Family
Dear Ruby Lee
“You not gon’ run me crazy, I’m gon’ run YOU crazy” - Ruby Lee Spencer. That’s what you used to tell me, Rudy and Kindal on a daily basis, mama Ruby. This was just one of your countless famous quotes. Though you’re no longer among the living I know you’re looking down on me knowing how much I love you, but during this season of thanksgiving I want you to know how grateful I am for all that you have given me.
By Joe Patterson2 years ago in Confessions
ECHOES IN MY MIND. Top Story - November 2024.
ECHOES IN MY MIND My sack is empty Even as a child, while my mother and grandmother encouraged me to write, I often wondered what made my brain work the way it did. There were many people my age who couldn’t put two words together and make them rhyme, and yet, I never had that problem.
By Margaret Brennan2 years ago in Confessions
People Aren't Foolish, Just Quiet!
People Aren't Foolish, Just Quiet! Some folks have a peculiar habit of constantly exaggerating their own importance. Their life seems like a never-ending drama where they are always the lead character. Their language is consistently self-centric: "He said that to me," "He does it only because of me," or "If I don't say this, I'll be out of the group." These individuals are always looking for ways to make themselves appear larger than life. Listening to their fabricated stories, people around them get a clear view of their true personality, but no one says anything in response. Such people are always haunted by one thought: that they are not as important as they would like to be. So, they constantly need to prove that they are the centre of everyone's universe. They fear that if they don't constantly praise themselves, others might perceive them as less significant. Their self-confidence is entirely dependent on external validation. Hence, they are always eager to hear compliments about themselves from others. Do you know what? Everyone recognises these types of people. Every person sees through their facade and understands the real reason behind their behaviour. But these self-important individuals believe that their act is fooling everyone. In reality, people listen to their exaggerated self-praise, nod in agreement, and then quietly laugh to themselves. This laughter isn't because they admire them; it’s because they find the person’s need for constant validation amusing. Deep down, these individuals are incredibly insecure. This insecurity pushes them to constantly try and prove themselves. They believe that without this self-promotion, no one will value them. Their self-esteem is built on a foundation of false stories and self-praise. To tell the truth, these people are often sad and lonely inside. They need to constantly inflate their sense of self-importance because they lack genuine self-belief. The people around them are fully aware of this. Others aren't foolish—they're just quiet. They choose not to say anything because they know that if they confront these individuals with reality, it could further unsettle their already fragile state of mind. Unbeknownst to them, people understand them deeply. These self-important individuals never realise how embarrassing their false stories and exaggerated importance appear to others. People may laugh at them, but it’s because of their fake stories and inflated sense of self. Others don't call them out because they know that this false sense of grandeur is the only balm that soothes their inner wounds. In reality, true importance lies in our actions and character. It’s not what we say about ourselves that matters, but what we do. When someone acts with humility and genuine effort, people recognise and respect them for their true worth. So, for those who constantly spin false tales to boost their own importance, it's worth taking a moment to look inward. They should try to understand their real worth, which will be proven through their actions. And the rest of society already knows this simple truth—people aren’t foolish; they’re just quiet observers. To truly grow in stature, one must keep their heart and soul genuine. It’s not through false stories or self-praise that we become significant, but through our actions and humility. False grandeur is fleeting, but true deeds are timeless, and it is these deeds that establish our true importance in society.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Confessions
Dear Cookie & Papa
Dear Cookie and Papa, Of course your real names are Erma and Harry and you are my grandparents, but when all of your grandchildren were babies that’s what we heard you call each other. It’s been awhile since you both have been gone, but I am still grateful for the 25 years that I had you both in my life.
By Joe Patterson2 years ago in Confessions
"It Takes a Big Heart to Apologize"
"It Takes a Big Heart to Apologize" No matter how much a person learns in life, there are two things that take a long time to master: forgiving others and apologising. For this, one needs a big heart. Apologising means acknowledging one’s mistake or putting one’s pride aside to respect the emotions of the other person, in order to preserve the relationship. Not everyone can do this, because it requires a big heart and, even more, a compassionate heart that understands others’ feelings. The person who apologises even when they are not at fault is truly considerate. Such a person values relationships over ego. They understand that a simple word—“sorry”—can heal many things, clear up misunderstandings, remove bitterness in relationships, and bring a new bond of love to the connection. When we were young, our parents taught us, "Apologise if you make a mistake," but as we grow older, amidst the hustle and bustle of life and the fog of ego, we often forget this lesson. Caught under the weight of ego, a person begins to feel that apologising is a sign of weakness. But true greatness lies in setting aside one’s ego and respecting the feelings of others. Once, something like this happened. There were two friends, very close to each other. One day, due to some reason, they had an argument. The argument created tension in their relationship, and they stopped talking to each other. One friend wasn’t at fault, but still, he went to the other and apologised. In the eyes of the friend who apologised, there was an innocence, a sense of humility. His heart was pure because he wanted to mend the relationship. His apology removed the anger from the other friend's heart, and their bond became stronger again. Through this act, he showed that apologising even when not at fault is, in fact, a symbol of true greatness. In our everyday lives, we often see people apologising even when they haven’t made a mistake. That apology reflects the greatness of the relationship and the person. When we apologise, we put our ego aside and give priority to the relationship, even if we aren’t in the wrong. This kind of greatness is found only in those with big hearts. A person who apologises when they are not at fault is truly considerate of others. They understand that their one apology can remove anger, hurt, and tension from another person's heart. This understanding sets them apart from others and makes them truly great. Apologising does not signify weakness; it is a sign of greatness. It frees a person from their ego and brings a new blossom of love into relationships. A person who apologises to preserve a relationship is truly demonstrating compassion and dedication to maintaining the bond. There are many moments in life when we need to apologise. Sometimes, it is hard for us to do so because our ego comes in the way. But when we set our ego aside and apologise, we strengthen the bonds of our relationships. That is why the person who apologises even when not at fault is truly great. They don't just safeguard their own feelings but also protect the emotions of the other person. This person doesn’t allow ego to take precedence in relationships but instead prioritises love, warmth, and humanity. If everyone in this world learned to set aside their ego and apologise, many problems could be resolved. Therefore, apologising is the mark of a big heart, and the person who apologises even when not at fault is truly considerate and great in spirit.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Confessions
Learn to Make a Living: A Journey Beyond Survival
Learn to Make a Living: A Journey Beyond Survival In a world where the concept of success is often associated with wealth, status, and power, the true essence of making a living goes beyond just earning a paycheck. It’s about discovering a purpose, finding fulfillment, and creating a life that aligns with one's values. To "learn to make a living" is not merely about financial stability; it is a deeper process that involves understanding oneself, embracing struggles, and finding joy in everyday efforts. 1. The First Step: Realising the Importance of Purpose From a young age, society conditions us to view a job or career as a necessity to survive. However, the notion of truly making a living encompasses the idea of building a life with meaning. It's not just about finding any job but finding work that resonates with our inner calling. Take the example of Ramesh, a farmer’s son from a remote village. Despite securing a high-paying job in a city, he felt an emptiness that money could not fill. He eventually left his corporate job to return to his village and started organic farming. The satisfaction he gets from working with the soil and contributing to sustainable agriculture is incomparable to the salary he once earned. For Ramesh, making a living is about nurturing the land that feeds people, which gives him a sense of fulfillment far beyond monetary gains. 2. The Power of Passion and Skill Development To make a living successfully, it’s essential to recognise and harness one’s passions. When we align our careers with our interests, work becomes less of a chore and more of a joy. Consider the story of Maya, a talented artist who struggled for years to make ends meet. She was advised to pursue a "safe" career in a corporate environment, but her heart was never in it. Eventually, she took a leap of faith and began teaching art to children. Her classes became a hit, not because she was a skilled teacher, but because her passion for art shone through. Maya’s journey highlights how honing skills aligned with one’s passion can transform an ordinary job into a fulfilling career. She now makes a living not just by selling her artwork but by spreading the joy of creativity, impacting young lives in the process. 3. Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone Making a living is rarely a straight path; it is filled with failures, setbacks, and hardships. These experiences are crucial in shaping our resilience and character. Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb, famously failed thousands of times before achieving success. When asked about his failures, Edison remarked, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." This mindset is crucial for anyone learning to make a living. Every failure teaches us a lesson, pushing us to adapt and try again with newfound wisdom. In today’s world, where job security is uncertain, and industries are constantly evolving, the ability to adapt and learn from failure is an invaluable asset. 4. The Role of Financial Literacy An essential aspect of making a living is understanding how to manage the money earned effectively. Financial literacy, often overlooked in traditional education, plays a vital role in creating a stable and fulfilling life. John, a software engineer, earned a handsome salary but found himself living paycheck to paycheck. It wasn’t until he started learning about budgeting, investments, and savings that he realised making a living isn't just about how much you earn, but how well you manage what you have. By gaining financial literacy, John was able to build an emergency fund, invest in his future, and pursue his passion for travelling. He discovered that making a living is as much about securing financial freedom as it is about earning money. 5. The Balance Between Work and Life One of the greatest challenges people face today is finding a balance between work and personal life. Many individuals become so consumed by their jobs that they forget to live. The stress and exhaustion that come with this imbalance can lead to burnout, diminishing the quality of life. Sarah, a high-ranking corporate executive, spent most of her life chasing promotions and bonuses. It wasn’t until she faced a health scare that she realised the value of slowing down. She started spending more time with her family, pursued hobbies, and even took up yoga. Today, she makes a living as a consultant, working fewer hours but finding joy in the time spent with her loved ones. Her story is a powerful reminder that making a living should not come at the cost of our well-being and personal happiness. 6. Giving Back: The Ultimate Fulfillment True fulfillment in making a living often comes when we use our skills and resources to give back to society. The joy of helping others, even in small ways, can be profoundly rewarding. Take the example of Sanjay, a successful entrepreneur who, after building his business empire, decided to dedicate part of his income to supporting underprivileged children’s education. He believes that true wealth is measured not by what you have but by what you give. By setting up scholarships and mentoring young minds, Sanjay found a deeper purpose in his life. His journey shows us that the real essence of making a living lies in contributing to the greater good and leaving a positive impact on the world. 7. The Role of Continuous Learning In the rapidly changing landscape of today's world, making a living requires a commitment to lifelong learning. It is essential to keep upgrading our skills, not just to stay relevant but to find new avenues of growth. Ritu, who started her career as a teacher, felt stagnant after a few years. Instead of settling for her comfort zone, she took online courses in digital marketing. This new skill set opened up opportunities for her to work as a freelance content creator, allowing her to explore her love for writing while continuing to teach. Ritu's experience highlights how continuous learning can provide multiple income streams and job satisfaction, making the process of earning a living dynamic and enriching. 8. Finding Joy in the Journey Often, we get so fixated on the end goal of financial stability that we forget to enjoy the journey. Making a living is about finding joy in our everyday tasks, no matter how small. It’s about recognising the value of hard work, appreciating the lessons from failures, and celebrating even the smallest victories. When we learn to find joy in the process, the idea of making a living transforms from a mere necessity into a fulfilling adventure. Conclusion: Beyond the Paycheck Making a living is an art that goes beyond securing a job or earning money. It’s about creating a life filled with purpose, passion, and joy. It’s about continuous growth, embracing failures, and learning to balance work with personal fulfillment. Whether it’s the farmer returning to his roots, the artist teaching her passion, or the executive finding joy in slowing down, each journey is unique yet united by a common thread: the pursuit of a meaningful life. Ultimately, to learn to make a living is to learn the true essence of living itself. It is the realisation that success is not measured by the size of our bank account but by the impact we make, the joy we feel, and the lives we touch. The journey of making a living is one of self-discovery, resilience, and finding a deeper connection to the world around us. In this pursuit, we find not just a way to survive, but a way to truly live.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Confessions
Dear Bien
Dear Mazoo, Of course I call you Mazoo because we started calling each other Mazoo and Fazoo when we first we realized we had a mutual favorite movie, Mulan. Dear Bien, this Thanksgiving season marks one decade since we first met and became friends and I want you to know how grateful for that I am.
By Joe Patterson2 years ago in Confessions
Beware and Look Around!
Everyone has a bad day. I’ve had my share, but the older that I get, the more that I realize that there is always someone that is facing harder circumstances than I am. For instance, I thought school was pretty hard. I didn’t really fit in, and I didn’t really feel like I was a part of anything. I felt pretty insignificant. Because of this, I had a hard time connecting with other people later on. I was used to being judged, so I instantly figured that everyon that I met was judging me. I was used to being bullied, so I expected it. When I was about nineteen, one of the friends that I did have when I was in high school went to college and got a roommate. My friend wanted me to meet this guy, so I did. The guy that I met was nice. He was different from the guys that I grew up with, and he wasn’t as harsh on others as most people that I knew. This new guy started telling me about how he grew up. He had cerebral palsy, so he had a lot of struggles when he was younger. Mobility was one of them. So, while I was worried about making new friends, he was worried about if he would be able to walk. Then, the new guy told me about how nice everyone was to him in school and about his dreams to be a wrestler. He knew that having cerebral palsy affected the possibility of his dreams and instead of getting all upset about it, he made it work for him. Since he couldn’t wrestle right away, he became an announcer, so he could be a part of the sport that he loved so much. Instead of getting jealous of the other people that were able to participate in the dream sport he so much wanted to be a part of, he became friends with them. He tried not to let his struggles get him down, and he did the best that he could to be a part of the sport that he loved. As I got older, I met several more people just like this guy. I met someone my age that lost his sibling due to addiction. I met a single mother that got pregnant at an early age and had to suffer the loss of the baby’s father. I even followed the story of someone that I went to school with as she suffered a miscarriage. All of these people touched my life in a way. It helped me remember that despite the struggles I was going through, there were other things out there that people were enduring that were just heartbreaking, and knowing that these people were able to get up every day and do what they needed to do, helped give me the motivation to do the same. Life isn’t perfect. We all have struggles, and being there to witness other peoples’ struggles and help them if you can puts life in perspective. There might be a day where everything seems to go wrong and everything seems crazy and chaotic, but if you look to your left or your right, you might realize that someone else is going through a situation that is ten times worse than what you are. At least I did, and that made me more appreciative of my circumstances. I’m thankful that I was born in a country with clean and available water. I’m thankful that I have a right to an education, and I’m thankful that I have the ability to choose who I marry or who my friends are. Some people don’t even get these basic rights.
By Nicole Higginbotham-Hogue2 years ago in Confessions
"I Am Good if the World is Good"
"I Am Good if the World is Good" The phrase "I am good if the world is good" reflects a universal truth: our actions, attitudes, and behaviours are often influenced by our surroundings. If we find ourselves in a world that is kind, compassionate, and supportive, we are more likely to mirror these qualities. This is a powerful idea rooted in the interconnected nature of human existence, where our individual goodness often reflects the collective goodness we experience. However, the journey to understanding this concept is complex, involving both the warmth we receive and the darkness we face in the world. Imagine a child growing up in a loving and caring family. This child is likely to develop empathy, kindness, and a positive outlook on life. Their perception of the world is shaped by the nurturing environment they experience daily. For instance, when a parent shows patience and forgiveness, the child learns to be patient and forgiving in return. This is because children are like mirrors; they reflect what they see. When surrounded by goodness, they naturally radiate it back into the world. On the other hand, if we grow up in a hostile or harsh environment, our ability to remain kind and good may be challenged. A person who has faced betrayal or cruelty might develop a defensive attitude, finding it hard to trust or be good to others. This does not mean that the person is inherently bad, but rather that their experiences have influenced their outlook on life. It takes great strength and resilience to maintain goodness in a world that may not always reciprocate it. A powerful example of this can be seen in the life of Nelson Mandela. He was imprisoned for 27 years under apartheid in South Africa, a system that was rooted in racial injustice and discrimination. Despite the cruelty he faced, Mandela chose the path of forgiveness and reconciliation. Instead of harbouring bitterness, he extended a hand of friendship to his former oppressors. Mandela's choice to be good, even when the world around him was harsh, became a beacon of hope and showed the world that goodness can prevail even in the darkest of times. He became an example of how individual goodness can transform the world, even if the world initially seems unkind. Similarly, in our daily lives, we often encounter people who reflect the goodness they receive. Consider a person who has been helped by a stranger during a time of need. Perhaps they were stranded on a road and someone offered them a ride. This simple act of kindness can leave a lasting impression. It may inspire them to help others in similar situations, creating a ripple effect of goodness. They were good because someone was good to them first. It is a cycle of positive energy that keeps going as long as we contribute to it. However, this concept also presents a challenge: if our goodness is conditional upon the world being good, then what happens when we encounter negativity or cruelty? Should we still be good if the world is not good to us? This is where the true test of character lies. Many times, life throws us into situations where it feels like the goodness around us has vanished. In those moments, it becomes our responsibility to decide whether to mirror the negativity or to rise above it and continue being good. A poignant example of this can be seen during natural disasters. When floods, earthquakes, or other calamities strike, we often witness two types of reactions. Some people take advantage of the chaos, hoarding resources or raising prices. But many others step up to help, showing incredible acts of kindness and generosity. Volunteers risk their lives to save strangers, communities come together to provide food and shelter, and individuals donate whatever they can to assist those in need. Even when the world appears dark and unforgiving, there are always those who choose to be good, reminding us of the power of compassion. The idea that "I am good if the world is good" suggests a reciprocal relationship, but it also hints at a deeper truth: our goodness should not be entirely dependent on external factors. While it is true that a positive environment encourages positive behaviour, we also have the power to be the source of that goodness. If we wait for the world to be good first, we might be waiting forever. Instead, we can choose to be the goodness we wish to see in the world. Think of the small acts of kindness that often go unnoticed but have the power to change someone's day. A smile from a stranger, a helping hand from a co-worker, or a kind word during a tough time—these are the little sparks that can ignite a fire of goodness. When we choose to be good even when the world isn't, we set an example for others. Our goodness can become the catalyst that inspires others to be good too, creating a chain reaction that can transform the world, one act at a time. The story of Mahatma Gandhi also beautifully illustrates this concept. He once said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." Gandhi believed in responding to violence with non-violence and hatred with love. Even when the world was filled with conflict and injustice, he remained steadfast in his goodness. His actions inspired millions to follow the path of non-violence, showing that a single individual’s commitment to goodness can influence the entire world. In conclusion, the saying "I am good if the world is good" reflects the dynamic interplay between our environment and our actions. It is easy to be good when surrounded by goodness, but the true test lies in maintaining our goodness even when the world seems unjust or harsh. The real strength of character is shown when we decide to be good regardless of the circumstances, acting as a source of light in the darkness. Our world is a mirror of our collective actions; if we want to see more kindness, compassion, and goodness around us, we must start by embodying these qualities ourselves. Let us strive to be good, not because the world demands it, but because it is who we choose to be. And in doing so, we might just inspire others to reflect that same goodness, creating a world that is good for all.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Confessions
Fear Factor
Understanding Fear: A Complex Emotion and Its Impact on Our Lives Fear is one of the most basic and powerful human emotions. It can grip us unexpectedly, causing heart-pounding anxiety or an overwhelming sense of dread. From childhood fears of the dark to adult anxieties about the future, fear is an emotion we all encounter. But fear is not just a reaction to external threats—it’s deeply ingrained in our biology and psychology. It shapes our thoughts, behaviors, and decisions, sometimes in ways we don’t even fully understand. This article will explore the nature of fear, how it functions, its impact on our lives, and how we can manage and overcome it.
By FRANCIS IKEGBUNAM2 years ago in Confessions
Mother's Last Call
On behalf of my colleague!! My mother and I used to live together in our small house in Gulshan. Since my father passed away years ago, it was just the two of us, and she had been my constant support, my confidante, and my strength. Every morning, before I left for work, she would see me off with a prayer, telling me, “May Allah protect you.” It was something I had started to take for granted, like the rhythm of the day.
By Abdullah Khan2 years ago in Confessions
