Author: Ajmal

no moment is devoid of worth.

Posted on by Ajmal
A blissful boat ride with Netta and Ehan through the serene waters of Zanzibar, a memory to treasure. | composed and styled by Ajmal, The Border Of a Mind [dot] com

In life, no moment is devoid of value. The tender embrace of a vada pav’s brioche at the office canteen. The unyielding nature of affection. The intricate design of confectionary rings. The quietness after a kiss. The velvety glide of a spice-laden shawarma toast from the cafeteria. The nocturnal lament carried by the wind from the balcony on an early morning. An unexpected GPS detour leading to discovery of a new place. The melancholy of deflated culinary ambitions at the kitchen. The tedium of anticipating destiny’s plan for something. The flawless crunch of a well-crafted pastry parcel.

The hesitancy permeating a romantic encounter. The subtlety of linguistic artistry in a foreign tongue. The precise elegance of a tailored shirt. The ephemeral bond forged through a fleeting glance. The opulence of being cradled in a toddler’s embrace. The alchemy of flawlessly softened dairy. The aroma of freshly pressed pages. The gentle cascade of crystalline luminescence. The distant echo of a once-cherished voice. The comforting pressure of familiar hands encircling your form.

The trepidation before facing the undiscovered. The immutable presence of sorrow. The benevolence of unfamiliar faces in a metro. The ever-widening chasm separating aspiration and achievement. The symphony of droplets colliding with metallic surfaces. The unuttered sentiments haunting your thoughts. The declarations that escaped your lips. Your essence is molded by each encounter and sensation, as both the tangible and intangible leave their indelible mark. Nothing and no one is devoid of purpose or significance in this transitory existence.

The Forgotten Magic of True Rest and Repose

Posted on by Ajmal

In this era of perpetual engagement, the notion of genuine rest may seem like a fanciful relic of bygone days. One could argue that a select few still engage in the authentic practice of rest, yet the majority appear to have strayed from this vital ritual. The insidious encroachment of social media, devices, and the age of distraction have left our collective ability to truly unwind severely compromised.

The absence of genuine rest begets a pervasive weariness, a state in which we are never truly energized, present, or wholly alive. This depletion ripples through our relationships, draining them of vitality and connection, and ultimately siphoning joy from our lives. While this may not reflect your personal experience, the sentiment is likely familiar.
Photographed and styled by The Border of a Mind Studios

Consider our own habits: when presented with a moment of respite, what is our default mode? Do we reach for our phone or computer, peruse social media, or indulge in an online video binge? This tendency toward digital preoccupation is all too common, even for those who recognize its pitfalls.

After a long day’s work, do you find solace in further immersion into the digital realm? Is your leisure time filled with reading, watching, and messaging? For many, the answer is a resounding yes, leaving little room for authentic mental and physical rest.

The absence of genuine rest begets a pervasive weariness, a state in which we are never truly energized, present, or wholly alive. This depletion ripples through our relationships, draining them of vitality and connection, and ultimately siphoning joy from our lives. While this may not reflect your personal experience, the sentiment is likely familiar.

It is not uncommon to seek solace in digital distractions during moments of respite, only to find ourselves further drained rather than rejuvenated. This paradoxical pursuit of comfort leaves us wanting, deprived of the essential rest we deeply require.

It is time, then, to reacquaint ourselves with the Essence of True Repose, and explore the means by which we might reclaim it.

Four Facets of Genuine Repose

There exist myriad avenues to attaining true rest, each offering its own unique sense of nourishment and renewal:

  1. Embrace stillness by closing your eyes and lying down, devoid of external devices. This may manifest as a nap, or perhaps a meditative state.
  2. Venture into the natural world, free from technological tethers, and bask in the solace of nature, allowing your mind the space to expand and breathe.
  3. Share a moment of relaxation with a companion, fostering connection through gentle conversation or simply enjoying the warmth of each other’s presence.
  4. Engage in a simple, non-work-related activity with complete presence, such as savoring a cup of tea, soaking in a bath, or indulging in a self-care home routine. This time is reserved exclusively for the experience at hand, free from intrusive thoughts of work.

Other modalities of rest may include playing soulful music, creating digital art, writing, or praying. The aforementioned four, however, serve as personal favorites.

It is important to note that these forms of genuine repose require little in the way of equipment or specialized spaces. Their simplicity renders them easily accessible, and yet, we often neglect to embrace them.

Let us not forget the Essence of True Repose, and endeavor to reclaim the restorative power it holds.

Embracing Life’s Gifts: Transcending Boredom, Adversity, Discontent, and Overwhelm with Gratitude

Posted on by Ajmal

In the spirit of expressing thankfulness for the blessings that enrich our lives, let us delve into the art of cultivating gratitude on a profound level. While the concept of “gratitude” might appear cliché or mundane to some, there is a deeper significance to this practice that can transform our lives, making them more fulfilling and abundant.

Let us explore a few scenarios to better understand this transformative power.

The Antidote to Inner Boredom

Gratitude can be the remedy for boredom. Imagine a moment where you disconnect from all forms of technology, sit outside without any form of entertainment or engagement, and simply exist. Such a scenario might initially seem unproductive or dull. However, this perception stems from our lack of attentiveness and appreciation for the present moment.

By shifting our focus to the sensations within our body, the rhythm of our breath, the interplay of light and shadow, and the intricate reel of life unfolding before us, we can attune ourselves to the inherent beauty and wonder of existence. As our awareness deepens, so too does our appreciation for the precious gift that is life. In this way, gratitude triumphs over boredom.

Navigating Adversity


Challenging situations often evoke feelings of frustration or unhappiness. Although it is natural to experience such emotions, we can employ gratitude to reframe our perspective on these difficulties. By appreciating the potential for growth and learning within each challenge, we can view adversity as a gift rather than a burden.

For instance, we can be thankful for the relationships in our lives, as they afford opportunities to develop patience and communication skills. A difficult coworker or family member can become an unwitting mentor, guiding us towards personal growth and strength. Similarly, the loss of a job can be reframed as an invitation to reinvent ourselves, acquire new skills, and embark on a fresh career path.

Even in the face of health struggles or the loss of a loved one, gratitude can be found. We can celebrate the time shared with those who have departed, and cherish the remaining connections in our lives. While pain and grief are inherent to the human experience, gratitude can help us navigate these challenges with grace and resilience.

Dissolving Discontent


A pervasive sense of discontent often arises from the habit of complaining about our circumstances or the actions of others. Unbeknownst to many, resentment is a subtle form of complaint that can erode our happiness. Gratitude, however, can counteract these negative emotions, fostering a more harmonious state of being.

By recognizing the narratives that fuel our resentment, we can choose to let them go and embrace gratitude instead. This shift in perspective can dramatically improve our emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction.

Alleviating Overwhelm


During particularly hectic periods, feelings of stress and overwhelm can become overwhelming. How can we cope with this emotional turbulence? By cultivating gratitude for the very aspects of our lives that contribute to our sense of overwhelm.

By appreciating each task on our to-do list, each request from friends or family, and each event that causes us stress, we can transform our perspective on these experiences. Rather than viewing them as burdens, we can cherish them as gifts. In doing so, we relinquish our stress and discover love amidst the chaos.

What do you think ?

unfolding the sublime: the art of embracing each instant

Posted on by Ajmal

“Go ahead, follow your dreams. Don’t stop, don’t feel that you’ve reached your haven. Try to live as intensely as you could. But, understanding at the end that there will be an answer. This answer is for your classic question. Who am i“

Paulo Coelho’s words from an interview.
An abstract painting born from the free-spirited imagination of my two-year-old son. The colors that intertwine in a mesmerizing dance speak of a world beyond the tangible, a realm where the mind is free to wander and explore the infinite possibilities of the unknown

In the ever-accelerating race of our existence, we find ourselves consumed by a ceaseless barrage of tasks and communications, appointments and missives, obligations and minutiae, until the day concludes, only to recommence in the morrow.

Such is the customary manner of life — the relentless pursuit of completion.

Yet, every moment presents an invitation to delve deeper, to truly immerse ourselves in the present.

The exquisite challenge lies in embracing each instant. To begin with, we must rouse ourselves to the unfolding now. When our minds wander amidst the labyrinth of our thoughts, we become oblivious to the symphony of birdsong that surrounds us. We forsake life itself, yet we can reawaken to the immediacy of our existence.

We can explore further: indulge our curiosity about the myriad aspects of this very moment. What novel elements can be discerned, which have hitherto escaped our notice? What revelations await us, should we attune ourselves more acutely to the present? What delicate intricacies, often relegated to the periphery of our perception, might we uncover?

And we can venture even deeper: discovering awe in each instant, allowing the ebb and flow of our experiences to become a wellspring of enchantment, wonder, and profound gratitude.

And still we can plunge further: we can awaken to our emotions, examining how we yearn to evade or immobilize them, rather than simply allowing them to ebb and flow as a ceaseless river of experience. We can approach these emotional currents with curiosity, with tenderness.

And yet deeper still: we can permit the sensations of the present, and the emotions they evoke, to draw us closer to the vulnerability and expansiveness of our hearts. Amid feelings of frustration or sorrow, can we allow these emotions to bridge the gap to our authentic selves, to the core of our being that experiences anger and grief? Can we surrender to the infinite compassion of our hearts, and the vast openness of our greater consciousness?

Descending to even greater depths: we can awaken to the transient nature of each moment, to the inevitable impermanence that governs our reality, to the understanding that our experiences are merely manifestations of the river of change. As we come to terms with the ephemeral essence of existence, we recognize that there is nothing to which we can cling, that our suffering arises from attempting to grasp the insubstantial.

Through this realization, we come to perceive the sanctity of the present. The wonder and love inherent in the realm of our experiences. The precious gift of life and consciousness.

How might we embrace this intention, this practice of delving deeply into each moment? How can we remind ourselves to engage in this transformative pursuit?

enkindling the splendor within: rediscovering the majesty of existence

Posted on by Ajmal

In the midst of existence, there are rare instances when we become profoundly aware of the breathtaking splendor of life, the sanctity that permeates every moment, and the awe-inspiring potency of the cosmos enveloping us.

These ephemeral glimpses are transcendental, ravishing, and deeply stirring.Yet, more often than not, we allow them to slip away.

Our daily lives unfold as if we are ensnared in a somnambulant state, occupied with ceaseless communication, perfunctory exchanges with our fellow beings devoid of genuine affection, and a relentless succession of tasks and diversions.

It is as if we are adrift in a reverie, scarcely cognizant of the vital force that surrounds us, blind to its boundless grandeur. What prompts us to lose sight of the astonishing magnificence that lies directly before us?

The answer lies in our propensity to become habituated to our existence. We acclimate to our circumstances, and the once extraordinary metamorphoses into the mundane, the barely perceptible hum that fades into the background.

As we bear witness to the quotidian – the sunlight, the trees, the exquisite countenances – we grow complacent, believing we have grasped their essence. The extraordinary recedes, replaced by the ordinary or even the tedious. Such marvels cease to command our attention.

We stride past the azure blossoms, the resplendent yellow foliage, the verdant blades of grass, and the molten gold of sunlight, scarcely registering their presence.

We fail to appreciate the miraculous nature of our reality: soaring through the skies, the marvel of electricity, the instantaneous interconnectedness afforded by the Internet, the vast reservoir of knowledge at our disposal, our cherished companions, and the simple joy of a yummy meal.

This inexorable acclimation is a natural process to which we all succumb. As young children, we revel in the enchantment and euphoria of ordinary phenomena – the pursuit of a bubble or butterfly, the unrestrained laughter elicited by a bouncing ball. Over time, however, we become inured to these wonders, our attention instead consumed by our devices.

This is not an indictment of our collective character, for it is an intrinsic aspect of the human experience. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize our propensity to take our world for granted and to actively seek to rekindle our sense of wonder.

To achieve this, consider the following:

  • Cultivate a habit of perceiving your surroundings with an unblemished, childlike gaze, as if encountering each element anew. Rediscover the awe that resides in the quotidian.
  • Throughout your day, pause to acknowledge the seemingly insignificant blessings that grace your life. A steaming bowl of noodles, an enlightening podcast, or a window that frames a captivating vista.
  • Endeavor to forge profound connections with those you encounter, eschewing the transactional mindset and engaging with others without a predetermined agenda or ulterior motives.


Embrace the world with an open heart, and marvel at its truly resplendent nature. Our existence is an extraordinary privilege, an opportunity to bear witness to the majesty of this world. into oblivion.

God bless

mindful momentum

Posted on by Ajmal

I am not a big admirer of a culture of haste and frenzy that prioritizes material wealth and status over the quality of our inner lives and deeper human connections. With a lofty aim to unlock our innate creative potential, I believe undivided stretches of focused time represent one of our greatest resources for artistic productivity and spiritual growth. I sometimes discuss with Netta on the importance and benefits of undivided time during our we moment discourses.

A plate painting done by my two-year-old son. The swirling coalescence of colors on canvas, artlessly applied by tiny fingers yet conveying profound depths, stops me in my tracks. The brushstrokes of my two-year-old son, perhaps guided by some innate yet untutored wisdom beyond his years, reveal the ineffable dance of chaos and order, signifying nothing yet containing the whole universe in their abstract simplicity. I see eternity in a grain of sand, infinity in a child’s primitive painting. The small hand that mixed the paints with such care, adding depth and texture through the miraculous alchemy of color, bestows upon this humble work a luminosity that belies its humble origins.

In essence, there’s a new wave of understanding that challenges the pervasive culture of haste and frenzy that has arisen in the wake of globalization, driven by an insatiable quest for material abundance and social status rather than a focus on the intrinsic quality of life and the essence of existence. Despite their 35-hour workweek, the French exhibit greater productivity than their American or British counterparts. Meanwhile, Germany has instituted a 28.8-hour workweek, resulting in a remarkable 20% increase in productivity. I can see this trend influencing authorities in Middle east as well where I’m residing.

The philosophy of leisurely deliberation does not imply a reduction in productivity or accomplishments; rather, it advocates for the pursuit of excellence, efficiency, and meticulousness in one’s work, all while minimizing stress. It calls for a rekindling of the importance of family, friends, and leisure, emphasizing the present moment, tangible and specific, over the abstract and global. The movement urges a return to the core human values and the elegance of simplicity in life.

This paradigm shift promotes a more contented, buoyant, and efficient work environment, where individuals can revel in their innate talents and expertise. It is now imperative for organizations to pause and contemplate how they can achieve superior quality and efficiency without haste, thereby enhancing the caliber of their products and services while preserving the essence of their raison d’être.

Countless individuals spend their lives in a perpetual race against time in a rat race. Others, consumed by anticipation of the future, neglect to embrace the present moment, which is the sole temporal reality that truly matters. Time is a universally equitable resource, with no individual possessing more or less of it than another. The distinction lies in how each person utilizes their allotted time. It is incumbent upon us to savor every instant. As eloquently expressed by John Lennon, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.”

persevere

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Not sure if it happens for you. For me, I can make myself so busy and overwhelmed with tasks and details and sometimes can get burnouts and needs reboot and rest to relapse from within. I try to reinforce myself with thoughts within and let’s put these to words as future notes to myself and to you if you have your inner struggles.

Persevere, dear soul. Desist not in your quest for endurance. Merely traverse the path of this single day, a mere span of twenty-four hours, encompassing 1,440 fleeting minutes. Allow yourself the grace of living within this modest time frame.

Embrace the dawn of each new day. Then, as tomorrows accumulate, gradually expand your ambitions. Seek the warmth of companionship over a shared meal, rekindle your passion for a once-loved pursuit, or embark on a voyage to distant lands. Fine art and styling by The Border of a Mind Studios.

Inhale deeply, then exude. Engage in the simple rituals of self-care: cleanse your body, polish your teeth, exchange your nightclothes for the attire of the waking world. Accomplish a task, however minuscule it may appear.

In moments when existence itself seems an insurmountable challenge, refrain from chastising your own spirit. Cease the relentless drive for more. Dismiss the notion that your achievements are devoid of significance.

This day need not herald monumental occurrences: the discovery of a lifelong companion, the attainment of your professional aspirations, or the completion of a laborious undertaking. Today is but one more step in the grand journey of life.

Do not berate yourself for the struggles you face. Instead, revel in the triumph of each hour conquered, each day surmounted. For at times, this constitutes the most arduous battle one must wage.

Persist in this endeavor, reaching for the morrow. Allow this singular objective to guide you: embrace the dawn of each new day. Then, as tomorrows accumulate, gradually expand your ambitions. Seek the warmth of companionship over a shared meal, rekindle your passion for a once-loved pursuit, or embark on a voyage to distant lands.

In due course, the act of living will lose its daunting veneer. Yet, even when contentment graces your existence, there will remain moments of setback, of tribulation. In these instances, remind yourself of the humble yet profound aspiration: to greet the coming dawn.

serene mirage

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An oft echoing theme I’ve written a lot on this portal is about transience. I want it to be a big part of my thought process as it has several extensions to it.

We go about our lives as if our dreams and ambitions are guaranteed, as if we have complete control over our destiny. However, this perception is an illusion, and within it lies a liberating revelation, accompanied by a sense of urgency that jolts us awake


In the realm of our fleeting existence, we are faced with a disconcerting truth. Though it may be difficult to grasp, we must occasionally remind ourselves that, in the most fundamental human sense, we are living with borrowed time. We go about our lives as if our dreams and ambitions are guaranteed, as if we have complete control over our destiny. However, this perception is an illusion, and within it lies a liberating revelation, accompanied by a sense of urgency that jolts us awake.

Remember, tomorrow is not a guaranteed promise. So, how will you ensure that you wholeheartedly embrace life? How will you ensure that when the time comes for you to depart from this world, your soul will be tender, fulfilled, and enriched by meaningful experiences? A soul that was never burdened by the need to shrink itself, forever waiting for the day it becomes thinner, more attractive, cooler, or more successful before seizing the precious time it has been given.

eliminating the extraneous

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The ceaseless barrage of tasks, obligations, and information streams that inundate us undoubtedly leads to disarray and bewilderment. Yet, is complexity truly a prerequisite for a fulfilling life?

Within the realm of human existence, there exists a profound inclination to gravitate towards complexity. The ceaseless barrage of tasks, obligations, and information streams that inundate us undoubtedly leads to disarray and bewilderment. Yet, is complexity truly a prerequisite for a fulfilling life? Might simplicity, in fact, be the ultimate expression of sophistication?

From a philosophical perspective, simplicity is the key to a purposeful and meaningful existence. By eliminating extraneous elements, we are able to hone in on what is truly significant, and foster a sense of lucidity and inner tranquility. Simplicity enables us to connect with the very essence of our being, and to revel in the splendor and marvels of the world surrounding us.

In a world that exalts complexity and busyness, it is incumbent upon us to deliberately simplify our lives. By curtailing our commitments and information streams to only those that engender delight and value, we can achieve greater equilibrium and fulfillment. Simplification endows us with an opportunity to luxuriate in the richness of life, and to cherish the marvels of existence in their purest form. I firmly believe that the truest form of wisdom lies in the ability to simplify the complex.

beauty beyond imagination

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I happened to hear this from a discourse yesterday – A beautiful life is just an imagination, but life is more beautiful than your imaginations.

We may not ponder about this in our daily routine bandwagon. The world is full of wonder, and life is no exception. We often dream of what our lives could be – the adventures we could have, the people we could meet, the memories we could make. But the reality is that life has a way of surpassing even our wildest dreams.

capturing my friend MHP on the glorious Hajar mountains | Photography and styling: The Border Of a Mind Studios

Embrace the Unexpected

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and that’s what makes it so beautiful. The moments that catch us off guard, the experiences that challenge us, the people who surprise us – these are the things that make life worth living. When we open ourselves up to the unexpected, we allow ourselves to fully experience all the joys and sorrows that life has to offer. My perception about uncertainty has changed a lot in the past years. I used to see uncertainty in the past years as something to be anxious about, but now with several experiences that I’ve come across, I’m slowly moving to seeing uncertainity as a suprise unboxing of moments. It’s a humble effort to develop trust in the divine as well and put the mind at ease.

Chase Your Passions

Yes, the good old cliche one. We all have things that we love – hobbies, interests, causes that we’re passionate about. These are the things that make us feel alive, that give us a sense of purpose and fulfillment. When we pursue our passions, we tap into a wellspring of creativity and inspiration that can carry us through even the toughest times. Not everyone is fortunate to get a job that we love for various reasons. Still, we can put in our best effort and make your presence felt with your dedication and hard work. Expand into new avenues. Personally, I have made a yearlong consistent attempt to learn little bit of Arabic (still ongoing), and I am trying to master new AI tools to improve my efficiency.

Find Beauty in the Ordinary

Life isn’t always about the big moments – sometimes it’s the small things that make all the difference. The way the sunlight filters through the trees, the light gleams through the apartment balcony, impromptu hugs from my two year old son, – these are the moments that fill hearts with joy and remind us of the beauty that surrounds us every day. I get excited with the birds at the balcony and the way my son is curious about.

Celebrate Connection

At the end of the day, life is all about connection. The people we love, the relationships we build – these are the things that truly matter. Whether it’s a deep conversation with a friend or a quiet moment of reflection with ourselves, connection is what gives our lives meaning and purpose.

Let’s don’t just imagine a beautiful life – let’s try to live it. Because when you do, we may slowly realize that life could be more beautiful than our imaginations. God bless.