Gratitude is something you can carry with you, something that finds its place in every corner of life. You can pause to be grateful in the hush of early morning, cradling a cup of coffee as dawn breaks through your window. You might whisper thanks while waiting in line at the lulu hypermarket, or as you sit in traffic watching the world rush by. Gratitude can sneak up on you while taking a quiet walk by the corniche, feeling the sand beneath your feet, or as you pause to watch children laughing and playing in a nearby park .You can take a moment to feel thankful while curled up with a book, losing yourself in the worlds within its pages or my blog even : ) if you read it often, or just before biting into a warm slice of homemade samoosa or a morsel of chicken dum biriyani. Gratitude can be as simple as the warmth of a shared laugh over a kitchen table or the quiet contentment that follows a long phone call with an old friend. You can say a quick thank-you as you catch the colors of a sunset spilling across the sky, or as you stand barefoot on cool grass under a blanket of stars. There is no right place or time to feel gratitude. It’s a gift you can give yourself at any moment, wherever you are.
In my thoughts before writing abstracts on the blog, it’s always etched in my mind that longing isn’t bound by rules. You can yearn for a moment, a feeling, a place, or a version of yourself that no longer exists. You might miss a person who once filled your days with laughter, or a quiet morning spent in a city that now feels like a distant dream. You can miss the person you once aspired to be, or the path you didn’t take, a life that seemed possible but never came to be.
There’s an ache in recalling a shared meal with someone you’ve lost touch with or a fleeting connection that slipped away too soon. You can feel the absence of a friend who lives oceans away, or the gentle embrace of a loved one sitting right beside you. Sometimes, you even miss the things that never truly belonged to you—a cozy armchair by a fire you only saw in passing, a sunset view from a mountain you haven’t climbed, or a life story you glimpsed but couldn’t make your own.
And perhaps, there’s the most bittersweet longing of all: when what you miss reappears in your life, only for you to realize that the memory was warmer, more comforting than the reality. In that moment, you understand that sometimes, the idea of something holds more power than its presence ever could.
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.
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.
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.
Life is a rollercoaster of emotions. One day, everything feels incredible, like you’re on top of the world, and the next, things can feel heavy, overwhelming. And then, after the storm passes, you find yourself back in the quiet rhythm of normal days—where nothing spectacular is happening, but everything is steady and calm. This is where most of life happens, in that space between the highs and the lows.The truth is, life isn’t always going to be amazing, and it won’t always be awful. There’s beauty in the balance. When the good times come, soak them in—celebrate them fully. When the hard days arrive, remind yourself that they’ll pass. And in those ordinary moments in between, learn to find peace. There’s comfort in the familiar, in the routine, in the small, quiet moments that are easy to overlook.It’s in these in-between times where life is truly lived—where we breathe, reflect, and grow. Life’s not about constantly chasing the highs or fearing the lows. It’s about appreciating the journey in its entirety. Through it all—the heartbreak, the joy, the ordinary—it’s all part of the beautiful, ever-changing landscape of life.
As the years go by, I’ve come to realize that life isn’t about chasing the spotlight or proving yourself to others. I used to believe that success meant being noticed, admired, or achieving things that everyone could see. But now, I find inspiration in those who make a difference without fanfare — those who move quietly but with purpose, content in their own journey.There’s something powerful about living a life that’s yours, without the need to broadcast every achievement or moment. I’ve seen people who are fully present in their everyday lives, finding joy in their morning cup of coffee, or peace in a walk at sunset. They’ve mastered the art of living — not for the approval of others, but for the fulfillment of their own hearts. They’re not racing to be seen, yet their impact is undeniable.I’m inspired by these people because they remind me that real happiness doesn’t come from external validation. It’s about feeling complete in your own skin, finding meaning in what you do, and being fully present in every moment. Success isn’t about making noise; it’s about making peace with who you are. That, to me, is the true definition of “making it.”
Our nervous system craves simplicity and calm, yet our lives often overflow with chaos and clutter. As the world presses in, creating space for stillness and order becomes essential for our well-being. Simplifying our environments—both physically and mentally—offers relief from the constant noise.When we take the time to clear our homes, organize our thoughts, and settle overdue tasks, we invite our nervous systems to rest. Each step toward order is a step toward balance. Whether it’s tidying up a room or finding clarity in our daily routines, simplicity allows us to breathe more easily, to feel less strained.In the end, it’s not just about creating a visually appealing space; it’s about creating a sanctuary where our mind can thrive, where we can reconnect with ourselves in a world that often demands too much. The journey toward simplicity is really a journey toward peace.
Anticipation is a powerful source of happiness. Often, it’s not the actual experience that brings us joy but the excitement that builds before it happens. Think about the thrill of counting down to a weekend getaway or the eagerness of trying out a hobby you’ve been eyeing. This feeling of looking forward infuses everyday life with a subtle joy, lifting our spirits.
To experience this kind of happiness regularly, make sure there’s always something on your calendar that sparks excitement, no matter how simple. It could be an evening dedicated to exploring a new book, a cafe you want to explore, or trying out a new recipe that you’ve been curious about. These small plans keep the heart light and the mind engaged.
By giving yourself these little moments to anticipate, you make the everyday a bit brighter. It shifts your focus from the mundane to the joyful possibilities that lie ahead, helping you savor the present. In a world that often focuses on results, it’s the anticipation of the journey that fills life with wonder. So, keep a small spark of excitement alive—because the anticipation can be the key to a happier life.
Happiness is often perceived as something out of reach, lying just beyond our current reality. Many of us invest so much time and energy into building a life—working hard, tending to our responsibilities, and striving for success—but overlook the simple joys that exist in our daily lives. If we constantly chase after something else, thinking that happiness is always on the other side of the fence, we miss the beauty and contentment that can be found right where we are. Seeking approval from others is another trap. If our happiness depends on external validation, we will forever be at the mercy of others’ opinions. True happiness requires self-acceptance; it means embracing who we are without needing others to affirm our worth.
Finally, as we grow older, we begin to value the quiet strength of a private life. Impact doesn’t require a spotlight. The real winners are those who live with purpose, quietly making a difference while being fully present in their moments. They understand that ‘making it’ is not about showcasing achievements but about mastering the art of living contently. By appreciating our journey and valuing authenticity, we uncover happiness within ourselves.
