Edit Speak Dec 2019
Dear Reader,
Once again, we are on the brink of an ending and the dawn of a new beginning as the year 2019 comes to a close. A time which compels us to take a bird’s eye view of our achievements and setbacks in the past year.
But let me for a moment take you away from your goals and bucket lists. Life is inevitably tied to them, whether they are of our choosing or not. Even for people we judge as ordinary because they do not weave big dreams for themselves, life is not easy. Buying a house, getting children educated and married, ensuring sufficient savings to see you through old age, and meeting everyday demands and challenges can take a toll on anyone. Therefore, my request to you, as you take stock of 2019, is to go easy on yourself. Rejoice over your achievements but continue to pour love over yourself as you notice the missed goals and opportunities. Treat yourself with kindness and love, and nourish yourself with gentle and nurturing thoughts.
Promise to never abandon yourself in all your trials, and you will see that even your remotest dreams will come to life. The ones who do not give up on themselves are the ones with their eyes on the bigger picture, who realise that even though tiny, their role is crucial, highly significant, and thus pivotal in the larger scheme of things.
The cover story for December is on developing the ability to see this big picture of life. So many of life’s hardships become understandable and bearable simply because we have developed the power to go beyond our personal stories and consider broader perspectives. Enjoy it.
Another touching article by Jamuna Rangachari is on coping with grief. Losing a loved one irrevocably is one of the hardest blows one can receive from life. Although there is no fixed remedy to overcome this sorrow, we can learn from people who have found ways around this heartache and converted it into something memorable and beautiful. This article chronicles the stories of a few such inspiring bravehearts. I hope many suffering souls will find succour through these stories and be able to infuse their lives with courage and renewed hope.
Have a soul-satisfying December.