World Book Day

 Books are as essential to me as the air I breathe.

Growing up in a household of avid readers, it was only natural to take to reading.

From daydreaming about lemonade and buns inspired by Enid Blyton to yearning to visit Malgudi, the fictional town created by R.K. Narayan, my childhood was a series of vacations spent traveling worlds, one book at a time.

On this World Book Day, I want to take a moment to remember my maternal grandfather, Mr. TS Thurumalai, an English teacher fondly referred to as a "mobile dictionary" by his students and colleagues. The way he devoured every word in the newspaper and solved crosswords effortlessly inspired me to become better with my language and vocabulary.

He used to recommend learning one new word every day and looking up its proper meaning in the dictionary to improve in the language. I used to do that as a kid every summer vacation, and that probably helps me in my chosen vocation as an author today. The childhood trips to Higginbothams, where he would get me a new book, remain etched in my memory.

No note of gratitude is complete if I don't mention my mother, Mrs. Rajalakshmi Kannan, who is the reason I'm a writer today. She never hesitated to pay for library memberships, discuss books with me, making my life vibrant and meaningful.

I've been privileged to grow up surrounded by books, but for those who haven't had the same experience, it's never too late to start. Just pick up a book and make a beginning. You may not connect immediately, but I assure you, it will become a habit soon.

A World Book Day post won't be complete if I do not talk about my books, written in a lucid language with engaging narratives, perfect for non-readers looking to dive into the world of reading.

"A Balance Called Life" explores things that can brighten your life and lead to personal transformation when practiced consistently, while "Taste of Fate" is a magical story promising a happily-ever-after.

Give them a read and let me know if they help ignite a love for reading in you.

Here are the links -

Taste of Fate, A Novel - 

https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0CWLQJCZT

A Balance Called Life, A Self-help book -https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0BTVPP69N

Unbounded Love #PhilosophyThursdays

#PhilosophyThursdays will feature my take on some profound philosophical quotes by prominent philosophers. I write a new post every third Thursday of every month. From this week, it will feature in my blog ‘Mindful Conversations.’ Please follow to stay updated and notified.

The quote of this week is one of the most famous quotes about relationships from Kahlil Gibran's 'The Prophet': 'Let there be spaces in your togetherness, and let the winds of the heavens dance between you. Love one another but make not a bond of love: Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.'

This quote beautifully encapsulates the balance between intimacy and individuality within relationships. At first glance, the notion of 'spaces in your togetherness' might seem counterintuitive. In a world that often celebrates constant togetherness, Gibran offers a refreshing perspective. He reminds us that healthy relationships require room to breathe – space for each individual to flourish and grow, even within the context of partnership.

Creating space allows partners to maintain their sense of self, pursue their own interests, and continue evolving as individuals. This autonomy not only prevents co-dependency but also enhances mutual respect and appreciation. When each person has the freedom to explore their passions and aspirations, they bring more richness and depth to the relationship.

What is important to note is that Gibran does not suggest a distance or detachment. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a deep connection while honouring the unique identity of each person involved. 'Love one another but make not a bond of love,' he advises, suggesting that love should be expansive rather than confining.

Gibran’s wisdom aligns with my ideology reflected in a quote from my latest novel ‘Taste of Fate’: “Having a strong independent presence in a nurturing relationship is the key to harmony.”

Before we can fully give ourselves to another, we must first cultivate a deep sense of inner wholeness and acceptance. Only then can we enter into a partnership as equals, sharing our lives without losing ourselves in the process.

Embrace the beauty of space in togetherness.

Honor the uniqueness of each individual.

Here’s to a love that opens hearts and minds.

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If you love my style of writing and take on relationships, please check out 'Taste of Fate: A Psychologist's Take on Modern Relationships.' It's available on Amazon worldwide. https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0CWLQJCZT