We’re back home after a very hectic trip. I really enjoyed myself with my parents and sister. S joined me later in the week as we celebrated my father’s 80th birthday with a traditional ceremony called the Sadabhisekham. This is an important Hindu ceremony performed when a man completes 80 years or has completed 1000 moons or lunar months. The word is derived from the Sanskrit words “Satha” meaning “eighty” and “abhisheka” meaning “ceremony”. This ritual is performed by a man who is still married to his spouse and is a sort of renewal of their marriage vows. The couple is bathed and dressed in new clothes, and a prayer ceremony is performed in their honour. Sathabhishekam is considered an important ritual in Hindu culture, as it marks the completion of a significant milestone in one’s life and is believed to bring good luck and blessings for a peaceful and prosperous old age.

The trip was so hectic that it will probably take me the rest of the weekend to recover and start work tomorrow.

Today’s quote by American cartoonist and creator of the much beloved comic strip “Calvin and Hobbes”, Bill Watterson underscores the tendency of individuals to become overly preoccupied with future goals and concerns, often at the expense of appreciating and enjoying the present moment. The quote suggests that people often fixate on future possibilities, aspirations, or challenges, investing significant mental energy in what lies ahead. In the pursuit of future endeavours, individuals may unintentionally neglect or overlook the beauty, experiences, and opportunities available in the current moment. It speaks to the importance of mindfulness and being fully present in one’s current circumstances, rather than being consumed by thoughts of the future. The quote serves as a reminder to find a balance between planning for the future and savouring the richness of the present. It encourages individuals to appreciate the journey, not just the destination. In essence, Bill Watterson’s quote encourages a shift in perspective, urging individuals to pause, be present, and find joy in their current surroundings rather than being solely fixated on what lies ahead. It’s a reminder to cultivate mindfulness and appreciate the value of the “here and now.”

And that’s all for today. I am taking this weekend very slowly as I unpack and get ready for a new week!