Today’s quote is attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady of the United States and a prominent human rights advocate. The quote suggests that having a strong belief in one’s dreams and aspirations is essential. It emphasises that those who genuinely believe in the potential and value of their dreams are more likely to work hard, persevere, and take the necessary actions to achieve them. It encourages an optimistic outlook on life and highlights the potential for creating a better future through the pursuit of these beautiful dreams. By believing in their dreams and working towards them, people can influence the course of their lives and contribute to the future they envision. Lastly, the quote implies that belief in the beauty of one’s dreams provides the motivation and resilience needed to persevere in the face of obstacles. The quote serves as a motivational reminder to actively believe in and work towards one’s dreams. It encourages people to take ownership of their goals and take steps to bring their aspirations to life.

GG started school this week and she is enjoying some subjects and not so much for the others. It’s a long journey, of which she has just taken the first step. I am also enjoying my new workplace and because I am doing meaningful work in a space I love, it is fun!

I am getting behind in both my writing and reading, but that’s the tradeoff I am willing to make to do the work I am doing. I just need to figure out how to best utilise my weekends.

And with that, have a wonderful week ahead. Stay safe, stay healthy and stay positive!

Today’s quote is attributed to the ancient Roman philosopher and statesman Marcus Tullius Cicero. It expresses the idea that books, literature, and learning are essential components of a fulfilling and meaningful life. In the same way that a body without a soul is considered lifeless and devoid of consciousness, a home without books is likened to a place that lacks intellectual and spiritual nourishment. Cicero’s quote underscores the value of education, knowledge, and intellectual exploration. It suggests that books not only provide information and entertainment but also contribute to personal growth, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the world. The presence of books in a home is thought to enrich the inhabitants’ lives and contribute to the development of their character and intellect.

GG starts school tomorrow, and I pray that she has a wonderful four years in university, learning what she needs to know to become a productive member of society. I also hope that the contacts she makes in school and the networks and knowledge she gains will stand her in good stead and help her achieve her life goals.

I also have some news: I started a new position this week, and I am loving it. It is meaningful work in a field that I am super interested in—empowering women and girls—and so I too hope that I can contribute and not only help women become a better version of themselves but also become a better me!

Singapore also announced the next Presidential election, which, if there is more than one qualified candidate, will take place on September 1 and will be a public holiday. So that’s a nice long weekend to look forward to. May the candidate who has Singapore’s best interests at heart win.

That’s all from me this week. Stay safe, stay healthy, and most importantly, stay positive!

In July, I walked 342 km and am currently somewhere on the National Highway 48, a 2807 km expressway that begins at Delhi and terminates in Chennai, between Hubbali and Davanagere. I am still about 350 km from my final destination in Bengaluru.

Today’s quote is from the former American president and lawyer, Abraham Lincoln. It is one of my favourite quotes and I feel is a powerful message that shows how one can take control of one’s life and destiny through proactive actions and personal responsibility. What Lincoln tries to say is that rather than relying on mere predictions or passively waiting for the future to unfold, individuals have the ability and agency to shape their destinies. It emphasises the importance of taking initiative, making conscious decisions, and actively working towards one’s goals and aspirations. This quote serves as a motivational reminder that one is not a passive bystander in one’s life. By taking ownership of one’s decisions, actions, and ambitions, one will have the power to shape the course of one’s future and work towards creating the life one envisions for oneself.

I read 5 books this month and am at 90% of my reading goal for this year. I was hoping that at the halfway mark, I would have completed my goal, but let’s hope I can complete it this month, though I doubt it. I also read my first advance review of a book which has not yet been released and that’s another tick from my bucket list. Hopefully, there will be more to come in the future.

Otherwise, life for BB & GG is the same. University will start later this month for GG and she will soon become busy. BB is, as usual, enjoying life before enlistment. And something is cooking in my life too, which I will share shortly.

And that’s all from me this week. Take care, stay safe and remain positive always!

Today’s quote is by American Christian televangelist, pastor, motivational speaker, and author, Robert H. Schuller. One of Schuller’s most famous quotes, this one conveys an important message about the power of one’s mindset and beliefs in shaping their reality. It suggests that thoughts and attitudes play a significant role in determining whether one can achieve one’s dreams or not. Constantly dwelling on negative thoughts creates a mental environment that hinders from taking necessary actions and pursuing dreams with confidence and determination. On the other hand, an optimistic mindset, which believes in oneself and one’s potential is more likely to overcome challenges, work harder, and persist in the face of obstacles. Such a mindset can lead to personal growth, learning, and ultimately, turning dreams into reality. Individuals need to recognise the power of their thoughts and beliefs and remind them that the primary battleground for achieving their dreams is within their minds. By conquering limiting thoughts and adopting a positive outlook, one can unlock the potential to achieve what might have initially seemed impossible.

This week was an extension of last week and nothing notable happened that I can share. GG is looking forward to ending her internship on a high note next week and then taking a break before university starts in mid-August. I may be able to share some good news very soon, just waiting for some last bits of pieces to fall into place.

It’s been very hot these days with the temperatures hovering around 30-33 degrees Celsius. I am tempted to use the air conditioning daily but try to restrain myself with great difficulty. But c’est la vie and we have to roll with the punches it throws at us.

Take care and stay positive everyone!

Today’s quote by the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize winner and Alsatian polymath, theologian, organist, musicologist, writer, humanitarian, philosopher, and physician, Albert Schweitzer reflects a profound perspective on the relationship between success and happiness. Schweitzer suggests that achieving success in the conventional sense, like becoming wealthy, famous or having high social status, does not guarantee genuine happiness. People pursue success with the belief that it will bring them happiness, but often, they find that material accomplishments alone don’t lead to lasting fulfilment. Instead, true success comes from finding happiness and contentment in what one does and how one lives their life. When one are genuinely happy, they tend to be more motivated, enthusiastic, and energetic, which can lead to increased productivity and effectiveness in their pursuits. When one is passionate about one’s work or the activities they engage in, one is more likely to put in the effort required to excel and this contributes to personal growth and achievement, thus leading to success. Schweitzer’s quote suggests that happiness should be prioritised over the pursuit of conventional success. By finding joy and passion in what one does, one creates a positive cycle where happiness leads to success and, in turn, success enhances one’s happiness even further. It encourages individuals to align their pursuits with their passions, making success a byproduct of their contentment and fulfilment in life.

GG is coming to the end of her summer internship and will have a two-week break before she starts university. She is at the same time excited about this new chapter in her life as well as apprehensive as she will have to do a lot of self-study if she wants to achieve the goals she has set for herself. Please send some positivity her way, if you can. BB is enjoying life until he too, starts a new chapter, with the Singapore Armed Forces.

That’s all from me this week. Sending positivity your way, so keep smiling!