Friendship
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
"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
Accept Me Maybe?
When I was in my twenties, I dated a woman that liked to criticize how I looked, how I acted, the things that I liked to do, and who I surrounded myself with. It was weird. How could someone want to be with you when they didn’t seem to like anything about you? I didn’t really know how to take her judgement back then. I thought that she was right. I figured that I was still young and still had room to grow and she was trying to mold me into what I needed to be in order to have a longterm relationship. I mean, no one is perfect, and it does take two people to make a commitment work. So, after listening to her critiques, I did my best to accommodate her needs. I tried to be more open about where she went, even if it meant that she was going to her ex’s house. I tried to get along with her friends, even the ones that seemed to be addicted to substances that I had never heard of until then. I even tried to fit in with the personalities of the people that she surrounded herself with. It was very uncomfortable. I always felt like I was being judged, and when she lectured me, telling me that I was too standoffish, I felt back, because I didn’t want to make a bad impression on the people that were close to her. I went through about four years of this before I called it quits. I was tired of standing on eggshells. I was tired of not feeling like I could be myself, and I was tired of being criticized for who I was. I wanted to know who I was, and I wanted someone to like me for that. I was tired of people telling me who I needed to be or blatantly misinterpreting what my wants and needs were. I was ready to speak for myself and be who I was without having people who didn’t like that in my circle. So, after breaking up with her, I cleaned up my physical appearance. I wore the clothes that I wanted to. I got my hair done, and I basically cleaned up my outer appearance to what I wanted it to look like. I still wasn’t completely myself after this. I still didn’t know who I was or what I wanted, so I began making new friends and having new experiences. I went out and did things that I hadn’t in the past, like trying improv or driving halfway across the country to see all of the states that I hadn’t before. Then, when I met my soon to be wife, I started to let my guard down a little. She wasn’t like any of the other women that I had dated. She didn’t tell me how to dress or act or who to hang out with. She didn’t restrict my ability to do the activities that I wanted to do. She just let me be myself, and she loved who I was. This was new for me. I wasn’t used to being around a person that fully accepted me for who I was. I didn’t understand that concept as I had never experienced it. It was such a breath of fresh air. After meeting my wife, I was more confident in who I was and I learned more about my wants and needs, because she gave me the room to grow. She allowed me to explore whatever I needed to in order to figure out who I was and who I wanted to be. She supported me on this journey, even when there were barriers, and after being around a person like her, I realized that there were people that I could be around without having to change a thing about mysel
By Nicole Higginbotham-Hogue2 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
On the socioeconomics of being humane
The socioeconomics of humanness lies in the beauty of balancing the aspects of togetherness and isolation. In a world where life coincides with the duality of forces, oscillating between the forces of light and dark, beauty and hate, love and hatred, birth and death, humans are the most endearing and detrimental beings ever to exist. The prowess of intellect and communication, with the stellar mind that created the strides of evolution and lapses of civilization, is undeniably the most striking aspect of what makes humans the most resilient beings of them all.
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Confessions
Learn to Do Every Task Wisely: A Heartfelt Reflection
Learn to Do Every Task Wisely: A Heartfelt Reflection In life, we often come across different kinds of tasks, responsibilities, and challenges. From the smallest household chores to the most significant decisions at work or in personal life, every task demands our attention and effort. However, simply doing a task is not enough; it must be done wisely, with thoughtfulness and precision. The essence of achieving success in any endeavour lies in the ability to perform it with intelligence, patience, and understanding. This philosophy of working smartly, rather than just working hard, can change the way we approach our daily lives and help us achieve our goals effectively.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Confessions
The Broken Truth
The Broken Truth I remember the moment I met Maya like it was yesterday. She had this contagious smile, the kind that made people feel instantly at ease. Over time, we became inseparable—she was like a sister to me, the kind of friend you trusted with every secret. And when Alex came into my life, I couldn’t wait for Maya to meet him. Alex was everything I’d ever hoped for in a partner: kind, smart, and deeply caring. When I introduced him to Maya, they hit it off effortlessly. I thought I was the luckiest girl in the world—my best friend and my boyfriend got along so well. But maybe I missed the signs, or maybe I didn’t want to see them. After a few months, I began to feel the cracks. Maya started becoming distant, often canceling our plans or ignoring my messages. When I’d ask her about it, she’d just say she was busy with work or needed time for herself. I brushed it off; everyone goes through their moments, right? But the distance felt different, heavier somehow. And then there was Alex—he, too, had become more distant, his messages less frequent, his responses short. When I’d ask him about it, he’d shrug, saying he was “just tired.” But deep down, a tiny seed of doubt had begun to take root. The night it all unraveled was a cold Friday in October. I was at Maya’s apartment, waiting for her to get back from work, when her phone buzzed on the table beside me. It was a message from Alex: Miss you. Last night was perfect. My heart stopped. I couldn’t look away, the words sinking in like lead. I opened their chat, fingers trembling, and what I saw confirmed my worst fears. Messages between them, filled with inside jokes, whispered secrets, and lines that no best friend or boyfriend should ever share. When Maya walked in, she immediately noticed the phone in my hand and the look on my face. Her eyes widened, and she opened her mouth as if to explain. But I spoke first. “How long has this been going on?” I managed, my voice barely a whisper. She tried to play it off, to laugh it away like it was a misunderstanding. But the look in her eyes betrayed her. I knew she was lying, knew that there was no misunderstanding that could explain what I had just read. “I trusted you,” I said, feeling my voice crack. “You were my best friend. How could you do this?” Maya’s face hardened, her posture shifting from guilty to defensive. She threw her hands up and said, “You weren’t there, okay? You were always so wrapped up in your own life, and Alex… he was lonely. It just happened.” Hearing her try to justify it was worse than the betrayal itself. I felt sick. How could she twist this to make herself the victim? I turned and left, not wanting to hear another word. Alex was waiting for me outside my apartment when I got home, his expression unreadable. I didn’t have the strength to listen to his excuses or explanations. Instead, I simply told him I knew and that it was over. I closed the door, finally letting the tears spill down my cheeks. In the weeks that followed, I tried to make sense of it all. There were moments when I questioned myself, wondering if I’d somehow driven them to this, if I’d missed some sign or done something wrong. But eventually, I realized that their betrayal was theirs alone. I’d trusted them both, given them my loyalty, and they’d taken it for granted. Healing took time. I spent countless nights alone, replaying memories that felt both beautiful and bitter. But gradually, I found my way back to myself. I reconnected with friends I’d drifted from, threw myself into my work, and, little by little, learned to trust again. Maya and Alex had been part of my story, but they didn’t define it. I’d been broken, yes, but I hadn’t been destroyed. And in time, I discovered something far more precious than any friendship or relationship—my own strength and the unbreakable resolve to never let anyone else make me doubt my worth again.
By Aniece Vernon2 years ago in Confessions
