Tag: Experiences

a feline fiasco under the hood

Posted on by Ajmal

It was just another mundane wednesday afternoon, wrapping up work with the usual stack of spreadsheets , cad files and emails. My colleague Shyamatron and I were heading to the parking lot, discussing the day’s stuff and ready to tackle the Dubai traffic on the way home. Little did I know that my car had attracted an unexpected – and rather vocal – passenger.

As I slid into the driver’s seat and turned the key, something seemed off. Instead of the familiar purr of the engine, an unholy combination of sounds erupted from under the hood – a mixture of mechanical grinding and what sounded like… crying? I exchanged puzzled glances with Shyamatron, who looked equally bewildered. At first, I assumed the worst: had my car finally succumbed to some mystery ailment? “Not now,” I muttered, “please, not today.” I quickly switched off the engine, hoping that whatever was happening would just magically disappear.. The second attempt produced the same haunting symphony. At this point, my mind started racing through worst-case scenarios – had my reliable four-wheeler finally decided to throw a mechanical tantrum?

Being the amateur mechanic I pretend to be, I popped out to investigate, peering under the car like a confused archaeologist examining ancient ruins. Nothing seemed amiss, yet the moment I attempted a third start, the truth revealed itself in the form of an unmistakable “MEOW!” Ah, so my car hadn’t transformed into some crying machine – it had merely been hijacked by a feline desperado! The plot thickened as we tried to locate our mysterious passenger. It was like playing an automotive version of hide-and-seek, except our hidden player had four paws and apparently a very strong set of lungs. Finally, I opened the trunk, and in a flash of fur and indignation, our uninvited guest made a dramatic exit, disappearing into the parking lot faster than my last paycheck. As Shyamatron and I stood there, processing what had just happened, we couldn’t help but laugh. Here we were, two grown adults, outsmarted by a cat who had chosen my car as its temporary luxury suite. Perhaps it was looking for a free ride home, or maybe it was just auditioning for the role of my car’s new alarm system. One thing’s for certain – I now have a new morning routine: checking under my car for any melodious stowaways before starting my day. After all, you never know when your vehicle might decide to double as a cat carrier!

things left behind

Posted on by Ajmal

There’s a quiet tragedy in things left behind. Empty rooms that once echoed with laughter now sit in silence, their walls bearing the fading traces of past lives. Buildings stand unfinished or forgotten, relics of dreams that were never fulfilled. Streets no longer walked on, chairs no longer sat in, stories that will never be told. There is a sadness in abandonment, distinct from the solitude of choosing to be alone. It’s the reminder that everything, at some point, was cherished, needed, or inhabited.We are creatures made for connection, drawn to places, people, and memories. To be left behind, or to witness something left behind, stirs something deep within us. It’s why we hold onto family, create communities, and fill our lives with others. Belonging is not just a desire—it’s essential. When we see something or someone cast aside, it echoes a fear and longing we all understand. Perhaps that’s why we look at abandoned places and feel a strange familiarity, a reminder of the need to belong, to love, and to live fully, lest we too fade into forgotten memories.

every moment is significant.

Posted on by Ajmal

Every moment holds its own quiet significance. The warmth of fresh-baked bread. The sharpness of a new pencil. The geometry of latticed pie crust. The quiet ache of hands letting go. The velvet texture of a ripe peach. The murmur of morning birds. A detour that led to an unexpected view. The melancholy of an unfinished song. The stillness of waiting for a friend to arrive. The golden crunch of a perfectly toasted baguette. The anticipation of an unread post card. The thrill of a second glance.

raindrops, a deeper delve

Posted on by Ajmal

It’s easy to take rain for granted. We watch as drops fall softly from the sky, nourishing the earth, cooling the air, and filling rivers and lakes. But have you ever paused to wonder why rain falls as gentle droplets, rather than torrents or cascades? This simple, familiar process is brimming with signs of intricacy, each step hinting at something purposeful, a design too delicate and intentional to ignore.

Every year, about 45 million cubic meters of water evaporate from the oceans, lifted by winds and transformed into clouds. These clouds carry fresh water over land, blessing us with rain. But if nature were any less refined, rain might fall in destructive sheets, tearing apart crops, drowning streets, and creating endless floods. Instead, raindrops fall softly and steadily, sustaining life. This balance speaks of a natural intelligence, a thoughtful arrangement in every droplet.

Raindrops form high in the sky, beginning as tiny particles of water vapor. As they ascend, they combine with dust and charged particles, clumping together and increasing in size until they’re too heavy to remain in the clouds. Yet they don’t just plummet. They fall as graceful droplets, shaped and slowed by air resistance. This gentle descent means rain reaches the ground at a pace that nurtures, rather than harms. Imagine if raindrops didn’t slow down—the impact from high clouds would be catastrophic, with drops hitting at speeds dangerous enough to damage buildings, landscapes, and people.

Then there’s the question of temperature. Rain falls from great heights, gaining speed and experiencing friction along the way. This friction could easily heat each drop to boiling point, but it doesn’t. Instead, the water stays cool as it condenses and falls, due to the perfect balance of cooling and vaporization processes. Thanks to this balance, every drop remains a source of refreshing life, not scalding heat.

The same balance that creates raindrops makes them pure. Even though rainwater originates from salty oceans, it returns to us without the salt and impurities. Rainwater replenishes the earth, nourishing plants, replenishing rivers, and supporting life everywhere it falls. Without this purity, plants would wither, and ecosystems would struggle. Each drop is, in a sense, nature’s gift, wrapped in purity and life-giving sustenance.

Rain’s ability to nourish extends beyond hydration; it’s a powerful natural fertilizer. As rain travels through the atmosphere, it collects essential minerals, returning to the ground and replenishing the earth. Forests grow lush, fields thrive, and even nutrient-poor soils become rich over time. In this way, rain does more than water the earth; it feeds it. Through this natural process, a balance is achieved, preserving the ecosystems we rely on.

Looking up at a raincloud, consider the intricacy involved in the process that allows such clouds to hang in the sky. Each drop, each gust of wind, each change in air pressure contributes to a delicate dance, and no two clouds are ever the same. It’s this balance, this awe-inspiring orchestration, that turns simple water into one of nature’s most precious resources, a clear reminder of the wisdom interwoven in every corner of our world.

unwinding destiny

Posted on by Ajmal

Imagine you’re at a movie theater, watching a film unfold. You’re caught up in the suspense, wondering how the story will end. Yet, to the director, the film’s conclusion is no mystery; the entire storyline is known, edited, and complete. This metaphor may hint at our own lives, suggesting that events we experience moment by moment could be more like scenes on a reel than spontaneous occurrences. But what if everything in our lives—every choice, every path, every twist—was already “edited” in a cosmic timeline, unchangeable, yet new to us? Such a notion, destiny as preordained, is profoundly thought-provoking.

The concept of destiny—that our lives and the universe itself are a kind of prewritten script—leads to a natural question: do we have any real control over what happens? This is not a new debate; philosophers, theologians, and even scientists have pondered it for centuries. Some believe that destiny is a divine design, where every event is part of a plan beyond human understanding. Others argue that we actively shape our lives through choices, claiming agency in the “unknown” future. Yet, modern neuroscience raises an intriguing perspective, suggesting that our choices may be “pre-decided” by our brains before we are consciously aware of them. Experiments in brain science have shown that when we think we’re making a decision, our brain activity shows signs of that choice seconds before we become aware of it. This strange finding implies that free will, at least as we traditionally understand it, might be less “free” than we assume.

But what does this mean for how we live? If every choice we make is part of an unseen, predetermined plan, does that free us from responsibility? Or does it offer a sense of peace, knowing that there’s a purpose and order behind all that happens? Imagine, for instance, a time when you faced a challenging decision. Perhaps you weighed pros and cons, sought advice, and finally made your choice. According to some perspectives on destiny, even that process was guided by something beyond you, aligning you with a path already set out. From this view, our struggles, decisions, and even moments of hesitation are all part of a predetermined journey, one we are invited to experience rather than control.

On the flip side, living as though we have free will can be empowering. It means taking responsibility for our actions, creating our future, and embracing life’s unpredictability. Yet, the paradox remains: if our choices are prewritten, then our sense of “choosing” becomes part of the experience we’re meant to have. In this way, destiny might not mean we’re puppets on strings but rather that we are participants in a story written to teach, challenge, and grow us.

Ultimately, considering destiny in this way can deepen our approach to life and our relationship with the Almighty. If every twist and turn of our journey is part of a grand design, it suggests not randomness but divine intention, woven by a Creator who knows every detail of our lives. Knowing that our path may be guided by the wisdom and love of God can bring a sense of peace and purpose, especially in difficult moments. It’s as though every joy, every challenge, and even every misstep is part of a divine plan, crafted to teach, strengthen, and elevate us in ways we might not fully understand.

the small threads

Posted on by Ajmal

You know, it’s funny how the most meaningful parts of life often hide in the simplest things. In the steam rising from your morning tea. In the dog-eared pages of a book you’ve read a hundred times. In those late-night chats that somehow make the stars shine brighter. In the scuffed toes of your favorite sneakers. In the grass stains on well-worn jeans. In the smears of paint on your hands after a creative burst. In the contagious giggle of a toddler. In the laugh lines that grace your face. In the fingerprints smudged on a mirror. In the collection of stamps on a well-traveled suitcase. In the fridge magnets that map out your journeys. In the seashells gathered from distant shores. In the tangle of cords under your desk that keep you connected. In the comfy sweater with a fraying hem. In the empty plates from a meal shared with loved ones. In handwritten postcards sent from afar. In playlists carefully curated just for you. In the crumbs left from a shared slice of pie. In the origami crane folded with care. Life isn’t just the big events or grand achievements. It’s woven into these tiny, often overlooked moments that make up our days. So next time you notice these little things, take a moment. They’re the threads that stitch together the fabric of your existence.

thoughtful silence in a noisy world

Posted on by Ajmal

Thank you again for coming. You know how much I value your time ? Really grateful for coming back to my writings. Today, we shall together delve into something that’s been on my mind? We’ve grown up hearing that “speaking your mind” is this ultimate badge of honor. That holding back is somehow dishonest or weak. But let’s question that for a moment. Is constantly voicing every thought really the virtue it’s cracked up to be?In our hyper-connected world, we’ve got this incredible power at our fingertips. A few taps, and our thoughts are out there for everyone to see. Social media platforms have become soapboxes for millions, and the anonymity they offer can be a double-edged sword.Because here’s the flip side: when we’re hidden behind screens, we sometimes forget that our words can cut deep. It’s all too easy to fire off a snarky comment, a harsh critique, or an unsolicited opinion without considering the impact.

Have you noticed how the online world is flooded with opinions on everything? From how someone should live their life to critiques of a meal they’ve never tasted. Everyone’s an expert, everyone’s a critic. But with all this noise, are we actually saying anything meaningful?Maybe it’s time we embrace the power of restraint. There’s immense value in knowing when to speak and when to hold back. Silence isn’t about suppressing ourselves; it’s about choosing our battles, about respecting others, and about understanding that our perspective isn’t the only one that matters.

Think about conversations you’ve had where you truly felt heard. Chances are, the other person did more listening than talking. They weren’t just waiting for their turn to speak; they were engaged, considerate, present.What if we applied that same approach to our online interactions? Before jumping in with our two cents, we could take a moment to really absorb what’s being said. We could ask ourselves whether our input will help or hinder.By being more mindful, we not only elevate the quality of our own communication but also contribute to a more respectful and understanding community. We reduce the clutter of meaningless chatter and make space for genuine dialogue.

So, let’s challenge the notion that we must always speak our minds. Let’s recognize that sometimes, the bravest, most impactful choice is to stay silent. Not out of fear, but out of respect—for others and for ourselves.Next time you’re tempted to fire off that quick retort or unsolicited advice, pause. Take a breath. Consider the weight of your words. You might just find that saying less can actually mean so much more.

valuing this moment that you have

Posted on by Ajmal

I’m so thankful for your glance at my writings when you and me are in a sort of a weird world that’s constantly urging us to look back or plan ahead, we often overlook the most crucial element of our existence: the present moment. This very second is the only time that’s truly ours. Haven’t you felt so ? I feel it all the time. The past is a collection of memories—some sweet, others bitter—that have shaped us but are no longer within our grasp. The future is a canvas of possibilities, painted with our hopes and fears, but it’s yet to unfold. Clinging too tightly to what was or yearning excessively for what could be can rob us of the richness that the present has to offer.

Whether you’re walking along the downtown cafes in Dubai, navigating the bustling streets of Kunnamkulam, cruising at 30,000 feet above the ground, or simply sitting alone with your thoughts, life is happening right now. The experiences of yesterday, like a past love or a significant achievement, contribute to your story but aren’t the entirety of it. Likewise, dreams and plans for tomorrow give you direction but aren’t guaranteed.The true essence of life lies in fully engaging with the present moment. It’s in savoring the taste of your food, feeling the rhythm of your breath, or appreciating the smile of a stranger. When we anchor ourselves in the now, we become more attuned to the subtleties of our existence. We start to notice the things we often take for granted—the warmth of the sun on our skin, the sound of leaves rustling in the wind, the comfort of silence.

Living in the present doesn’t mean we dismiss our past or disregard our future. It’s about finding a balance where we acknowledge where we’ve been and where we hope to go, without letting either dominate our consciousness. It’s an invitation to practice mindfulness, to be fully aware of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment.Moreover, embracing the present can lead to greater fulfillment and happiness.

Studies in psychology suggest that people who focus on the now tend to experience less stress and greater overall well-being. They build deeper connections with others because they’re genuinely engaged. They make more thoughtful decisions because they’re attuned to their true needs and values at the moment.

So, how do we cultivate this present-centered approach to life? It can start with small, intentional actions. Take a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on your breath. Engage in activities that absorb you completely, whether it’s painting, dancing, or cooking. Limit distractions when interacting with others—put away your phone and truly listen. Remind yourself periodically throughout the day to return your attention to the here and now.

Life is a series of moments strung together, and the only one we can truly experience is the current one. By embracing this second—fully and without reservation—we open ourselves up to the profound depth and beauty that life has to offer. So wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, take a moment to breathe deeply and appreciate the now. In doing so, you’re not just passing through life; you’re living it to the fullest.

delving into depths of a person

Posted on by Ajmal

A topic that I often write about and excited to ponder about. Picture receiving an elegantly wrapped box of chocolates. You open it with anticipation, enjoying each carefully crafted piece. As you reach the end, you feel content yet slightly wistful that it’s over. But then, to your surprise, you realize there’s another layer beneath the first. This unexpected find brings a renewed sense of joy and indulgence.

This experience serves as a powerful metaphor for the journey of deepening relationships.At the outset of any relationship—be it friendship, family, or romance—we engage with what’s readily apparent. We notice someone’s sense of humor, shared interests, or the way they make us feel comfortable. These initial connections are like the first layer of chocolates: satisfying and delightful, but only a part of the whole experience.As we invest time and emotional energy, we begin to uncover the deeper aspects of a person’s character. We learn about their values, their past experiences, their hopes for the future. We discover their hidden talents, their secret fears, and the little quirks that make them unique. Each new revelation is akin to finding another delicious treat in that second layer—unexpected and enriching.

This process of unveiling hidden depths is what transforms a casual acquaintance into a profound connection. It requires patience, curiosity, and a willingness to look beyond the surface. In doing so, we not only learn more about the other person but also about ourselves. We challenge our assumptions, broaden our perspectives, and grow emotionally.In today’s fast-paced world, where interactions are often fleeting and superficial, taking the time to delve deeper can feel like a lost art. Social media profiles and quick texts may give the illusion of connection, but they rarely capture the complexities of a person’s inner world. By contrast, meaningful relationships flourish when we make the effort to explore and appreciate the layers that lie beneath.Moreover, the metaphor of the hidden tray of chocolates reminds us that people are full of surprises. Just when we think we know everything about someone, they can reveal new facets that delight and intrigue us.

This element of surprise keeps relationships dynamic and prevents them from becoming stagnant. It encourages us to remain engaged and invested, knowing there’s always more to discover.Embracing the journey of uncovering hidden layers also fosters empathy and understanding. As we learn about the challenges others have faced, we become more compassionate. We recognize the shared humanity in our experiences, building stronger bonds based on trust and mutual respect.In essence, finding that hidden layer of chocolates symbolizes the joy of discovering the depth and richness that others have to offer. It’s a reminder to approach relationships with an open heart and mind, ready to appreciate the full spectrum of someone’s being. By doing so, we enhance not only our connections with others but also the quality of our own lives.So, next time you engage with someone—whether a new acquaintance or a long-time friend—consider the possibility of hidden layers waiting to be explored. Take the time to ask meaningful questions, listen attentively, and share openly. You might just find that, like uncovering that unexpected second tray of sweets, the rewards are sweeter than you ever imagined.

Podcast based on it:

layering up nostalgia

Posted on by Ajmal

The journey through life is marked by moments that leave an indelible imprint on our hearts. These moments, often simple and unassuming at the time, grow in significance as the years pass. They become the cornerstones of our nostalgia—a complex emotion that intertwines joy, longing, and reflection. Nostalgia, however, is not a solid structure but a delicate whisper, easily scattered by the winds of time and scrutiny.

When we attempt to dissect these cherished memories, seeking to understand every facet, we risk diminishing their essence. The act of over-analyzing can strip away the spontaneous beauty that made them special. To guard against this, we subconsciously envelop these memories in layers of personal narrative and gentle embellishment. It’s not about distorting the truth but about capturing the feeling—the laughter shared, the warmth felt, the sense of belonging.This layering is akin to placing a fragile keepsake within a protective case.

We surround our memories with supportive elements drawn from our imagination and emotions. By doing so, we create a buffer that shields them from the erosion that can come with time and external influences. These protective layers allow the core of the memory to remain intact, preserving its ability to comfort and inspire us.Moreover, this process highlights the subjective nature of memory itself. Our recollections are not just recordings of events but are influenced by our perceptions and the meanings we assign to them. The nostalgia we feel is deeply personal, colored by who we were then and who we have become. Recognizing this helps us appreciate the value of our memories without holding them to an impossible standard of factual accuracy.In embracing the fragility of nostalgia, we learn to handle our past with care.

We accept that some details may blur or shift, but the emotions—the true heart of the memories—remain steadfast. By nurturing our nostalgia thoughtfully, we allow it to enrich our present, providing a wellspring of inspiration and a touchstone for our identity. It’s a delicate balance of holding on and letting go, of remembering fondly without becoming lost in what once was. In this mindful approach, we find that our memories continue to offer joy and guidance, a soft light that illuminates our path forward.