“ You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection — Gautama Buddha ”
As odd as it may sound, one of my favorite weekend activities is spending time with my Maa (mother) to help detangle her knots which often leads to conversations that enlighten me and inspire me to pen them down. She holds a Bachelor degree in Science with specialization in Chemistry, graduated in her early seventies. An Ace computer programmer with strong affinity to education and career, but someone who took a decision to prioritize on well being of her family early on post marriage. Growing up, I often remember she telling me about this nightmare of hers, where she was travelling in a train far away from home after marriage and loosing all her credentials — education and experience certificates during the journey. Indeed crazy, this did have a significant impact in my life.
So I ask her “Maa, do you regret being a Homemaker?” To which she turns, looks into my eyes with the most beautiful smile and says,
Never, You are my achievement !
Later that evening i meet my BFF “Palak”, whom i have known for over two decades now, a bond that has simply matured just as fine wine. I can fondly describe her as a “Kick-ass” liberated corporate woman serving her family with dignity and self respect. Unfortunately, she has been a victim of an abusive relationship in the past that led to separation and unwarranted societal stigma. Look at her closely and she too has an amazing smile and a genuine show to put. Beware! Try not offering her any words of flattery as she will remind you of your existence without any hesitation and regret.
Both of these lovely ladies in my life have had something in common, they have come to peace with their own self, deriving a sense of purpose that suits them the best. They inspire us with a priceless lesson:
No one can make you feel inferior without your consent .
— Eleanor Roosevelt
None of us can Empathize the sacrifices, pain, the experiences, emotions, disappointments some events lead to….
Resting my case, with a deep sense of appreciation to All you Liberated Souls out there simply reminding you:
You are Beautiful, You are Strong and you know what “You are Worth IT”
