Whenever I meet someone, either at a social gathering, or in our neighborhood; or catch up with old friends, over the phone, the question that I am almost always asked, “so where are you working? Or, what are you doing these days?”  And I have very little to say. At times, I tell them about my blogs, but then they ask me on how do I plan on monetizing it. The conversation reaches a dead end and I abruptly move away, not making the finest of impressions.

How do I explain that after a long time, I am truly enjoying doing what I do and these blogs have been a great avenue for me to discover myself, find my own identity. So far, I’m happy with the progress I have made and feel blessed by the love I have received.

But, I did not realise, when this happiness turned into something else. When I spoke with one of my family members about my last blog, I could sense a streak of pride in my voice; I did not take his feedback positively and undermined his valuable suggestions.

Later that evening at the gym, a close friend, who happened to read my blogs mentioned of one of her friends, who has been writing blogs for a couple of years and I requested her to share the links. I opened to read one of them with a tinge of arrogance; but was immediately bowled over by her sheer talent. She had eloquently narrated so many emotions with such great finesse. I was in absolute awe, so much so that I felt intimidated and was nervous publishing my articles. I experienced such highs and lows in a matter of minutes.        

On my friend’s insistence, when I finally sat to write this blog, I had a realisation that each one of us are at different levels of life, career, education etc.; I am at the first step of this ladder, and someone is at the very top. If I get derailed by the appreciation and get consumed by pride or on the other hand get demotivated by someone else’s talent, then, I will not be able to continue on this or any journey.

At that very moment, my God mother’s words resonated in my ears, I recalled what she said to each one of us after each spiritual discourse, “enough of reading or listening, it’s time to practice; practically live our life by the word of God. It dawned upon me that I need to watch myself, monitor my thoughts and see if it is taking me closer to greatness or the pit of Ego or jealousy.

From the time, I was able to uplift my spirits; I’ve felt a sense of elation and this action was endorsed in today’s hukumnama (message from my divine book) and by my Puckhi at the dinner table. I jokingly asked her if someone asks you what your mother does, what do you say? She smiled and nonchalantly said, “She loves me”.

Her innocent response was far more precious than any fancy designation or fat salary package that could be offered; I was on cloud 9. It felt great to be loved for who I am and not the position I hold.     

I’d like to end by reminding myself, ‘Life is beautiful, it is precious, there is room for each unique soul to flourish, but only if I remain authentic and humble.’