Good News-Gratitude

Daily writing prompt

You get some great, amazingly fantastic news. What’s the first thing you do?

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Embracing Life’s Victories: A Moment of Gratitude for Good News

Good news has a way of brightening even the dullest of days, doesn’t it? Whether it’s the arrival of a newborn into the family, the triumph of a friend in a competitive exam, or the resolution of a long-standing legal battle in our favour, the feeling of elation is universal. As I ponder the question of what I would do upon receiving such overwhelmingly positive news, I realize that the response varies depending on the nature of the news itself.

The spectrum of good news is as diverse as life itself. It could be the joyous announcement of a new life entering the world, bringing with it the promise of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Or perhaps it’s the satisfaction of witnessing a loved one achieve success after relentless dedication and hard work, their triumph serving as a beacon of inspiration for us all. Then there are those moments when justice prevails, and a legal battle is resolved in our favor, reaffirming our faith in fairness and righteousness.

In the midst of celebrating these moments of triumph, there’s a common thread that binds my reactions together—a sense of gratitude. Regardless of the nature of the news, my instinctive response is to pause, close my eyes, and offer a heartfelt thank you to a higher power. As a person of faith, I find solace in expressing gratitude not only for the blessings bestowed upon me but also for the kindness extended by others, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Does this reminds you of a cricket player, who hits a century and before acknowledging the cheers from the spectators looks heavenwards!

When it comes to sharing the news with others, the process is equally nuanced. For news within the family, I would naturally turn to my wife, the one with whom I share life’s joys and sorrows. Her presence adds depth to the celebration, amplifying the joy and gratitude that accompany good news. Similarly, for legal victories or political triumphs, I have specific individuals in mind—trusted confidants who share in my values and understand the significance of the moment.

But beyond the phone calls and messages exchanged in the wake of good news, there’s a quiet moment of reflection—an opportunity to acknowledge the forces at play in the grand circus of life. It’s a moment to recognize the interconnectedness of our experiences, the ebb and flow of triumphs and tribulations that shape our journey. And in that moment, as I offer my thanks to the divine and to those who have played a part in shaping my story, I am reminded of the profound beauty of life itself.

In the end, good news serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, the power of perseverance, and the importance of gratitude. It’s a testament to the triumph of hope over despair, of light over darkness. So, the next time you find yourself basking in the glow of good news, take a moment to pause, reflect, and offer a word of thanks—for the journey, for the victories, and for the countless blessings that grace our lives each day.

-R K Karnani
Feb 2024

Desires & Happiness

ख्वाईशें और खुशियाँ

खुशी की तलाश (Pursuit Of Happiness)

ख़ुशी की तलाश 

मैं
ढूँढ रहा था  खोज रहा था तलाश रहा था
खुशी कोने कोने में
सबने यही कहा ख़ुशी नही मिलती ओने पौने में
फिर गुरुदेव ने बताया उस शख्स  का पता
मौजूद है जिसके पास मेरी खुशी का हर  सामान
मौजूद है जिसके पास मेरी हर खुशी का आयाम
मिला जब उससे,पता चला, मुझे जानता है जनम से
मुझे भी लगा पहचाना सा, कहता हूँ कसम से
उससे मिलते ही,ना जाने क्यों आँखें बंद हो गई मेरी
चेहरे पर खिल आई अनायास ही एक मुस्कुराहट
वो भी मुझे देख रहा था, आईने से,बिना किये कोई आहट !

-रविन्द्र कुमार करनानी 
 rkkblog1951.wordpress.com

Pursuit Of Happiness

I
Was searching
Was seeking
Was enquiring
For happiness
Frantically
All around, in all corners
Everyone said  happiness is not easy to get
Not very cheap to be found.

Then my beloved Gurudev
Gave me the address of a person
That someone
Who had all the tools for my happiness.
That someone who held with him
All the dimensions of my happiness.
When I met him,
Viewed him in this new light
I came to realise,  
That I had known him ever since birth.
He felt so very familiar, I swear
As soon as I met him,
I don’t know why my eyes closed
And
A big smile suddenly appeared on my face.
As I stared at him
He too was looking back at me
With a serene smile
From the mirror!
I had found the address of my happiness.

-Ravindra Kumar Karnani
Oct 2023

“If you are looking for that one person who will change your life for the better and make you happy, take a look in the mirror.”

Accepting Life’s Unexpected Turns: A Reflection on Losing Possessions at 72+

Daily writing prompt

What would you do if you lost all your possessions?

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Accepting Life’s Unexpected Turns: A Reflection on Losing Possessions at 72+

Hello Dear Friends,

As I sit down to share my thoughts with you, I find myself ruminating on a question that, at first glance, seemed seem disheartening and downright frightening: What would I do if I lost all my possessions at the age of 72+? This scenario could be the result of unforeseen circumstances, natural disasters, or just the capricious nature of life. While the idea of losing everything did initially evoked a sense of panic, I believe there’s a silver lining in every storm, a chance for growth and rediscovery.

Reflecting on my happy past

First and foremost, such a situation would prompt me to reflect on the incredible journey I’ve had thus far. My life has been a  woven fabric of memories, experiences, and relationships, not merely a collection of materialistic possessions. Each chapter of my life, whether joyous or challenging, has contributed to the person I am today. Losing possessions wouldn’t erase those precious moments; wouldn’t turn those pages with stories of camaraderie and warmth blank; rather, it would highlight the resilience that comes with age.

Community and Connection

I truly believe that the strength of human connection is immeasurable. In the face of adversity, relying on the support of friends, family, and the community becomes paramount. At 72+, I’ve had the privilege of building lasting relationships, and these ties would be my greatest assets in times of need. Shared experiences and shared burdens create bonds that withstand the test of time.

Simplicity: A Newfound Freedom

The accumulation of possessions often burdens us with responsibilities and ties us to a particular way of life. Losing everything, may sound paradoxical, offers a sense of liberation. It will be an opportunity to embrace simplicity, to pare down to the essentials. This newfound freedom could lead to a lifestyle that is more mindful, less encumbered by the weight of materialism.

Rekindling Passions and Hobbies

In the hustle and bustle of life, we sometimes forget to the things that once brought us immense joy. Losing possessions could act as a catalyst for rediscovering forgotten passions and hobbies. Whether it’s painting, writing, gardening, or simply taking long walks, these activities shall become a source of solace and fulfillment in the absence of material belongings.

Spiritual and Emotional Growth

Adversity has a unique way of fostering spiritual and emotional growth. Stripped of material attachments, one is forced to confront the core of their being. This could be a time for more introspection, meditation, and a deeper exploration of one’s values and beliefs. The loss of possessions might be the precursor to a richer, more meaningful inner life.

Adapting and Thriving

All will agree with me that life is a series of adaptations. At 72+, I’ve weathered various storms and learned that resilience is the key to not just surviving but thriving. Losing possessions would certainly be a challenge, but as in the past, I shal have to take challenges as the stepping stones to going ahead. Adapting to new circumstances, finding innovative solutions, and staying optimistic shall turn this seemingly dire situation into an opportunity for my personal evolution.

I can say this with certainity that the loss of possessions shall be while undoubtedly challenging,shall not define my  essence. It will be my human spirit, the capacity to love, connect, and adapt, that shall truly makes my life rich and fulfilling again. So, if the day ever comes when I lose all my possessions, I would face it with the wisdom of age, the strength of community, and the resilience that has been honed over a lifetime.

Here’s to embracing life’s unexpected turns, and to the unwavering spirit that continues to grow with each passing year.

Warm regards,
-R K Karnani
Oct. 2023
ps.: Thinking about losing all possessions and writing about it has in a way empowered me and I feel liberated and the fear of loss seems to have vapourised.

Address Of Happiness

Address Of Happiness

I reconnected with ‘A Small Happiness’ after quite some time, so I asked her: “Where have you been lately? We hardly seem to meet anymore.”

“Please don’t say that. I’m right here,” replied Happiness.

“You seem so elusive, unlike your sisters, ‘Trouble’ and ‘Anxiety.’ They visit me almost every other day.”

“I do come around regularly, but you often overlook me,” Happiness retorted.

“Hmm, alright. So tell me, Happiness, where were you when my neighbor bought a new car?”

“I was there, remember at that time you received your daughter’s test report? The dreaded disease you feared wasn’t diagnosed. It was merely anemia. I was close by, within your reach, sighing with relief.”

Feeling somewhat embarrassed, I persisted:

“And where were you when a close relative built that big new house?”

“I was in your son’s pocket, inside his appointment letter for the job that he struggled so hard for,” Happiness replied.

I was about to voice another complaint when Happiness interrupted, launching into a monologue:

“Sometimes, I’m found in the squeals and laughter of your granddaughters. Sometimes, I rekindle memories when suddenly meeting a long-lost friend.
I’m there while you’re engrossed in a good movie.
Sometimes, I’m in the feeling of relief when you retrieve your lost credit card.
Sometimes, I’m in your old favorite song being played on the radio.
And sometimes, I’m in Dhoni’s sixer on the last ball for a victory.

The reality my dear is that I divide myself into countless little mini-moments. In the emotions of those moments.
It seems the power of your glasses has increased. You seek me only in large and significant events. Yes, I visit them as well, but less frequently.
I prefer to be more in the smaller, everyday moments.

Now that you know my address and where to find me, Search for me more often.
There’s no need to change the prescription of your glasses. Just alter your perspective.”

-Ravindra Kumar Karnani
September 2023