Today’s quote is from the American animator, film producer, and entrepreneur, Walt Disney. The quote emphasises the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. According to Disney, success is achievable as long as one does not give up or quit in the pursuit of their goals. It implies that success often requires a commitment to enduring difficulties without giving up. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is often their willingness to keep going despite challenges. A positive and determined attitude can make a significant difference in the outcome and by not quitting, one can increase their chances of reaching their desired outcome. Success may not always come quickly or easily, but the quote implies that persistence over time can lead to victory. The quote reflects the belief that continuous effort and the refusal to quit are key elements in achieving success, and the difference between winning and losing often lies in the decision to persevere.

This week has been very stressful, as will the next week be, because of an event at work, of which I am an important part in the coordination. But this too shall pass and then there will be some downtime.

BB has his first nighttime guard duty during his training. They did two hours of duty, followed by four hours of rest and this was over 12 hours. He is back home and will book into camp in a few hours from now. BB has more or less adjusted to life inside the camp. My only prayer is that he ends his basic training without any injuries.

That’s all from me this week. Stay positive and keep smiling!

Today is the festival of Diwali or Deepavali, which is celebrated across the country and everywhere where the Indian diaspora lives. Here’s wishing everyone reading my blog a very happy Diwali. I wish you a Diwali filled with love, laughter, and sweet moments.May your home be blessed with happiness, prosperity, and love.

Today’s quote comes to us from the American media mogul, television host, actress, producer, and philanthropist, Oprah Winfrey. In this quote, Oprah tells us that each of us has a unique passion, talent, or calling that inspires us and gives our life purpose. Discovering and nurturing this inner “light” is the key to making a positive impact on the world. The quote encourages us to search for what truly excites and motivates us. It suggests that finding and nurturing this inner “light” is not only essential for personal fulfilment but is also the foundation for making a meaningful contribution to the world. The quote implies that by following one’s passion and making a positive impact, we can inspire and influence others, contributing to a better and brighter world. Today’s quote is a motivational reminder that each of us possesses the potential to create a positive change in the world by pursuing what genuinely inspires and drives us. It emphasises the importance of personal passion and purpose in making a difference and leaving a lasting impact on society.

And BB came back from his confinement week just in time to celebrate the festival of lights with us. We were thrilled to see him, because even video calls daily are not the same as having him in the house. Later in the evening today, we will go and visit his grandmother and grandaunt, who also can’t wait to see him again. He will go back to camp tomorrow and because of the public holiday tomorrow, we get an extra day with him. But now the wait will only be for a week each time, so I guess it won’t be so bad!

That’s all from my side today! And now off I go to celebrate Diwali with my family! From my family to yours, here’s wishing you a very Happy Diwali or Deepavali and may the festival bring you and your loved ones only joy, happiness and prosperity!

It’s been a week now since BB enlisted and all of us are slowly getting used to just talking on the phone every night and only seeing him over the weekend. This weekend he is still in confinement and will only come back next weekend, just in time to celebrate Diwali with all of us.

American actor, director and activist Christopher Reeve, best known for his iconic portrayal of the superhero Superman in the 1978 film “Superman” and its sequels, is the author of today’s quote. In this quote, Reeve conveys the idea that the journey toward realising our dreams often follows a progression from initial doubt and scepticism to ultimate achievement. At the outset, our dreams may appear unattainable or “impossible.” As we continue to work toward our dreams with determination and effort, they may start to seem more attainable but still “improbable.” With unwavering determination and willpower, we can ultimately make our dreams “inevitable.” This means that with persistence and belief in our abilities, we can overcome obstacles and reach our goals. This quote encourages individuals not to be discouraged by the initial sense of impossibility or improbability that often accompanies ambitious dreams. Instead, it emphasizes the power of will and determination to transform what once appeared unattainable into a reality. It’s a message of perseverance and belief in one’s ability to make the seemingly impossible achievable.

In October, I reached the town of Ongole in Andhra Pradesh and am making my way through India’s east coast, the Coromandel Coast, on my way to Kolkata, where I will turn north. I’ve not been walking as much as I used to because of a hectic work schedule and the fact that R is away in India. But I will buck up and hopefully make up the difference in the last two months of the year.

In October, I only managed to read 5 books and I am sure this will continue in November. By the end of November, a big work project should end and I hope that in December I will have time to read more.

That’s all from me this week. Stay safe, stay positive everyone!

Lao Tzu, also known as Laozi or Lao Tze was an ancient Chinese philosopher and writer, traditionally considered the author of the Tao Te Ching, a fundamental text in Taoism, a belief system centred around the concept of Tao, or the Way or Path.

In today’s quote, Lao Tzu suggests that intensity and excess in one’s endeavours can lead to a shorter duration of success or vitality. The quote acknowledges that when someone pursues a goal or passion with exceptional fervour, skill, or enthusiasm, it can result in a bright and highly productive period. However, the quote also warns that such intensity and brilliance may not be sustainable over the long term. It implies that pushing too hard or expending all one’s energy quickly can lead to rapid burnout or exhaustion. Tzu’s message encourages a balanced approach. Instead of striving for an intense, short-lived burst of brilliance, it suggests that a more measured and sustainable effort can lead to greater overall success and longevity in one’s endeavours. The quote serves as a reminder that moderation and balance in one’s actions and pursuits can lead to more lasting and meaningful achievements, as opposed to unsustainable bursts of brilliance that may lead to early burnout or failure.

With a very heavy heart, earlier this week, we dropped off BB to start his National Service journey. Parents and family were shown the living quarters the boys will be living in as well as the clothes and equipment they will be provided with. The food we tasted was not bad and BB also rated the food as edible. These days, they are also given personal learning devices and will take part in skill upgrading during the two years. Anyway, I hope that he makes the best use of these two years and comes out a leaner and stronger individual, both inside and outside.

The days after BB left have been quite sad in our home, with everyone missing him. Daily phone calls help to an extent, but it’s not the same. GG is the most affected since this is the first time they have been separated and will continue to be separated for such a long time.

That’s all from my side. Stay safe and remain positive!