…self-contained!

We come across caravans, carriages, apartments, ferries… equipped with a range of facilities, making them …self-contained!

As the saying goes…every man is an island…Each one of us has our own measure of intrinsic motivation, risk aversion, affinity for fellow travellers, conflict resolution…entropy tolerance… survival skills...probably making us…self-contained!

Interesting to see how a gentle suggestion from an associate, a casual remark from an opponent, an acknowledgement from a well-wisher… or a challenge presented can help us decipher our course of action. Any signal that finds a seat within is likely to be …self-contained!

I can try to illustrate the pleasure derived by talking to friend or relation, the frustration caused by certain development, the graceful walk with the pet, the contentment from a song…beyond a certain point, each experience is…self-contained!

It gradually becomes clear that each challenge we accept…each resolve we make…each stone we leave unturned…each laugh we share…eventually becomes…self-contained!

..role!

It’s a pleasure to watch a fine actor literally bring life to a character on screen or stage. There is an elderly lady, performing the role of an elegant, mature, forgiving mother/ grandmother in a fair few serials. In another serial the same lady is being manipulative and vindictive with the same degree of calibre. It does not take long to decipher that this highly talented actress is just doing her…role!

This little pet at home, mentioned a few times earlier, cannot qualify as a guard dog of any description. Despite limited movement and skills she is a reservoir of goodwill, grace and affection. Only after travelling together for several years, you get to comprehend its…role!

In several chemical reactions, we need a catalyst for the reaction to proceed smoothly. The catalyst does not participate in the reaction; it enables the process to proceed smoothly. It’s interesting to see how different situations and encounters stimulate or threaten us, empower or challenge us. Few years back, I had to take a stand against the bank lending manager for oversight of a loan condition. The matter had to be taken up at a higher level, before being resolved amicably. In hindsight, it was a catalyst for some fine learning…it had its…role!      

Mark Twain said “I never let schooling interfere with my education”… most of us grow up with the understanding that schooling has a… role!   

... the Song Unsung !

In his famous poem Tagore Sahib says "The song that I came to sing remains unsung to this day.. I have spent my days in stringing and in unstringing my instrument.. The time has not come true, the words have not been rightly set; only there is the agony of wishing in my heart... I have not seen his face, nor have I listened to his voice; only I have heard his gentle footsteps from the road before my house....The livelong day has passed in spreading his seat on the floor; but the lamp has not been lit and I cannot ask him into my house. ...I live in the hope of meeting with him; but this meeting is not yet."

It's inspiring to see how an artist can so beautifully capture, preserve, nurture and then share such a tender thought. In all humbleness, to a degree, I feel that I have been able to sing.."The song that I came to sing.." 

Given our ability to seek, reflect upon and partly comprehend the Absolute, how simple to accept that " ...only I have heard his gentle footsteps from the road before my house"

Among the most fundamental of human faculties is ... "the hope of meeting with him". To that effect, we are all, in our ways, trying to absorb ... the Song Unsung !

...the vacuum!

One of the fundamental necessities of life... our breath...relies on our diaphragm moving systematically to ensure...the vacuum!

It’s fascinating to see how much of our energy goes to maintain a sense of balance and belonging.  Decades back, when I returned home after spending 3 months away at the uni, I was elated to see the buses of Delhi. The phenomenon has repeated itself on few occasions. The intense longing for something can lead to a feeling of ...the vacuum!

We all have seen the upheaval in political, social, organisational and community circles for the top position. The second-in-line can cause quite an upheaval, driven by ...the vacuum!

I have enjoyed the fine Gazaals from a famous singer for some 25 years. I had the opportunity to join his concert recently. Some friends have shared their experience of personally dealing with the singer. While I deeply value his genius and commitment, there is no longing to explore further or any issue of ...the vacuum!

               

... the point of acceptance!

We humans are gifted with many faculties that help us survive, explore, create new structures and perhaps concepts. On the flip side, our desires, drives, doubts...hold us back from...the point of acceptance!

 

Having dealt with several people and issues in varied contexts, it’s clear that beyond a thresh-hold, most of material, intellectual, social and cultural tags have little relevance to the...the point of acceptance!

 

Many years back, during an initial job interview, I was asked if I was a lazy person. It bothered me for quite some time. Gradually I was able to dust it aside and get to ...the point of acceptance!

 

There are several acquaintances, where we are at different platforms in terms of age, stage even orientation at times. Once there is some patch of common interest, similarity of views, an ounce of mutual affinity, and one is pretty close to...the point of acceptance!

 

Many years back, I realised that I can feel claustrophobic sitting in a corner next to the window in a plane. During a recent flight, just as we were about to take off, a lady asked me, if I could move from my aisle seat to the window seat, as she was claustrophobic! I did explain the situation to her and moved to the window seat just to challenge myself. It worked out just fine, helping me figure out... the point of acceptance!

... ray of light !

Given that human life goes through cycles of growth and decay, high & lows, attraction & repulsion... it’s fascinating to see how we look for and try to hold on to... ray of light !

It’s natural to look for a glass of cool drink, when one is hot and thirsty. A good nap does wonders for one who is tired and exhausted. It’s probably necessary to experience some dark patches, to help us look for... ray of light !

While there is no dearth of inspiring speakers, flawless presenters, remarkable performers, dedicated professional, selfless workers... one still has to search for ... ray of light !

Given that one can have shadows only when we have light, it takes a lot of practice, patience and reflection to internalize that a shadow also points to... ray of light !   

...the Mantra!

Based on our nature, nurture, circumstances... we gradually figure out our formula to keep afloat... the Mantra!

How much importance we attach to an issue ... to our drive... to our values... point to... the Mantra!

For many years I have been having a glass of warm water with honey and lemon in the morning, as suggested by many for good health. Generally I am more comfortable in outdoors than indoors. Going for a walk stimulates me at many levels. For me it’s all part of... the Mantra!

A piece of music that stirs you, ... a story that inspires you...a dream that drives you... the resilience that sustains you... point to... the Mantra!

Gradually you come to realise that you are not far from ...the Mantra!

...the street directory!

Many years back, I had picked up a friend from the airport. As I was still getting familiar with the route, I asked him to hold the street directory, just in case I needed to check the route. As we got home, he jokingly said – perhaps we can store away ...the street directory!  

Initially as one is not clear about the route, one needs the GPS, a guide or... ...the street directory !

It’s fascinating to see how comfortable one can get with the routes- enjoying the views, some music, a little conversation, sprinkle of imagination, without ...the street directory!

Nature provides its own signal to steer us perhaps. A tiny ant probably know where it’s heading without ...the street directory!

Few days back, some of us were having a snack, sitting in clear outdoors – under a little shaded area. A kookaburra came flying in, snatched the chip from one of the pals & just flew off. Perhaps it had it's own...the street directory! 

...the same source!

It’s fascinating to see the way our desires originate, shape up, find fulfilment & then gradually dissolve into...the same source!

I have had the privilege to be associated with several people in varied contexts. Every transaction has its own backdrop, flow, ripples, highs & lows ... finally to be absorbed into ...the same source!

Having experienced a wide range of opposites ... intense loneliness to fine friendship...daunting humiliation to graceful acknowledgement... moments of self doubt to glimpse of bliss... one can sense that it’s coming from and pointing to...the same source!

When Shakespeare said...To be or Not to Be.. perhaps he was pointing to...the same source!

.. the proof.!

Quantum physics points out that if we are sure about the location of an atomic particle, we are uncertain about its properties and vice verse. A certain degree of uncertainly is inherent in most descriptions, encounters, events... this provides scope for beautiful growth, intense pain, fine poetry and divine music... well beyond... the proof.

Few years back we bought a CD. It has provided hours of fine entertainment, endless stream of thoughts and honest admiration for the artists and moments of fine reflections... without any need for ...the proof.

It has been an honest effort to cultivate a range of personal and professional relationships over many decades. Part of you exists in, resonates with, is defined by, is bothered about, is nurturing and nurtured by these associations without ... the proof.

... little smiling one!

It has been my sincere effort to meet & greet friends & relations with a warm smile. This warmth has been more than reciprocated. It adds to someone within... little smiling one.

In deeply reflective moments, you can feel the universe blissfully coming to a standstill... quietly shrinking... to be with ... little smiling one.

While listening to a fine piece of music, laughing wholeheartedly with a comic clip, feeling deeply connected to the universal energy, sharing a playful moment with kids, I can feel the presence of ... little smiling one.

It has been a blessing to enjoy long term association with family & friends. A generous dose of humour helps most of the time. Am gradually realising, one need not worry at all.. just quietly listen to... be gently in the company of ... little smiling one.

... Mutual acceptance!

It’s a pleasure to share some quality time with nears & dears, in person, over the phone or just in a gathering. While it takes a long time to build, sustain & nurture these relationships, the rewards are rich & fulfilling. The finest dimension is... Mutual acceptance!

It’s interesting that this state can be experienced in the presence of a loved one, a devoted & learned soul, a pet... well beyond the realms of material elements or constructs of language ... in fact not much is needed for ... Mutual acceptance!

A song from years gone by, a suggestion from a casual acquaintance, a little reflective moment can help you discover part of you for ... Mutual acceptance!

... stillness!

Long back, I was standing at a railway platform to catch a very early morning train. As the train was pulling in, a little pup wandered over – right on to the track. Few of us tried to direct it away, without any success. Within seconds this innocent one was crushed under the wheels. Looking back, with a grain of salt, I can accept my ... stillness!

It’s a pleasure talking to ones nears & dears, in person or over phone. Few days back, sitting in the train, I was talking to a fine associate, over phone. The fact that the train was moving and going through a tunnel disturbed the flow! To be totally a part of the conversation, you need a certain degree of ...stillness.

I was invited to a festive get together recently by a business associate. While I had known just a few people over the years, I managed to have a decent dialogue with fair few people during the session. At the core of each interaction, you can see that part of you is just a witness in ... stillness!

There is lot of action around us & within us. The fine sun rise, gentle breeze and soothing waves are all part of Nature, as are the social inequalities, political unrest and interpersonal conflict. To get a steady picture, we need be part of action and ... stillness!

... What’s always there!

Many years back, I got my first tri-cycle. The context, the conversations and the contentment that day, sit within vividly. In case I was to get a tri-cycle today, it is of little use. Many such experiences help me reflect on... What’s always there!

There are several events, pointers and signals that shape our thought & action. I distinctly remember an aunt visiting our place long back to talk about her father’s accident. Over the years, I have seen several layers of the saga. While we learn at every step, am keen to relate to... What’s always there!

At any cross section, we can be thrilled, delighted, disturbed, irritated by some action or reaction. It takes quite some effort to relate to and be with... What’s always there!

. . . blissful ignorance !

We have all seen a baby cry for feed, comfort, company .... Once the needs are reasonably met, the little one is relaxed & often ...off to sleep. The sensory signals are at ease & it is enjoying ... blissful ignorance.

After a reasonable amount of work, at the end of everyday chores, one can easily slip into deep sleep, devoid of any concerns, dreams.. just in a state of ... blissful ignorance.

Having enjoyed several comedy shows and hearty laughs to the point of exhaustion, one can certainly reflect on the whole experience to conclude that one has been in a state of ... blissful ignorance.

Ironically, am finding that our moments of extreme fear, concern, humiliation and anxiety gradually pass and help us dig within for ... blissful ignorance.

… the natural duality !.

Had bought a pair of shoes recently. As it happens sometimes, the shoe was hurting at few points. Checked with the shop & was suggested a foam to “stretch” the shoe at the points needed. Luckily it worked out fine and it’s not a concern any more. It does interest me how closely our experience of ease, rest with experience of (un)ease. … the natural duality.

It’s fulfilling to enjoy a bite of good food, in a decent setting, especially in good company. While all ingredients can add to the completeness of the experience, the fundamental one is how hungry we are . … the natural duality.

There is certain comfort one can have in company of friends, relations, colleagues and associates. At the basic level, we gradually become accepting of our solitude . … the natural duality.

One can certainly appreciate the words of Kahlil Gibran
"When you are joyous, look deep into your heart and you shall find it is only that which has given you sorrow that is giving you joy. When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight."

.... what’s in front !

A toddler is sitting a few rows in front of me in the train. This cute little kid is pretty relaxed in company of his Dad. I can see rays of Divine reflection in.... what’s in front.

Few weeks back, I was at a social get-together. A few kids were singing a song in front of the gathering. Somehow, I was not with it. With the best of intent, you may not be able to relate to .... what’s in front.

There are several occasions when you can see that a common event is having a different impact on different people. Be it a movie, a cricket match, an election campaign or a burst water main. What’s at the back of your mind, does influence how you relate to .... what’s in front.

The story goes that a renowned professor visited a Zen master to learn about few finer points. The Master welcomed the guest & served him tea. He continued to pour tea, even when the cup was full. Dazzled, the prof remarked, how can you pour tea into cup that’s already full ! The Master added – perhaps you are like that cup – that’s already full!

To a degree, we need the empty cup... to capture, relish, absorb and be part of.... what’s in front.

... the Design !

The story goes that a young princess Pootna was simply smitten by a good looking young monk vising the palace. She earnestly wished to "mother" him. Some time later, following some unpleasant exchange, she was determined to "poison" him! Given the intensity of her desire, it's said, The Lord granted both, eventually taking her in His care. The story helps me decipher ... the Design !


It's fascinating to see countless translations of this saga in everyday life. How easily our desires multiply, change form and drive us to achieve, sustain, posses and preserve. Long back, I do remember, getting concerned about academic grades on a few occasions. On most occasions, I was able to bounce back right away ! In the midst of it all, you try to figure out ... the Design !


Most economic models try to establish and validate any proposal in terms of Net Present Value. Any step we take is certainly influenced by the perceived value of returns. The beauty of human life lies in the ever changing, evolving, organic and subjective nature of ... the Design !


Several suggestions have been offered to help as along. A friendly dialogue, sharing notes, silent reflection and meditation, determined outlook, guidance from learned ones and a generous dose of humour helps me comprehend. It seems that our passage, is also part of ... the Design !

...even Field.

As you take a little child for a walk ... in the right frame, you can enjoy every move, a little bite, a bit of sunshine and rain, a smile here & there. Many a time you realise, that you are fully absorbed in it.. there is no concern about the future or past, no age gap or expectation. It's an ...even Field.


Having walked with many in different settings, social and professional, one can see the variation in will & skill, effort & achievement, status & values... While the visible features vary significantly, deep down at one's core, it's an ...even Field.


At times, I am amazed by the precision of certain events that leave a fine print within : receiving a particular response, meeting a specific person at a certain point, taking a certain course of action... can appear as fine coincidences. At a root level it's an ...even Field.


Am reminded of elders I have grown up with. Over the years, some have passed away, some have deteriorated. Somewhere within, at times It reveals Itself that all is intact, it's an ...even Field.

...ATM

We can draw cash from an Automatic teller machine (ATM). With practice, we can figure out, where our attention is - at the moment (ATM)

As we prepare for an event, discussion, presentation, it just helps us manage what happens... ATM

Long back, I had a wart in my foot for few weeks. The doctor checked it, asked a question & gave the medicine. The relief was evident within minutes. This is just a vivid picture within...ATM

There are several events, immensely beautiful & fulfilling, inspiring & uplifting, frustrating & threatening, that we face during our journey. Am gradually realising, there are no ripples within.. ATM

As I write this note, sitting in the train, the guy sitting next to me is dozing off & leaning on me slightly. I can see that there is no impact within ... ATM

Am given to understand that most of what we need to learn, can be summed up as BE HERE NOW. In other words, just BE ...ATM