Tag: Thoughts

Contours of Understanding

Posted on by Ajmal

“Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.“

Marcus Aurelius
The Border of a Mind (dot) com

In the intricate interplay of interpretation and existence, we navigate the delicate balance between what is uttered and its deeper significance, what is observed and its true essence. Our conversations and observations, akin to echoes in a silent hall, are colored by the shades of individual belief and experience. Each word spoken is a stroke of opinion, creating a portrait that may diverge from the actual hues of fact. Our vision, too, is not a clear lens to the world, but something that shapes the world according to its own design, often adjusting or leaving out details to fulfill its vision.

We often pirouette between what is said and what is meant, what is seen and what is understood. Our conversations and observations, like whispers in the wind, are tinted with the hues of personal belief and experience. Each word spoken is a brushstroke of opinion, painting a picture that may not mirror the true colors of reality. Our eyes, too, are not mere windows to the world, but artists that sketch the world as they see fit, often adding or omitting details to complete their masterpiece.

Consider a mother watching her child play, seeing not just the actions but a tableau of potential and dreams. Or ponder a scientist peering through a microscope, where each discovery is shaded by years of knowledge and expectation. These are not just acts of seeing or hearing, but intricate ballets of interpretation and meaning.

Our journey through life is punctuated by these moments of misinterpretation and clarification. Memories, like old photographs, fade and warp with time, leaving us with an impression, not an exact replication, of events. This distortion is not a flaw, but a feature of our human experience, urging us to question, to wonder, and to seek deeper understanding beyond our immediate perceptions.

As we wade through the river of our experiences, we should hold our truths lightly, knowing they are but reflections in the water, susceptible to the ripples of new insights and perspectives. In embracing the uncertainty and fluidity of our perceptions, we open ourselves to a world richer and more varied than we could have imagined.

perseverance poise

Posted on by Ajmal
As the day whispers its final encores, the sun drapes its golden shawl upon the tranquil sea, and the horizon becomes a canvas where the sky’s emotions are painted in a symphony of light and shadow. The beach, strewn with the day’s memories, rests in serene contemplation, awaiting the night’s embrace. A vivid memory from an early morning at Zanzibar. Original photography: The Border of a Mind Studios

Imagine, if you will, a seed buried in the depths of the earth, unaware of the light above yet striving to break through the soil. Is it not true that its very existence hinges on the relentless push towards the unknown, towards the possibility of bloom?

Consider, for instance, the story of a wandering artist, tirelessly searching for the perfect landscape to capture on canvas. Each stroke of the brush is a testament to their unwavering belief in the unseen masterpiece. Similarly, a young scholar, burning the midnight oil, fueled by dreams of discoveries yet unmade, embodies the spirit of never yielding to the shadows of doubt.

What transpires when we abandon our quests? The artist’s brush dries, the scholar’s books gather dust. The world remains oblivious to the potential masterpieces and groundbreaking theories that lie dormant. It is in the relentless pursuit, the undying flame of effort, where magic resides.

True, serendipity may occasionally grace our paths, bestowing unearned victories. But can we truly rely on the fickle whims of fortune for our triumphs? No, it is in the forge of persistence, the crucible of continuous effort, where the true alchemy of success lies.

By persisting, we not only stumble upon hidden opportunities but also sculpt ourselves into beings capable of seizing them. We evolve, learning to recognize the once invisible doors of possibility. Our once untrained eyes now perceive the opportunities that have always been there, patiently waiting for our realization.

Even if the ultimate goal eludes our grasp, the journey itself is a mosaic of lessons learned, skills honed, and inspiration sparked. Each step is a victory in its own right, a ripple that may set into motion waves of change in ourselves and others.

There are, admittedly, dreams that transcend the bounds of possibility, like a mortal’s quest to reach the stars with bare feet. And indeed, life’s great events—love, loss, joy, sorrow—reshape our priorities, guiding us to new paths, new dreams to chase.

Reflect on your own abandoned dreams. Were they truly beyond your grasp, or did they simply lose their luster in the ever-changing landscape of your life? Before you deem them lost, question their place in your heart. Do they still resonate with your current self?

For those dreams that linger, consider what has changed. Do you possess new resources, new skills, new passions? What barriers did you face then, and how can you dismantle them now?

As you stand at the crossroads of reflection and action, ask yourself: what is it that halts your stride? Identify it, confront it, and then, with a heart fortified by renewed purpose, step forward into the realm of possibilities.

contentment’s core.

Posted on by Ajmal
Ehan’s fingertips brush against the texture of a starfish, a tender gesture that encapsulates the essence of gratitude and the innate joy that springs forth from appreciating the small wonders around.

At the heart of every shimmering moment of happiness lies a seed of appreciation, a fundamental truth often overlooked in our quest for joy. The commonly held belief is that joy births gratitude, but in reality, it is our sense of gratitude that blossoms into joy. This subtle but profound reversal of perspective suggests that our contentment and happiness do not stem from the comforts we receive but rather from the contentment within us that welcomes these comforts.

Gratitude for life’s blessings seems straightforward enough for many, but there are those who remain perpetually unsatisfied, immune to the warmth of appreciation. These individuals, forever chasing an elusive sense of fulfillment, remain outside the purview of this discussion. For the rest, cultivating gratitude is an exercise in mindfulness, a practice not inherent but learned with intention.

Mindfulness is less about the detective’s acute observation and more about noticing the simple beauties of life – the vibrant hues of flowers, the expansive canvas of the sky, the melodious laughter echoing in the distance. Acknowledging these wonders and expressing gratitude for the very privilege of experiencing them is a step towards joy. In a world where laughter is often stifled by the shadows of war, famine, and disaster, finding joy in it becomes a precious act of gratitude.

Consider the transformative power of gratitude even in adverse situations. Recall a childhood mischief leading to punishment, and how, over time, this experience fostered a deeper respect for others’ belongings. In that moment, joy was absent, and gratitude was far-fetched. Yet, in hindsight, those lessons shaped more responsible choices, quietly sowing seeds of joy in responsible actions.

Gratitude begins with the basics – appreciating life, friends, family, and even past relationships. It extends to finding beauty in the mundane or the broken – like an old, non-functional camera that serves as a vessel for cherished memories.

Even in the bleakest situations, like a hospital ward in a prison, there’s room for gratitude. It could be towards a compassionate caregiver, advanced medical technology, or simply the hope of recovery. Through this lens, gratitude is not just an emotion for the fortunate but a choice available to all, regardless of circumstance.

As this exploration concludes, ponder the intricate dance of joy and gratitude. Does joy follow gratitude, or is it the other way around? The journey of recognizing and nurturing gratitude in all facets of life might just unravel this mystery.

age’s quiet wisdom

Posted on by Ajmal

In the soft light of dawn, as the world awakens from its slumber, so too does the human soul stir with a poignant realization. Each morning, as we confront the mirror, it reflects not just our physical form but a deeper, more profound truth. The act of cleansing our face, the routine of brushing our teeth, these are not mere habits; they are silent sermons on the fragility of our human existence.

Behold, the thin veil of skin that encases us, how delicate and vulnerable it is! This body of ours, a marvel of creation, is yet so susceptible to the wear and tear of time. Our need for sustenance, our battle against sleeplessness, hunger, and thirst – these are not mere physiological demands. They are, in essence, subtle reminders of our inherent weakness, signs from the Divine that our earthly existence is but temporary.

As we age, each wrinkle that etches itself onto our face is like a gentle whisper from the Almighty, reminding us of the fleeting nature of worldly life. The whitening of hair, the aging of hands – these are not mere signs of physical decline but are profound symbols of the inexorable passage of time, a time that draws us closer to our return from this temporal world.

But amidst this temporal decay, there lies an immutable truth – the soul does not age. While our bodies are bound to the relentless march of time, our souls remain untouched, timeless in their essence. The beauty and vigor of youth may fade, but the radiance of the soul only intensifies with the wisdom and experience that comes with age.

In this transient world, where outward appearances often hold sway, aging serves as a potent reminder of the impermanence of physical beauty. It invites us to look beyond the superficial, to recognize the enduring beauty of the soul that outlasts the decaying shell of the body.

Thus, as we greet each day, let us embrace our vulnerabilities, not as signs of weakness but as divine messages guiding us towards a deeper understanding of our true purpose. Let us cherish the aging process, not as a decline but as a journey towards spiritual maturity, a journey that brings us closer to the divine.

daybreak contemplation

Posted on by Ajmal
Ehan’s inquisitive touch among the Tulsi leaves is a dialogue beyond words, a silent exploration of his wonders. Each leaf and stem, under the consideration of his tiny fingers, becomes an early chapter in his lifelong story of discovery.

In the quiet moments of dawn, as light gently nudges the darkness away, we find ourselves at the threshold of consciousness, awakening to a world both familiar and wondrous. This daily renaissance, where we emerge from the veil of sleep, is nothing short of a miracle, a testament to the endless possibilities that life holds.

As the first rays of the sun caress the world, we are reminded of the profound simplicity and beauty of existence. Each morning, as we regain consciousness, we are not merely waking up; we are reborn. The night, with its deep oblivion, is a subtle reminder of our fragility, yet each morning is a promise, a reaffirmation of life.

In these moments of awakening, our thoughts, unburdened by the trivialities of daily life, can soar. We are not just thinking about the mundanities like breakfast or the day’s schedule. Instead, our minds can wander and ponder over the more profound aspects of existence. The fact that we wake each morning, with our heart beating rhythmically, our lungs drawing breath, our eyes witnessing the world anew, is a marvel that defies comprehension.

This daily resurrection is a gift, a chance to start afresh, to rethink, to rediscover. It’s a moment to appreciate the miracles of our existence – the seamless functioning of our bodies, the absence of pain, the continued beating of our hearts. In these moments, we find ourselves in a state of gratitude, humbled by the mysteries of life and the blessings bestowed upon us.

The morning is not just a time but a state of mind, a canvas upon which we can paint our thoughts and aspirations. As we step into the day, let us carry this sense of wonder and gratitude. Let us recognize the beauty in the ordinary, the extraordinary in the mundane. For in each morning, in every awakening, lies the potential for transformation, for growth, for a deeper understanding of the mysteries that surround us.

habit’s halo

Posted on by Ajmal

Imagine a world where every sunrise feels like the first, where the simple act of breathing in the crisp morning air is a marvel. This is the world you’re invited into, a world seen through “The Eye of Habit,” but with a twist. Here, the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary, urging you to pause and marvel at the mundane wonders we often overlook.

Think of the last time you really looked at a sunset, felt the texture of a leaf, or listened to the rain patter against your window. These moments, often lost in the rush of daily life, are the essence of our narrative. Remember the childlike wonder of seeing something for the first time? That sensation doesn’t have to be fleeting. It’s about rekindling that initial awe and appreciation.

Consider a doctor seeing a patient or a cadaver. Initially, there’s a profound realization of life’s fragility and the intricacies of the human body. But over time, this wonder fades into routine. It’s not just in medicine; it’s in every facet of life. From the comfort of a warm bed to the beauty of a well-prepared meal, the blessings that were once marveled at become just another part of the day.

But what if we could turn back the clock? What if we could see these everyday miracles with fresh eyes again? This is an art, a skill that requires practice and mindfulness. It’s about slowing down, deliberately observing, and allowing ourselves to be moved by the world around us.

As you embark on this journey of rediscovery, think about how you can cultivate this mindset. Maybe it’s taking a different route to work, trying a new hobby, or simply taking a moment each day to reflect on something you’re grateful for. Whatever it is, let it bring back that sense of wonder and appreciation.

I leave you with a call to action: Find joy in the ordinary. Look at the world as if you’re seeing it for the first time. This is why we have Ponder Series.

contemplation in bloom

Posted on by Ajmal

Gazing upon this delicate flower, one beholds a wondrous testament to the divine. In its intricate petals and vibrant hues, there lies a profound message, as if each curve and color whispers a secret of the Creator’s artistry. The delicate veins in its petals, akin to the finest brushstrokes of a master artist, speak of a meticulous design, not born of chance but of an intentional, loving hand.

The flower, in its humble existence, is a silent teacher. It speaks of patience, emerging slowly from the soil, blooming in its own time, unburdened by the haste of the world. In its growth, it mirrors our own spiritual journey, reminding us to blossom at our pace, nurtured by faith and the sustenance of divine grace.

Its beauty, ephemeral yet impactful, teaches us about the transient nature of worldly life. Just as the flower wilts, reminding us that every earthly joy and sorrow is fleeting, our hearts are directed upwards, beyond the temporal, towards the eternal.

The flower’s intricate design is a reflection of divine wisdom. Each component, from the smallest pollen grain to the pattern of its petals, is a sign, a symbol of the divine intelligence and care that pervades all creation. It stands as a testament to the unity and harmony in the universe, a unity that binds all creation in a symphony of divine expression.

In contemplating the flower, one is drawn into a meditation on the Creator’s presence in the smallest details of life. It is a manifestation of divine beauty, a beauty that permeates the world and invites us to look beyond the surface, to discover the spiritual truths that lie hidden in the heart of nature. Thus, in the heart of a flower, one finds not just biological mechanisms, but a divine message, an invitation to ponder, reflect, and connect with the Creator.

Ninety years deep.

Posted on by Ajmal

In the quiet twilight of the hospital room, the silhouette of a 90-year-old rests against the window, their hands etched with the stories of a lifetime. As the sun sets gently outside, casting a warm, nostalgic glow, each wrinkle becomes a testament to the profound journey of life, whispered in the language of time and memory. | Crafted by The Border of a Mind visual Studios.

Through the window of a 90-year old’s mind….


In this moment, lying on a hospital deathbed, everything feels intensely real yet distant. The rhythmic beeps and hushed voices around me are like echoes from another world. I’m enveloped in a profound sense of finality, a chapter coming to its inevitable close. My life unfolds in my mind’s eye – a mosaic of joy and sorrow, love given and received, moments seized and opportunities missed. Each memory is a precious thread in the intricate weave of my existence. I long to express more, to embrace once more, to impart one last piece of wisdom. Amidst this emotional whirlpool, there’s an unexpected tranquility, a gentle yielding to the inexorable tide of life. Faces of loved ones flicker in my thoughts, their importance to me more luminous than ever. Fear mingles with curiosity at the threshold of the unknown, yet there’s a deep, resonating acceptance, an embrace of life’s impermanence. In these quiet, reflective moments, I am profoundly connected with the essence of life, feeling every heartbeat as a poignant testament to the journey I have traveled. This experience is a poignant reminder of our shared humanity, a deeply personal yet universal passage into the unknown.

Fear and curiosity intertwine as I approach the unknown, but there’s also a deep-seated faith, a trust in the Almighty’s plan. In these quiet moments of reflection, I feel a profound connection with the essence of life, each heartbeat a testament to the journey I’ve traveled. It’s a deeply personal yet universally shared passage, a transition guided by faith, enveloped in the love and memories of a lifetime.

There’s a deep longing in my heart – to express more, to embrace my loved ones once more, to share one last piece of wisdom or laughter. Amidst these swirling emotions, there’s a surprising sense of peace, a quiet acceptance of life’s natural progression. Thoughts of my family and friends bring both joy and sadness; their importance in my life shines brighter than ever in these final moments.

In this profound introspection, there’s also a palpable sense of the Almighty. I find myself contemplating the divine, the spiritual journey of my life, and the mysteries of existence. The presence of God, as I understand it, brings comfort and a sense of awe. There’s a feeling of being part of something much greater than myself.

mind’s sanctuary.

Posted on by Ajmal
Illustration of Ehan drawing. The young artist at work, his hands now shaped by visions, spreading color upon the bare canvas of imagination. With each mark and stroke, a new world emerging – ideas given form, creativity set free to paint what lights his soul and lift the corners of tomorrow’s dawn.

As the river of time flows on, winding through the valleys and canyons of life, I’ve come to understand my conscience as a lighthouse, piercing through the thick fog of perceptions that fill my mind. The harshest critic lies not in the eyes that view me, but in how I believe they see me—a hall of mirrors reflecting my self-doubts like glaring spotlights.

All labors of passion hold equal worth; the baker kneading the pliant dough, infusing it with care; the painter splashing the waiting canvas, colors dancing into shapes; the gardener nurturing the fertile soil, seeds blossoming with patience; the teacher shaping young minds, igniting their potential. Riches jingling in pockets often masquerade as success, their metallic sheen veiling a soul’s true wealth within. Real prosperity resides in one’s essence, beyond material things that rust and fade. It takes a man of wisdom, kindness and wit to be admired yet unfettered by fortune’s gilded trappings, fame’s seductive allure. The drive to unveil such inner gold becomes his golden key to achieve whatever great heights he desires.

So, I ask you, as a valuable reader, what secret dreams stir within the depths of your heart? What passions blaze in your soul, yearning to shine forth, to prove your worth? That treasure lies inside you, waiting to be unearthed. Delve the caverns of your mind, unearth your hidden gold, and let your inner light glow, as bright as the sun. For your true wealth lies within, untouched by outside eyes, resplendent and free.

shine your light

Posted on by Ajmal

Embrace being the person who genuinely cares. Step up, be the one who’s always ready to put in the hard yards, the one who isn’t afraid to love passionately and unreservedly. Allow yourself to be the person who wears their heart on their sleeve, who never runs from the depth of their emotions or the fervor of their hopes.

Stand as the person who has faith in the world’s tender side, in the gentle whispers of humanity that sometimes get drowned out in the noise. Be the beacon, the one who lights the way, who perseveres even when the going gets tough.

Be that person who makes others feel visible, the person who’s always present when needed. Take it from me, embody the persona of the one who truly cares. Because our world is starved of genuine concern, it’s tired of disinterest and indifference; and believe me, there’s nothing more formidable than someone who remains compassionate and soft-hearted in a world that hasn’t always reciprocated kindness.

In a world that often seems callous, be the exception. Be the person who cares and watch how you light up the world around you.