The meeting starts at 9.30 am. I’m late. The kids have to manage with takeaways. They love it, but I’m not sure if it is the right thing for healthy growth. I stop in my tracks by the sarcastic look in my boss’s eyes “You’re not the only mother out here. We need to run … Continue reading Modern Motherhood
It’s no mean feat to organize a high-profile wedding which will be talked about for months. 5 pm is a little too early for firecrackers as the sky is still sunny and bright, and arranging air conditioning for the large guest list has taken a toll on the budget . Confetti on the guests at … Continue reading Mega-weddings
I clearly see the reflection of outdoor greenery on the television screen, but can’t see her. Her handbag lies open on the couch. Where is she? Am I turning voyeuristic? Yes, but into people’s minds. I want to see if she turns towards the books or the long-stemmed giant red rose. The last three visitors … Continue reading Inclusion
“Life is about giving, irrespective of your own needs”. My revered grandmother kept repeating this. I follow her advice in taking care of the drug addicts, unemployed and other needy members in the family. Nevertheless, they continue to be a nuisance with their behavior. Nor did I realize that my need for approval drives me … Continue reading Giving
“I don’t remember when you made the first choice in life. But you were always adamant about what you wanted. Today, I’m proud of my daughter who has chosen adoption, just to transfer the value system to another girl.” The impromptu speech from my mother attracts resounding applause.
“Your ancestors planted prejudice in you about so many things. Your lifestyle, beliefs and rituals all reflect a preference. You choose one thing to reject another, and the rejection is based on a judgment, which is not necessarily yours.” “Today, this is my truth…” “I may have a different truth about the same thing at … Continue reading Prejudice
“I’ve reached the end of the tether …. The team will never deliver the results I want, just like my daughter’s magic doll.” “What about the magic doll?” I’m sure there’s a metaphor coming up. “She gives it a silver wash to make it look like an alien, and the paint cracks up in a … Continue reading Myth of Control
“Every frame in this house is created to make you look your best”, says Gail Wynand to Dominique Francon, characters in the novel Fountainhead. “I didn’t know about your interest in literary fiction.” “Nor did I, but I quote this today to reject the agreement draft. I won’t sign this.” “But why?” “Every term in … Continue reading Get another lawyer
There is so much parking space, but she is not in her car today. Delicious lunch in a small cafe, buying a glamor magazine and an intellectual book from the roadside vendor, followed by a lazy afternoon in the salon getting a facial done is her idea of pure bliss. The road still looks deserted … Continue reading Minimalist
If all goes right, take the right turn. This was Mom’s fave quote, and ‘right’ was to be interpreted as per the situation. Years later, I think of situations when things did not go right. It means things did not go as per expectations. Provocations arose from unexpected quarters at an unexpected time. Teach them … Continue reading Provocation
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