unwinding destiny

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.

thoughtful silence in a noisy world

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.

delving into depths of a person

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:

pursuit of knowledge

The pursuit of knowledge is not an easy path. It’s often filled with long hours, late nights, and moments of doubt. The stress of study—whether it’s mastering a new skill, preparing for an exam, or delving deep into a complex subject—can feel overwhelming. But it’s this very struggle that makes the reward so much sweeter.True understanding, the kind that sticks with you and shapes your thinking, is born from effort. It’s easy to admire someone’s wisdom or expertise from a distance, but we rarely see the hard work that goes into it. The frustration of not grasping something right away, the persistence it takes to keep going when the answers don’t come easily—that’s where real growth happens.When you finally break through that wall of confusion and reach clarity, the feeling is incomparable. The joy of knowing you’ve conquered something difficult, that you’ve expanded your mind and capabilities, is a fulfillment like no other.He who has not endured the stress of study will not taste the joy of knowledge. It’s the journey, not just the destination, that gives knowledge its true value. Embrace the process, and know that the struggle only enhances the reward.

happiness within

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.

let joy breathe

It’s an art to celebrate people without layering on subtle criticisms. When someone shares their joy with you, it’s not an invitation for your critiques, no matter how small. If they show you their new house, don’t point out how tiny the kitchen is. If they’re excited about their new car, don’t mention that it’s an older model. If they just graduated, don’t remind them of how tough the job market is.Instead, embrace their happiness. Be present in their joy, and let it be pure without adding the weight of what could go wrong or what’s lacking. It’s about learning to marinate in the moment with them, without the need to sprinkle in your perspective on the downsides.Criticism often hides in the smallest comments, but it has the power to drain the joy from a moment. We need to learn to celebrate each other as we are, where we are, with full hearts. This doesn’t mean we ignore reality, but there’s a time and place for everything. Let joy breathe without restraint.

companiable

Have you ever caught yourself talking to a houseplant? Or maybe you’ve given your car a pep talk before a long journey. It’s funny how we tend to personify the objects around us, especially when we spend a lot of time with them.That old coffee maker that gurgles to life every morning becomes more than just an appliance – it’s practically a roommate. The creaky floorboard by the bedroom door? An old friend saying goodnight. Even that stubborn jar lid feels like it has a personality after a while.It’s not that we actually believe these things are alive, but there’s something comforting about imagining they are. Maybe it’s a way of making our surroundings feel a little less cold and a little more companionable.In a world that can sometimes feel isolating, perhaps we’re just looking for connection wherever we can find it.

the perpetual hustle

In our productivity-obsessed era, we treat busyness as a badge of honor. Yet could this cultural veneration of perpetual hustle be blinding us to the reasons we’re so frantically trying to outrun ourselves? So often, our ceaseless doing merely covers for an unwillingness to sit with the existential angst catalyzing our restlessness. We drown out the whisperings prompting us towards deeper self-inquiry with a deafening litany of tasks and distractions. But no amount of achievement can ever satiate the soul’s longing for profound meaning, intimacy and homecoming. These soulful yearnings can only be met by courting the very stillness we habitually flee from. It’s within the spacious pauses between our roles and appointments that we seamlessly unfurl into our most liberated altogetherness. Resting in sheer beingness, our obsessive human-doings spontaneously alchemize into simple, compassionate, joyfully integrated beings.

larger reality

This is one of my most loved topics to write. I’ve written a long format piece if you’d like to read it now. Our limited senses perceive a mere tiny fraction of the larger reality unfolding all around us. We are blinded to the unseen cosmic choreographies and hidden dimensions existing beyond our sensory reach. From subatomic particles in frenzy to galaxies whirling at staggering speeds, there is a breathtaking metaphysical show happening that we cannot directly witness. Our eyes and ears restrict us to a boxed-in material scope, while the bigger spiritual truths remain obscured. Only by expanding our perception through intellect and deep contemplation can we part the veil to unveil the fuller realities our senses were never meant to capture alone. An entire transcendent existence awaits those who dare reach beyond the sensory deceptions.

multipotentiality

I’ve lately pondered on it on doing a course. There’s a myth that to achieve greatness, we must specialize intensely in one singular pursuit. But what if the path to creative genius blossoms from embracing our infinite multiplicity? Look at polymaths like da Vinci who bridged art and science. Or consider nature’s complexity – a masterwork catalyzed by an interplay of forces. When shaped by cross-disciplinary influences, sparks of insight start flying. Solutions become metaphors unlocking new vistas in other domains. We cultivate a beginner’s mind transcending over-specialized blinders. By developing a broad range of talents and curiosities, we become renaissance thinkers synthesizing holistic visions. We dissolve boundaries between art and science, work and play – allowing our whole beings to fuse in the ultimate creativity vibe. The greatest innovations arise from making novel connections across disciplines. Specialization has its place, but multipotentiality is where genius is born.