Grief and Enchanted moments? Has Suzy lost the plot completely? Please bear with me as I tell you my story.
Recently I've been trying my hand at watercolour painting. In fact I just started painting last weekend. On Monday evening I was reviewing the hundreds of tutorials when I came across a painting that I absolutely loved and marked it as one I would paint in the next few days.
Yesterday morning I opened up my email and got the tragic news of the sudden passing of my school classmate on Sunday 29th November. Such a shock to all of us. I took out my paints and I knew I had to paint that picture though I had no idea why. I just had to paint Mt Fuji and the cherry blossoms.
my painting
And soon after I painted, these words of a song came to mind:
Chotto matte kudasai (please wait a moment)
Please excuse me while I cry
Seems sayonara means goodbye
But no one ever told me why
Sakura (cherry blossoms) was in the Spring
When our hearts found songs to sing
But Sakura has gone away
And so has our friend so they say
Chotto matte kudasai
Please excuse me while I cry
Seems sayonara means goodbye
But no one ever told me why
I kept wondering why of the hundreds of tutorials I picked this one and why I was so certain I had to paint this. So later in the day I looked up the significance of Mt Fuji and Cherry Blossoms and this is what I found:
Mt Fuji - is considered a holy mountain in Japan. A text of the 10th century, Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, says that the name came from "immortal"
Cherry Blossoms - In Japan, cherry blossoms symbolize clouds due to their nature of blooming en masse, besides being an enduring metaphor for the ephemeral nature of life
The Universe continues to enchant me. I am certain it prompted me to paint this picture that depicts the immortality of the soul and the transient nature of life. A gentle reminder that though all things must pass, we never truly die for death is merely the moment we return to our true home and immortal nature.
This painting brought me joy and it pacified my saddened heart. I felt as if through it I somehow touched the other side and reached out to my friend. I have dedicated my painting to him. He was much loved by us all and will be greatly missed.
Jaksa's blossoms faded away on Earth, but perhaps in the land of peace and love, the cherry blossoms are blooming again and will continue to bloom.
Cats and me don't go well together. I was in my early teens when my neighbour bought 2 Siamese cats. One was friendly and the other wasn't. At least I thought so. Unfortunately I could never tell them apart and in one of my endeavours to be friendly I chose the wrong cat. Ever since then cats have definitely not been my best friends or on my Christmas card list. I am always on edge when there's a cat around.
So you can imagine how stunned I was when someone once said to me that they could sense that I am a cat person. I didn't want to be rude so I chose to remain silent. But I've often thought about this and wondered why she thought I was a cat person.
Then some days ago while watching a documentary on the big cats I realised that I actually loved the big cats, tigers and lions in particular. As a kid I loved the tigers and lions at the circus. I hated the whips they used on them but I loved looking at them. And at the zoo again lions and tigers were my favourites.
Oh and students from the school I went to are known as "Cats".
So perhaps I am a cat person after all. Perhaps I've been a cat person all along, just not the pussy cat kind.
I must confess that it's not a festival I have an affinity for. We never celebrated in India where I grew up though I had heard of it.
Here in New Zealand it doesn't seem to be that popular either at least where I live. Earlier there were many American and Canadian families in my street and while they were around there was a lot of Halloween activity. But the last few years it's been quiet and I don't see many kids going door to door. Nevertheless I keep a bag of lollies handy just in case.
Going door to door with bag in hand is not my scene and my kids weren't that keen on it either. But one year when my son was little, all the shops in a nearby mall held a Halloween evening for the kids. My daughter took him there and he enjoyed that.
On quite a different subject. The Blog-A-Rhythm group started by Shailaja Vishwanath who blogs at The Moving Quill, turned 1 on October 25th. So here's a cheers to the BAR. Through this group I have made many online friends and discovered new blogs. If ever I need someone, there is always someone who will reach out and show some love. And my blogs receive a lot of love too. Thank you to all members.
picture source: Blog-A-Rhythm
So happy first birthday to Blog-A-Rhythm and Happy Halloween to those who celebrate.
They say every event that occurs in our lives is an opportunity to know God and adversity is often a catalyst for a spiritual awakening. It is often hard to make sense of why events occur but once we make peace with our lives and learn to let go, we create the circumstances for new and wonderful experiences to enter.
Often new experiences are preceded by a period of loneliness. Moments when we have felt completely alone in this world, when sadness and despair has taken over, when you've felt a sense of abandonment. But these moments are our opportunity to go within ourselves, to learn about ourselves, to understand what we really want in life, to heal ourselves, to make peace with ourselves, and eventually having found our real selves, to appreciate what comes our way. We each find different ways to deal with our loneliness and sometimes the Universe just gives us a little helping hand.
This is Dan and Elaine's story where Universal forces created seemingly everyday events that have deep spiritual significances that are beyond human comprehension.
Note that this story is pure fiction.
~x~
Dan and Elaine sat reminiscing about the events that brought them together particularly the words that Marie and Chantelle had said to them. "I can't believe it" they said together. "How did that happen?"
Twelve years had passed since the day Dan's world came crashing down. Marcia had breathed her last after a long and crippling illness. He had taken care of her during her illness and after her death he had cared for his three teenage children. He was a good father and they loved him dearly. But he had put his life on hold and he clung to his memories of Marcia. He would not let go of the past and he didn't want to. He made the memories his reality.
Dan was an accountant with a successful career and on the side he played in a band. Music was his first love and the guitar had been his constant companion since childhood. Music gave him relief during Marcia's illness and after her death it gave him solace during those lonely spells. He was eternally grateful to his childhood friend Tim for introducing him to the band. And what appealed the most to Dan was that any profit that the band made, they donated to a charity.
Tim was a psychiatrist and knew that Dan needed an outlet, something to take his mind off the difficult times if only for a few hours each week. The band had definitely helped Dan but Tim now he felt it was time for Dan to let go of the past and move on. Tim had specialised in hypnotherapy and was an advocate of past life connections in healing trauma. He was keen to try it with Dan. Reluctantly Dan agreed. But what he discovered astonished him.
Dan would arrive into this world along with Marcia, someone called Dave and another woman whose name and face would not be revealed. There was a possibility that Dave would leave this world early and should that happen, Marcia would leave too making way for Dan and this woman to meet up. And Tim would play a part in bringing them together. Dan and Dave were two aspects of the same soul and this unknown woman was their spiritual soulmate. They had shared many lives together and were here to complete past life work.
Dan was uneasy, agitated and angry as he had loved Marcia dearly and they had shared a beautiful life and bond. "Why did Marcia have to die? What sense did that make? I don't understand this spiritual connection and I don't want it" Dan said to Tim.
Tim was upset. This was not the outcome he had expected. He wanted Dan to move on not cling to the past. But Dan was adamant and any suggestion of the new woman made Dan cling even more tightly to the memory of Marcia. So Tim tried one last attempt. Tim arranged for his psychic friend to drop by for dinner. Perhaps Marie could help Dan.
It was a pleasant dinner. Marie made Dan feel at ease but contrary to what Tim thought, Marie did not relay any messages. Then as she was leaving she turned to Dan and said, remember a glass of wine and to dance the Bamba. It seemed like a pretty ordinary remark and Dan thought nothing of it. Tim was disappointed that nothing really came through for Dan, but at least Dan had enjoyed the evening and for the first time he saw Dan's face soften and relax.
~x~
On the other side of town, Elaine sat in front of her computer, headphones on, scrolling through her facebook news feed. The strains of the La Bamba filtered through and she rocked to the beat. The La Bamba was one of her favourite songs. And as she rocked, she belted out the words.
Eight years ago Elaine's world had turned upside down. Unsuspecting of anything, Gerry's sudden decision to divorce shattered her completely. She went through the stages of disbelief, denial, anger, hatred, revenge, sadness, and finally acceptance. She tried to make sense of the event. She closed the doors to the world and wallowed in her loneliness. She had been wronged and she had a right to didn't she?
But after years of searching for answers and unable to find any, Elaine concluded that life is just the way it is meant to be. Wallowing in loneliness and being angry with the world had become tiresome. She therefore finally let go and surrendered to the all knowing Universe and thereby made peace with her past.
She had just started enjoying life the way it was but her friend Vivienne was worried about her. "We all need someone to share life with" she would often tell Elaine. "You need to make some attempt to find someone after all Gerry has and he won't be coming back". But Elaine was adamant. "I am at peace with my life Vivienne and he would have to be someone pretty darn spectacular for me to allow him to shatter my peace" she would reply.
Sometimes songs have this sneaky habit of just going around and around in your head like a stuck record. The La Bamba played on continuous replay in Elaine's head. She didn't mind. The La Bamba was such an awesome song and it took her back to the days when she and young Dave had danced to its catchy strains at the school prom.
That was such a long time ago but thinking of Dave always made her feel happy. He was intelligent, kind, sweet and so handsome. His dark hair and dark eyes mesmerised her. He was also captain of the basketball team and it was just such a thrill to see him on the court. Dave was the ultimate chocolate boy and made her heart beat faster. Then Dave left school and their paths never crossed again. Few years later she heard about his tragic death.
The La Bamba transported her back to a time when life was fun and love was innocent and sweet and there might have been a chance of a life with Dave.
Vivienne was a psychic junkie. She lived her life on the ramblings of her psychic friend Chantelle and strangely enough all that Chantelle said to her was pretty accurate and the future did turn out the way she foresaw. Or perhaps a thought planted in one's head starts to take shape. Whatever, it was always good for Vivienne.
Vivienne begged Elaine to visit Chantelle. "Do it for fun if nothing else" she cajoled and eventually Elaine agreed. Very apprehensive and a little afraid, Elaine didn't know what to expect but Chantelle was lovely and soon Elaine let down her defences and started to relax.
Elaine's eyes widened in astonishment as Chantelle started speaking. "Dave says that unfortunately he had to go as his body was so badly injured in the accident, it could no longer sustain a human existence. But he'll be there for you when you dance the Bamba. He's on his knees as he says that" she giggled. Elaine was puzzled, perhaps she meant he had danced the Bamba with her and this was Dave's way of proving it was really him.
~x~
It was Dan's birthday and as they did every year, Tim, his wife Karen and Dan went to their favourite pub for a nice meal. It was Dan's turn to buy the next round so he went off to the counter.
A few tables away Elaine was enjoying an evening with her friends. Pubs were not her scene and her energy was draining fast. The music and the buzz in the room was getting louder and she knew that if she had to stay a while longer, she would need some fresh air. She got up and moved towards the balcony.
Dan turned from the counter wine glasses in hand. He didn't see Elaine suddenly emerge and crashed into her. Red wine dripped down his shirt. Elaine was flustered and embarrassed. She grabbed some serviettes from the counter to mop up the wine all the while muttering an apology. Dan stood still a smile crossed his face and his eyes fixed on the flustered Elaine.
She was so different from Marcia. Tall, slender, blonde hair, blue eyes, Marcia had been stunningly beautiful. Elaine on the other hand had dark hair and eyes, short and slightly plump, perhaps you could call her cute. But as he took her hand in his, something hit him like a thunderbolt. "It's only a shirt and I will survive this attack" he said with a sweet smile.
Elaine moved away quickly. His bright blue eyes, dark brown hair, his smile and the touch of his hands unnerved her. She went back to the table still agitated and confused.
Dan couldn't take his eyes off her. He constantly looked around to catch her eye. Karen and Tim noticed Dan was distracted. Then Karen saw Elaine. Marie's words came to mind - a glass of wine! "Danny, I know her we used to work together until recently" said Karen. But before Karen could reach Elaine, she had left.
Try as hard as he could, Dan could not stop thinking of Elaine and Karen and Tim were eager to help. Karen cautioned Dan that Elaine wasn't the type to go out with strangers so she arranged a meeting at home. Elaine thought it odd that Karen would suddenly invite her but other than that she didn't suspect a thing. Nevertheless she did ask if she could bring a friend.
As Elaine entered the room she caught sight of Dan. "Oh no, let's go let's go" she said to Vivienne, but Karen was too quick for her and she couldn't escape. Dan came to her side and was quickly introduced to Elaine. "We've met you know, you coloured my white shirt with the red wine" he said with a chuckle. Elaine stood still, quiet and embarrassed. But Vivienne was quick to assess Dan's interest and was eager to bring the two together.
Karen offered to show them her house. Vivienne declined and as Elaine wandered off with Karen, she approached Dan and Tim. Dan confirmed his interest in Elaine. "She will run a mile if you approach her directly" she warned. "The way to her is through her friends with baby steps" she advised.
Dan was quite the opposite of what Elaine found attractive. Blue eyes, dark brown longish hair, rugged looks were definitely not her thing. But Elaine was warming to Dan. She liked his easy going nature and he was sweet and kind. She felt safe with him and he made her laugh. They also shared the same spiritual beliefs and both were keen to pursue something in helping humanity. And most strangely she felt at peace with him. There was something about Dan that felt familiar.
So many friendly coffee catch ups and dinners later with Tim, Karen and Vivienne in tow, Vivienne suggested Dan should let her know he liked her, ask her on a friendly date, something that would make her feel safe and not pressured.
The band were doing a gig at a fair in the neighbouring town on Saturday. Perhaps that would be the "date" he could take Elaine along to. Tim would be there too and that would be reassuring for Elaine. Dan and Tim would be performing first just after sunset so once their gig was over they would return. He promised he would drop Elaine off well before midnight.
Dan was not only lead guitarist but also their lead singer. Dan had been thinking all week of the songs they would sing. He wanted one special song for Elaine and there seemed to be one song that came to mind again and again. Dan decided that would be the song.
It was a beautiful evening. Warm with a slight breeze. Dan, Tim and the rest of the band came on stage. Elaine felt a shiver of excitement run up and down her spine. It was time for Dan's last song. "This is a special song for a very special lady. It's one of my favourites and I hope she'll like it too" he said.
Then Dan started belting out the La Bamba. He jumped down from the stage in front of Elaine and they danced as he sang.
Para bailar la bamba To dance the bamba
Para bailar la bamba To dance the bamba
Se necesita una poca de gracia You need a little grace
Una poca de gracia A little grace
Para mí, para ti For me, for you
Ay, arriba y arriba Ah higher and higher
Ay, arriba y arriba Ah higher and higher
Por ti seré, por ti seré, por ti sere I’ll be for you, I’ll be for you, I’ll be for you
Yo no soy mariner I’m not a sailor
Yo no soy mariner I’m not a sailor
Soy capitán, soy capitán, soy capitán I’m a captain, I’m a captain, I’m a captain
Bamba, bamba
Bamba, bamba
Bamba, bamba, bamba
Dan was on his knees as he sang "Por ti seré, por ti seré, por ti sere" It was at that very moment that Elaine looked into Dan's blue eyes, his dark brown hair blowing in the breeze, his white shirt billowing, his sleeves rolled up, his blue jeans showing every sinewy muscle. Chantelle's words suddenly came to mind. She knew right then that Dave was looking back at her and her heart went out to Dan. The wedding was beautiful. Dan and Elaine had a wonderful time. And high up in the heavens Dave and Marcia smiled and clapped as they watched them dance to the beat of the La Bamba.
The I Must Confess prompt for this week is My Ultimate Dinner Party Guest List. I am going to choose those who are still alive in this world rather than those that have passed on. So here goes ...
The Dalai Lama - I have heard so much about the Dalai Lama. Those who have had the privilege of meeting him tell me there is such a spiritual air about him, a divine aura, such a sense of happiness and peace. I want to bask for a moment in that Divine Energy.
Deepak Chopra - I read his book Synchrodestiny many years ago and every word resonated with me. I love this book and I'd like to hear his philosophies first hand. I believe that books find me and this was no exception. I had heard a lot about his books but they were so expensive and somehow didn't ignite any interest. Then one day browsing through a table of discounted books I chanced upon Synchrodestiny for a throwaway price and all because someone had put a felt pen mark on the cover. I not only loved the title but I was so drawn to it I had to buy it. Never regretted that decision.
Dr Brian Weiss - I am fascinated by his books and his theories of past lives, future lives and lives in between. Only Love Is ReaI is one of my favourite books. I would love to get a more comprehensive view of his theories and to have a deeper understanding of the other side. Perhaps a past life regression session might be tempting too.
Helen Clark - Head of the UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) and former Prime Minister of New Zealand. I have a great admiration for her. During her tenure as PM when so many countries gave in to pressure from the US, she stood firm that New Zealand would not participate in any war not endorsed by the United Nations. It was obviously not a popular stance with the US who declared you are either with us or against us. She was unfazed by these threats and resolute in her decision. And my admiration for her grew. Someday I would love to work for the UNDP or at least in humanitarian services in global aid programmes particularly in the arena of children. Who better than Helen Clark to point me in the right direction.
Richard Gere - He is one of my favourite actors. But it his affinity to Buddhism and India that fascinates me. I'd like to find out about his spiritual evolution.
Krishna Das - An American vocalist of Hindu devotional music (Kirtan). He is an amazing singer and his music can put me into a meditative state. He sings with so much love and devotion. An evening of Kirtan with him would be the icing on the cake. I love his Heart as Wide as the World cd (you can listen to some song clips via that link).
Some years ago I had this sudden urge to write a book. I even have a name ready for it. Actually I saw the name in a dream and it felt so right. I know when my book does eventually take shape, that this will be the perfect title for it.
But wanting to write a book and actually writing one are two very different things.
For one, what would my book be about?
Fiction writing is not my strength yet it seems fiction seems to do better than fact.
Or should I write about spiritual insights? But there are so many spiritual writers and frankly most of them write the same things in different words.
Or should I publish my poems? But poetry isn't everyone's cup of tea and often I find that the meaning I am trying to portray is lost on my readers. Perhaps my poetry is too complex. And lately the poetry mojo seems to have dropped by the wayside. I haven't written a poem for months.
Lately I've been trying my hand at Romantic Fiction (short stories) but with a spiritual message / background. I'm enjoying these a lot. Sometimes I think these may not be true fiction. That is somewhere inside me I feel I've lived these stories before. Or maybe I'm just dreaming. But are they good enough to publish?
In April I took part in the A to Z Challenge and my theme was based on the historical epic The Ramayana but with a very different view. My series was based on a combination of poetry and prose and friends who have read my posts think I should expand on it and create my book. But The Ramayana is dear to the heart of many Indians so how would my twist be received?
And then there's the publishing itself. I haven't got a clue how to go about doing that.
There was a time when I could have confidently said I am a morning person. Getting up early in the morning was a piece of cake but staying up late at night was a Herculean task.
But now I no longer know as I seem to do both with ease or not just depends on the time of year. In Winter waking up early and staying up late seems near impossible. Yet in Summer my eyes open up before the alarm goes off and sleep eludes me until late at night.
Perhaps my body is tuned in to circadian rhythms or perhaps I was a bear in a previous life. I think bears have got it right; hibernating in Winter seems like the perfect thing to do.
So what's the time Mr Wolf? Share your time of day.
With technology taking over communications in the form of email, texting, snapchatting, FB, WhatsApp, Twitter etc, the handwritten note is become a thing of the past. And yet a handwritten note just seems to have that extra touch of personal.
It took me a while to send off a letter, not because I was lazy or put it on the back burner but because I wanted the letter to mean something for me and I wanted it to be special for Pooja. And I'm so glad that I didn't push myself to simply write a letter but waited for that perfect moment because had I not gone with the flow, I would not have shared a special moment with Pooja.
So on the morning of July 9 I opened up the curtains and the hills took my breath away. And as always I made a quick dive for my camera and captured that moment. Then while taking a short break at work from a rather hectic day, suddenly the words of my letter to Pooja streamed through my head and so I wrote to her that day to share my moment of wonder.
sharing a bit of my letter with all of you
The story behind receiving a letter:
Vidya sent her letter off to me on July 12 and it is still travelling around somewhere in the world. The letter is obviously destined to see the world before it arrives! I'm not surprised as letters to New Zealand often go on a trip around the world. It will eventually get here and it will be fun to see the route it took. Anyway Vidya was kind enough to write me a letter again and emailed it to me some days ago that I was so thrilled to receive and read.
Vidya has such nice handwriting and I felt so connected to her letter as if we've known each other for many many years. So here are some excerpts from Vidya's letter
I had such a smile when I read the paragraph about the festivals and I couldn't help thinking great minds think alike. My daughter was unable to drop by for Raksha Bandhan as she was working so I told my son we would celebrate when she comes over in the future. So true Vidya, what's a little date shifting here and there.
I truly believe that nothing happens by chance and that our paths cross for a reason; sometimes to bring us joy, sometimes to teach us something. Often the reasons are not clear, often unknown. Some paths cross for a fleeting moment and never meet again and some linger for a while longer. - taken from my letter to Pooja.
Pooja and Vidya were not random selections for me and I hope that these connections linger for a long long time.
On a side note, I enjoyed this so much that I've decided to hand write letters to bring in that personal touch and then email them - you know preserve the past yet move with the times.
Have you ever sent or received snail mail? Do share your snail mail stories.
Postcards from around the world for the #SeptemberChallenge.
Hosted by Everyday Gyaan
Greetings from my home again.
I thought I would go back to my postcards from around the world today, but another thought presented itself and I hope that it will inspire at least one person.
Today I gave a reference check for someone for a job and just this morning I was thinking about which recruitment agent I should contact as I am also on the lookout for a new role.
Just before the recruitment agent said goodbye a thought suddenly entered my mind - perhaps this was the answer to the question I posed this morning. And so I had a chat and sent off my CV. Will this be fruitful? I don't know but I live in hope and have the faith,
When an opportunity presents itself, cease it with both hands.
Postcards from around the world for the #SeptemberChallenge.
Hosted by Everyday Gyaan
Greetings from Rotorua the "hot" spot in New Zealand, city of boiling mud pools and geysers.
Rotorua is the short name of Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe, "The second great lake of Kahumatamomoe") and the Pohutu Geyser is New Zealand's answer to the Old Faithful in USA.
It erupts up to twenty times per day and can reach heights of up to 30 metres (100 feet), quite spectacular to watch particularly when you stand on the bridge. I was lucky that we were there are the right time and watched this spectacular moment both from the bridge and from afar.
The Pohutu Geyser is situated in the geothermal area of Te Whakarewarewatanga O Te Ope Taua A Wahiao, meaning The gathering place for the war parties of Wahiao, Try that for a tongue twister!
Postcards from around the world for the #SeptemberChallenge.
Hosted by Everyday Gyaan
Greetings from Dunedin.
It is the second largest city of the South Island and one of the four main cities of New Zealand.
The Maori name for Dunedin is Ōtepoti, meaning the place of steep points.
Like Wellington, Dunedin is a very picturesque city with spectacular scenery. It is my 2nd favourite New Zealand city after Wellington.
By and large Dunedin is considered the University City as it is home to Otago University.
Dunedin claims it has the steepest street in the world - Baldwin street (see picture), Glad I didn't have to climb it. On the other hand, I would be pretty fit if I had to climb it everyday. And imagine if you had to sit your driving test on that street!
Postcards from around the world for the #SeptemberChallenge hosted by Everyday Gyaan.
Greetings from Auckland, New Zealand's largest city.
Auckland is also known as the City of Sails and its Maori name is Tāmaki-makau-rau (Tāmaki of a hundred lovers)
They Sky Tower is one of Auckland's key attractions and the tallest man made tower in the Southern Hemisphere.
Not as picturesque as Wellington but Auckland has big city charm.
Oh and in case you are wondering what Wellington's Maori name is, it is Te Whanganui-a-Tara (the great harbour of Tara) - now updated on my Wellington postcard.
My theme is postcards from around the world and this week I will start with New Zealand.
Greetings from Wellington the capital city of New Zealand.
It's one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen.
And wherever you go, you get to see spectacular scenery.
I still remember the day I landed in Wellington.
It looked so beautiful from the plane.
Wellington is known as Windy Wellington and Coffee Capital because there's a cafe at almost every corner.
Wellington's Maori name is Te Whanganui-a-Tara (the great harbour of Tara)
Tension is treacherous. It has this uncanny knack of creating havoc within our minds and bodies and its primary function is to create unnecessary panic. And yet we love taking on tension and are so reluctant to let it go.
So what is the cause of tension? In my view the primary causes of tension are fear of failure, fear of the unknown (thinking the worst) and perfectionism.
This morning my son was in a state of panic as he was far from completing an assignment due in tomorrow. He's a perfectionist and a deep thinker. Assignments must be perfect and anything less than an A is just not good enough. What if I can't complete, what if I fail were words that made his head droop and the worry lines appear on his forehead. I can totally relate to that as I was the same when I was his age and watching him tense up made me a little tense too.
So I sent him on his way with some words of encouragement -
focus on the task at hand not at what may or may not be
focus on completing not on perfection
focus on the mandatory requirements not all requirements
keep working as stopping is guaranteed failure but persevering gives you a chance to succeed
what will be will be - if you fail, there's always the next assignment or next year and failure teaches many valuable lessons
there is no person in the world who has never failed, let go of failure fear as it only holds you back and creates panic and panic inhibits the ability to think clearly
and most important of all
have faith in yourself
And that somehow eased my tension too.
I love this quote as I believe that failure at some points in our lives is certain, but it need not hold us back:
Success is falling nine times and getting up ten.
~ Jon Bon Jovi
Today I am co-hosting the Write Tribe #MondayMusings with Corinne who blogs at Everyday Gyaan. Join us by writing a post on a subject of your choice . Add the hashtag #MondayMusings to your post and link it to the linky below. Make it as personal as possible and do visit other blogs that are linked here.
I often wonder if I exist in another Universe or perhaps even in multiple Universes.
Do I have the same life but at a different points in time in different places - perhaps this is how past present and future exist simultaneously. Or are these lives completely different?
That sense of deja vu that we have now and then, you know that moment when you feel history is repeating itself - what is that - a past life or this one but from another time and place?
And now I am wondering how these crazy thoughts came into my mind. Is me from another place reaching out to me?
Something to ponder over:
If you don't realize a deja vu, you have to realize you're creating a deja vu”
The objects we hold most dear, harbor the most cherished memories.
For the CHERISHED Blogfest, we invite you to talk to us about one of your cherished objects. Tell us what it is, post a picture of it if you like, and tell us why you cherish it.
Keep your post to below 500 words.
Join us on the 24th to 26th of July 2015 in sharing memories, emotions, information. We’ll read and comment on each others’ posts, get to know each other better, and hopefully, make or renew some friendships.
I try not to lay too much importance on objects as these come and go. My prized possessions are my photographs for they are moments I have captured in time and each tell a story, trigger a memory and take me back to a moment in time.
I couldn't possibly post all my pictures here so instead I'll pick one that always brings back happy memories. Christmas is always such a joyful time of year and these pictures each have a story behind it.
Each year I buy an ornament each for my children - their little special something. The ornaments shown here were the Christmas 2013 ornaments.
The climbing Santa was a gift to my dad from his grandchildren in the US. It was special to him and now it's special to us too.
The Angel on the tree is my special angel. She always gives me a feeling of peace and protection.
And each year my mom cooks an awesome Christmas meal for all of us and the whole family gets together to enjoy the meal. It's always a happy time.
My greatest joy at Christmas is the giving and appreciating the receiving.
Thank you Shilpa Garg and Ushaji for tagging me for the 3 Quote Challenge. This challenge is meant to be over 3 days but I cheat a little and include them all in one post.
My first quote:
"Always look your best, you never know who you might meet"
These were words that jumped out at me while I was reading a work colleagues blog. These were words her late mother would say to her. Coincidentally just a day before I read that I was thinking I needed to spruce up a bit. Also I had been meaning to read her blog since the start of the year but never got around to it until that day when I had a sudden urge to read. Her mom I am sure was reaching out to me. Thank you for your words of wisdom. I truly needed to hear that.
My second quote:
"Respond intelligently even to unintelligent treatment" ~ Lau Tzu
I wish I had known this quote many years ago, for I learned the hard way to respond intelligently. More often than not we are so reactive and respond in the same way - unintelligently. And invariably that keeps the issue going.
My third and final quote, one of my own:
"Go with the flow, be Zen, and let it go"
Have a dream, set an intention but then let the Universe bring it to you, don't force the flow, go with it. Let go of things that no longer serve you to make way for that which does and new things. And most of all be at peace with life, stay calm.
Looks like all the bloggers I know have already done the challenge. In case you haven't take it that you are tagged and join in.
For the 3-Day Quote Challenge which I have condensed into one day:
Post one of your favorite quotes (different quote on each day) on three consecutive days. The quote can be from your favorite book, author, or your own.
Alejandro, Juan and I were the best of friends since childhood. Juan was handsome and full of life, perhaps a little reckless, romantic and charming. Alejandro also handsome and strong, but quiet and calm, the one you could always depend on and turn to when you needed something. But I always loved Juan and when he told me he loved me and we married, I felt that I could reach the stars.
But with great happiness, sometimes there also comes great sorrow and last week was the worst week of my life. Juan was killed in an accident and my world fell apart. Alejandro tried hard to comfort me, but the pain in my heart was unexplainable and unimaginable. Alejandro's words fell on my deaf ears and my tears would not stop flowing.
In times like these I seek solace with Lita (Grandmother) Maria. She is actually my great grandmother and adored by all of us. When we were very young we thought she was magical for she told us stories of ancient times, of mystical visions and love. Lita Maria always had this amazing countenance. It was like her light shone through for miles and across lifetimes.
In the darkness Lita Maria lit a candle while I sat at her feet, my head in her lap and she gently stroked my long black hair. I sobbed and asked, Why, Why over and over again. Lita Maria was silent but her hands were comforting and slowly my sobs ceased. Then Lita Maria told me the most beautiful story I have ever heard.
Many years ago in ancient Mexico near the city of Teotihuacan, lived Citlali. Tonauac thought she was the most beautiful girl in the whole world and as they grew up, his heart filled with love for her. Tonauac was calm and quiet, kind and caring. But he was also strong and dependable. He was a beautiful man and the girls whispered that they could see his light shine through. And then there was Uetzcayotl. He was sweet, funny and clever, he would sing and dance and his eyes twinkled. He was romantic and happy. He had a zest for life and the girls adored him. Citlali, Tonauac and Uetzcayotl were the best of friends and in their little community, the wise elders always said they were inseparable souls come to Earth for a common purpose. The three friends were always together and as time went on, Citlali and Uetzcayotl grew closer and fell in love. Uetzcayotl, the romantic would bring her flowers and sing to her. Citlali would giggle and pretend she didn't love him. You don't love me like Tonauac does Uetzcayotl, she would tease. Uetscayotl would pretend to be very hurt and then he would sing ...
Mujer, si puedes tu con Dios hablar Woman, if you can talk with God
Pregúntale si yo alguna vez Ask Him if I have ever once
te he dejado de adorar Ceased to adore you
Y al mar, espejo de mi corazón And the sea, mirror of my heart
Las veces que me ha visto llorar Those times it saw me shed tears at
La perfidia de tu amor The betrayal of your love
Citlali and Uetzcayotl eventually married and had two beautiful boys who were the pride and joy of Uetzcayotl. Life was beautiful and love was strong. Citlali and Uetzcayotl often sat under the stars and he would sing to her. One starry night Uetzcayotl said to Citlali, remember when I am gone from this Earth, that I will always be with you and that somehow I will return. Citlali was bewildered. How will I know you she whispered. When the cool wind blows, you will hear my song. You will know me when I hold your hand and when you look into my eyes you will see my soul. Then Citlali you will know that I am here with you. Citlali thought her Uetzcaytl was so romantic and she thought that the two of them would live together forever.
Then the war broke out. The young men gathered to go. Dread filled Citlali's heart as Uetzcayotl silently gathered up his weapons. Uetzcayotl sensed her distress but strangely instead of comforting and reassuring Citali, he filled it with even more fear and sadness. Remember my words Citlali he said as he looked into her eyes. Then he held her close and kissed her, embraced his boys and walked out into the night.
Tia Nelli was a kind loving woman with a unique gift. The natives whispered that she could speak with God. Citlali had to know about Uetzcayotl for her heart would not rest in peace until she did. She ran for miles to reach Tia Nelli's hut and eagerly awaited her answer. The one who truly adores you will come back to you Citlali she said. Citlali's joy knew no bounds. She waited for the day Uetzcayotl would return with the other men. But Uetzcayotl did not return.
Tonauac felt Citlali's heartbreak and wished he could help her. But Citlali's heart was filled with so much sorrow that the very breath within her struggled to stay alive. She immersed herself in her young boys and wished death would come to her. Without Uetzcayotl life held no meaning for her. Tia Nelli had been so wrong for Uetzcayotl had not returned and she definitely could not speak with God. No one can speak with God thought Citlali sadly.
Tonauac looked up at the stars and wondered where Uetzcayotl was. He missed his friend and he was unable to see Citlali suffer so. In the solitude and silence Tonauac felt a cool breeze, he thought he could feel his friend beside him. He thought he heard the words, Sing Tonauac, sing for you have adored Citlali more than I have. Whisper the words you hear to the wind. Sing Tonauac for we are one soul and my song is your song. Sing and soothe Citlali's soul for I was born to leave her and you were born to heal her and together we were born to show her what love means.
Citlali felt a cool breeze tickle her cheek. Her mind was restless filled with thoughts of Uetzcayotl. She watched her boys sleeping soundly. Then her feet took her outside under a star filled night sky. And as she looked up towards the heavens she prayed one last time. Dear God, I ask that You send with haste, the one who truly adores me for You have promised that he will come. Waiting for Uetzcayotl Citlali stood in silence, her eyes closed, feeling the cool breeze around her and then she heard the strains of a song drift by.
Mujer, si puedes tu con Dios hablar Woman, if you can talk with God Pregúntale si yo alguna vez Ask Him if I have ever once te he dejado de adorar Ceased to adore you Uetzcayotl she whispered as she ran towards the song. There in the distance she saw a man. Uetzcayotl she called only to find Tonauac turn towards her. Tonauac was the perfect father for her boys and he was a good man. He adored and loved her so much. Whenever Citlali looked into his eyes she saw Uetzcayotl look back at her and when Tonauac took her hand she knew that Uetzcayotl was by her side. Many years went by. Her boys were growing up. Citlali was content. She looked back to the days when life had been joyful with Uetzcayotl but the memories of that life were slowly fading. She sensed Tonauac was watching her and she turned to look at him and smiled. Then she stood up and took his hands in hers and looked into his eyes. For the first time she saw Tonauac look back at her and she saw into the depths of the soul that truly adored her. Tonauac, she whispered, I have grown to love you and I know that you have never ceased to adore me for I have talked with God.
Lita Maria smiled as she finished the story. You know Rosa, she said, I was that young Citlali and my Tonauac loved me more than life itself. When one door closes Rosa, the Lord always opens another one but sometimes we choose not to see that door. And in the darkness Rosa, someone lights a candle that ignites your soul again and life goes on.
Lita Maria is a very wise lady and her words always comfort and soothe me.
Teotihuacan - City of the Gods Citlali - means star Tonauac - means the one who possesses light Uetzcayotl - means the essence of light Nelli - means truth
