zealand Lamb Chops, and Blueberry Cheesecake.

I've seen a lot of pricey, themed, fine dining restaurants crop up in the past few years, but this was the first time that I have been completely delighted with a place. I tried to figure out why this was the case, and I don't think I had that answer mapped out till the weekend got over. It was more a feeling, as if something wasn't quite right with all the restaurants that I'd tried out before that was so right in Zafran. Sure, the food in most places was alright, and of course the ambience and view was great- after all you are paying through your nose for that aren't you!

Then I figured that the only difference in this dining experience and the others was the loving attention to detail that was omnipresent- whether it was the chilled grape- white chocolate nibbles, or the waiter politely but firmly advising on which sauce would go with our selection. Mind you, it wasn't at all formulaic and running to process. It was more than that, and it seemed that the staff enjoyed what they were doing over there- whether they were waiting tables or making food, or anything else. I hope it doesn't change there!

The difference between a reasonable eating experience at an expensive restaurant and a fine dining one. God lies in the details, and you pay attention to them details when you enjoy what you do.

Let's make it more than 1411

2010-02-24T22:10:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the "Save the Tiger" campaign? Like everyone who missed Sachin's innings yesterday, I was watching the highlights, when I saw a couple of ads in this campaign. The one with the cub waiting for the mother to come back home was heart rending.

In another one,MS Dhoni says he's not going to let the tiger become extinct. And if he says that, we'd better help him.

Through this blog, I'd really like to congratulate the sponsors for choosing a worthwhile cause, creating a wonderful campaign, and to choose celebs who show a bit of tiger in them. Normally, I've found advertising like this a bit too self conscious and navel gazing, but this one pulls my heartstrings.

I'd also urge everyone to read "Life of Pi" (Yann Martel) in case you haven't before. A tiger's majesty comes alive in this wonderful, quirky book.

It would be more than a small joy to see that tiger number move up from 1411, huh?

The Other Bakery in Pune

2010-02-23T00:17:00.000-08:00

German Bakery's coffee was always black and to die for. I'd loved my times there, looking at pseudo- gurus trying to con foreigners with some gyan. The place introduced you to Koregaon Park's theme, which was hang loose and mostly chill.

Now its mostly gone. German Bakery, that is. I do hope that humpty dumpty is put together again, but terrorism's curse would make one think twice before stepping in. Or maybe now that it has been bombed once, it is actually safe.

I hope no terrorists read this blogpost, because I am about to extol the virtues of the "other" bakery that I like in Pune. It is small, unpretentious, and is actually one (German Bakery was a cafe in disguise). It lies on the other side of town, in Deccan, and it's called Santosh Bakery.

Go there to see and smell bread being made, uncut bread (does anyone even remember what that looks like?). Creamrolls and chai beckons you, as does its famous Veg Pattice. You don't hang around at Santosh bakery though. You pick your goodies, and off you go to scoff them when no one is looking.

Which is just as well, given the way bakeries are being targeted.

The Fringe Benefits of Failure

2010-02-22T00:57:00.000-08:00

We all need a little boost now and then, especially when things are going rough for us. I got a boost exactly like this when a friend of mine gave me this link: http://www.ted.com/talks/jk_rowling_the_fringe_benefits_of_failure.html

J.K. Rowling addresses the Harward university graduates a few years back in this amazing speech. Maybe you've read it before, or even heard it, but when you need to buck yourself up, facing challenges that life has thrown at you, just listen to this one.

Not only is it inspiring for writers like me, it is a must watch for all- filled with warmth, humor, self deprecation and is instantly believable. It has a lot of gems too- watch out for the one about the expiry date for blaming your parents. Or the way in which you can use imagination.

She has truly been there, done that, and has the Harry Potter T shirt to boot.

A Tale of Two Campuses

2010-02-16T21:12:00.001-08:00

Many moons ago, as a MICA student, life was in a campus outside Ahmedabad, just at the edge of the desert, or so it seemed like. You had to go through a village, which had a lake and a tree that was full of vultures. Hedgehogs and peacocks everywhere. The campus itself looked modern and surreal in the surroundings. (When I visited it later on, it had become a five star resort. Made the desert moon look even more weird)

Cut to today, and I'm visiting faculty at Symbiosis, Lavale, Pune. As I travelled out of the city,through a village, and into a sprawling, modern campus, the surreal feeling came back in spades. This institute is spectacularly placed on top of a mid-sized mountain, overlooking a forested area.

If anything, it is more spectacular than the MICA setting. ( MICANS- you'll have to see this one to believe me!). I finished my lecture, hopped on to the pick and drop facility, and as we rolled down the ghat, I half wondered whether I was a student or a teacher.

Life comes full circle in the most unexpected ways.

Holes

2010-02-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

I'd been out travelling last week. My journey had a lot of the browning countryside that the summer brings on. I was also reading a book when I was making this journey (called Holes- Louis Sacchar- quite brilliant) The book described the same kind of landscape (although set in Texas, imagination can convert it into barren Sahyadri foothills).

It was surreal how the book added a dimension to the travel because it connected so deeply with the surroundings. The whole experience was bizarre, it was as if I was living the hero's character in the book while driving the car.

Of course, you must have had similar experiences- detective stories are better read in the rain or at night, for example, but this one (at least for me) was a first. Perhaps there might be many of us who have read a historical book about a place they are visiting while travelling and are able to "see" both the present and the past all at once.

And then there are books that provide a complete contrast to whatever you are experiencing at the moment. Ever read a book describing a very cold scene in the heat of summer? Nice. What I'd recommend as March beckons.

Uncommon Sense

2010-02-01T02:07:00.000-08:00

I was introduced to this wonderful, different book that is unlike the usual claptrap that you encounter in management. More than ever, I now know that what I consider "my common sense" may not be common at all....

Your common sense is based upon your unique strengths, and therefore, unique to you. Strengths that you may not be fully aware of, and taking for granted at times.

By the way, this book is called "Now, discover your strengths" and is written by Marcus Buckhingham.It introduces yourself to the strongest part of you, the part which can allow your strengths to manifest through you and make your career and company more successful.

A key reason why I found it fascinating was the fact that I had independently reached similar conclusions through my second book. I have just completed writing it. It's a management story which runs around a parallel thought process to this one. Of course, I have a point of view that differs from some bits of this book, but in general, this book validates the story that I have written with a lot of research.

But enough about my book for now, let me give this one its due. What I loved is it preaches managing on strengths, not weaknesses. For people who prefer management as non-fiction (Hah. is this a paradox?) ,this is an excellent read that can change the way you work.

Blogs I like

2010-01-28T22:06:00.000-08:00

Here are some blogs that bring a smile, a tear, or just plain confusion because I know so little of the world around me. All written by friends of mine, so here is some shameless promotion:

www.bringingupjay.blogspot.com: the whimsical diary of a single mom bringing up an adorable kid. Aww factor: immense. Special bonus: good recipes shared.

www.cynicstwist.blogspot.com: the anti- hero with a twist. Irreverent at most times. If people get too sick of all the sweetness on this blog of mine, head over to the dark side. I do so myself!

www. cmmehendale.wordpress.com (Plain Chex): eclectic writing includes trips to the konkan, philosophical musings, and other things. Makes you think more than necessary- so very good!

www. http://suvratk.blogspot.com/ (Rapid Uplift) : a green blog, makes me confused at times as to what the truth is. But it is out there. On the blog at least.

http://foodadventuresunplugged.blogspot.com : food, restaurants, pune.... written by a foodie and updated regularly.... what more do you want?

I'm sure I'll discover more, but when you are in a browsing sorta mood- read through them and I'm sure they won't disappoint.

No Rain on this Parade

2010-01-26T21:55:00.001-08:00

I don't feel very nationalistic on most days. (Unless we are playing a cricket match). But I did something that made me feel special as an Indian yesterday, courtesy the kids.

We were seeing the Parade on TV (which was nice, although I suspect Manmohan Singh was sleeping for a while and the South Korean premier was desperately trying to look interested). The kids led the whole family up to our terrace. We hoisted the flag and sang the anthem. I felt goosebumps as we did it.

I spied a couple of neighbors wondering what's going on- but if they were smirking at us, well, the joke is on them in this case. We celebrate so many meaningless days ( friendship day, rose day, etc etc) and don't connect to what can be truly a cause for joy. Isn't it?

I'm not letting anyone rain on my republic day parade.

Milton's Secret

2010-01-24T21:23:00.000-08:00

It is very tough to write a philosophical, self help book that is an easy read. Any book of this kind has to be as easy at it can get to be really effective. I should know. When I read some parts of my first book, I wonder if I could have explained something better.

To write a philosophical book for kids is even tougher. Kids and philosophy don't mix well. Kids have too much energy, too little experience and a short attention span to boot. And mostly- they don't need any damn advice.

Which is why I thought "Milton's Secret" was a very good bedtime story book. It doesn't talk down to kids. It makes them curious about the principle that is being shared. It engages them to discover a way to be less fearful and think for themselves. It is as fun as it can be too.

If you have any kids- I would recommend this highly. You could get it at a decent bookshop. And while you read the story to your young one, perhaps, Milton's Secret could be useful to you as well.

Finding Candy

2010-01-18T01:46:00.000-08:00

Candy is my sweet, idiotic Labrador who couldn't find her way home from this Friday when she'd stepped out. A big, six year dog, not much of a scalp for fortune hunters, we thought. Labradors- keen sense of smell, she'll come back, we thought. And when she didnt- needless to say, when a much loved pet goes missing, your life goes a little haywire. You try hunting, praying, cursing the dog and everyone else.

Finally, we found her- she had camped with the cows at Sane Dairy, Bhandarkar Road, of all asinine things. I hadn't slept much the night before- so when we finally got her back, after visits all over Deccan and the Blue Cross as well- I could rest my weary head on the pillow. As I did that, a few thoughts came to mind:

1. It is very difficult to find a dog who refuses to be found.

2. Everyone feels guilty about something or the other about the entire thing.

3. You only realize how much you loved the dog after you've lost it.

4. There is very little that logical deductive intelligence can do in a situation like this.

5. Praying is not very comforting at the time.

6. You see dogs all around, but not your dog.

7. The Blue Cross does a lot of good work and needs more support.

and

8. When you do find the damn dog, you start cursing it in joyful relief.

Celestial Irony

2010-01-15T00:32:00.000-08:00

Right. So the moon obscures the sun from our vision during broad daylight- something that geography teachers and school kids will tell ya. Some won't travel, eat or even(fill in the blanks here) during this solar eclipse.

I was wondering what the big fuss was, when a friend posted something about it being a celestial spectacle on FB. That's when I lumbered from my desk to the nearest window and saw the thing. It was the sun looking like a crescent moon through some clouds (thank god for that, since I forgot about the sunglasses factor).

The sight was truly like a Zen joke. On all of us. The sun looking like the moon makes you wonder what the heck its all about. Suddenly you don't trust your senses so much- and the geography lesson about space, time and the rest of the thing comes alive in a scary but funny fashion.

You also get a philosophical lesson, as another friend put it. She said that it just makes you realize how small you really are, and how important you really are. Celestial irony: I don't need to protect my vision only when there's a solar eclipse. :)

Make Your Journey Sweet

2010-01-13T22:08:00.000-08:00

My new year's day was especially unique. Woke up and saw a lazy beach. Went for a swim, had some breakfast by the sea. Then ditched a really bad hotel that we'd spent the night in and headed out.

Drove to some high mountains in Mahabaleswar to have some great Parsi-style lunch in venerable old Dina Hotel. Came back home in the evening to sleep in my own bed, weary but happy.That's part of the Pune charm I guess- lots of beautiful, offbeat places at a car's hurl.

And while I was nodding off,wondering about it all, I asked myself what the best part was. It was the journey, of course.If anyone has done this, you'll know. Its lush green all around when you start and you keep staring at the calm blue and palms as you whizz by. You dont even realize when the green of the palm becomes the green of the oak. The moist sea air has become cool dew. Wild.

Life can be an awful, continued, hotel experience or a wonderful, unplanned journey to make something out of nothing. Happy Makar Sankrant to all: make your journey sweet.

It Ain't Over Till It's Over

2010-01-05T22:13:00.000-08:00

My neighbor- friend is a guy who cares a lot about animals in general and strays in particular. He'd posted some snaps of a stray bitch who was involved in an accident and had injured her paw badly. This was a dog- mom; she was also nursing a couple of real cute looking pups at that time.

(On a side note: why do mongrel pups look fat and cute and then become all lean and mean when they grow up? Maybe the answer is evolutionary: a dumb human might take them up for pets when they look so cute. On the other hand, if there's no such luck, then its back to an aerodynamic, street smart body!)

Back to the injured dog- mom, then. My friend had gotten her operated, and was kind of nursing her back to health. The situation looked iffy at best at that time, at least to me. I didn't dare to ask him what happened anytime I bumped into him.

Today- I saw him feed the dog-mom, now on her way to recovery and playing with her pups. It was a real nice moment. It ain't over till its over, when you've got some fight in you.

Counting Murders

2010-01-04T22:48:00.001-08:00

I've discovered a new way to fall asleep, which I must share with you. The method is to go to a bookstore and buy yourself a slim volume of short suspense stories. I think it works really well. I did so recently(Alfred Hitchcock's collection) and I'm ever so grateful. Sherlock Holmes classics work well too.

I don't know about you, but any sort of suspense writing allows me to hang my disbelief, knife my logic and slow poison any loop in the story. To generate sleep,of course, it can't be a novel. It has to be short stories, other wise it doesn't work. Suspense set in Americana, Europe, or quaint other places, where people wear "overcoats" and go to the "lavatory" perhaps and smoke bitter cigars. And then find bodies in the library.

The moment you have relaxed into the charm of the book and feel like nodding off- you can! Of course, as soon you find out who did it, which isn't too long.

The story count was two before I nodded off. Much better than millions of sheep.

Unleash Your Inner Wangdu!

2010-01-03T21:01:00.000-08:00

A happy new year to everyone! Anyone who has seen 3 idiots will concur: Wangdu is the man to be. (For those who haven't seen it yet- start the year well, see the film and I won't spoil the surprise)

Ever since I saw the flick, I thought: all of us, potentially, have a guy like Wangdu within us: a person who strives for excellence, goes with his heart, loves what he does, and enjoys the journey as much as the outcome. He doesn't play politics, is least affected by comparisons and still very human and not holier than thou :)

Somewhere down the road, we tend to forget this person within us and become very Chatur (or so we think). But cleverness isn't always intelligence, and it definitely won't give you peaceful sleep at night.

So to all who read my blog, and especially this blog post, I wish that you unleash your inner Wangdu on the world.

This year. Now.

May this tribe increase!

Joy of Affliction

2009-12-28T21:42:00.000-08:00

I borrowed the book "Daily Afflictions" very recently from a friend of mine, and I must say, I'd recommend it to anyone who is sick and tired of all the usual stuff in the self help genre (you know- visualizing success, positive affirmations and the like)

This book is awesome because it doesn't mollycoddle you. Instead, reading this book made me feel extremely free and yet connected to everyone and everything in a deep, different way. I especially loved the chapter around the inner psychopath that all of us have but don't express.

It is a weird thing, but I've noticed that books written from a place of truth have a different power to them. But maybe that is just me distorting my own reality.

All is Well

2009-12-27T21:32:00.000-08:00

I watched 3 idiots with trepidition, but I must say- All is well. All is well, indeed, in the hearts and souls of people like Aamir Khan and Raju Hirani. These are the guys who can make a difference, and with films like these, they are.

I'd read these reviews- written by critics who know how to cut through screenplays, acting, directing, editing, dubbing- and really wondered whether a trip to the theater was worth the three hours. I'm glad I didn't listen to my doubting head.

Sure, each film has flaws, but after reading some of the reviews, it felt that this was going to be a complete waste of time. But sometimes, you have to trust your gut and go for the experience. And not listen to critics who understand many things and yet miss out on the most important one: What is the film communicating? Will it make a difference in my life?

And more importantly, does the film communicate in a non- boring, non preachy manner? It's easy to find out a million things that are wrong. But eventually, if the film does the main thing right- it succeeds.

All is well indeed.

The Flawed Superhero

2009-12-17T23:35:00.000-08:00

Isn't it nice to catch a movie that you have missed on the big screen on HBO? Especially if that movie is one which you have heard of vaguely? I watched Hancock last night and boy, what a nice movie it was.

Sure, it is a regular guy flick with lots of fighting and slick scenes, but the reason why the movie stood out for me was that I saw a superhero who didn't wear his underpants on the outside. The superhero who was an alcoholic. The superhero who was a real jerk at times and who needed PR to make people like him. The superhero who lost his powers when he came closer to love.

I also liked the way the movie ended (wont spoil it for you in case you haven't seen it). And Mr.Will Smith rocks.

Charity begins at home

2009-12-17T00:43:00.000-08:00

Doing something nice brings its own reward. I have always been confused about how to treat beggar kids. My logical mind tells me that this is a racket run by a ring that doesn't give the beggar kid any money in any case. But then I look into the beggar kid's eyes, and my heart melts mostly. I remember my kids and how desperately unlucky these beggar kids are, in comparison.

So I decided to do three things. One, I'm soon going to keep a bunch of bananas/peanuts with me in the car and give them the next time instead of money to the kids. Second, I've contributed to UNICEF today for sponsoring some children activity.

Third, I've decided to use the 100th blog post on this blog this year to leave these thoughts with you. After all, I consider all those reading this blog family members indulging me when they read. And charity begins at home, doesn't it?

Are You Synchronized?

2009-12-16T02:00:00.000-08:00

I've read a lot of self help- new thought books in my life. Then I got an insight that made me ditch all of them. Then I wrote a book around this insight I had and called the book " The Map that Matters" ( www.themapthatmatters.com). Feel free to buy/ promote it for me if you can :)

Anyway- now that the 10 second commercial for my own book is over in this post, let me get back to the point. For someone who has written a self help book, I still use two books every now and then at important times in life. One of them is very famous: "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle; but not many have heard of the second one.

It is called "Synchrodestiny" by Deepak Chopra. I especially like the way coincidences are explained in this book and a practical approach towards using what we understand as coincidental. It is a great book as a year end read; something that helps you plan the next year in an unconventional manner. I especially like it when an author takes the trouble to make simple something that is usually considered mystic. More power to such books.

Look Into My Eyes....

2009-12-14T21:20:00.001-08:00

I have no idea how Derren Brown does it, but I am a big fan of his show nevertheless. That guy is amazing- the way he gets people to do weird things like mind reading and card reading and many more crazy- ass things. It is on BBC Entertainment, and I suggest you look up their programme schedule and just watch him in action.

I love watching magic.When rationality is questioned. When logic is no longer king. Derren Brown, I think, is more than just parlour tricks and sleight of hand. He bases his stuff on hypnosis or something like that and does it so casually that you never see what is coming next.

I think the coolest thing about his show is when he gets things "just wrong"- unlike normal magic tricks. It just shows mind bending is inexact but awesome. A little scary, but fun.

The Small Kid In You

2009-12-13T20:38:00.000-08:00

This is a bit of a crazy one, but just go along with me a little bit here. Close your eyes, and just remember a happy time in your childhood. Now, remember a particular "stupid" childhood ditty/song/noise you used to make when you were happy. Real happiness, mind you- maybe accompanied by peals of laughter.

At breakfast this morning, my brother and I remembered a crazy childhood "laugh" that we used to irritate almost everybody who crossed our path in that kind of mood. You know, it went kind of like: dihi doho daha (Try saying it once to know how funny that can be when uttered).

Just sent me back to that time, and was laughing all the way to office today. Try this one out- may sound crazy, but it is a wonderful small joy to be reconnected to the small kid in you once again.

The Genuine Article

2009-12-08T22:19:00.000-08:00

It is a corporate world, isn't it- you meet people who say the same things, dress the same way, eat the same kind of foods and pretend to listen to you in the same manner. Therefore, it is always interesting to meet people who are remarkably different- not in the way their image is, but in the way they have charted their lives so far.

I'm really lucky to have my life full of people who are in this rare second category. I got introduced to someone yesterday who has led a similar offbeat life: was out of IIM, joined Infosys, then started his own company, then sold out and became financially independant and now wants to do exciting new things!

His thoughts and experience were very refreshing, and I loved his unique take on process development in organisations. Spending half an hour with him, just talking about stuff made me younger by half a decade.

Cheers to genuine, offbeat, nice people.

As Good as it Gets

2009-12-07T20:30:00.000-08:00

Now that is a thought provoking line. I was seeing this movie yesterday. What chemistry between the lead pair- Nicholson and Hunt. I loved some of the gems in this movie:

She: How can you be a writer when you dont understand the first thing about a woman?

He: I think of a man. And I take away all reason and understanding....

She: Pay me a compliment. Right now.

He (after much hemming and hawing): You make me want to be a better man.

She: That's the biggest compliment anyone has ever paid me.

Its a great film, and I got a great message from it: Enjoy this life in all of its glory, right now. This is "As Good as it Gets".

Digital Dhamaka

2009-12-06T20:28:00.000-08:00

I must confess, I am always a bit wary of new technology and whether it will make a real impact on my life in a positive, evolutionary way. Yeah, you can call me the last luddite who goes protesting all the way to the brave new world.

But I got something yesterday which was quite neat. It is a gift to my famille from le brother in law, who is in Pune for a quick visit from l'Europe. It is a digital photo album, and while all those of you who live in the western world must be familiar with it, I certainly wasn't. It is a genuinely cool idea which can rest on your mantelpiece, and can have a self- running option that flicks photo after photo on unsuspecting guests if that is your thing...

But jokes aside, I think this time, with this gadget, technology did speak to me in a happy, connected way. Cheers.

Two and a half Men

2009-12-03T22:31:00.000-08:00

Bachelors of the world, rejoice when you see this serial re-run on Star world. I like Charlie Sheen's life in this one. Plenty of gorgeous women who don't really bother about the fact that he is, indeed, the world's biggest jerk. And what's more, the world's biggest jerk is also rich and reasonably famous. Never seems to work. Unfair!

But it makes for some real funny moments. Sometimes, something completely politically incorrect is great fun if we can stop being offended and high brow. Two and half men falls into this category for me. (even the way the kid is treated- hilarious stuff)

And I'm personally jealous of what Charlie seems to wear. Cool looking half shirts and shorts. All the time. How lucky can a man be. Sigh.

Inward Eye

2009-12-02T22:23:00.000-08:00

For the past three years, I've been using the month of December to really understand how I want to spend the next year. Instead of trying to focus only on outward things, or long term wishes, I've tried to make any resolution as "inward" and "small" as possible.

I don't mean this in a spiritual sense. What I'm really saying is that all of us have grand dreams and visions for our futures and while that is fantastic and needed, very few of us really try to enjoy the smaller things and the feelings that the journey of life brings. It just brings a different dimension to the whole world of goal setting and planning( for e.g.: how can I have more fun with my kids this year?)

It's that time of the year again, then. I'm choosing the path that gives me small joys, and big ones too from time to time. I think it is totally worth the investment. I recommend it to all.

Comfort Food

2009-12-02T00:11:00.000-08:00

1. Idli Sambar at Vaishali (experience begins with the smell of sambar from outside the restaurant)

2. Amul Vanilla Ice cream (handy pack to make a bad meal at home more tolerable).

3. Kalyan Bhel ( crunchy!)

4. Good luck Fruit funny (on a good day)

5. Home Made mutton curry/shepherd's pie (about the only time I overeat and don't regret)

6. Kothimbir wadi at Swagat (with a glassa)

If some of these words make sense to you, you know what I am talking about. Sorry hothouse dieters/health conscious eaters. Sometimes, you just need your own brand of comfort food. And the rest be damned.

This is my current list, and I plan to review this from time to time!

Surya Namaskar

2009-12-01T01:50:00.000-08:00

When I am in a bit of a hurry, and don't have time for a workout, what I end up doing are 12 suryanamskars- only takes 10 minutes at the maximum but is a complete workout. Wikipedia has decent information (including the various asanas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surya_Namaskar)

It is a complete exercise as you all must know(combines resistance, aerobic, yoga, and prayers to boot!) but what I want to emphasize is that only takes that long and it is a no-excuse exercise on the days when you don't have time for a regular workout.

Small joy to feel good and virtuous on a tough day:)

Snowball effect

2009-11-29T21:04:00.000-08:00

No, its not snowing in Pune (but the weather's back to great after the cyclone stuff)... this is just my take on Warren Buffet's biography which I'm beginning to read. It is a big tome, and I've just begun... but I quite like what I've read so far.

I guess the subject himself is very fascinating for me- not because he is so wealthy, but because he is a combination of wealth, quirkiness and ... ordinariness in other ways.

I like the snowball example in the book- the idea of how a single snowflake(a metaphor for a decent idea) can be rolled down and down to make it an ever growing snowball that has such momentum! My take on this is you have an idea, find some momentum with people who believe in you and then never stop.

It may be the only time when going downhill is actually a good thing :)

Playing kid games

2009-11-26T21:28:00.000-08:00

Here are three games that will ensure that you spend an enjoyable half hour with kids (or adults, but lets not get there:))

1. Hide a small thing someplace in the house and give clues: hot, warm or cold. More fun when you hide it in your pocket and move about :)

2. Draw some weird lines on a blackboard/piece of paper and ask the other person to make a specific thing out of it (How can I make a giraffe outta this one?)

3. Write the numbers 1-10 on a blackboard/piece of paper, in a sort of bunch (not too close to each other). The "denner" has to cross out the numbers with lines without crossing a line, ever. (Hint: take the most difficult route to a number every single time and you'll do well)

Good lighthearted stuff.

Protecting our small joys

2009-11-25T20:53:00.000-08:00

I must admit, on this first year anniversary of those vile terrorist attacks in Mumbai, that at this time last year- I'd questioned whether my blog was frivolous and not worth it. As someone who had stayed in the Taj, perhaps in those very rooms that had terrorists kill all those people ruthlessly, I could visualise the horrors more. Sometimes, it isn't very nice to have a good imagination.

But over a period of time, I realised that it was one of the best things I could do: in a short and unpredictable life, sometimes full of danger, we rarely count our small joys. So I decided to continue, and write.

Without sounding completely asinine, today, I want to salute all those people (whether they were recognized for it or not, whether they lost their lives or whether they survived, and whether they wanted to or were just answering the call of duty) when they were defending all of us. Whether they knew it or not, they were protecting all of us- and allowing us to have small joys for many more days.

(read this one for some hope: http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/report_so-why-did-you-move-back-to-india_1210379)

Thank you!

Surprise, Surprise!

2009-11-24T22:48:00.000-08:00

I felt very special yesterday when my cousin and his wife planned a neat surprise for me at a party. Thing is, they'd bought my book off Amazon and had carried the copy with them.

In the midst of all the revelry, a very nice "mock" book signing and interview was held all for my benefit- and I must say that the surprise was managed really well. My cousin (who should have been someone like David Letterman instead of what he's currently doing) is someone who has that rare gift of making a surprise special and yet not too overwhelming.

He does this, I think, by keeping the whole thing light and very spontaneous- and yet is very sensitive to all the emotions that are in the air when something like this happens. I've seen him doing this on numerous occasions, but when the surprise happens to you, well, it feels really good!

The joy of a surprise when done just right. I still can't stop smiling.

Power of the Agency

2009-11-23T22:38:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine is from a different profession- he's a life-coach and therapist and his work involves the mind's functioning. So of course any conversation with him is a fun and learning experience for me!

What was interesting in this conversation were some of his observations, for example, :" If you focus entirely on the outcome, it is almost a certainty that you won't get there" or " You give meaning to the picture in front of you".

Of course, these seem heavy when taken out of context. Of course, I'm sure you've heard something like these statements before. But when a trained expert, having a big bank of experience speaks, even an oft- repeated statement has a joyful deeper meaning.

I guess that's what they mean by "power of the agency"- when the message that is conveyed has a different power because of who is saying it.

The irregular joy of surrender

2009-11-22T21:02:00.000-08:00

In our lives, we are all trying to come with some quick fix solution to work as a band aid for whatever we want to accomplish. Very rarely do we come across a situation that is indeed fixed by this kind of a solution. The problem just keeps coming back to haunt you in myriad ways.

I'm looking for one such solution right now to one of life's really difficult problems (wont bore you here about it) but needless to say, band-aid solutions have been tried and haven't worked. While I don't have a true blue solution today, I thank God for making all the other solutions fail, because I think I need to be of a different heart before I get it.

It is more than being "creative", a true solution can only be successful if all the others in the mix are also satisfied in their hearts that it will work for them- not just for you! So I have surrendered- in this moment- to God- and await an answer that will work.

And as I surrender, I feel a strange calm. I don't think it can be called a regular joy, but it is a worthy one. So I record it, and I wait.

Being stretched

2009-11-20T03:35:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, in life, you are stretched for one reason or the other. A lot of times it is for the wrong reason. A work colleague behaving unreasonably, boss acting up, kids not being well, and so many of life's unpredicabilities that pull you out of a nice comfortable place and into something that you dont particularly relish.

I dont think you can feel "joy" when you are being stretched like this. All you can do is try and learn from the unpleasant experience to confirm what you really want from life.

However, sometimes, you are stretched in a different manner- either by your mentor, or your boss, or your colleague or anyone else really- who pushes you to use your intelligence beyond the normal humdrum.

I think you can definitely feel joy when you are challenged this way. That's the small joy I'm talking about- the joy of your intelligence being stretched. Anyone who has been in a good chess or bridge game, or any sport for that matter, knows what I am saying.

Digging a well

2009-11-18T22:49:00.000-08:00

It is a strange time for me- for once, I am not playing catch up in my writing life, with all the writing, re-writing, and editing that is required.I am wondering about what to explore next. Then I read Paulo Coelho's line on Twitter. It said "Dig a well before you are thirsty"

Writing to me began with www.themapthatmatters.com and has evolved me to write my second book- tentatively titled "The Gift of the Gab"( looking for the right publisher) Of course, writing this blog has been an additional theme for over a year now.

So I'm busy planning for writing something new. A bit like digging a well before you are thirsty. I feel a strange enthusiasm that also has some calmness around its edges. Some of you have already given me suggestions. Any more suggestions from anyone who hasn't advised me on this before?

Small joy, digging that well.

A joy shared

2009-11-17T21:40:00.000-08:00

They say a sorrow shared is a sorrow halved and a joy shared is a joy doubled. While we tend to moan about our lives with our people, we don't necessarily do the same with our joys, do we?

I rediscovered this when I was looking at some comic books and laughing with the kids yesterday. There was a hidden second nature to the original fun- the joy of understanding that a moment was shared. We tend to laugh once more at the joke, and I don't know about you, but giggles are infectious aren't they- like a runaway train.

I've realized this when I write this blog as well. (I've just tripled this one!). I feel a shade of the original joy again when I write. And when I read some of my old ones- it makes me feel good all over again. Unlike photographs, this blog only communicates good times back to me!

I suggest finding a way to share your joy: today and now!

After a long time

2009-11-16T21:17:00.000-08:00

Haven't you done something after a long time and remembered how good it feels- and wonder why it isn't on your agenda more often? In my case, a sport that I don't play often enough is what I'm yakking about. Maybe, in your case, it may be visiting your favorite restaurant or relative, or plant.

I think it is just the mechanized boring routine that we call our life that sometimes makes us lose out on simple joys. We either totally forget how we had fun when we did those things or we promise ourselves some in the future and stay in tune with the grind instead.

The machine inside us wins and the poet inside all of us goes for a longish sulk. Till we do something, yet again, that gives us that fun, in spite of the machine wanting us to be dull, through a small crack somewhere that life opens out for us.

The shock of random kindness

2009-11-15T23:01:00.000-08:00

I did something totally crazy today. On my way to office, stuck in a traffic jam, with people really irritated and wet around me, honking like mad. A bust traffic signal- no electricity.

People cursing at the crossroads. Wanting to get ahead. One such gentleman on a motorcycle came screeching towards me in a desperate bid to cross my car before I block his path. Both he and I could see he was not going to win here. In my mind's eye, I could see an unnecessary curse on his lips.

I stopped. Gestured for him to go ahead. Smiled and gave him a thumbs up. He looked at me disbelievingly. I think he was figuring out whether I was being sarcastic or just plain dumb. I think he probably figured I was the former. Because I let him pass, of course I had to wait till a whole stream of vehicles went by. I waited.

It took me a minute more to cross the signal -I counted- a minute more than it would have if I hadn't let the guy go. A minute that brought a smile to my face for a couple of reasons. One- I wondered what that guy was thinking, must be all confused and hating me even more I think. Second- I wondered whether people know that a random act of kindness like this only costs them a minute or so more.

Feedback as Signs

2009-11-12T22:37:00.000-08:00

This joy is a weird one, cause it can sometimes cause a lot of pain for you if it's given at a wrong moment. I'm talking about the times when we give and receive feedback from fellow human beings.

At the wrong time, when you/the other person isn't really in a listening sort of mood, it can become a very painful experience indeed. But sometimes, like it has happened to me with a lot of people just recently, when you are in a listening frame of mind, you can isolate a spectacular grain of truth in the midst of all the "stuff".

It is the joy of being able to understand a facet of yourself and have an "aha!" kind of moment. Life rarely remains the same after this kind of well- received feedback.

Now let's place the shoe on the other foot: our own, when we give feedback. When its taken well by the recipient. What I've noticed in such rare occasions is the immutable fact that when your feedback is well received, you have learnt how to communicate better as well. And sometimes, you have received some feedback about yourself that you may never have as well because of the nature of such meetings.

I consider such feedback a sign from the universe!

November Rain

2009-11-10T20:49:00.000-08:00

It has been real weird weather lately- Thunderstorms- blustery winds, windchill, and bucketfuls of rain throughout the day and night. Quite a departure from the usual cool, sunny climes and azure skies just a few days back. Over 75 mm of rain in just one day.

I started off being really resentful that the normal winter days have been stolen away from me --and I couldn't sue anyone for it.

Then slowly,I became fascinated by the spectacle. Sure, I've had rainy Novembers in my life but never have I seen such sustained fury before. Pune has become Mahabaleshwar, and if I just make believe I am in that hill station, what a difference it makes to my outlook!

Guns and Roses time folks. Time to also curl up with a creepy mystery or a Sherlock Holmes classic while this dismal but strangely attractive spectacle lasts.

Bittersweet

2009-11-05T21:48:00.000-08:00

I know I promised not to write anything about cricket on this blog, but maybe its not cricket that I'm talking about here. Well, ok. Maybe it is cricket. Sorry for sounding muddled. I haven't got too much sleep last night after that heartbreaking loss to Australia. That bit was bitter, especially the end of the innings, after Sachin went.

And what an innings he played. 175 while chasing. That's the sweet part. I'm struggling to remember only that. Not the way he got out. Not the way in which everyone else folded up. I'm guessing his time in this game is limited, but an innings like this one means the man is truly ageless.

Now about the non- cricket part. I wonder how much joy you feel in the journey when the outcome is bitter. That is the struggle of a bittersweet small joy.

Philosophy at Pune Cafe's

2009-11-04T22:31:00.000-08:00

I was with a friend of mine at Raviraj, that old haunt of mine where you can complete a deep conversation with someone before a reluctant waiter comes to take an order (I'd actually finished an entire interview with a candidate and walked out without ordering anything- ain't that funny).

I dont mind that very much, because the atmosphere in such a place just makes you all introspective and in learning mode. Even if you are a type A non listener, something about places like Raviraj, Rupali and the rest ensure that you chill enough to let the other guy speak as well.

I also like the fact that in such a place, you can get away with a lot of philosophical spouting as well- the other guy doesn't bite your head off- he's too mellow for that- and lets you prattle on...

Just wondering: is that why Jean Paul Sartre held all those philosophical discourses in French cafe's? Hmmmm.

Sun Bathing

2009-11-02T21:52:00.000-08:00

Birds do it. Bees do it. So why shouldn't you and me do it? Before you get thoughts unworthy of this squeaky clean blog, I mean the simple joy of a sun bath on a winter morning. Keep your shirt on though- it takes a little while to warm up that ol' skin.

If you have a small terrace, and this needs to be done either around 8 in the morning or 5 in the evening- it feels lovely to have the sun on your back. You feel relaxed and massaged all over. Close your eyes, breathe a few deep ones and let the sun god do his magic on ya.

And when you do close them eyes, think of all the vitamin d and good rays (not ultra V) you are getting. Nothing like feeling good and feeling virtuous at the same time!

A hundred places to see

2009-11-02T02:15:00.000-08:00

..... before you die. That's my favorite programme and Travel and Living is my favorite channel nowadays. Haven't seen it yet? wow- check Globetrotter out (loved the NZ show), as well as Anthony Bourdain's kick ass cooking and eating programme (see the Texas special). And for shopping freaks- you should see their special on flea markets.

I so prefer seeing beautiful landscapes and interesting customs and people that I may never see in reality than someone else's "Sadesati"(read soap opera for non marathi speakers). Sometimes, in my mind's eye, I get inspired to make some bookings soon based on what I've seen. Sometimes, I actually cancel my mind's plan based on what I see as well!

I also love the cool sayings they have in between shows like: "A man travels the world in search of himself... and finds that when he returns home".

Amen.

Facebook Hermit

2009-10-27T23:22:00.001-07:00

I've been trying to understand this social networking phenomenon- you know- twitter, orkut, Facebook.. and understanding how and why it works. This, of course, is not idle curiosity- I'm applying whatever I learn for clients in some way or the other.

Of course, it means different things to different people, but the reason why I may be liking Facebook is because it allows me to be a hermit and still stay connected. What I've noticed about all of my friendships is I'm really lousy at keeping them when I move into a different situation or context. It isn't as if I don't want to stay in touch, but the busyness of life and my short term memory usually screws things up. Like people's birthday's for example.

Now, I am connecting with a lot of my erstwhile friends, made from different times- school, college, different jobs- and just looking at posted photos and stuff helps me stay in touch and reminded of all the good times had with people.

A small technological joy even for the biggest luddite.

The promise of drowsy mornings

2009-10-26T22:45:00.000-07:00

It means your melatonin level has kicked up to its winter standards! It is funny how your body knows it is winter much earlier than your mind recognises it as such. Perhaps we are all too busy in our grind to recognize the passing of seasons.

Pune's last week of October promises a good winter, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed since my wish has been foiled before by persistent rains in recent times. It has become very pleasant and clouds have kept away- so far.

I love winter mornings. Especially if you can drowsily sleep in. Steaming tea to follow, and perhaps a latish walk down to Vaishali for some Idli- Sambar and conversation.

Sigghhhhhhhhhh.

All The Best

2009-10-25T22:32:00.000-07:00

I saw a film that was such a blood-pressure reducer on the weekend. No semblance of any logic, just a madcap story with some very funny moments. No highbrow pretensions for All the Best then: starring Sanjay Dutt and Ajay Devgan. Great chemistry between these two, and a solid support cast ensures you rolling in your seat once every five minutes. A lot of slapstick, some industry insider jokes and some god awful but fun puns.

Of course, and I repeat this- the film is not a classic- Fardeen Khan and Mugdha Godse need acting lessons, the songs are wasteful and the action is a tad overdone.

But who cares as long as when you walk out of the movie hall, you do so with a smile on your face and your blood pressure reduced by a notch or two.

Go check it out!

Learning from a new discipline

2009-10-22T22:11:00.000-07:00

I find it extremely rewarding to learn a new thing in my area of work from some totally unrelated profession.

Yesterday, my surgeon dad was explaining to a friend of mine about how most surgeons focus on doing the best possible surgery only and not post operative treatment. It is as if most of them consider that as not "part of the job". I realized that this aspect is so true even in all the sectors I've worked in- Media, Telecom, Entertainment, Software- and one of the biggest problems I have seen is people don't really know all the factors that constitute their jobs.

Somehow, to see it being confirmed in a totally unrelated field was, in a sense, a deep learning, because it helped me understand the problem from a different angle. Earlier, I used to think it was just a lazy attitude. I now recognize that there might be something more than that- something to do with what people really enjoy doing. Perhaps, the problem can be solved in a different way in my mind now.

Big lesson. Small joy.

Sleeping in your own bed

2009-10-21T04:17:00.000-07:00

Dont scoff at this one. I have been sleeping in a lot of different rooms, both within my home and at relatives, while the whole house gets done up. What I noticed was:

1. Mosquitos love fresh blood. Especially mine in new places.

2. When I get up, for a really weird second, I can't place where I am. Creepy.

3. Dust. Seems to have an attraction for my nose.

4. They don't make beds my size. And pillows the way I like them. Neck aches and body aches abound.

I could go on. But you get the point.

So the best Diwali gift I got this year was when the refurbishing was completed and I could move back to my (much nicer) room .

Happiness is the comfort of sleeping in your own bed.

What's your Diwali Memory?

2009-10-15T22:25:00.001-07:00

Here are my top five Diwali "boy's own" memories that remain small joys to this day:

1. Nuisance value: Waking up very early and making a nuisance of yourself to your parents, neighbors and the world in general on the first day. A loud bomb that ensures curses at 5 ish in the morning. Burning a hole through a sari with a rocket . Hitting a neighbour on the head with your chammanchidi (now banned). Add to this list Bhuichakra , Bhuinala, Sudarshan Chakra and the famous Parachute.

2. Creativity and spirit: Creating homemade crackers that do not burst well, or a bit too well. ( called apatbars). In latter years, both kinds of Daru, liberal doses. Making a Killa (fort) with tender love and care. Bombing the hell out of it on Tulshicha Lagna.

3. Gluttony: Anarse. Shankarpale. Kaju katli. Chiwda. Other sweetmeat boxes that come as surprises from your father's friends.

4. Massages: Smelly oils that feel yuck but make you drowsy.

5. Luck by Chance: Trying to play teen patti and flopping. Then telling yourself that if you have bad luck at cards your year had better luck. Hah.

Happy Diwali to everyone.

A small joy with diminishing returns

2009-10-14T22:47:00.001-07:00

I'd say a home- cooked meal falls into this category. If you are far away from home, or if your house is in a state that your kitchen isn't functional- like mine is damn it- well, that's when you miss a warm home cooked meal- whichever part of the world you belong to. And if you are far away, the first week or two there's a thrill of eating new cuisine and experiencing new bars and restaurants.

But any longer and people start crying out for Ghar ka khana- whether your ghar is in Delhi or Dallas.

I guess confirmed bachelors and hostelites don't really experience it for long parts of their lives, but most of us do.

Very strange, but this joy is ephemeral, because all of us take the home cooked meal for granted when put in front of our faces every single day. I'm the guiltiest party when it comes to criticizing things around- or consider home food blah.

Till I don't get it on my plate, that is.

Ramble to Unscramble

2009-10-13T23:08:00.000-07:00

If you live in Pune, you have to go for a ramble up the hills. You wouldn't do worse than the ARAI- Vetal hill area. And you got to do it before say 20th of november- that's when you'll enjoy the fresh green carpet and flowers all round.

Cmon, I know there is some inertia to start with (walking up a hill on my well earned holiday!) but it is so totally worth it. Go with a companion (preferably one who doesn't yadder too much). Go to a place that is not frequented by people who work out so that you can have some solitude, and don't get weird glances from earnest fast walking people who wonder at your meandering pace.

Or go alone and sort your thoughts out- nothing like a hill ramble to do this. You get a panoramic view which helps put things into perspective. You can stop when you want, increase pace as you want- so it becomes between a wander and a trek.

Finish off with a well earned bun maska and chai at some canteen nearby. Small joys dont come better than this one.

The Journey to Product

2009-10-12T01:45:00.000-07:00

We recently launched our product's website : www.coconnex.com. It was a landmark moment for all of us.

Around three and half years ago, we had brainstormed about an idea in the event management and marketing space, and created a rough and ready proof of concept. From there on began a journey from idea to product.

Today, the product (Coconnex) has its own look and feel, its own website and other marketing communications, a proven sales and delivery team and an impressive list of clients. It has graduated to being a full fledged service.

It has given many small joys along the way:product demos being appreciated by prospects, business plans being seriously whetted;smart technological decisions taken, product becoming more market ready, getting to first client, then the first overseas client, then getting client appreciation and testimonials, then our UK based sales director joining us- and now this whole new branding and launch.

The small joy I'm having right now is one of nostalgia and lessons learned. I now know what it takes for an idea to become a valued product in the marketplace.

Happiness in stressful times...

2009-10-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

Is our responsibility, isn't it?

When this world becomes too busy for me, I tend to lose track of the fact that my happiness level completely depends upon whether I can "steal" a moment and make myself happy. Currently, my life is super busy- both at office and at home, and stress levels are high. This is where this small adjustment that I've talked about comes in. Let me explain a little more.

It's enjoying a chai at the tapri with a dear friend in between office and home. Fifteen minutes of complete relaxation.

Its enjoying a good read on the pot (tacky to some, a must for others)

It's remembering to listen to a good song at a traffic signal

It's seeing a sitcom for five minutes while your kid has gone to the loo in a commercial break in her cartoon show

Its about....

I guess the adjustment is to use ordinary time which we'd use just doing nothing (maybe waiting for something to happen, or worrying about something) and use that time to make yourself happier.

No one else will. Let's all remember that!

Champagne Weather

2009-10-07T02:04:00.000-07:00

Today's a day like no other. Atleast not what we've seen in Pune for a longish time. After the humidity and torrential rains of last week, today was cool, crisp- white puffy clouds, azure skies and warm sunshine. Sounds like a travel brochure, doesn't it? But this brochure like day exists, and with it brings a lot of happiness for absolutely no reason.

I can see office goers go out for a post lunch stroll from my window. I could see a lot of cork trees, full of blossom, sparkling away like the snow Pune will never have when I walked in the morning. I was reminded of a Wodehouse novel, where the weather is always fantastic even though the hero's heart is heavy.

Its a day full of what I'd call Champagne Weather. Forgive me for getting all poetic on you: God gives licenses to everyone today for waxing lyrical.

Discovering TS Eliot

2009-10-06T01:54:00.000-07:00

I'd been meaning to do this for a long time, and finally I had half a chance and read a few of TS Eliot's poems. I'm glad I did. Beautiful poems, no doubt, but his quotes enraptured me. Sample these:

" Genuine poetry can communicate before it is understood. "

"Home is where one starts from. "

"I will show you fear in a handful of dust."

"It's strange that words are so inadequate. Yet, like the asthmatic struggling for breath, so the lover must struggle for words."

"If you aren't in over your head, how do you know how tall you are?"

"The last temptation is the greatest treason: to do the right deed for the wrong reason. "

I love stuff like this. I could cut and paste for a long time, but I think you get my point. Something beyond the usual pseudo- intellectual romantic longish rants that masquerade as poems. I guess they don't make them like him anymore.

Fixing things

2009-10-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

My house is in a complete mess right now. We're re-flooring and re-painting a lot of the house, and if you've been through this, boy, you know what I mean. It takes a special effort for everyone to accept small discomforts, and cool down frayed tempers, and be patient.

Of course, there is a positive side to this as well- you can see your home getting spruced up and more like the way you visualized every day before kick-starting this. There's a small joy there- seeing something beautiful unfold in the unholy mess that surrounds you.

I read a beautiful story in Paulo Coelho's book "Like the flowing river" where a man, whose life is a mess, offers to rebuild a ruined house- for free- for a stranger. As soon as he starts doing this, his own life gets sorted out. I'm reminded of this story again when I see my own home being rebuilt- hoping that the rest of my life becomes less messy and more beautiful! Good thought huh?

When Something Clicks

2009-09-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

I'm currently writing my second book- called "The Gift of the Gab" which is a corporate tale exploring the theme of communication in work life. I'm on my third draft- time when you've got the basic ingredients in place and you need to make a few finishing touches.

I had been struggling with this draft in one particular area. I've discovered that unless you have had an experience of what you are writing, it becomes a difficult task. I was wondering whether the reason why I was struggling was because of this. Another thing I've noticed is that every time I write something down, it needs to have been valuable to me first. I wondered whether what I needed to write was really going to add any value, or whether I was doing it to "tie some loose ends"

Whatever the reason was, I was struggling. Then this morning, just an hour ago, a colleague came and talked to me about something that he'd experienced. I had shared my thoughts with him on this subject before- and something positive had come out for him because of this. His experience touched something inside my head and suddenly, with absolute clarity, I knew what was still missing from my book.

Does a higher power arrange for such coincidences? I wonder how many of you have had this kind of experience in your own fields. The small joy when something clicks and falls into place.

Breathe

2009-09-29T22:15:00.001-07:00

I tried this in the morning. I was having a restless night(too much thinking about work!)and I needed an energy boost.

It was about 5.30 in the morning- the time when you desperately try to fall back to sleep but you cant if your brain is in overdrive. Then I remembered this guy's podcast. I'd listened to this before- but I did it when it counted. http://www.chopra.com/agnilight/sep09/podcast .

If you can't hear the podcast, well, what you do is breathe in while counting to four. Hold your breath while counting to four again. Then, count to four as you release your breath. Hold (dont inhale) for another four counts.

Instead of trying to go back to sleep, I did this simple breathing exercise (somewhat like pranayam) and it helped me relax and rest. When I got out of bed, it was as if I'd had a normal night's sleep. Worth it!

The Spirit of Adventure

2009-09-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

Have you read "The Old Man and the Sea" and somehow, somehow, wished that there was an ounce of happiness in a gritty tale like that- you know- a crumb of hope that you can take ahead after keeping the book down?

Well, the answer is Up. Or rather- an animation movie called Up, which I found completely charming and version 1.1 of "The Old Man...". Loved the old guy. Loved the treatment (especially when they show his whole life unfold in a very short span of time but with complete emotional content). I loved how he rebels and flies his house out (what an idea- completely unbelievable but totally cool)

The story is all about the spirit of adventure- how it keeps all of us alive and kicking. Its about postponed dreams(sometimes the journey takes you to a different path but postponing the dream may be worth it) and flawed heroes (how protecting your ego can turn the superhero in yourself into a complete villian)

As they say- its got layers. Watch the film. Precious is what I'd call it.

100 not out

2009-09-24T22:23:00.001-07:00

Wow. This is my hundredth small joy. My word has been my weapon and my shield- against doom and gloom. I'm glad its near Dassehra.

Dassehra allows me to imagine that days of hardship are behind us- the fact that it has been a hard fight for all of us in this year due to some reason or the other. Recession, swine flu, and the daily grime of living.

Its time to allow ourselves a little luxury of feeling proud of all of the effort put in by us hard working joes and janes throughout these tough times- and feel good that we are still standing. Like I did today when I wrote this and completed a century. The small joy of the good fight.

More small joys on their way. Whether you like it or not :)

Managing your Wishes

2009-09-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

My elder daughter- she's about eight- came up with a good one the other day. She said she makes all her wishes for the next day when she goes to sleep, not when she wakes up.

I was more than a little intrigued given my passion in these matters( for proof: www.themapthatmatters.com ) and asked her why she does this. She said that at night you are not so greedy. In the morning, you think about your wishes too much and make it too complicated.

At night, you can be more pure, and even if you cant, she said- you are kinda tired and don't push it that much. She said she falls asleep like this nowadays, and like a grandma, said that I should try it too.

From the mouth of babes.