Some Reflections

There are so many people in this world who don't know how blessed they are. Despite having everything one needs, and in some cases, all one can desire for, they feel wounded, affected, isolated, unhappy and miserable.  I don't see them struggling, nor do I feel worried for them. I know they will eventually get on with their lives. All they need is a bit of spark, a ray of hope, some kind words, a moment of positivity and the power of inspiration. Somehow I have began to think that the greatest thing I can do for my people, for this world, is to be that source of inspiration; to be that ray of light.

To end this moment of positive reflection, here's another tiny nugget: If we all depended a little less on other people's negative actions and words and focused more on feeling the way we want to feel and choosing to always have a positive attitude, I believe so strongly that we'd all live happier lives. 

India is (truly) Incredible

Where law-breakers don't know the consequences of their actions,
Where government servants are not charged up about their work,
Where criminals are out on the loose, contemplating murders, robberies and rapes,
Where parents don't realize how and when their boys turn into brutes,
Where these brutes can't contain their urges at the sight of a woman,
And where women don't feel safe outside, many in their own homes as well...
India, you are truly incredible.

The Role of a Teacher

Of all the things that teachers can do for their students, exemplifying strong character traits, investing faith in them, supporting them in dealing with challenges, and protecting them from any harm or abuse are perhaps the most important things. Children are always bursting with energy. It is the choice of a teacher to give them the space and the opportunities to feel good about themselves or repress them emotionally; to support their development or contribute to their isolation; to celebrate their childhood or turn them into uninspired children growing up to become uninspired adults.

The Transformation Within Me

Having spent the past year and a half working with so many diverse individuals, all from different backgrounds but with the same drive and vision to provide an excellent education to all children in the nation, as a fellow with Teach for India and as a teacher in a municipal school in the national capital, I can confidently say that I have had some of the most uplifting, pleasurable, rewarding and magical as well as the most upsetting, depressing, challenging and overwhelming moments and experiences of my life. The struggles in the school, the hits-and-trials in the classroom, the conversations with my friends, the love of my children, the agony of failed goals, the respect from society, the reflective moments in enlightening silences, the pleasures of giving, sharing and loving- everything has grown on me, everything has somehow made an impact somewhere, everything has contributed in reshaping me as an individual.