Authenticity in writing is a rare gem in the digital age, where the proliferation of clickbait and affiliate links has muddled the waters of online content. The personal blog domain at its core, however, remains a bastion of honesty and research, offering readers a glimpse into the writer’s unique perspective on the world.
As a writer, my humble goal is to blend the written word with visual elements in a way that is both engaging and authentic. My themes are not chosen, but rather discovered through the process of exploring experiences and allowing them to reveal themselves. The history of personal, authentic writing is one of independence and a refusal to be subsumed by the machinery of the global web. My blog aims to continue this tradition by offering readers a truly authentic take on the world, unencumbered by the pressures of the digital age.
The little betta fish that I recently added to my desk is a true beauty, with its bright red color and white fin ends. It’s a half-moon type and as it gracefully glides through the water, it’s a peaceful watch for me to behold. The mere glance of the fish is a satisfying one, and it brings a sense of calm to my day. I enjoy watching it explore every inch of its lush green forest-like aquarium, swimming through the dense foliage and resting on the wooden driftwood. It’s a reminder of the vastness and beauty of the world outside my four walls.
The betta fish also serves as a reminder to me, that amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s important to find moments of peace and tranquility. It reminds me that sometimes it’s the small things in life that bring the greatest joy. My betta fish is a source of balance and harmony in my daily desk routine, and it’s a reminder to appreciate the beauty in the small things. It’s a reminder that even in the smallest of spaces, there is always room for something beautiful and peaceful. May you have a day of inner peace : )
Attention Abundance – Fine art from The Border of a Mind Studios.
A topic that I’ve pondered a lot on crafting several portions of this blog is undivided attention and its grace. Attention, in its purest form, is an act of generosity that requires an immense amount of selflessness and discipline. When we give someone our full attention, we are gifting them with our most precious commodity – time. Time is a non-renewable resource, once spent it can never be regained. In this way, attention is the rarest form of generosity because it is a one-way transaction, one that can never be reciprocated.
In an age of constant distractions, where our attention is pulled in a million different directions, giving someone our full attention has become an increasingly challenging task. It requires a level of mental fortitude and a steadfast commitment to the present moment. In a world where the next shiny object is always just a click or swipe away, the ability to focus and give someone our undivided attention is a truly remarkable and valuable skill. It is one that, when practiced, can deepen connections, foster understanding, and create a sense of empathy and compassion. Attention is not only a gift to the recipient, but it is also a gift to ourselves, as it allows us to fully engage with the world around us, and to live in the present moment. Personally, I was able to have deep personal connections with people with whom this has resonated well and they’re an integral part of my mental space. And in all probability, they’re reading these lines now. Grateful for taking your precious time in glancing at these lines.
that which is most valuable is often the most elusive.
As I delved into the writings of a theologian from the 8th century , I stumbled upon a passage that struck a chord within me. The author, whose work can be loosely translated as “Contemplations and Reflections on the Deeper Meaning of Prayer,” (Since the work is not in english) posits that the plans of the divine and deeper spiritual knowledge are akin to precious treasures, buried deep and obscured from those who do not actively seek them out. This analogy extends to the fruits of the earth as well, for they too are not immediately apparent, but require peeling away layers to reveal their sweetness. Some of the sweetest fruits are not the easiest ones to grow or has the hardest shells. This, the author asserts, is an immutable principle: that which is most valuable is often the most elusive.
This, I believe, holds true for spiritual knowledge as well. To attain a deeper understanding of the divine, one must engage in a process of laborious exploration and comprehension. Such knowledge is not imparted easily to the indolent (lazy) or impetuous (hasty) souls. It accrues over time, through the application of both mental exertion and patience. It grows with time, comprehension and hard work.
The same can be said of prayer. To experience it in its fullest, one must make a concerted effort to delve deeper, approaching it with a sense of incremental progression and unwavering commitment. To reach the most profound understanding, it is necessary to take it slowly, gradually and incrementally, breaking through screens and levels, struggling to understand and remaining loyal to the knowledge. It is only through this process that the knowledge will start to yield to you.
A fortress of protection is built around you, fending off distractions of the mind, as you strive to understand the deeper meaning of prayer. It is in this journey, this struggle, that we find true understanding and enlightenment.
As a parent, it is always a heartwarming and humbling experience to witness your child start to pay attention to the things you do. For me, one of the most memorable moments was when my 1.5 year old son began to join me in prayer on the prayer mat.
At first, I was unsure if he fully understood what was happening, but as time passed, it became clear that he was closely observing my actions and trying to imitate them. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of example and the influence we can have on the next generation.
Recently, a relative of ours gifted us a small prayer mat for my son, and he has taken to laying it beside mine and participating in prayer with me. It is a small gesture, but it fills my heart with joy to see him taking a genuine interest in something that is so meaningful to me.
As we go about our daily lives, it is easy to forget the impact we have on those around us, particularly our children. But moments like these remind me of the influence we can have, and the importance of setting a good example for them to follow.
As the sun sets over the city, I find myself sitting on the balcony of my apartment, lost in thought. I have always been fascinated by the concept of attention, and how it has the power to shape our lives and the world around us.
In a world where there are endless distractions vying for our attention, it can be difficult to focus on anything for very long. We are constantly bombarded with notifications and alerts, pulled in different directions by our various obligations and responsibilities. It is no wonder that many of us feel overwhelmed and exhausted at the end of the day.
But there is something special about those moments when we are able to fully immerse ourselves in a task or a person. When we give our undivided attention to something, we are able to see it more clearly, to understand it more fully. We are able to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around us.
And this is where the concept of generosity comes in. When we give our attention to someone or something, we are giving a gift. We are showing that we value that person or thing, that we are willing to make time for it, to engage with it fully. It is a simple but powerful act, one that can have a profound impact on the world around us.
So perhaps the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or distracted, try taking a moment to focus on something or someone. Give your full attention, and see what happens. You might be surprised at the difference it can make.
From Ehan’s moment of contemplation, gazing at the horizon’s boundless realm.
As I journey through life, I am learning the value of patience. I am learning to let go of my rush to control every aspect of my existence, and to simply allow the beauty of life to unfold before me. I am learning to let things happen in their own time, to be patient as I receive all that I deserve, and to find happiness in the present moment.
I am also learning to appreciate each stage of my journey, to find joy within myself rather than seeking it external sources. This is not always easy, but it is a lesson that is worth learning.
For in this world, there is much to be gained from slowing down, from taking a breath and savoring each moment. We often rush through life, missing the beauty that surrounds us in our haste. But if we can learn to be patient, to let life be beautiful, we will find a joy and a peace that is truly profound.
This is a memory from a travel to Georgia in 2017. As I embarked upon my journey through the Gudauri snow mountains in Georgia, I was filled with a sense of excitement and wonder. It was my first experience with snow, and I could not wait to immerse myself in its frosty embrace.
The journey itself was a revelation. As our vehicle wound its way through the winding mountain roads, I was struck by the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. The snow-capped peaks loomed above us, a majestic testament to the power of nature.
And when we arrived at our destination, I was awestruck by the sheer majesty of the snow-covered slopes. The crisp, clean air invigorated my senses, and I felt a sense of pure joy and bliss as I took my first tentative steps onto the powdery white surface.
As I glided down the mountain, the wind rushing through my hair and the sun shining down upon me, I knew that this was a moment I would always treasure. The Gudauri snow mountains had given me a gift, one that I would carry with me always – the memory of my first, magical encounter with snow.
As I surveyed my cramped abode, my potted companions and I seemed to have reached the limits of our cohabitation. But then, a glimmer of an idea dawned upon me – why not elevate our greenery to new heights?
With a curious toddler constantly exploring every nook and cranny of our home, the tops of my windows seemed like the perfect solution. Not only would it free up valuable floor space, it would also keep my plants out of reach of little hands.
And so, with great care and perseverance, I transported my verdant friends to their new home. The task was no easy feat, as each watering and replenishment required a treacherous ascent. Yet, the reward was more than worth the effort.
Not only did the plants invigorate my dwelling with their lively presence, they also aided in the creation of an optical illusion, making the space below seem more expansive. It was as if a gust of fresh air had swept through my humble home.
While this solution may not be suitable for all, it was, for me, a simple yet effective means of maximizing my residential retreat while also keeping my plants safe from curious little hands. It is often the minimalist ideas that have the greatest impact. As I beheld my flourishing flora, a wave of accomplishment and satisfaction washed over me.
Exploring the expo’s vibrant streets, I embraced a world of wonder and possibility. Towering skyscrapers and cutting-edge technology surrounded me as I walked towards the future. Every step brought me closer to the endless potential of this extraordinary place. From a memory of brother’s visit to Dubai.
As we hurtle through the ceaseless churn of life, it is all too easy to become ensnared in the unforgiving gears of progress. We are told that we must ascend the corporate ladder, that we must shatter the glass ceiling if we are to attain success. But what if there were another way?
Perhaps it is time to heed the call of slowness, to inhale deeply and relish in the small triumphs. There is no need to tirelessly hustle each and every moment – indeed, it is crucial to take a step back and savor the present. Your life is not a LinkedIn profile, nor is your worth determined by your salary or the luxuriousness of your mode of transportation. Rather, it is defined by the manner in which you choose to exist. Therefore, make time for those things that truly matter.
So go ahead, indulge in a bit of laziness on the weekends. Lie in bed and leisurely brunch with a loved one. Take the time to sit and savor your coffee, rather than guzzling it on the go. Decline invitations to events that do not inspire you. Treat yourself to a comforting bowl of noodles. Exercise, but do not push yourself to the point of exhaustion. Meditate, and take leisurely drives with no particular destination in mind. And do not forget to unplug from social media from time to time – a vacation from the constant barrage of notifications can work wonders for the soul.
It is easy to fall prey to the belief that we must become a certain someone by a certain age. But the truth is that we are each granted but one journey through this world. Do not squander it in the pursuit of empty achievement. Instead, live fully and authentically. Remember that it is perfectly acceptable to simply be oneself. You are enough, just as you are.
