Strength vs roughness

They both feel same,

having similar denotation, 

still of contrasting character, 

of different connotation. 

Strength vs roughness...

The display of power,

can be flashy or subtle,

by emitting your virtuosity, 

through your temperament. 

The distinction had to be made,

how our emotions are surfaced,

presenting an unyielding exterior,

being imposing & resisting pressure.

For, strength is anchored deep,

rooted in purpose & containment, 

while roughness show turbulence,

fuelled by reactions and friction.

True strength is a shield of endurance, 

being dependable, solid foundations, 

the will to absorb distress & sufferings, 

bear the burden, making sacrifices. 

Roughness being volatile, is unrefined,

a perceived need to protect ego fragile, 

aggression creating the sharp edges,

which cuts & bleeds, with their actions.

While strength carry internal stability,

building trust with honesty & sincerity, 

underneath roughness, there's a fear,

of being hurt, controlled or exposed.

So, be mindful, when you project power,

What you display, strength or roughness?

Allure of larger structures

There is an allure, 

of building bigger structures, 

to show power or devotion.

We see it across the continents,

in large sculptures, massive monuments,

from ancient times to modern age,

humanity have never changed,

romanticize ideas of gigantic things,

investing wealth, effort and time.

Be it Asia, Europe or America's,

we had seen pyramid or temples,

and giant colossal structure.

They also carved statues,

of human, animals & deities,

leaving legacies forever. 

It is really awe-inspiring, 

to imagine what they achieved, 

with limited tools & knowledge. 

Still, the same could be seen,

creations of statues or buildings,

as a part of modern designs.

 

Hidden riches

We see statistics, national data,

representative of how much we fare,

in having population of millionaires.

Yet, there seems some mistakes,

of missing the mark, actual figures,

relying on information, from surface.

Hidden riches...

It's something we all realize,

as parallel economy openly thrives,

making people wealthy & affluent.

They don't live lavish lifestyles,

silently acquiring away from sights,

managing to live under the radars.

The first are the real estates,

absorbing unaccounted cash,

artificially inflating property market.

Then we're the informal sectors,

like private businesses, and traders,

cash based, outside the tax net.

Then there are agricultural exemptions, 

misused by large farmers & office holders, 

to mask massive earnings into zero returns.

Finally, large strata involve the corrupts,

bribes and embezzlement, as their modes,

stashed up in plots, investments & gold.

Hidden riches...

We may never arrive,

calculate the real size,

of millionaires around us.

Still, there are always signs,

development doesn't deceive eyes,

and official numbers...

Are pack of lies!

 

I used to collect

I used to collect, 

storing them in places,

finding corners of house,

in the loft, under the bed.

Colorful pebbles, seashells,

marbles I won in games,

playing cards, sports characters,

commemorative or older coins.

And I wondered why I continued,

taking efforts to gather and queue,

changing subject of fascination,

from objects to series and books.

Some would speak of hoarder mentality,

others find it way to preserve identities, 

when deep down we experience thrill,

of anticipations, hunts, rush of dopamine.

May be, it's like an anchor,

keeping us connected to bygone eras,

when we were genuinely invested,

unbound by worldly obligations. 

 

Symbiosis

Our world is interconnected, 

inorganic systems to organic life,

sustaining diverse ecosystems,

through invisible teamwork.

Symbiosis...

We might have learned, 

in various educative forums,

how they play their part,

in interspecies relationships. 

And we see them everywhere,

mutualism in plant & pollinators,

commensals living in body surfaces,

parasites benefits on other's expenses. 

Still, they survived a million years,

evolving into something durable,

till the cycles broken by invasions, 

interference by us humans.

There sacrifices often overlooked, 

paying the price of development, 

we find newer ways to destructions,

of lands, rivers, oceans & mountains. 

Symbiosis...

And I wonder, how much have we lost,

the delicate balance, between lifeforms,

when we have started civilization journey,

with the help of plants and animals.

Still, there's flicker of hope,

as we revert to nature's abode,

creating green infrastructures, 

and techniques utilizing microbiomes.

True intent

 If we really want to know,

What is the true intent of person,

We need to check their actions,

Over the years, 

Ideologies they follow,

When they don't pretend,

Nor trying to impress,

That inner drive,

Which forces them to act,

Not to play games,

But truly act,

Without caring about outcomes.

And then see,

Do they align,

With your views...

For, sooner or later,

The mask will fell,

When they are relaxed,

You could tell,

If they truly care,

About your vision.

To make the business flourish

There are startups and ventures,

emerging from different corners,

bringing something new & unique,

in the market for consumers.  

Yet, many couldn't sustain,

losing deposits & patience, 

when not rewarded with profits,

enough to keep them afloat. 

So, I wondered many times,

watching businesses closing down,

what helps survive changing times,

loyal customer base, or higher traffics.

For, qualities alone don't pull crowds,

visibility plays a significant role,

while affordability & desirability, 

creating openings, achieving the goals.

Still, I understand the value they bring,

helping in retentions and repeatability, 

when they capture people's imagination, 

through distinct features & brand values.

It helps in increasing the margins,

being resilient to economic dips,

but need years of investment, 

with dedication & discipline. 

So, what is the right way...

To make the business flourish?

 

Not on the same page

We fail to connect,

understanding on the subject,

making own assumptions,

before we communicate, 

leaving discussions stranded.

What influences interpretations, 

existing prejudices, or ignorance, 

a heart that reluctant to discover, 

of sailing uncharted waters,

never to leave the shores.

There's difference in perspectives, 

we only hear things that we believe,

missing out on important clues,

which were embedded in conversations, 

showing way of solving the puzzle.

Then again, we can be stubborn,

committed to move in single direction,

searching for the point of convergence, 

without abandoning our principles,

to enjoy fruit of our labor.

Not on the same page...

These moments don't wait,

as we spend our days,

in reinforcing positions,

when in reality, we want clarity, 

where thoughts find resonance. 

The divine procession

An auspicious day,

it's the start of divine celebrations, 

as we witness Lord Jagannath, 

step out of their sacred abode,

to meet with us devotees, 

on the Bada Danda. (Grand avenue)

Ratha Yatra...

This symbolic journey of deities, 

are not just mere ritual,

millions of devotees gather,

facing no prevalent barriers,

of caste, creed, nationality,

for, anyone can hold the ropes,

being part of the grandeur. 

The atmosphere is charged, 

with collective devotion & surrender, 

enduring the heat and suffocation,

of flood of enthusiastic crowds,

engrossed in pulling the ropes,

having their divine darshans,

in the sacred chariots.

Ratha Yatra, the divine procession...

Where divinity takes human form,

visiting Gundicha temple for a retreat,

a tradition where bhakt & bhagwan,

come closer for common goal, 

there's no distance that separates,

in this connection of souls.

Adult love for fantasy world

I have always wondered,

what makes fictional characters, 

so alluring for us viewers...

From childhood admiration for superheroes,

using magical powers in their adventures, 

action packed sequences fighting villains, 

being special from the start of the story,

or level up with struggles and friendships,

filling our heart with awe & excitements. 

When we grow, we become matured,

being graduated from juvenile narratives, 

involving ourselves in appropriate conduct,

meeting expectations of self and societies,

a blanket ban, making conscious efforts,

to repress our cravings for magical times.

Yet, there are many adults who hold,

diving deeper into the fantasy world,

after performing given duties.

It's their way of embracing inner child,

or understanding true value of myths,

helping them navigate hard realities. 

For, it not only an escape,

but a way of getting refreshed,

honoring lessons, inherent messages...

Deeply embedded in these stories!

Why we stay away

We tend to stay away,

from the tragedies that plays,

in immediate vicinities,

or occurring in distant places.

And I wonder underlying reasons,

that drove us in building positions, 

shutting heart to other's plights,

when situations demand attention. 

Sometimes people get overwhelmed, 

when brain mirrors their sufferings, 

activating brain's defense mechanism, 

preventing us from emotional drowning.

Then, there are ones taking action,

feeling helpless in finding solutions, 

their mind makes quick calculations, 

forcing to disengage, to maintain balance.

Still, some don't harbor empathy, 

show genuine indifference to stories,

which doesn't impact their living,

remains insignificant or uninteresting. 

It's natural to avoid distress, 

such processes can be overlapping, 

from initial reluctance, to evaluating,

of how much involvement is necessary. 

Perpetual waiting room

Holding out for someday,

when coast is finally clear,

to live more authentically,

without worries or fears,

and fulfill all of my wishes,

of having experiences. 

There were expectations, 

being bound to obligations, 

not having time or fortunes,

to fuel my expeditions,

while days were spent,

add savings or preparations. 

Before long, getting comfortable, 

maintain status quo, while fantasizing, 

projecting dreams in fictional world,

short outings breaking monotony, 

anything more being ambitious, 

demanding sacrifices or risking objections. 

Years passed, opportunities pass by,

adding guilt & regrets to the inventory, 

watching others complete the quests,

reap the benefits of their efforts,

while I was lagging, level not rising,

stranded alone with wishful thinking...

In my perpetual waiting room!

Introspection

We need introspection, 

bit of self-reflections, 

evaluating our actions,

before facing outside world. 

One can't grow up, 

by living in their thoughts,

everything good happens,

when actions followed words.

Emotions are a wonderful thing,

but reality works on practicality, 

where efforts and contributions, 

are essential to build trust.

So, let's carry goodness in heart,

while pursuing desired goals,

giving attention, sincere intentions, 

our honesty becoming the proof...

For universe to respond.

Home : Freedom or prison

 For most of us,

Home is an emotion,

being a restorative sanctuary,

within a turbulent world.

And I wonder,

what are the conditions,

which provides us freedom,

or sometimes, become prison?

The most important part,

in the dwellings, are inhabitants,

their quirks, habits, routines, 

and interpersonal relationships. 

For, it provides warmth & safety,

where we could show vulnerabilities, 

dropping our social masks,

to enjoy & relax, without judgments. 

Yet, here lies inherent limitations, 

if there are conflicts & hyper-criticisms, 

constant disrespect, ignoring boundaries, 

where every moment, feels draining. 

Then again, some tasks & obligations, 

consumes energy, demand our attentions, 

when free time used in giving services, 

of greetings, support, & maintenances.

We have to see the environment, 

house structures, our surroundings, 

living in apartment, independent homes,

staying isolated or gated communities. 

Shared walls, noisy neighborhoods,

impacts our peace and freedom, 

inherited homes brings some security, 

rented or mortgaged have some concerns.

Home: Freedom or prison

It depends on how we perceived, 

even small rooms feel warm & cozy,

while bigger villas cold and empty,

that gradually become suffocating. 

In the end, we want that control,

physical structures or interpersonal, 

providing us spaces to assert power, 

choosing when to connect or retreat.

Zeigarnik effect

It's a curious thing,

of us keep returning,

continuing the daily streaks,

in apps, games, or shows,

before we know it,

we have made it a routine.

Zeigarnik effect...

First named by soviet psychologist,

a principle followed by human brain,

of remembering tasks incomplete, 

much better that things complete.

A survival trait from evolution,

is now being used to create tension,

by modern mediums & technologies, 

to never provide a sense of completion. 

We have checklists and progress bars,

displaying in games, for pursuing quests,

videos and reels, played in the loops,

by keeping the best for the last.

Even shows have utilized cliffhangers, 

an unfinished story, demanding attention,

a trapped mental state, wanting resolution, 

interrupting the flow, to influence decisions. 

Zeigarnik effect...

By taking advantages of this tendency,

they captured loyalty of the followers, 

slowly taking away thrill and enjoyment, 

as if continuing out of obligations...

Leaving behind a hollow feeling!

Greed is unquenchable

What is the drive,

that keeps them going,

having fulfilled needs,

still keep stealing, 

when they get chance,

to have easy money?

No place is spared,

corruption thrives everywhere, 

in the corridors of power,

or modest neighborhoods, 

when given free reins,

even sacred spaces were spoiled.

It is natural to aspire for more,

as opportunities are sought,

to increase financial status, 

catering to family's requirements, 

by sometimes bending rules,

for personal advantages. 

It always begins small,

then become slippery slope,

crossing their ethical boundaries, 

by exploiting some loopholes,

becoming bolder and bolder,

when there's no negative consequences. 

They rationalize, later trivialize, 

developing an illusion of control,

blinding them to the inevitability, 

as their confidence grows,

the vessels of sin were filled,

till they were discovered.

Greed is unquenchable, 

an endless hedonic treadmill,

never to make you satisfied,

as you sink into the darkness,

losing honor, respect, integrity, 

tormented by conscience. 

At someone's mercy

How does it feel,

to be at someone's mercy,

when your life breathes, 

at someone's whim and fancy...

We have seen through history,

how power enforced subordination, 

be natural world, or human civilizations, 

dictating the modern landscape.

We have been ignorant, 

enclosed in our curated world,

fulfilling needs, seek conveniences,

to ever examine the processes. 

So, when we ever encounter, 

we understand the price paid,

for our food, shelter, development,

by snatching the rights of surroundings. 

Does our heart pains to see,

feeling powerless to change destinies,

when forests cleared, lands defiled,

ecosystems poisoned, killing organisms.

At someone's mercy...

We are part of this relentless onslaught, 

as active participant, or mute spectators, 

dampening the voices calling from within,

to stop, protest and protect...

These vulnerable existences!

Our invisible ceilings

We often stop,

from taking the leap,

when there's considerable gap,

between expectations & realities. 

It also involves,

our deepest concerns, 

of what we lack,

the price to be paid.

Our invisible ceilings...

Limiting our potential, 

from attaining the goals,

which we have envisioned, 

still don't put the effort.

Provided with opportunities, 

we self-sabotage with activities, 

assuming rejections & failures, 

against perceived superiority. 

Yet, somewhere deep down,

we know our real value,

of the time, efforts, achievements, 

that brought us present positions. 

So, it becomes difficult to proceed,

carrying flaws, and shortcomings, 

still being proud to settle down, 

living a life of mediocrity. 

Our invisible ceilings...

It questions our worth,

acting as break, for our growth, 

confining us in a safe space, 

as world moves to a better place...

Without us!

Convictions : personal choices or conformity

I have always admired,

ones with strong principles, 

making conscious choices,

going against consensus,

holding to their morality. 

It's normal to passively adhere, 

rules of traditions & cultures, 

some may protest, act as rebel,

to project individual intentions, 

only few acting for larger good.

We have seen many examples,

being ridiculed for their decisions, 

a vegan diet in carnivorous lifestyles, 

or monogamy in liberated societies,

shows control and discipline. 

For, living in a vegetarian household,

having limited power and resources,

devoid of options or incentives to indulge,

we were naturally inclined to work,

in these restrictive environments.

So, I have always admired,

their commitments for the cause,

showing integrity of characters, 

by overcoming these temptations,

demonstrating self-mastery.

Why relationships break

Have we ever wondered, 

When feelings are mutual,

Why relationships breaks.

May be priorities are different, 

Having different goals,

But that doesn't causes,

Our feeling to fade,

Not the distance, 

Not the silence, 

But something deeper,

Influences...

By not putting effort,

While expecting from others,

Raising doubts,

By hiding intentions, 

Then lying, evading,

Blaming it on others,

When in reality,

Only serving self-interest,

Harboring negative attitude, 

By criticizing, make accusations, 

But when diving deeper,

It's about hiding insecurities, 

Not giving attention,

Or address genuine concerns,

But expecting rewards, 

Without making commitments,

Not mending the cracks,

Lack of sincere communication,

Yet, hoping bond to survive, 

Over a weak foundation. 

It takes years

It takes years, 

in honing the craft,

countless sacrifices,

to attain the top,

still facing shortage,

to fulfill envisioned goals.

It takes years,

dedicated to the service,

facing struggles & hardships,

undervalued, not compensated,

demotivated, lack of progress,

continuing, from fear or comfort.

It takes years,

waiting for the opportunity, 

exploring newer avenues, 

rationing time & resources,

adding revenue streams,

for managing households.

It takes years,

draining emotional energy,

physical strength exhausted, 

as if shackled in the chains,

of duties and responsibilities,

to never see dreams again.

It takes years,

only to witness the change,

entrepreneurial spirit of youth,

using modern technologies, 

to have financial gains,

even as a student!

And they rue, as they surrender, 

what's the point, of these years!

Lake waves

I sat on the bank,

of this serene lake,

watching the waves,

as breeze gently wakes,

dormant sentiments. 

A pleasant stream,

of colorful themes,

beneath vast cerulean skies,

lies expanse of verdant green,

as far as eyes could see.

People gather in a throng,

to witness this natural show,

as outings or explorations, 

for the adults and children, 

chatting, playing, having refreshments 

There were ferryboats in distance, 

taking groups for limited sightseeing,

create radiating ripples on the surface,

along with cacophony in backgrounds, 

they disturb the tranquility of place.

I watched the ducks resting,

in the elevated edges of earth,

huddled together in the corners,

having exhausted their energy,

dealing with water & prying eyes.

I sat on the bank,

away from the swarming crowds,

soaking the atmosphere in silence,

as wind whispers songs of land,

through the lake waves.

Bronchitis

A change of season,

humid, damp conditions, 

with dust and allergens, 

triggers airway inflammation. 

Bronchitis...

We see elderly and children,

feeling under the weather,

having dry cough & fever,

sometimes difficult breathing.

And we worry, about their health,

seeing them wincing in pain,

having sudden bouts of cough,

persisting for days or weeks.

Acute illness are self-limiting, 

when we give care properly 

adequate rest, plenty of fluid,

keeping them warm with coverings.

Bronchitis...

If we suspect something serious,

do visit clinics, for check-ups,

prevention is ideal, reducing the risks,

still medications can be necessary,

for serious ailments.

Don't rain

A mild drizzle, sprinkle drops,

forecasting, dark clouds overhead,

I rushed, taking out my bike,

trying to outrun, incoming rainfall.

Don't rain...

I prayed to divine powers,

to delay the inevitable showers, 

till I reach, arrive at destination,

with dry cloths and footwear.

I picked up the pace,

hearing rumble of distant thunder,

navigating through the traffic,

cursing the slower vehicles.

I could smell the moisture, 

a hint of pleasant petrichor, 

but my mind is occupied, 

in covering distance to my home.

A sudden flash, followed by roar,

I got caught, in a downpour,

drenched from head to toe,

not enough time to wear raincoat!

I found refuge under makeshift shed,

watching the relentless sheet of gray,

soaked to the bone, shivering in the chill,

as puddles formed, trees sway violently.

Don't rain...

I whispered one last time,

then admired this monsoon surprise,

as nature itself comes alive,

when sky and earth entwined.

Who am I to stop this union,

for my own convenience!

Spudcell : Synthetic cell

A breakthrough in synthetic biology,

developing world's first "bottom-up" cell,

capable of completing full life cycle. 

Spudcell...

Irregular, blobby shape resembling potato,

can feed, grow, and replicate their genome,

using non-living chemical components. 

Created in soup of molecules, genes & lipids,

spontaneously formed cell-like membranes, 

as if performing a miracle.

Researchers celebrate achieving milestone,

still, there are doubts, some hesitations, 

to consider this cell truly alive.

It can't manufacture its own ribosomes,

borrowed components degrade over time,

lineage failing after 5 to 10 generations. 

Spudcells...

As we ponder on threshold for life,

would we consider it superior to viruses,

when viruses can survive while it decays.

For, scientific definitions are clear,

triad of metabolic network, membrane & information carrier,

which were fulfilled by Spudcell.

Still, it is early to speculate,

we don't know how things evolve,

and we might form artificial life!

When pride triumphs feelings

When pride triumphs feelings,

It creates dangerous conditions, 

Where surface seems peaceful,

But over an active volcano,

Waiting to erupt...

With the slightest trigger.

And each lies, every excuses,

Becomes means to assert dominance,

We may feel satisfied by our positions, 

But in reality, we are losing trust,

Compromising integrity, corrupting character. 

What is depth?

The distinction we made,

to experience conversations, 

which doesn't bore us,

by floating on the surface.

What is depth?

We need introductions,

before delving into unknown, 

to develop strong affinity,

to pursue it till the end.

We have varied interests, 

which may align, lead to disagreements, 

forcing us to choose, make adjustments, 

maintain balance, need arrangements. 

There are genuine concerns,

lack of effort, giving due attention, 

creating ideal conditions to interact,

gradually diving into deeper parts.

So, what is depth...

It's too subjective a value,

to label our preferences, 

when a future being lost,

falling victim to impatience.