Petals!

Faith plays a great role in our reactions and responses to the tumultous ups and downs of life. It helps us traverse through rocky navigational paths, taps the hidden reservoir of strength that lies within us and much more. But we don't really acknowledge it. Once, while going through a difficult time, I went to a chapel that happened to be closest to where I was staying. I prayed before the image of Jesus Christ. I felt unsure. I had no candles. I wasn't kneeling or chanting a Christian prayer or hymn. But I felt the love and faith surging within me. So I prayed, "Jesus, I realize I don't know how you'd want me to pray to you. Right now, I am praying the way I want. Tell me should I bring candles next time? Is that how you'd want me to pray?" Then I felt silly. As if Jesus is going to listen to such nonsensical ramblings, I thought to myself.                                   ...

          To all Malayalis celebrating today, I wish you a very Happy & Prosperous Onam!

First of all, Happy Ganesh Chaturthi wishes to all of you, dear friends. Worldwide and even on Twitter, people are sending out wishes of love, prosperity and peace in the name of Lord Ganesha. Schools are shut. Offices are mostly in holiday mode. In homes, pujas and prasad are offered to please and invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha today. Luv Ganesha for 1) His obedience, humility & love for his parents  2) Ability to remove obstacles intelligently  3) Always looking happy, inspiring us to break more coconuts (anger, envy, ego)  4) By being ever loving always with a platter of the yummiest delicacies & he's no social snob who gives importance to who wears what or who looks smart or who's high class folks - he teaches us to rise above such factors - Lord Ganesha shares his place with the humble rat. How about you?