Hyderabad - Resilience in Adversity

In the historic city of Hyderabad, a young boy named Vikram faced adversity with resilience and determination. Growing up in a disadvantaged neighborhood, Vikram encountered numerous challenges on his path to success.

Despite facing financial hardships and limited opportunities, Vikram refused to succumb to despair. He worked odd jobs, studied diligently, and sought mentorship from local leaders in his community.

Through sheer perseverance and resilience, Vikram overcame the odds and achieved his dream of pursuing higher education. His journey inspired others in his community to believe in themselves and strive for a better future.

Moral: Resilience in the face of adversity leads to triumph. By refusing to give up and persevering through challenges, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

Bengaluru - Pursuing Passion

In the bustling city of Bengaluru, a young woman named Ananya pursued her passion for environmental conservation. Despite facing skepticism and discouragement from others, Ananya remained steadfast in her commitment to making a difference.

She volunteered at local NGOs, organized awareness campaigns, and lobbied for sustainable practices in her community. Through her unwavering dedication, Ananya inspired others to join her cause and sparked a movement for environmental change.

Her efforts led to tangible improvements in her city, from cleaner streets to greener parks. Ananya's journey taught her the importance of pursuing passion and standing up for what she believed in, no matter the obstacles.

Moral: Pursuing passion leads to fulfillment and impact. By following our hearts and working towards causes we believe in, we can make a meaningful difference in the world.

Mumbai - Embracing Diversity

In the vibrant city of Mumbai, a young boy named Aarav grew up surrounded by people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Despite the differences in language, religion, and customs, Aarav's neighborhood was a melting pot of unity and harmony.

One day, Aarav's family welcomed a new neighbor from a different state. Despite initial apprehensions due to the language barrier, Aarav reached out to the new neighbor with a warm smile and a helping hand.

Through their interactions, Aarav learned about the richness of diversity and the beauty of cultural exchange. He embraced the new neighbor's customs and traditions, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of India.

Moral: Embracing diversity fosters understanding and unity. By celebrating our differences, we can build stronger communities and create a more inclusive society.

The Importance of Perseverance

In the bustling city of Chennai, a young girl named Priya dreamed of becoming a professional dancer. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks along the way, Priya refused to give up on her dreams.

She practiced tirelessly, honing her skills and pushing herself to new heights. Despite facing criticism and doubts from others, Priya remained steadfast in her determination to succeed.

Through her perseverance and unwavering dedication, Priya finally achieved her dream of becoming a professional dancer. Her journey taught her the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.

Moral: Perseverance is the key to success. By remaining determined and resilient in the face of challenges, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

In the serene town of Mysore, a young man named Arvind experienced a random act of kindness that changed his life forever. While waiting at a bus stop, Arvind dropped his wallet without realizing it. A passerby, noticing the dropped wallet, picked it up and returned it to Arvind with a smile.

Touched by the stranger's kindness, Arvind vowed to pay it forward. He started performing small acts of kindness in his community, such as helping elderly neighbors with their groceries and volunteering at a local orphanage.

Arvind's acts of kindness sparked a ripple effect in his community, inspiring others to join him in spreading love and compassion. Through his simple actions, Arvind learned that even the smallest acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity that touches countless lives.

Moral: Kindness has the power to create positive change in the world. By spreading love and compassion, we can inspire others to do the same and create a ripple effect of kindness that reaches far beyond our own actions.

The Power of Gratitude

In the heart of Kolkata, a young girl named Maya grappled with feelings of discontentment. Despite having a loving family and a comfortable life, Maya often found herself complaining about trivial inconveniences.

One day, while walking home from school, Maya passed by a homeless shelter. Inside, she saw people huddled together, seeking warmth and shelter from the biting cold. Moved by their plight, Maya realized the importance of gratitude.

From that day on, Maya made a conscious effort to count her blessings and appreciate the little things in life. She volunteered at the shelter, helping to distribute food and clothing to those in need. Through her acts of kindness, Maya learned that gratitude has the power to transform lives and bring joy to both giver and receiver.

Moral: Gratitude opens the door to happiness and contentment. By appreciating the blessings we have, we can find fulfillment and purpose in our lives.

 

The Spirit of Sharing

In the bustling streets of Nairobi, Rohan found himself on a journey through Kenya, soaking in the vibrant culture and diversity of the region. As he wandered through the bustling marketplace, his eyes caught sight of a thin, weary-looking man sitting on the sidewalk.

Approaching the man, Rohan struck up a conversation and learned that he was a refugee from Zimbabwe, struggling to find food and shelter in his new surroundings. His heart went out to the man, whose gaunt appearance spoke volumes about his suffering.

Moved by compassion, Rohan’s friend, Rajesh, offered the man the rest of the sandwich he was eating. With a grateful nod, the man accepted the gesture, his eyes lighting up at the prospect of a meal.

But to Rohan's surprise, the first thing the man said was, "We can share it."

His words resonated deeply with Rohan, who realized the true essence of compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity. Despite his own desperate hunger, the man displayed a selfless spirit, willing to share what little he had with others in need.

Touched by the man's generosity, Rohan and Rajesh joined him in sharing the sandwich, forging a bond of friendship and camaraderie amidst their brief encounter.

Moral: In times of hardship, the spirit of sharing and solidarity can bring hope and comfort to those in need. No matter how little we have, there is always something we can offer to others, whether it be food, kindness, or simply our presence.

 

The Kind Gesture

In the vibrant city of Delhi, Arjun found himself navigating the bustling campus of his university on crutches, his leg wrapped in a cast due to a recent injury. Each step was a struggle, and the weight of his backpack and books only added to his discomfort.

As he hobbled along, his eyes caught sight of a boy in a wheelchair approaching him. Arjun felt a pang of empathy as he watched the boy effortlessly maneuvering his way through the crowd. To his surprise, the boy stopped beside him and offered to help.

"Can I carry your backpack and books for you?" the boy asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.

Arjun hesitated, touched by the stranger’s offer of kindness. "Are you sure?" he replied, feeling a mixture of gratitude and humility.

The boy nodded with a warm smile and gently took Arjun's backpack from him. With a sense of relief, Arjun leaned on his crutches as the boy wheeled alongside him, guiding him through the maze of pathways and buildings to his class.

Throughout the journey, the boy offered words of encouragement, his presence providing a sense of comfort and support to Arjun. When they reached his class, Arjun turned to thank the boy, overwhelmed by his generosity.

As the boy prepared to leave, he simply said, "I hope you feel better soon," before wheeling away.

Moral: Acts of kindness have the power to brighten someone's day and make a meaningful difference in their life. No matter our circumstances, we can always offer a helping hand and spread compassion to those in need.

A Moment of Clarity

In the bustling city of Mumbai, Neha found herself in the oncology ward of a local hospital, accompanying her friend who was undergoing treatment for breast cancer. As she sat by her friend’s bedside, Neha observed a poignant scene unfold before her.

A 27-year-old woman, battling the ravages of cancer, sat with her 2-year-old daughter on her lap. Despite the pain and uncertainty of her situation, the woman laughed wholeheartedly at her daughter’s playful antics, her eyes sparkling with joy and love.

Neha was deeply moved by the scene. Here was someone facing unimaginable challenges, yet finding moments of pure happiness and gratitude amidst the turmoil. In that moment, Neha realized the weight of her own complaints and grievances seemed trivial in comparison.

As she reflected on her own life, Neha resolved to stop dwelling on the negatives and start celebrating the blessings she had been given. She vowed to cherish each moment, to find joy in the simple pleasures, and to embrace life with renewed appreciation.

Moral: Sometimes, it takes witnessing the resilience and positivity of others in the face of adversity to remind us of the preciousness of life. Instead of dwelling on our troubles, we should focus on finding reasons to celebrate and be grateful for the moments of joy and love that surround us.

The Wise Innocence

In the lively city of Jaipur, Raj and his 8-year-old daughter, Riya, shared a special bond filled with love and laughter. One sunny afternoon, as they sat in their cozy living room, Riya approached her father with a request.

"Papa," Riya said in her sweetest voice, "can we start recycling?"

Surprised by her sudden interest, Raj chuckled and asked, "Why, dear?"

Riya’s eyes sparkled with earnestness as she replied, "So you can help me save the planet."

Amused by her response, Raj couldn’t help but smile. "And why do you want to save the planet?" he inquired.

Without missing a beat, Riya answered with all the innocence and wisdom of childhood, "Because that’s where I keep all my stuff."

Raj couldn’t contain his laughter at Riya’s adorable logic. But amidst the laughter, he realized the profound truth in her words. Through her innocent perspective, Riya reminded him of the importance of taking care of the planet, not just for the sake of the environment, but for the future of all those who call Earth their home.

Moral: Sometimes, the simplest explanations hold the deepest truths. Children possess a wisdom that often eludes adults, reminding us to cherish and protect the world we live in, not just for ourselves, but for future generations.

 

A Long-Awaited Farewell

In the tranquil village of Udaipur, Rohan sat by his father’s bedside in the small hospital room, his heart heavy with sorrow. His father, Mr. Gupta, had been battling a terminal illness for months, and now, surrounded by loved ones, he was nearing the end of his journey.

Rohan watched over his father, memories of their shared moments flooding his mind. He remembered the times they spent together—playing cricket in the backyard, going on long walks, and sharing stories by the fireplace. Yet amidst all those memories, there was something missing—a simple gesture of love and affection.

As Mr. Gupta’s breathing grew fainter, Rohan leaned in close, pressing a gentle kiss on his father’s forehead. It was a tender act, filled with a lifetime of unspoken emotions and regrets. In that fleeting moment, Rohan realized something profound—it was the first time he had kissed his father since he was a little boy.

A wave of sorrow washed over him as he grappled with the weight of missed opportunities and lost time. He wished he had expressed his love more openly, shown his gratitude for all his father had done for him. But now, as his father slipped away into eternal slumber, Rohan vowed to cherish his memory and live each day with love and appreciation for those he held dear.

Moral: Don’t wait until it’s too late to express your love and affection to those who matter most in your life. Small gestures of kindness and affection can carry immense meaning, bridging the gap between past regrets and future regrets.

 

A Mother's Wish

In the quaint village of Kanchipuram, the extended family of Ananya gathered in the small, serene hospital room where their beloved mother, Sita, lay in her final moments. Ananya, her three brothers—Arjun, Ravi, and Kiran—and her two sisters—Meera and Priya—stood around the bed, holding each other for support.

Sita had been battling a long illness, and her strength was waning. The family, who had been dispersed across various cities and towns due to their careers and lives, had reunited in these last moments to be with her. The air was filled with a mixture of sorrow and love as they whispered comforting words and held her frail hands.

As the clock ticked by, Sita's breathing became shallow. With great effort, she opened her eyes, looking at each of her children with a soft, loving gaze. Gathering her last bit of strength, she whispered, "I feel so loved right now. We should have gotten together like this more often."

Her words struck a chord deep within each of them. They realized how their busy lives had often kept them apart, and how rare these moments of togetherness had become. Sita’s simple yet profound statement was a gentle reminder of the importance of family unity and love.

Moments later, Sita closed her eyes and took her final breath, leaving behind a legacy of love and the memory of her last heartfelt wish.

Moral: Cherish and prioritize family gatherings and moments of togetherness. Life is fleeting, and the love and connections we share with our family are what truly matter in the end.

 

A Twist of Fate

In the bustling city of Bengaluru, Arjun woke up at 7 AM feeling under the weather. Despite his illness, he decided to go to work because he needed the money. He dragged himself through the day, but at 3 PM, he received unexpected news—he was being laid off. Disheartened and worried about his future, Arjun started his drive home.

As if the day couldn’t get any worse, his car got a flat tire. Sighing in frustration, Arjun pulled over to the side of the road and went to the trunk for the spare, only to discover it was flat too. Feeling defeated, he leaned against his car, contemplating his next move.

Just then, a sleek BMW pulled over, and a well-dressed man stepped out. "Need a hand?" he asked kindly.

Arjun explained his predicament, and the man offered him a ride. Grateful, Arjun accepted. During the drive, they chatted about life, work, and aspirations. The man introduced himself as Rakesh, the CEO of a successful tech company.

Impressed by Arjun’s resilience and positive attitude despite the day’s setbacks, Rakesh made an unexpected offer. "You know, we’re looking for someone with your determination and skills at my company. How about you come in for an interview tomorrow?"

Surprised and elated, Arjun agreed. The next day, he went to the interview and secured the job. What began as a day filled with misfortune had turned into a life-changing opportunity.

Moral: Life’s challenges can sometimes lead to unexpected and positive outcomes. Resilience and a positive attitude in the face of adversity can open doors to new opportunities. 

A Final Act of Love

In the serene town of Coorg, Meera, a young woman, shared a special bond with her loyal dog, Buddy. He had been her companion since she was a child, always by her side, bringing joy and comfort.

One sunny afternoon, as Meera and Buddy were taking their usual walk, tragedy struck. Buddy, chasing after a butterfly, darted into the road and was hit by a speeding car. The car drove away, leaving Meera devastated.

Meera rushed to Buddy's side, her heart breaking as she saw him lying injured. She gently cradled him in her arms, tears streaming down her face. "Buddy, please don’t leave me," she whispered, her voice trembling with sorrow.

As she held him close, Buddy looked up at her with his gentle eyes, full of love and gratitude. With his last bit of strength, he licked the tears off her face, offering her comfort even in his final moments. Meera felt a profound sense of his love and loyalty, even as he took his last breath.

The pain of losing Buddy was immense, but Meera found solace in his final act of love. She realized that Buddy had given her a precious gift, reminding her of the deep bond they shared.

Moral: True love and loyalty transcend even the most difficult moments. The bonds we share with our loved ones, human or animal, leave a lasting impact, offering comfort and strength even in times of profound sorrow.

 

The Unexpected Gratitude

In the bustling city of Mumbai, Rajesh, a dedicated firefighter, had just finished an exhausting 72-hour shift at the fire station. Weary and longing for some rest, he decided to stop by the local grocery store to pick up a few essentials before heading home.

As he walked through the aisles, his thoughts were a blur of the recent emergencies he had handled. Suddenly, a woman approached him with a look of recognition and emotion. Before Rajesh could react, she wrapped her arms around him in a heartfelt hug.

Startled and unsure of what was happening, Rajesh tensed up. Sensing his discomfort, the woman stepped back, her eyes filled with tears of joy. She smiled sincerely and said, "On 9-11-2001, you carried me out of the World Trade Center."

Rajesh’s mind raced back to that fateful day years ago, when he had been part of an international rescue team sent to aid in the aftermath of the tragic events in New York. The memories of chaos, fear, and determination to save lives flooded back. He looked at the woman, now a living testament to his efforts, and felt a profound sense of fulfillment and gratitude.

He nodded, unable to find the right words, but the woman understood. She thanked him repeatedly, expressing how his bravery had given her a second chance at life. Rajesh left the grocery store with a renewed sense of purpose and a heart full of appreciation for the unexpected encounter.

Moral: Acts of courage and kindness can have a lasting impact, often in ways we might never anticipate. The gratitude of those we've helped reminds us that our efforts, no matter how challenging, are always worthwhile.

The Power of Trying

In the vibrant city of Chennai, there lived a boy named Aarav who was blind from birth. Despite his visual impairment, Aarav was full of dreams and aspirations. When he was 8 years old, he heard stories about the thrilling game of cricket from his friends and wanted to experience the joy of playing it.

One evening, he approached his father, Dr. Raman, with a mixture of excitement and hesitation. "Dad, can I play cricket?" Aarav asked.

Dr. Raman, a wise and supportive man, smiled warmly at his son. "Aarav," he said gently, "you’ll never know until you try."

With his father's encouragement, Aarav learned to play cricket with the help of his friends and family. They adapted the game for him, using a ball with bells inside so he could hear its movement. Aarav’s determination and joy were evident as he played, and he quickly became skilled at hitting the ball.

Years passed, and Aarav’s dreams evolved. As a teenager, he became fascinated with medicine and the idea of becoming a surgeon. One day, with a hopeful heart, he asked his father, "Dad, can I become a surgeon?"

Dr. Raman looked into Aarav’s eyes, seeing the same determination that had driven him to play cricket years ago. "Son," he said with unwavering faith, "you’ll never know until you try."

Aarav pursued his goal with relentless dedication. He studied tirelessly, adapted his learning methods, and mastered the skills required for surgery. His perseverance paid off, and today, Aarav stands as a renowned surgeon, admired by many.

Moral: The power of trying can transform dreams into reality. No matter the obstacles, belief in oneself and the courage to try can lead to extraordinary achievements.

The Wisdom of Memories

In a quiet town in Kerala, Ananya was working on a research paper for her Psychology class. She decided to interview her grandmother, Aaji, whose life was filled with rich experiences and wisdom. One warm afternoon, they sat together on the verandah, the aroma of jasmine flowers wafting through the air.

"Aaji," Ananya began, "I need to define success for my paper. How would you describe success in your own words?"

Aaji’s eyes twinkled with a gentle smile as she thought for a moment. "Success, my dear," she said softly, "is when you look back at your life and the memories make you smile."

Ananya was intrigued. "Can you tell me more, Aaji?"

Aaji nodded and began to recount her life. She spoke of the challenges she faced, the love she shared, the family she raised, and the friendships she cherished. She talked about the small joys, like planting a garden, celebrating festivals, and the warmth of family gatherings. Her stories were filled with laughter, love, and sometimes tears, but they all painted a picture of a life well-lived.

As Ananya listened, she realized that Aaji’s definition of success wasn’t about wealth or fame but about the joy and contentment one finds in the journey of life. It was about the relationships built and the moments that brought genuine happiness.

Moral: True success is not measured by external achievements but by the inner joy and satisfaction one feels when reflecting on their life. It is found in cherished memories and the love shared with others. 

The Sage Advice

 

In the bustling city of Mumbai, Raj, a young entrepreneur, found himself at a crossroads. Despite his hard work, his startup wasn’t gaining the traction he hoped for. Seeking guidance, he decided to visit his mentor, Mr. Sharma, a highly successful businessman in his 70s.

One evening, Raj sat across from Mr. Sharma in the latter’s serene, book-filled study. "Sir," Raj began hesitantly, "What are your top three tips for success?"

Mr. Sharma smiled warmly, his eyes twinkling with wisdom. "Raj, my boy," he said, "Success often comes from doing what others aren’t willing to do. Here are my top three tips: Read something no one else is reading, think something no one else is thinking, and do something no one else is doing."

Raj pondered these words on his way home. Inspired, he began to explore obscure books on emerging technologies and innovative business models. He spent hours in quiet contemplation, brainstorming ideas that no one else in his field had considered. Finally, he took bold, unconventional steps in his business strategy.

Over time, Raj’s startup began to flourish. His unique approach set him apart from his competitors, attracting attention and investment. He often reflected on Mr. Sharma’s advice and realized the profound impact it had on his journey.

Moral: True success often lies in originality and innovation. By seeking knowledge beyond the common sources, thinking creatively, and daring to take unique actions, one can carve out a distinctive path to success.

A Helping Hand

Today, as I hurried across the wet tile floor, I slipped and lost my balance. Just as I was about to slam my head on the ground, a boy in a wheelchair reached out and caught me. "Believe it or not," he said with a gentle smile, "that’s almost exactly how I injured my back three years ago."

His words struck me deeply. Here was someone who had suffered a life-changing injury in a similar accident, yet he was still ready to help others in their moment of need. I thanked him sincerely, feeling a mix of gratitude and humility.

Moral: Even in our own struggles, we can find the strength to help others. Acts of kindness and compassion are powerful, no matter our circumstances.

The Encouraging Words

One afternoon, Emma sat at the kitchen table, her head resting on her hands, staring at her notebook filled with sketches and ideas for a new app she wanted to develop. Doubts clouded her mind, and she felt overwhelmed by the enormity of the task ahead.

Her father, noticing her distress, sat down beside her. "What's wrong, Emma?" he asked gently.

"I don't think I can do this, Dad. I'm not a professional. What if I fail?" she replied, her voice filled with uncertainty.

Her father smiled and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Just go for it and give it a try! You don’t have to be a professional to build a successful product. Amateurs started Google and Apple. Professionals built the Titanic."

Emma looked up at her father, absorbing his words. She felt a spark of confidence ignite within her. With renewed determination, she decided to take his advice and dive into her project, embracing the challenge with a fresh perspective.

Moral: You don’t need to be a professional to achieve greatness. Passion, determination, and the willingness to try are the keys to success. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back from pursuing your dreams.

Run your own race and wish others well!

 

While cycling, I noticed a person about a quarter kilometer ahead of me. I could tell he was cycling a bit slower than I was, so I decided to try to catch up with him. I had about a kilometer left on the road before my turn-off. I started cycling faster and faster, gaining on him little by little with every block. After a few minutes, I was only about 100 yards behind him. Determined to overtake him, I pushed myself harder, as if I were in the final leg of the London Olympic triathlon.

Finally, I caught up with him and passed him by. Internally, I felt an immense sense of satisfaction. "I beat him," I thought, even though he didn't even know we were racing.

After passing him, I realized that I had been so focused on this impromptu competition that I missed my turn. I had gone nearly six blocks past it and had to turn around and backtrack.

This experience made me reflect on how often in life we focus on competing with others—whether co-workers, neighbors, friends, or family—trying to outdo them or prove that we are more successful or important. We spend our time and energy chasing after others and, in doing so, miss out on our own paths to our destinies.

Moral: The problem with unhealthy competition is that it’s a never-ending cycle. There will always be someone ahead of you—someone with a better job, a nicer car, more money in the bank, more education, a prettier spouse, a more handsome partner, better-behaved children, and so on.

Embrace what life has given you: your height, weight, and personality. Dress well and wear your uniqueness proudly. You will be blessed by it. Stay focused and live a healthy life. There’s no competition in destiny. Run your own race and wish others well!

When Our Old Stories Hold Us Back

  She rarely makes eye contact.  Instead, she looks down at the ground.  Because the ground is safer.  Because unlike people, it expects nothing in return.  She doesn’t have to feel ashamed about her past.  The ground just accepts her for who she is right now.

As she sits at the bar next to me, she stares down at her vodka tonic, and then the ground, and then her vodka tonic.  “Most people don’t get me,” she says.  “They ask me questions like, ‘What’s your problem?’ or ‘Were you beaten as a child?’  But I never respond.  Because I don’t feel like explaining myself.  And I don’t think they really care anyway.”

Just then, a young man sits down at the bar on the opposite side of her.  He’s a little drunk, and says, “You’re pretty.  May I buy you a drink?”  She stays silent and looks back down at the ground.  After an awkward moment, he accepts the rejection, gets up, and walks away.

“Would you prefer that I leave too?” I ask.  “No,” she says without glancing upward.  “But I could use some fresh air.  You don’t have to come, but you can if you want to.”  I follow her outside and we sit on a street curb in front of the bar.

“Brrr… it’s a really chilly night!”

“Tell me about it,” she says while maintaining her usual downward gaze.  The warm vapor from her breath cuts through the cold air and bounces off of the ground in front of her.  “So why are you out here with me?  I mean, wouldn’t you rather be inside in the warmth, talking to normal people about normal things?”

“I’m out here because I want to be.  Because I’m not normal.  And look, I can see my breath, and we’re in San Diego.  That’s not normal either.  Oh, and you’re wearing Airwalk sneakers, and so am I—which may have been normal in 1994, but not anymore.”

She glances up at me and smirks, this time exhaling her breath upward into the moonlight.  “I see you’re wearing a ring.  You’re married, right?”

“Yeah,” I reply.  “My wife, Angel, is just getting off work now and heading here to meet me for dinner.”

She nods her head and then looks back at the ground. “Well, you’re off the market… and safe, I guess.  So can I tell you a story?”

“I’m listening.”

As she speaks, her emotional gaze shifts from the ground, to my eyes, to the moonlit sky, to the ground, and back to my eyes again.  This rotation continues in a loop for the duration of her story.  And every time her eyes meet mine she holds them there for a few seconds longer than she did on the previous rotation.

I don’t interject once.  I listen to every word.  And I assimilate the raw emotion present in the tone of her voice and in the depth of her eyes.

When she finishes, she says, “Well, now you know my story.  You think I’m a freak, don’t you?”

“Place your right hand on your chest,” I tell her.  She does.  “Do you feel something?” I ask.

“Yeah, I feel my heartbeat.”

“Now close your eyes, place both your hands on your face, and move them around slowly.”  She does.  “What do you feel now?” I ask.

“Well, I feel my eyes, my nose, my mouth… I feel my face.”

“That’s right,” I reply.  “But unlike you, stories don’t have heartbeats, and they don’t have faces.  Because stories are not alive—they’re not people.  They’re just stories.”

She stares into my eyes for a prolonged moment, smiles sincerely and says, “Just stories we live through.”

“Yeah…  And stories we learn from.”

 

 

 

What Life is All About

Once upon a time, there was a girl who could do anything in the world she wanted.  All she had to do was choose something and focus.  So, one day she sat down in front of a blank canvas and began to paint.  Every stroke was more perfect than the next, slowly and gracefully converging to build a flawless masterpiece.  And when she eventually finished painting, she stared proudly at her work and smiled.

It was obvious to the clouds and the stars, who were always watching over her, that she had a gift.  She was an artist.  And she knew it too.  She felt it in every fiber of her being.  But a few moments after she finished painting, she got anxious and quickly stood up.  Because she realized that while she had the ability to do anything in the world she wanted to do, she was simply spending her time moving paint around on a piece of canvas.

She felt like there was so much more in the world to see and do—so many options.  And if she ultimately decided to do something else with her life, then all the time she spent painting would be a waste.  So she glanced at her masterpiece one last time, and walked out the door into the moonlight.  And as she walked, she thought, and then she walked some more.

While she was walking, she didn’t notice the clouds and the stars in the sky who were trying to signal her, because she was preoccupied with an important decision she had to make.  She had to choose one thing to do out of all the possibilities in the world.  Should she practice medicine?  Or design buildings?  Or teach children?  She was utterly stumped.

Twenty-five years later, the girl began to cry.  Because she realized she had been walking for so long, and that over the years she had become so enamored by everything that she could do—the endless array of possibilities—that she hadn’t done anything meaningful at all.  And she learned, at last, that life isn’t about possibility—anything is possible.  Life is about making a decision—deciding to do something that moves you.

So the girl, who was no longer a girl, purchased some canvas and paint from a local craft store, drove to a nearby park, and began to paint.  One stroke gracefully led into the next just as it had so many moons ago.  And as she smiled, she continued painting through the day and into the night.  Because she had finally made a decision.  And there was still some time left to revel in the magic that life is all about.

The Unseen Race: A Lesson in Focus

While #cycling, I noticed a person about a quarter kilometer ahead of me. I could tell he was cycling a bit slower than I was, so I decided to try to catch up with him. I had about a kilometer left on the road before my turn-off. I started cycling faster and faster, gaining on him little by little with every block. After a few minutes, I was only about 100 yards behind him. Determined to overtake him, I pushed myself harder, as if I were in the final leg of the London Olympic triathlon.

Finally, I caught up with him and passed him by. Internally, I felt an immense sense of satisfaction. "I beat him," I thought, even though he didn't even know we were racing.

After passing him, I realized that I had been so focused on this impromptu competition that I missed my turn. I had gone nearly six blocks past it and had to turn around and backtrack.

This experience made me reflect on how often in life we focus on competing with others—whether co-workers, neighbors, friends, or family—trying to outdo them or prove that we are more successful or important. We spend our time and energy chasing after others and, in doing so, miss out on our own paths to our destinies.

#Moral: The problem with unhealthy competition is that it’s a never-ending cycle. There will always be someone ahead of you—someone with a better job, a nicer car, more money in the bank, more education, a prettier spouse, a more handsome partner, better-behaved children, and so on.

Embrace what life has given you: your height, weight, and personality. Dress well and wear your uniqueness proudly. You will be blessed by it. Stay focused and live a healthy life. There’s no competition in destiny. Run your own race and wish others well!

 

The Other Side

 A #father was reading his #favorite magazine and his little daughter was every

now and then distracting him. Trying to keep his daughter busy,
he tore out one page on which was a printed map of the world. He then tore the page into pieces and asked her to go to her room and put them together to make the map again.

Having done this, the father was now
convinced he would read his magazine without any disturbance and also that it would take her daughter the whole day to get it done.

But the little one came back within two minutes with the perfect map…………

The curious and confused father asked her daughter how she could do it so
quickly??

She giggled and said,
“Oh…Dad, there is #Amitabh Bacchan’s face on the other side of the paper,
I made His face perfect to
get the map right.”
Satisfied with the
answer, she ran outside to play leaving the
father surprised…

#Moral of the story:
In life there is always the other side to whatever you
experience.
When ever we come across a challenge or puzzling situation,
look at the other side, you will be surprised
to see an easy way to tackle the problem..