Mining Memories

Recently, I had the opportunity to conduct a poetry writing workshop for a group of Gurukuli boys. One of the activities was to create acrostics using their own names, a fun and engaging exercise to help them express their self-identity. What struck me the most during this activity was the contrast between what I had expected and what actually unfolded. When the younger children began, they chose adorable and positive adjectives—nothing surprising there. But as I moved on to the older boys, around 10 years and above, I noticed something quite remarkable. Instead of selecting grandiose or exaggerated words to describe themselves, they opted for words that reflected a sense of self-awareness. Some boys described themselves as "distracted" or "dutiful," and even one child chose "annoying" and "obnoxious" for his acrostic. What caught me off guard was how genuinely comfortable they were with these terms—not in a self-deprecating or negative way, but

Warning: This one is a lengthy blog, but I hope you'll take a moment to dive in—meaningful insights are waiting for you!  We often think of peace and stillness as something that can only be found in quiet, serene environments—far removed from the chaos of daily life. Yet, sometimes, peace finds us in the most unexpected places, like the midst of a crowded Mumbai local train. On my recent trip to Mumbai, I found my health and routine thrown off balance by erratic eating and sleeping patterns. It was becoming overwhelming, as some of us seem to age differently, and the fast pace was taking a toll. One afternoon, I decided to head back to the farm—my sanctuary—at any cost. Without much thought, I packed my bags with essentials: clothes, laptop, yarns, and a few snacks, and made my way to the station for a 4 PM train to Dahanu.   The scene at the station was chaotic: a bustling, overcrowded platform and a train filled to the brim. Yet, in that moment, fuelled by an adrenaline rush, I p

Childhood is often seen as the foundation of who we become. The experiences we encounter during these early years shape our outlook on life, influence our emotional responses, and mold our personality. From moments of pure joy to periods of challenge and even trauma, every experience leaves an imprint.  Happiness and Positive Personality Traits When children experience happiness, they are more likely to develop positive personality traits. Joyful memories, moments of love, and nurturing environments foster self-confidence, empathy, and kindness. For instance, a child who grows up in a home filled with affection and encouragement tends to internalize the belief that the world is a safe and supportive place. They approach life with optimism and an open heart, eager to connect with others. Small moments, like playing games with family, being praised for accomplishments, or simply feeling understood, all contribute to a child's sense of security and self-worth. These experiences shape

“Childhood is like waves in the ocean of time; they come and go, each moment a gentle reminder of how swiftly life evolves.”  Observing my children often fills me with a profound sense of gratitude. Their kindness, their ability to reason, and their willingness to express their opinions make me feel incredibly fortunate. It’s truly a blessing to witness these traits in them. Just today, my almost 4-year-old son demonstrated an unexpected sense of organization. After a delightful play session, he carefully packed all his toys and stored them away in his drawer, showing a level of thoughtfulness that surprised me. What’s more, he didn’t demand any screen time; instead, he played quietly, understanding my need to concentrate on my work. These moments of serenity remind me of how blessed I am to have such considerate children. Yet, parenthood is not without its challenges. There are days when I feel utterly exhausted. During these times, I make a conscious effort to remind myself that my c