School

Through The Bareness Of 2024- My Journey
Life in its brevity often feels burdensome, yearning for us to be free of all the turbulence that stirs up its breaths in our hearts. How beautiful would life be if we let go of pain, anger, sadness, grim! I wish we had built-in programming that would delete all the moments and experiences that stirred catastrophic fires and raged war and kindled and whooshed the fire within us simultaneously!
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Confessions
12 Reminders for Year-End Reflection
It is that time of the year again when everyone posts how truly they have accomplished feats of success, competence, grit and determination. How magnificently their vision boards have manifested in the brilliance of their alluring existence! While it is a celebratory feat for all those who had a year that was filled with love and light, it is important to remember that the life projected on social media is the highlight of someone’s best days in the entirety of their existence. It is amazing for someone to put themselves out there and post their joy for life on their platform, but in the world where comparison is so normalised, I hope you remember life does not need to be aesthetically pleasing and swoon-worthy for it to be called a perfect life.
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Confessions
An ode to my journey
Remember the times when we would yearn for certain things and beings to foster their being into our lives, where what we wanted was so far-fetched, dreams that we found so unfathomable to forge their breaths in our lives? It is wondrous and almost astonishing how existence in the most unimaginable ways, how we fathom that something we can never live without, life always turns out for the better when we let go of what no longer serves us, of what we can no longer control or any experience, person, entity or situation that we outgrow in our existential being.
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Confessions
Thinking about your ex during the holidays
Every relationship is different and every breakup is different. Do you think your ex really think about you during the holidays? That’s a big question, right? I wanted to talk about this because we know that so many of us struggled with doubting what was going on with your ex especially if they didn't reach out right over the holidays, right? Everybody is supposed to be happy at Christmas.
By James Odhiambo2 years ago in Confessions
They Loved Me Like Lovers, and It Weighed Me Down
They Loved Me Like Lovers, and It Weighed Me Down On one of those quiet nights, I sat in an old café I visit whenever I feel the need for peace. While sipping my coffee, a person entered whom I hadn’t seen in years. It was my friend, whom we used to call in our youth “the icon of strength and ambition.” But he was no longer the same; his eyes were drowned in sorrow, and his features looked strangely exhausted. He paused for a moment before approaching and said with a faint smile: "It’s been a long time, hasn’t it?" I immediately stood to greet him: "Definitely! Where have you been? How are you?" He sat in front of me, silent for a moment. Then I carefully asked him: "What happened to you? You were once the epitome of youth and vitality, a confident, athletic man with a strong build. You lived a comfortable life amidst the wealth and prestige of your family. But now... you’ve changed so much. What happened?" He sighed deeply, raised his tired eyes, and said: "Let me tell you the story that destroyed my life. You’re the only one I can tell everything to." The Beginning: "I was seventeen, handsome, and full of ambition. I loved sports, and I considered walking to and from school every day as my favorite form of exercise. My life was simple, but my wealthy family spoiled me, and no one cared about what I did as long as I stayed out of trouble. One ordinary morning, while walking to school as usual, a luxury car stopped beside me. A woman of incredible beauty was sitting behind the wheel, her features exuding confidence and sophistication. She smiled at me and called out: ‘Where are you headed?’ I hesitated for a moment before replying: ‘To school.’ She laughed and said: ‘That’s a long walk, isn’t it?’ I nodded and replied: ‘I enjoy it. I consider it my exercise.’ Then she said something I didn’t expect: ‘If you love sports, I have a proposal for you. I can help you join a professional sports club. You’ll find everything you need to develop yourself there.’ I thought for a moment, and the offer was tempting. But I hesitated. I thanked her and said: ‘I prefer walking now. It suits my time.’ She smiled and insisted: ‘Just ride with me today. The school won’t wait for you long, and I’ll make up for your walk by signing you up for the club you dream of.’ I got into the car with her. I thought I was being offered a rare opportunity, not knowing that this moment would mark the beginning of the end." "They Loved Me Like Lovers, and It Weighed Me Down" After I got into the car with her that day, I began to feel something strange was happening. She drove with confidence and calmness, as if she already knew everything about me. She asked about my life, my family, and my love for sports. I answered shyly, but she was so skilled at talking, making me feel strangely comfortable with her. When we arrived at the school, she stopped the car and smiled: "Remember this day well. If you need anything, just call me." Then she gave me a card with her name and phone number. Her name was "Dunya." That day, I couldn’t concentrate on anything. I kept thinking about her words and her beauty, which seemed to hide a hidden strength. I kept her card in my pocket, as if it were a treasure I didn’t want anyone to see. ________________________________________ The Second Meeting: The First Step Toward the Fall Days passed, and I tried to forget about that encounter. But one day, while walking back from school, the same car stopped beside me. She rolled down the window and said: "Are you still into walking for exercise?" I laughed and replied: "I have a meeting now, and I need you with me. Just an hour, I won’t be long." I hesitated at first, but she insisted: "You’re a noble young man, aren’t you? Don’t leave me to go alone." I agreed and got in with her once more. She took me to a luxurious office where she introduced me to a group of important people, calling me "her younger brother." The meeting felt like a performance, and she was the star. I watched how she impressed everyone and skillfully sealed a huge deal. After the meeting, she looked at me with a smile and said: "Today was a great day. I want to celebrate this success with you." She took me to a fancy hotel where there was music and gourmet food. The atmosphere was filled with luxury that I wasn’t used to. I felt lost in this world, but I was enjoying myself at the same time. When the celebration ended, she dropped me off near my house and said: "You’re a wonderful young man. I’ll need you by my side forever." ________________________________________ Slipping Toward the Abyss The same thing happened again. I began to skip school to be with her. I started living a huge lie—telling my family that I was at school while I was attending her meetings and parties. One day, she asked me to visit her house. It was a massive mansion surrounded by tall walls, with a huge guard standing at the gate. I entered with her, and inside, she said: "This is your home now. Act like you own the place." I felt fear for the first time. I told her I couldn’t stay long, but she smiled and said: "Don’t worry, you’ll be fine here." She brought me a drink and said: "You’re special to me. No one enters my life easily, but you’re different." Over time, our relationship became more like slavery. She controlled everything—my time, my decisions, and even my studies. I completely neglected my studies and failed my academic year. "They Loved Me Like Lovers, and It Weighed Me Down" My relationship with "Dunya" became so complicated that it was hard to separate from my life. She controlled my time and decided the course of my days, to the point where I felt I was living her life instead of my own. But she had this strange ability to make me feel special, as if I was the only one who could share this lavish world full of lights with her. The Last Journey Night One evening, after a long day of meetings and a night at a fancy hotel, she decided to drive me home. It was late, and as usual, she insisted on dropping me off at the nearest point to my house to avoid any suspicion. But I noticed something strange—Dunya wasn’t the same as she used to be. She had drunk a lot during the evening, and it was obvious in her driving. I tried to warn her: "You’re driving too fast. Take it easy." She laughed and said: "Don’t worry, I know the road better than you know your feet." But I wasn’t reassured. I tried again: "Dunya, you’re not in the best shape. Stop, let me help you." She shook her head and looked at me with a mysterious smile, saying: "Don’t worry about me. I’ll get you home safely like I always do." Finally, we reached a point near my house. I got out of the car, and she waved at me with a tired smile. I stood in place, watching her car drive away quickly in the darkness. The Shock The next day, I waited for her usual call, but it didn’t come. I felt anxious, so I tried calling her repeatedly, but her phone was off. I decided to go to her mansion to check on her. When I arrived there, the guard stood with a blank expression. I asked him: "Where’s Dunya? Why isn’t she answering my calls?" He looked at me silently for a few moments before saying the words I never expected: "Ms. Dunya... she died. There was an accident on her way home last night." I felt the ground spin beneath my feet. My mind couldn’t grasp what I had just heard. I froze in place, my eyes filling with tears. I was recalling her image, smiling at me before she left, her last words echoing in my ears: "Don’t worry about me." The End Dunya left, but she left behind everything mysterious and ambiguous. I couldn’t blame her, nor could I blame myself. I felt I was a part of her life just as she was a part of mine. But after her departure, I realized I had lost so much—myself, my studies, and my dreams buried under the shadows of our relationship. I stood in front of her grave days later, silent. I tried to speak, but the words wouldn’t come. All that remained inside me was emptiness, a memory of a relationship that started innocently and ended in total destruction. The Lesson Life may offer temptations that seem shiny, but they may carry endings we never expect. It’s important to know when to stop ourselves and not let anyone steal the path we’ve charted for ourselves.
By Ali Sadeek Ahmed2 years ago in Confessions
What I Think About Christmas
I used to love Christmas when I was a child. At the age of seven, I discovered that the presents were given by my father, not by the so-called jolly old man who came at night and slid down the chimney to leave gifts under the tree. After all, that doesn’t make sense, as I live in a tropical country and in a region where it’s never cold. We don’t even have chimneys! It would make more sense to have a giant freezer to combat the year-round heat. Santa Claus couldn’t possibly come out of a freezer. Or could he?
By Persephone2 years ago in Confessions
"Do Not Be Dismayed by the Pits Dug in Your Path"
"Do Not Be Dismayed by the Pits Dug in Your Path" Life is a journey filled with challenges and obstacles. There are moments when we face humiliation, our hard work is underestimated, or we encounter metaphorical "pits" in our path that threaten to pull us down. Such instances can be disheartening, making us question, "Why is this happening to me?" or "Should I endure more?" However, remember this: when someone digs a pit in your way, do not be upset. These very pits teach you how to leap higher and rise stronger. The Importance of Pits in Life’s Journey Obstacles, symbolized by these pits, are not merely barriers; they are opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Falling into a pit forces us to pause, reflect, and find ways to rise again. These pits shape our character, revealing our resilience, strength, and capacity to overcome adversity. They teach us life lessons that no smooth journey ever could. For instance, think of a seed planted in the soil. To grow, it must first struggle through the darkness of the earth, pushing past layers of resistance to reach the light. Similarly, the challenges we face help us break through limitations and achieve our potential. Without the pits, we would never learn the courage to leap forward. Learning Through Struggles Each pit we encounter gives us the opportunity to assess our shortcomings and work on them. The fall might shake our confidence temporarily, but the effort to climb out strengthens our resolve and builds unshakable self-belief. Take the example of a renowned inventor like Thomas Edison. He faced thousands of failures before perfecting the electric bulb. Each failure was a pit that could have buried him in despair. Instead, he used these challenges to refine his skills and ultimately achieve success. The pits in Edison’s journey were stepping stones to his greatness. Finding Strength in the Depths When we fall into a pit, it’s natural to feel despair. However, it is essential to remember that the depth of the pit often determines the height of our leap. Just as a spring compresses before releasing with greater force, the struggles we endure propel us towards higher achievements. Consider an athlete preparing for a long jump. They take a few steps back to gain momentum before leaping forward. Similarly, life’s pits push us back temporarily so we can gather strength and leap farther. Transforming Challenges into Opportunities History is replete with examples of individuals who turned their challenges into triumphs. Nelson Mandela, for instance, spent 27 years in prison—a deep pit, both literally and figuratively. Yet, instead of succumbing to bitterness, he used that time to strengthen his vision for a united South Africa. When he emerged, his leap transformed not just his life but an entire nation. Embracing a New Perspective When we rise from a pit, we do so with a renewed perspective on life. We gain wisdom, patience, and empathy that we might never have acquired otherwise. These experiences allow us to appreciate success more deeply and inspire others who may be facing their own struggles. For example, J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, faced numerous rejections and personal hardships before achieving unparalleled success. The pits in her path only deepened her creativity and determination, enabling her to connect with millions of readers worldwide. The Role of Critics and Adversaries Sometimes, the pits in our lives are dug by others—critics, adversaries, or even those we trust. While their actions may seem cruel or unjust, they often serve a greater purpose. These challenges push us to prove our worth and discover our hidden strengths. Think of Steve Jobs, who was famously ousted from the company he co-founded, Apple. This setback could have ended his career, but instead, he used it as an opportunity to innovate further, eventually returning to Apple and leading it to unprecedented heights. Conclusion: Rising Above the Pits The pits in our journey are not curses; they are blessings in disguise. They test our mettle, teach us invaluable lessons, and prepare us for greater heights. So, the next time you find yourself facing a pit—be it a failure, criticism, or any other setback—remember that it is an opportunity to leap higher than ever before. Life’s pits are not the end of the road. They are simply detours, guiding us towards a stronger, wiser, and more resilient version of ourselves. Embrace them, learn from them, and use them as launchpads for your dreams. As the saying goes, "The harder the conflict, the greater the triumph."
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Confessions
Things I learnt from my recent setbacks
Things I learnt from my recent setbacks How I wish life were filled with glory and love, tales of how we succeed in every aspect of our life, emerging victorious in battles filled with animosity and sadness. Every mortal being experiences seasons of rise and fall, of light and dark, of pain and purpose, and defeat and victory.
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Confessions
Sunday Morning at Church
My cat told me not to go to Church this morning. I almost obeyed her. I was wondering if I could go to the bar on a Saturday night and then go to Church on a Sunday morning without feeling like a confounded hypocrite. I defied my cat's advice and drove to church thinking about the song "Boondocks" by Little Big Town. "You get a line, I'll get a pole. We'll go fishing in the crawfish hole. Five-card poker on Saturday night. Church on Sunday morning." I'm glad I defied my cat and went to church. It's decorated so Christmas style and it lifts my spirits even if I'm a "black sheep" or even if I'm not an essential member of the church.
By Shanon Angermeyer Norman2 years ago in Confessions
Life: Forget the Past, Focus on the Future
Life: Forget the Past, Focus on the Future Life is a constant journey, much like a river that flows unceasingly. It never stops, never looks back, and always moves forward. However, as human beings, we often find ourselves caught in the web of past memories—whether they are moments of joy or sorrow. These memories, while meaningful, can weigh heavily on our minds and hearts. They shape our emotions, our actions, and even our outlook on life. But to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, it is essential to realise that the true beauty of life lies in letting go of the past and focusing on the future.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Confessions
Dreams with Open Eyes: The Journey to a Beautiful Life
Dreams with Open Eyes: The Journey to a Beautiful Life Dreams are an integral part of human life. They fuel our ambitions, guide our actions, and give us a purpose to strive for. Everyone dreams of achieving greatness, bringing honour to their family, and reaching new heights in life. But dreaming alone is not enough to fulfil these aspirations. It takes hard work, dedication, and the right direction to turn dreams into reality. We often dream while we sleep. These dreams provide temporary comfort but seldom lead to tangible outcomes. In contrast, dreams seen with open eyes have the power to transform lives. These dreams inspire action, encourage perseverance, and drive us toward success. The Foundation of Dreams: Determination and Hard Work Dreams seen with open eyes are not mere fantasies; they are blueprints for the future. Realising them requires relentless effort, a clear vision, and the ability to overcome challenges. Success does not come easily—it demands sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering commitment. History is filled with examples of individuals who turned their open-eyed dreams into reality. Consider the bravery of Rani Lakshmibai, who dreamed of freedom for her kingdom and fought valiantly for it. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar envisioned a society based on equality and justice, dedicating his life to achieving this vision. Similarly, Subhas Chandra Bose dreamt of an independent India and tirelessly worked toward it. These leaders remind us that dreams, when pursued with determination, can lead to remarkable achievements. Open-Eyed Dreams: A Transformational Journey Dreams seen with open eyes are life-changing. They provide direction and meaning to our lives. However, the path to fulfilling them is seldom smooth. It is filled with obstacles, failures, and moments of self-doubt. But those who persevere, who refuse to give up in the face of adversity, are the ones who ultimately succeed. For example, Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of India’s independence was not realised overnight. His journey was fraught with challenges, opposition, and setbacks. Yet, his unshakeable belief in non-violence and his commitment to his vision led him to achieve what once seemed impossible. The Fruits of Hard Work and Dedication The success born of hard work and perseverance is lasting and deeply fulfilling. It provides not only material gains but also a profound sense of accomplishment. The joy of realising a dream is indescribable and serves as a testament to one’s efforts and dedication. Dreams that Beautify Life Open-eyed dreams not only transform our own lives but also impact the lives of those around us. Our success becomes a source of inspiration for others, showing them what is possible with determination and effort. For instance, when a young girl from a small village becomes a doctor through sheer hard work, her story inspires countless others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the odds. Let’s Dream with Open Eyes Starting today, let’s resolve to dream with open eyes. Let’s set meaningful goals, work relentlessly toward them, and embrace every challenge as a stepping stone to success. As we achieve our dreams, let’s also contribute to making the world a better place. When we uplift others along our journey, we give our achievements true value. Open-eyed dreams are the first step toward realising our fullest potential. They guide us, challenge us, and ultimately, reward us with a life of purpose and beauty. So, let’s dream big, act boldly, and transform our lives into something extraordinary! After all, the journey to a beautiful life begins with dreams seen with open eyes.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Confessions
Dear Diary. Content Warning.
Dear Diary, Today feels like the world’s weight has finally broken me. I don’t even know how to start untangling this mess, this avalanche of poor decisions and cruel twists of fate. Maybe if I had just waited, just let the world carry me without the safety net of that phone… But I didn’t, and now I’m drowning.
By llaurren's reads2 years ago in Confessions