Daria Hopeful

 Daria woke up relaxed. It had been ages when she felt so rested. She was always scurrying around to get things done on time before she left to her cafe.

She went for her morning walk. Had breakfast in the garden with her grandparents. Her mother was meanwhile looked after and was getting ready for the day.

Just then her cousins came one by one. Amidst shouts, giggles and excited chatter, they decided to go to the souk. Daria loved to see their pottery. They all left together deciding to have lunch at one of the old cafés. 

Daria found an old quaint cafe . Done in rustic style . She sat by herself ordering her favourite coffee and enjoying the solitude . Her cousins were still shopping . Hadi walked in quietly . He found her and came to sit with her . They quickly exchanged pleasantries. They got so engrossed . Lost in their conversation. Totally lost into each other. Just then one of her cousins called out to her. They had a Christmas dinner tonight. A ritual which they had all missed . After years they would all be together. Looking forward to exchanging gifts under the Christmas tree .

They came home exhausted. Daria soaked herself in the scented warm water . She felt relaxed and dropped into the luxurious lap of slumber . Suddenly she heard a loud knock on her door . She composed herself and realised it was late. She quickly started getting dressed . Her grandad was very punctual. She wore a beautiful cream chantley long dress . Specially designed by her friend. Beautiful ruby tear drops decorated her ears . She looked beautiful, dreamy and glowing. 

She was the last one to enter the room. Her grandad looked at her pointedly. She apologised to him. He smiled and hugged her . His favourite grandchild . He longed to see her settled like the rest. 

They all exchanged gifts and were excited just like they used to be “Once upon. Time”.

Her grandad sat by her side and told her” My only wish is to see you settled” . She smiled.

Mistletoe was winking at her. She thought to herself “ would she be kissed under the mistletoe”? 

The band played out beautiful numbers. Hadi asked her for the first one. They kept dancing . Totally immersed into each other. Suddenly Hadi pulled her and took her under the mistletoe. He kissed her for long . He proposed to her . 

Daria was shocked . She had not thought at all. Hadi proposed to her . He had the ring ready too. Daria took it by asked for sometime.

She told him” Hadi this is too soon. I still need sometime”

She was giving back the ring to him. He said “ Keep the ring, when you are ready, let me know” 

“ Wear it for me then”.

He smiled and hugged her .

Daria stayed up late in the night thinking.

What do you think Daria is going to do?

Stay tuned for the excitement!😊

Moments

 Today sitting in solitude with my thoughts. Something beautiful came up in the deep recesses of my being. As I sipped my morning coffee, I truly felt “ It’s all in moments”. Sortie, joy, gratitude all. It’s all collected like beautiful pearls and string together in an exquisite piece of jewellery. We adorn it joyously . 

Are not moments just like those pearls? We gather them painstakingly. Some we leave in our album of memories, some strung together to line our beings. 

No moment ever comes back again. What we have lived and loved in that moment is held there. Rest is our wishful thinking . We keep longing to live it again. Alas! Sadly! That never happens. The moment might come, but never lived the same. 

Each moment live it like its the best. Time might not be the same, you might not be the same. Time never stays still. Change is inevitable and we change too. 

As we are getting ready to bid farewell to this year, a lot of mixed feelings re held within. Immense gratitude for what I have been blessed with and have been gifted.

There have been sorrowed moments, tearful thoughts too. In the end still there’s only gratitude what I feel.

He knows best what he gifts and what he takes.

Thankful to be given an opportunity to breathe again. 

Hopefully the best still awaits each 😊

Listed for Santa

 

Dear Santa 

Today the world needs your gifts 🎁. Gift of love wrapped and trimmed in compassion filled paper tied with the ribbon of kindness.

Joy and cheerful spirit the need of the hour. Let the darkness of illnesses and despair be washed away. Let smiles, laughter be the order of the day.

Joy to the world really needed. Deck the thresholds with the cheerful boughs of holly . Let each wear the cloak of spirited joy.

Tears of each kept at bay. Let each heart know restiveness, calmness and immense love.

Heartfelt gratitude what we have been blessed with and hoping to be blessed with the best always.

Keep each blessed ,O’ dear lord in thy choicest blessings. 

Santa I hang my stocking tonight waiting to be filed by you 😀😀😉.

Joy to the world!

Marrakech calling

 Daria was very excited. She was leaving next morning for Marrakech . She was still at her cafe . Tying up all the last minute loose ends . She came home tired . Next morning was their flight . She finished her packing. Checking all the packages which had been unpacked from her trip. Suddenly she remembered those eyes which had stared back at her. She lost track of time. She quickly pulled herself back .

Next morning passed by in a haze . The day just flew. She just remembered being driven to her grandparents villa. Both of them standing at the entrance. She ran into their arms . Felt a ton of weight being lifted. Her mother came slowly . She was being helped by her favourite helper. It felt good to be back in Marrakech. The villa wore a festive air .

Some of her cousins had already come. Some were coming this evening. Daria had lunch and decided to rest before the evening. She was booked for a massage at her favourite spa. She came back just in time to get ready for the welcome dinner. The festivities were going to be kickstarted with the dinner.

She was excited to meet her cousins. It had been a while.she got dressed in her long kaftan dress. Specially made for this relaxing evening. It brought out her colour well. In shades of red, it complimented her .

She went down just as her mother was being helped into the chair . She made sure all was well with her. 

Then she was enveloped in warm hugs by her dear cousins, uncles and aunts . They were still waiting for their cousin, the groom to come. Just then there was a loud cheer in the air and the welcoming dance . She turned to see her cousin walking in and behind him walked a tall man, a striking personality. Just then Daria realised it was the stranger from the plane. Those same eyes which had been haunting her for the past week. This could not be happening.

Just then someone called out to Daria . Suddenly she found herself face to face with the stranger . Her cousin came to her then and enveloped her in a warm hug . “ Daria I would like you to meet my friend , Hadi”

Daria quickly wished him. They were summoned for dinner . The dinner was a loud affair . All excited to exchange notes . Daria took her coffee and  sat quietly near the fountain, he favourite spot . It had always relaxed and calmed her . 

She heard someone clearing his throat next to her. She looked up and saw Hadi . “ Can I join you if you don’t mind” . Daria nodded .

The music began and they were summoned for a dance.

Keep tuned in for more excitement!

Daria at Bond Street

 Rania was waiting for Daria . They were meeting after almost a year . Daria, Rania and Zaina were best friends since years. Annually they met for their reunion . This year they decided to meet in London. Rania was based in London. Daria was happy to see her besties after almost a year . She missed them like crazy. Zaina was based in Turkey. Few days of bliss was signed for her ahead.

They quickly stopped at a cafe . Had a sumptuous English breakfast and went straight for shopping. The day flew. Daria ordered her outfits . She got 4 gorgeous ones . All in her favourite shades. Her footwear matched her outfits. She had accomplished a lot. Next 3 days were going to be fun all the way with her friends .

That night they had dinner at their favourite lounge. They were so exhausted that they straight away went to bed. Next morning they woke up a bit late. They were booked for their haircuts and spa day. It was a perfect day to relax. Evening they were out again. Rested and elated to be together. They say at an outdoor cafe . Enjoying themselves. Catching up with each other’s lives. 

The next few days they enjoyed the festivity and cheer . They were gearing up for Christmas. Last night they had dinner at their favourite restaurant. Sat up almost till midnight at their favourite cafe . Enjoying the tiny desserts and coffee.

Next morning they were heading back home.

On the flight Daria made lists of what had to be done before she left for Marrakech 

A tired sigh escaped her lips. She heard someone clearing his throat next to her. She had been so lost in her thoughts, she hadn’t noticed anyone around. The flight luckily was not full. She was sitting by herself.

She looked up across the aisle. She looked into stunning shade of greenish grey eyes. The most beautiful shade ever seen by her. She felt his gaze rest on her .

Just then she heard the loud announcement coming through” Fasten your seatbelt’s. We will be landing shortly”

Daria could not forget those eyes . There was something about them. She reached home and got busy with her pending chores.

Stay tuned for more excitement. 

Friday Blessings

 A beautiful morning greets you joyfully. Forget your sorrows for awhile . Feel the cheer of the new day.

Each moment live the best. The moment will not be given again and you might not live it the same next time. Honour moments. Strive towards making life the best lived saga . Love yourself the most . Do not forget yourself in the bargain.

Respect yourself. Nurture your being . Smile and compliment “ You” . Each morning speak lovingly to yourself. Rid  your being of the phobias, the negativity, the fears you have held dear for years. You have sub consciously been holding space for them. De clutter your being . Give space to the new. 

The new living and loving “ You”.

It is always easy  to blame and find faults with another. Remember! We are all humans . Stop yourself for a while and think “ Instead if I can hold that being reverently” . Give space to grow into something beautifully imperfect. Imaging the outcome. “ What is perfect”?  We are made imperfect , different , unique . “ To Err is Human” . Then why do you seek for that shallow perfection? Enjoy the imperfect you. Beauty for me is the best imperfect me . The one I love dearly . I am immensely proud of that being. I was not sent to be perfect. I was sent to be kind, compassionate, loving , caring and being there for others

 That’s the version of me I hold dearest .

Good Morning beautiful souls!

Have a lovely day ahead!

Remember! Say this to yourself! “ P.S 😘I love you”

Daria

 Lost in her thoughts, she sat by the trees. Daria looked up to see a beautiful rainbow lining the horizon . A sigh escaped her tired being. She had finished closing the coffee shop. Her means to her survival . A family business run by her . All her cousins and siblings had flown the nest. Her day started at the crack of dawn. She loved to indulge in the quiet moments . Bask in the solitude . Her mother did not keep too well. She was still sharp though. She read and wrote a bit . She helped her a little in the house . Somedays even to wake up and sit was a challenge for her weak being . 

Daria’s day after 10 ended in a blur . She whizzed through the day . Taking care of each minute detail. Came home around midnight. Just loved to sink into the softness of her bed. Sunday was one day, when she got help and took the entire day off . Saturday night she met her friends . Some nights just sat by the mountains and indulging in her writing . 

She loved those stolen moments . She had lost her father at a tender age . The responsibilities came and lanes on her young shoulders . It still did! Now she was more resilient. 

This year specially she looked forward to Christmas 🎄. Her cousin was getting married at Marrakech . Her grandfather’s mansion . It was the perfect time of the year.The festivity called to all. All her cousins were gathering . After years they were all going to be together. A perfect family reunion . 

Daria was going to meet her designer and order some outfits . It had been long since she had bothered to even order some clothes . 

She smiled to herself and wondered “ Would this Christmas be any different “?

She was excited to be in Marrakech again. She loved her grandad . Enjoyed being treated favourably . She could switch off from work and responsibilities for awhile . Enjoy the vacation  and attention .

Not that she didn’t get the attention here. Here it was work, work and more work . There it was only rest. 

She had already started counting the days

Just then she heard someone calling out to her.

Time to get back to reality.  

Hello frosted December

 Hello beautiful month

What does thou have in store for me?

My favourite month since my childhood. The month of joy, red and green cheer, jingles, candies all lining the air . The month of untold joy 🤩. There’s a certain festivity in the air . I still wait for Santa 🎅. The aromas of fresh bakes and warm hues. Hugs in a cup, every night by the fireplace . Lost in the glow of the fireplace . Sitting in solitude with your poetic thoughts . Watching the flurries . The soft snow lining the threshold. 

Let’s hope we welcome a lot of positivity and warmth in our lives . 

Joy to the world . I’m waiting for Santa 🎅. Time to jingle with your gifts 🎁. Thanks to Myntra , it feels like Christmas 🎄 every day 😃😃.

Love, joy, positivity to line your hearts!

Deck the hearts with boughs of holly

Fa la la fa la ….fa la la la fa la 

Hello November

The month which teaches us consciously to practise gratitude . To be thankful for all the blessings, big or small. The month to share and care .

A quintessential of living sharing and caring . It’s my favourite time of the year because there’s a change in the weather . A slight nip in the bud. Long winter evenings ahead . Hopefully it will be the change in the world health weather too.

Looking forward to joyous tidings to fill each hearth . Keep your hearts extra warm, embrace mankind and spread the light of compassion, kindness and positivity .

Immense joy to be the mantra of the month.

Looking forward to more of fitness and meditation for me. A special mention for all the loving kind souls who love me and nurture my being . 

I like to thank each one of you who stand by me. My yoga friends, my poetry community, friends and family.

Each one of you are a blessing and I sincerely appreciate all of you for being a part of my journey!

Let’s spread, joy, love and compassion.

Take the world in your stride with 💕 love!

Romanticising life

 Hey you beautiful souls, believe. Believe! That each  thing you do through the day is fun. Kill the mundanity . Your morning comments, think about some time to yourself. Listen to your favourite song, or am inspirational talk. Just gaze out the window. Your morning coffee a total blissful beverage, waiting just for you, with open arms. 

The strangers you meet, plant a smile. 

There will always be something exciting in the day. Think of it. You will definitely find it. Even your trip to the supermarket, is actually a cutie little drive by yourself .

Listening to something soft on the way. Catching up with your phone calls. Just find the romance in your little tasks. See how the day transforms into something 🥰.

Even your exercise routine is leaving you glowing and lighter. Think of how good you are going to be soon and can tuck into your favourite desserts without worrying about loading calories . I hope my yoga teacher doesn’t read this 😅😅😅😅.

Life is fun and smiling 😊.

Find the smile!

Date with my favourite cuisine

 It was a beautiful morning. Resplendent in monsoon showers. Then the sun came out smiling a little. The union of the monsoon and sun could not keep the bridesmaid away, so the clouds had to come. Walking down the cobbled streets, I enjoyed just being with my thoughts. I spotted my favourite restaurant called “ Sunnys” famous for Italian cuisine.

The decision was already made for me. Surprised pleasantly by my friend . We were all invited for a surprise lunch . It was a feast for the senses and the palete. 

We sat under the canopy of trees. The soft hushed tones of numerous conversations going on . We devoured the food. From pizzas, to the salads . Started with a generous helping of crusty bread with herb butter. 

The last but the best was awaited with a bated breath. 

The chocolate ganache with the almond pie. It was purely heaven! A must try!

To die for sums it better.

Being a chocolate person, I went straight to chocolate heaven. A haven for chocolate lovers.

It didn’t end with this.

We went for a little walk and then stopped by another open air cafe . Its known for “ Hot chocolate fudge” and other desserts.

All in all it was a chocolate day .

Enjoyed thoroughly by me.

Surreptitiously loading the calories.

Have a lovely day beautiful souls😊😊Mixed with the sweetness of chocolate 😊

Positivity

 A beautiful morning starts with a positive mindset.  I start mine with a beautiful group of like minded souls like mine. We all gather half sleepy on our yoga mats . But after few breaths and exchange of words and joyous smiles, we are invigorated.

By the time we are slumped, panting and heaving, we have a new tide of energy running through us. The best part of my morning. The beautiful souls who add beauty to my day. Keeps me smiling till dusk . The joy of doing yoga in the morning . Gulping breaths of positivity and inviting good tidings .

For me its more fitness for my soul, spirit and mind😊. Blessed to have found such a beautiful group. 

The start to the day decides the rest of your day.

It sets the pulse.

Looking after yourself 

Loving yourself 

Validating yourself 

These are the quintessentials for you . Its not just having a healthy diet . It’s the inner health which is equally important.

We take out time to appreciate others. Compliment them, smile at them. Do you practice this with yourself.

Do not wait for others to do it. Nurture yourself , love yourself abundantly, like there’s no tomorrow.

“ Live in the moment”

I learnt this from my yoga practice.

The “ Now” is what you have.

The rest is your intention . Might be there or might not.

Follow your heart’s calling and honour your soul along the way.

Live life in the best way you want. 

The dictates of others will only leave you disappointed and dissatisfied.

Good Morning beautiful souls. Stay blessed always 😊😊

Zest

 The little treats of life add a whole lot of zest to our living. These little beauties keep you going. When we learn to look for them, they brighten our skies like little twinkling stars. On a dark night, its these little beauties which bring a smile 😊 to us.

The soft lulling calmness of an inky dark sky . The night sounds like a restive lullaby. The morning radiant sun which gives a spark of Hope every dawn. The petrichor, the monsoon , rainbow all add to it.

So much to see, so much to hold within. Then why thou worry O’ man?

Your morning cup of positivity brimming for you. Your favourite chocolates adding sweetness to your life. The loving smiles sent wholeheartedly to you, beautiful gifts of love. 

Gratitude for what has been , what is and what shall be.

Today I’m thankful and grateful each morning for the joy of breathing.

Just the simple act of it which taught me its actually not that simple.

Immensely blessed for the simple joys of life!

Keep smiling and have a blessed day and a week ahead 😊

Hello October

 There’s something mesmerising and alluring about October. Its colours and hues always adds exuberance to the spirit of surroundings. The tangerine hues, the burnished goldens and the flaming orange. The soft velvety bed of fallen maple leaves. The woodsy pine scents that waft the air. The cinnamon scent of buns and tea. The warmth around the freshly started fireplace. The cosy evenings . The birth of the cold starts slowly from here. The nip in the bud. The soft feel of the sweater against your cheek. After dinner sitting by the fireplace with hot chocolate and your memories. Sometimes visited by nostalgia, at times by the tenderness of memories and by love. Cocooned in the positivity, the month greets us.

Some evenings sitting with the warm glow of the scented candle you feel the peace and tranquility. Each month comes with its own beauty. 

Pumpkin pies and carrot cakes to add to the colour around you. 

May each be enveloped in the warm glow of pumpkin spirits, autumn 🍂 love, warm hot chocolate tidings  and burnished golden warmth.

May your thresholds be enveloped in the best of the spirits of the month 😊

Lips Glitterati

 Make up the quint essential for a woman. Even the dreaded pandemic demands it, in its own way.

My favourites for the fall. Some gorgeous shades which keep me tip toeing.

What I am seen in lately 

1) Some beautiful Sugar crayon mattes . They glide in beautifully. Some recommended shades and my favourites are the following :

a) Honey Rider -Number 28

b)Rose Tyler-21

c) Scarlet o Hara-01

d) Brandy Harrington-17

e) Maybelline  Matt creams - Toasted Brown

f) Maybelline Matt creams- East village Rose

g) Mac - Mehr

h) Mac- crème in your coffee ( My all time favourite)

I)Manish Malhotra- Old Rose 

My season favourites . I’m sporting this often.

My favourite eye liners are 

Manish Malhotra’s Blue , Grey and green.

Sugar’s blue- Dark and vibrant 

Nars-Dark Blue

Eye Shadows

Go with the naturals 

Pearly pinks 

Silver grey

Navy blue for Smokey 

My all time favourite is Naked palette - Urban Decay 

Some of my quint essentials 

The most important is to hydrate . 

Moisturise 

Toner 

Serum 

Keep your skin glowing, luminous.

Exercise😀😀

Meditate 

Most important- keep smiling ☺️ 

Stay happy 😀 

Crimson hues

The day of the picnic dawned bright and beautiful. The weather was just perfect . The sun was not so strong. Aytan and her son got ready . Just then Myra came to pick them up. Aytan had made sandwiches and her last batch of brownies was ready too. She quickly packed . Myra came up to help her . Aytan looked sunny and happy . Dressed in a sunny yellow beauty shirt and slacks. She looked comfortable. It complimented her and her mood as well. 

They all set out for the picnic . It was beautiful. More of their friends met them there . Sumer was there too. The children got busy with their games . Aytan and Myra decided to play throw ball. It had been a while since they had played . Soon the others joined . It turned out into a full fledged March . 

Everyone dived for snacks and something cool to parch their thirst . The day was fun all the way . The children were found enjoying in the pool . Dinner was by the pool.

Aytan went for a walk by the orchard . Seeing her going alone, Sumer offered to accompany her . They walked in companionable silence for sometime. Then Sumer broke it asking how she was feeling . Aytan was especially in a good mood. They spoke for sometime. 

Then Sumer suddenly caught her unawares and asked her out for dinner on Friday  .

Aytan hesitated but eventually gave in. Sumer smiled at her .

He knew how hard it was for her.

They quietly went back to the group. Dinner was in full swing . Sumer did not leave her after that . He was by her side all evening.

The party had come to an end . Everyone had an enjoyable day . It was time to go.

Sumer suddenly hugged Aytan as she was leaving. Both reluctant to leave each other .

Would Aytan‘s party begin now?

Stay tuned for more excitement in the coming weeks😀

Kefi

 I came across this word and instantly found myself being drawn to it. As I was reading, the writer in me started getting excited . Such a relatable word .

Every morning consciously practice this . Make a mental checklist of how your yesterday was. There might have been something joyous even if it was like any other . 

In our everyday lives, we will always found those tiny, cute hidden little joys . We just have to feel them. We are so busy focusing on the larger picture our little joys almost her missed 😊.

It could just be some “ Me time”. Catching up on your pending chores ( likeable ones). Meeting some friends . Just being by yourself and enjoying the solitude. Could be a simple self care routine. Indulging in your hobby. Catching up on a good read . Spending quality time out in the open, amidst nature. Just enjoying the day.

Helping out someone . Being a sound box for a troubled soul. Just lending your joyous smile 😊. 

So many little tiny joys tucked away like little elves. Who meet us just like them. Catching us unawares and then making themselves invisible 😊

Have a lovely day ahead beautiful souls😊

Joy of the Day

What yoga means to me?

Yoga is the energy which runs through me at each Dawn. The joy of letting go, brought home by yoga. Cherish what you have and enjoy it to the fullest driven home again by none other than yoga. On my mat, I leave all my negativity. Gather loads of positivity, joy and look forward towards the day.

Gratitude another important lesson, I learnt here . How we are blessed with simple joys but are so busy to acknowledge them. The value of breath. The simple beautiful art of breathing . Smile how it livens up the lives around you and within you .

“ Listen to your body” which we hardly do. But we rarely do. 

I owe it all to yoga. When I was fighting for each breath in the hospital, it was the breathing which I had done each morning which came to my rescue. The capacity to fight.

I would sincerely appreciate and send a lot of gratitude to my lovely teacher and wonderful souls in my class. Each morning it’s a pleasure to be associated with all.

I sent a heartfelt thank you 🙏 to each .

A lot of healing energy and positivity to all out there

I owe my discipline to yoga because of my perseverance from my teacher.

She instilled the love of yoga in me😊

Stay blessed. Stay safe.

The small perfects

 

The cute little perfects in life catch you unawares. A simple stroll down the memory lane. Watching the beautiful streets. Window shopping to your hearts content. Smiling at children. Watching  people rush through their day. It’s so mesmerising to just watch the day go by . Sitting with a book in a quiet little corner. Hugging your world to yourself . For once carefree. You bask in the joy of doing nothing . Tucking into your sweet treats surreptitiously. Enjoying each succulent bite . Catching up with your friends at the end of it . The quaint little street market beautifully displayed. Buying a trinket or two from them. Their wares meticulously picked. 

There is so much of concealed contentment in these moments . Where does a human actually need a lot?

It just needs the right kind .

Solitude is a beautiful treasured possession. It’s an acquired taste . Once you learn to relish it, it becomes like a sought after delicacy 😊

Red doorway to happiness

 Aytan felt refreshed after a long time. She felt light and happy. She was invited to Myra’s for bbq and spend the day . The day had turned cloudy and beautiful. Perfect day to be outdoor .

She was just finishing her salad dressing, she had promised to take it over to Myra’s. Just then her phone rang. She was sending a silent prayer up there. “ Please let it not be work”. She hesitatingly answered the phone. It was from her favourite spa . She kept thinking, had she by mistake booked herself for something. It was a delightful surprise from her dear friends . She was booked for a complete body massage. She was thrilled. 

She still had time before the part kicked in. It was starting at 4. She quickly went for her appointment. On the way making quick calls to her besties and thanking them. 

After 2 hours, Aytan felt totally relaxed and on top of the world . She loved every moment of it . She came back home and had just enough time to get dressed and go to Myra.

She donned a lemon yellow summer dress. She had been wanting to wear it since a long time. She did her hair in lazy wind blown curls . Her make up was light. Pearl drops sat daintily on her ear lobes.

She was especially feeling relaxed and happy after a long time. The party had started when she got there. Helping her friends do the finishing touches to the quick bites.

Her son looked very happy . 

She was standing by the pool, when suddenly she heard a deep voice in her ear . She quickly turned . Looking into beautiful, tawny eyes. It was Sumer . Last night it was too dark at the lounge to make out the colour of his eyes .

They spoke for a while. Lost in their own world . Oblivious to everything around. Her besties exchanged glances and had a mischievous smile .

When Aytan was alone. They wanted to know everything.

She said” Relax! We are just friends”

They both shrugged their shoulders and answered in unison” We did not say anything “.

Aytan answered” Yeah ! Right !

The party was in full swing . It was relaxing. It was a long weekend. Everyone was off the next day . It wrapped at midnight.

Sumer stayed till the end to clean up.

He sat with Aytan for sometime with their midnight coffees.

He left and promised to call Aytan the next day.

They were all meeting for Sunday brunch and outdoor games at a beautiful countryside farm.

After a long time Aytan was whistling under her breath. Her eyes sparkled. There was a soft glow about her.

Would finally a new door open for her?

Stay tuned for more excitement in the coming weeks.

Women in their 40’s

In their ripe age of 40, do women actually discover themselves . 

The journey till the 40’s is more of a trial and error. Moulded , compartmentalised and then the rebellious being emerges. 

Suddenly one fine day Dana realised, she didn’t want any of her old life. She went into a moody, sullen silence.

No! It was not menopausal!

It was just a rebellion from her inner being.

She was tired of being told from birth to her 40’s to do something in a certain way.

Suddenly one day she was bestowed the role of wife hood,followed without a pause into motherhood and the other various roles. 

Mind you. No journal, no manual, figure out on your own.

She started doing and breaking it.

At the threshold of 40, she realised she wanted a life just for her. Her likes, her dislikes, her joys and her sorrows.

Simple things as enjoying her day off. Doing what her heart felt like. Going out and enjoying herself with her friends. Sitting quietly in a cafe with a book . Enrolling for a hobby class. Booking herself for an exclusive Spa day. Fighting for just causes close to her heart. Dressing the way she liked. Staying fit according to her like. Wearing colours of her choice. Styling her wardrobe to her own desirable choice. Feeling good 😊 

A woman is reborn at 40!!!

When she started voicing her thoughts and her will to do something different, She was looked in shock.

She was told time and again in uncertain terms” Oh! You should see your doctor, you are getting menopausal”!

Ohh !God! Really 

Burst out Dana. 

Please kindly don’t put women in the stereotype compartments.

When she’s upset about something. Its the gud ole Pmsing .

If she has outbursts , ohhh must be the hormones.

Right! Emotions are sleeping throughout.

You give her multi tasking throughout her life and expect her to excel at each .

Women know their mind. They develop a power of assertion. They learn to vocalise their feelings. For once they are thinking beyond cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping.

They learn to look proudly in the mirror of life .

Their reflection smiles back. They start taking care of their neglected selves sacrificed at the altar of taking care of others. 

Women in 40’s are a force to reckon with.

Don’t sign them off. They take this long to ferment in their beliefs and goals.

Their maturity reaches new zenith .

Before you sign a woman off saying she’s menopausal, how about looking at her a little differently.

To all the gorgeous women in their 40’s, this goes out to each one of you! You are the best!

Follow your heart’s desire.

Keep the flame burning

 In the growing turmoil in the world today, a little heartfelt wish sent out into the universe. Each battling a silent battle within and out. Each in need of calm, peace, reassurance and a soothing, calming environment. 

May we all be protected by the flame of healing energy. The power of a wish sent out can work wonders. A silent prayer of gratitude goes a long way. 

Keep sending out healing energy for you and your loved ones. 

Stay blessed. Stay safe 😊

The undisputed power of a red lipstick

 Aytan was always lost in the world of browns. She rarely experimented with pinks or the bold reds. Dawn to Dusk she worked like a machine. She lost herself to work. A widow at the young age of 30. She was supporting herself and her young son. 

Living in Vienna . A beautiful, breathtaking city was a solace to her . Her family lived far away. Her friends were her biggest support . Her best friend Myra was alway a phone call away . Samara lived just down the road . They constantly tried to ease her burden a bit. She had immersed herself completely in work. 

She was forcibly taken out for a meal and a little fun time with her friends . Life was taking a toll on her. She refused to accept it. Her friends witnessed it all.

Her birthday was coming round the corner. It was decided that her little son who was all of 7 now, would be staying with Myra’s son. He was already very excited.

In his cute little voice, hugging his mother, very matter of fact ,he said “ Mom I am staying at aunt Myra’s for your birthday”.

Her birthday dawned bright after a continuous spell of rain . She was sitting with her coffee and losing herself to sounds of nature . Her son woke up , wished her, gave her a tight hug .

He was jumping with glee . Packing his overnight bag to spend the night at his friend’s place.

The day passed in a blur. Her friends dropped the outfit and make up. Strictly instructed to wear both .

The dress was beautiful. A midnight blue sequenced chiffon. It had a nice floaty, flowy feeling.

Make up was a bit tricky. She was given a bold red lipstick. After accentuating her eyes. She was toying with the lipstick. Wondering whether to wear it or not.

Just then Myra called. “I am coming to pick you in 5 minutes. Be ready”

The decision was made. She quickly started applying it. She stood shocked at the woman staring out at her. This couldn’t be her.

Just then Myra came . She left with her friends. Ready to enjoy the evening ahead. 

After a long time,  She was feeling alive.

They went to a new place. It was jam packed.

A beautiful, lovely, lively  place.

Myra met some of her friends there. They had some guests from Switzerland.

The introductions followed. Aytan was introduced to Sumer. He had recently moved to Vienna for a project .

The evening passed. There was some chemistry between Sumer and Aytan. They could not keep their eyes off each other .

Would the power of a red lipstick finally work its magic in Aytan’s dull life.

Stay tuned for the sequel.

A beautiful day

 I sent out immense gratitude into the universe this morning. I woke up to a beautiful, rain washed Dawn. 

I opened my window and found nature being rain kissed. The cleaning leaves, the raindrops on buds and delicately resting on petals. 

It was perfect for my morning yoga. After a lovely practice and feeling energised. I rested a whole out in the open . Just listening to sounds of nature.

For once I did not go for my coffee ☕️ immediately. A habit with me. A ritual of sorts. I just sat lost in my thoughts. The restiveness, calm was so therapeutic.

When nature can truly cure us? What do we really need?

But unfortunately we are always so pressured and pressed for time, where do we bask in this silence?

I always remember Robert Frost’s poem

 I have miles to go 

Roads to travel

But today I decided to truly rest a while in the lap of nature😊

Hello September!

 Hello my birth month. You always have held a special place in my heart. You started the month and I started my journey into the world. At the crack of dawn, I came into the world. While the world was still waking up, I woke up feeling irritable 😀😀😀 crying extra loud. They said it’s good for my lungs.

Decades went by, grew into my journey. Welcoming whatever was given by life. Sometimes we were not so friendly. Time and again, life and I always ended up reconciling . 

This birthday is extra special because this time I reconciled with death. Truly today is my rebirth. I fought death itself and emerged a winner. 48 hours was all I was given . My struggling breaths, to broken gasps and breathing again without the help of oxygen after a month . Yes its time to celebrate the event called life. The joy of breathing.

Now each moment, I celebrate it fully. Nurture it to my best potential.

Hope September  brings each immense joy. Loads of blessings to each one. Good tidings to bless your thresholds.

May your hearts and hearths be resplendent in joy and happiness.

I have a lot of gratitude for just being given a second chance at life.

My rebirth absolutely. A second to live life again.

Grateful and blessed to have beautiful souls who prayed for me and continue to still keep me in their thoughts and prayers.

I love each one of you immensely and grateful 😊

Stay blessed and stay safe.

Komorebi

 I came across this beautiful Japanese word last night. Something about it, compelled the writer in me to pen few lines. 

I visualised it in how aptly it describes life. When we are surrounded in the thick of things. A dark foliage of darkness. Mossy thoughts, murky feelings. Swamped in the quicksand of negativity. There’s sometimes no respite. There’s no soul in this world, Who has not known inexplicable pain. Life is a challenge, a continuous test. Yet the beauty is to fight it . To emerge a winner. Stay triumphant in your achievements.

This word made me visualise the sunshine. The beautiful, softness of rays. The gentle touch of it on my being. I discovered that sunshine my writing. My poems a constant ray of sparkling  hope.

Each morning when I write my poems, it gives me the same joy of basking in fresh ,glimmering , glistening sun’s rays.

The other thing which keeps me going is being there for others. When a despaired soul calls out to you in his or her time of need. Just lending your presence.

A tiny part of me left in each’s heart, soul and spirit.

A legacy like the rays of sunshine,

I would love to leave,

In each’s midst,

Long after I am gone!

Blazing trail

 

Jawab -e - Shikwa

 

Musings

 All the beautiful colours of nature are so therapeutic by themselves. What more do we truly need? Surrounded in their colourful midst, so calming and restive.

Sitting by myself this morning. I just looked around and only found cheerful tidings from nature. Leaving me with a smile . A deep sense of gratitude , keeps me going. 

Truly blessed and feel immensely grateful 😊

Poem collaboration

 https://www.instagram.com/p/CS3r5daludq/?utm_medium=copy_link

A poem collaboration with another poet😊. Link is shared above 😊

Kiss of the Phoenix

 

Power of the Spoken

 

In every war, why are women treated as easy assets . They are not assets to be liberally distributed as and when pleased.

History is witness to countless wars, civil wars, take overs where women have been exploited . Without their will, they are treated with the least expected courtesy and politeness. 

Brutally abused, tortured, assaulted, the after math of spoils of war . Today again, they are being treated to the same . Where have we truly progressed to?

Human rights, does it really work?

The silence of the quiet resounds and haunts deep within each. Yet each stand at the crux of civilisation, helpless, feeling of hopelessness runs deep within.

How can you so casually just start distributing them amongst the victors as spoils of war? How?

Girls as young as 12. How can we sit quiet and witness this horrifying acts. 

For Gods Sake” Spoils of war”!

Which century are we living in? 

Progress and Development is it just a make believe institution?

Women have always unfortunately since time immemorial been easiest to manipulate, manoeuvre them any which way you like. 

Shouldn’t there be basic ground rules for women. Their rights protected even if there’s a revolution . If another country takes Over, Shouldn’t their safety be paramount .

Plagued by the present day situation rampant in the world.

Truly wondering what have we progressed towards,

Progressed or Regressed?

Freedom

 

Freedom in your truest being . In your expression, thought, form . Free in every expression of thought.

Revel in your independence which is governed by your thoughts and spirit. Independent of other’s opinions and judgment. Following what your heart desires. Your being’s calling . Your soul voice. Listen to it. Honour it. 

Truest freedom is expressed then wholly.

Labels

 Time and again women are put into different moulds. Judged mercilessly.

The various roles ,she’s expected to play flawlessly.

A woman who’s running pillar to post managing things is bound to neglect herself. Yet! She’s expected to be well groomed, look beautiful, maintain a beautiful house and take care of everyone else.

She’s a human. She is going to have flaws. There are days, she might not even look herself. Days she might just want to shut  herself out. Yet! We do not refrain from putting tremendous pressure.

She has to be well versed in everything. Why  her?

Why only the pressure on women to always look good . Keep their weight off. Balance each role to perfection.

Why? Why?

She’s judged on the basis of colour, weight, her abilities and her emotions.

Why do we always have to sit on the throne of judgment?

Why cannot we sit on the ground of humility and question her in the soft tone of compassion?

Women have today learnt to unite and do away with the labels.

Each one out there is beautiful in her own way and has a right to be appreciated for what she is.

Wholly!!

This goes out to all the wonderful women out there.

Though it’s not Women’s day, Yet , I believe that every day is our day. Without women the world would be a joyless place to live in.

Revel in your being. Do not  let anyone take that from you whatsoever.

Requisites

 Trudging through the path of life. Some paths were rocky, some smooth. Leila would take a breath . While catching a breath, she would always muster a smile. Her motto” Keep smiling” half the sorrows will flee. 

Sitting by herself in a cage, with her hot cup of cappuccino, she thought” Serenity brings a lot of answers to the forefront”! As she was waiting for her friends to join her, she started gathering her thoughts. All her moments of patience, when otherwise she could have been spitting mad. In the face of turmoil, her optimistic frame of mind. How they had silently supported her throughout.

Life is short . Life is lived a once . When you are taking your last breath, what would you like to remember about life?

The beautiful moments spent amidst cheer or the morose ones. Just then her reason for joy were walking towards her. Time to make some new memories and gather more joyous moments .

We only have one life. Hating to sound cliche, but that’s the eternal truth. Live to your best potential. Enjoy each moment.

Imagine the Power of Kindness

 Leila was 21, but life had put too much of burden on her tender shoulders. Her mother was the bread winner of the family. Leila helped her by supplementing the income and looking after her young siblings. She had lost her father at a young age. 

Life’s trials and tribulations never seemed to end for Leila. When her friends were enjoying life, she was burdened with the life’s numerous responsibilities. Always smiling and carrying out. But today, she was too just tired. Exhausted and despaired. She felt broken. Misunderstood absolutely. She found her passion dying for her career. 

She watched the little children playing in the park and suddenly memories of her happy childhood flashed past. The days of joy when her father was alive. That was the last she remembered being wholly, soulfully joyous. 

Suddenly it was all too much for her . She burst into tears. A dam of sorrow being unleashed.

She was lost in her world of misery. She felt a withered old hand touching her hand quietly. Comforting her, reassuring her. She found herself in a comforting warm hug. The scent of her grandma teased her once again. 

After she composed herself. She looked up and found a sweet, smiling warm face greeting her. The warm brown gaze caressed her lovingly. Leila found herself talking endlessly to this kind soul.

After that day, Leila felt a new confidence. A new resilience to mark her being. She found her old self again.

She still remembered her guardian angel who had helped her that day.

The act of kindness was what? What had that kind soul done? Just been there for her. Just held her when she needed it the most.

Sometimes that’s all you need to do. Just be there for another selflessly. Then watch the power of kindness.

Have a great day ahead.

Hope we can practice these little acts of kindness.

Ode to Friendship!

 A beautiful new month greets us anew. What better way to welcome it by paying ode to the most precious, beautiful, heartfelt, honest relationship.

The best parts of life are usually spent during school and college . Those beautiful ,carefree days remind you of what we had experienced. 

Free and joyous. This month starts by paying ode to that day. 

Friends are always by your side. Anytime you need them, they stand true to their word. They are your counsellors, partners in crime, your fun buddies and your sound box.

I still remember those fun moments back from school and college. Sharing our lunch boxes. Playing pranks on each other. Sneaking out and going for a drive. Bunking classes at times. So many fun filled moments, still stored in the treasure trove of memories.

Today also when we meet and go out, we end up laughing silly. Cracking jokes, laughing at our own fiascos. It’s so refreshing and invigorating.

It’s rightfully said “ If you are blessed with good friends, then you are truly blessed”!

I have found some wonderful souls in my poetry community too. I’m immensely grateful to them for supporting me at all times.

I have always been lucky to have some wonderful friends supporting me at all times.

I wish pleasant and joyful tidings to each for this coming month.

May we all have something to smile about each Dawn!

Stay blessed. Stay safe.

Qareenay

 https://www.instagram.com/p/CRyBkUElDZP/?utm_medium=copy_link

My urdu spoken word. Link shared above 👆 

Staying Positive!

 Positivity!

Truly what a powerful word! 

There are various times in life that it is the hardest to muster and bring to the forefront. Constantly badgered by criticism, cynicism and negativity, through the journey of life . This one word does immense magic.

How easily we hug the negativity ?. keep replaying it in our minds . 

But instead if we consciously expel that and just think of the positivity in and around us. We will all be much happier beings.

There are very few in today’s world who will genuinely appreciate you or love you for what you are. The others will always be quick to point out your numerous faults.

Just sit for a moment and think. Where are they coming from? Are they perfect? Flawless! Devoid of any faults.

Unfortunately or fortunately for you, they are not.

Then why should we bother about their opinion of us. It truly doesn’t matter.

Start counting your blessings. All the positive things. How you can think about doing something better?

If you start giving in to them, they will always have more power over you.

Never give your power so easily.

You are a strong being. Differently made! Unique!

Then how will another know you so well, to judge you?

It’s their perception of you. Which necessarily does not have to be right. 

So enjoy your being!

Positivity the mantra of life!

Memories with Grandma

 The lovely moments spent with my grandma . The pampering I received from her .

I still remember her favourite de-tan remedies. Her appalled  look when I came back tanned from my matches Weary and tired, I would come back and collapse .

She would come with her remedies. Dearly  putting my head in her lap and massaging all the remedies surreptitiously into my skin. 

She would say” Isse Tan jaata”!

And then one after the other , over the years , I would be treated to so many.

Today seeing my skin, I owe it all to my grandma.

For years my face wash ,was gram flour( besan), neem, orange peels dried and powdered.

Sitting majestically in my washroom counter.

My hair oil was made with Almond oil, olive oil and coconut oil with curry leaves and methi seeds.

So many things . 

In winter she would just put cream( malai) on my face .

Naturally hydrating my skin . It would feel heavenly after that .

She was a pro in using all the natural ingredients right from the kitchen .

Summer time ! She would make all the seasonal juices. Specially her false juice .Saying “ Nourishment from within is also equally important for the skin”! 

Which is so true.

I follow her best skin remedy which nourishes the skin

“ A cucumber a day”!

Keeps your skin radiant and glowing.

She would end it saying “ Keep smiling”!

Keep stress at bay.

Life is short , so do what your heart wants you to do always”!

Listen to the dictates of your heart ❤️ 

A vivacious persona, she carried at all times .

Reminded by my dear aunt about her home made Kajal with castor oil. Every morning lining her almond shaped eyes. She would so  sweetly give it to all the Kajal lovers .

“ Miss her warmth!

Miss her remedies.

Simplicity

 When I was growing up, simplicity ruled our lives. We found our joys in everyday simplicity. Enjoying our walks out in the open. Playing joyously. Carefree and spirited.

Meeting our cousins. Spending quality time . Enjoying the corn when it would be pouring . Getting drenched then having Dinshaw ice-cream. 

To meet our loved ones would be the highlight . Weddings and functions were a highlight . We would be getting a lot of time together . 

Every season has its treats . The specialities of the city ruled it. We never thought of materialistic things . Just what planted a smile on our hearts, beings and souls.

Where did those golden days disappear? Vanished without a trace.

Now I sit lost in the concrete jungle , absolutely lost!

Morning Motivation

 Some mornings its  such a challenge to find something positive in the day. Consciously I have made it a habit to look deeply into the day .

Surprisingly I found more than one thing to look forward to .

I came across a lovely insight, if through your the year we looked , we would have more than 365 things to be joyful about . That is consciously realised.

Subconsciously there might be so many more.

It made me really look forward to little joys and positivity induced acts. 

It really calms me to think we have so much already to be grateful for, gratitude practiced every moment.

Such a beautiful way to practice gratitude 🙏.

Count our little blessings and spread the joy 😊

Classically Classy

 I thought of this when I came across a write up on designer, branded wear . Labels , signature styles so forth and so on.

What is being classy?

Is it just being draped and adorned in those labels is termed classy?

Classy should run deep into your soul, in your heart in every feeling.

Helping someone in need quietly.

By doing a kind deed .

Adorn your self in unseen labels of compassion, humility and kindness.

When you are seen by the world , let them see you in the label of kindness worn exclusively by you.

Let your being be stitched in designer threads of compassion made exclusively by you.

Your own signature label.

Let the world see you adorned in the best threads sewn by humility, intertwined and interwoven by soulful diction.

A beautiful signature being remembered for long in the humanitarian world.

Classy in my soul,

I long to be remembered,

Classically soulful,

In all my being!

  

A rain soaked morning

 Woke up to a beautiful Sunday rain soaked morning. 

The gentle sounds of nature and the cloudy smile woke me up with a smile of my own.

Today is a totally no agenda day.

Soaking up to the gentle rain soaked morning and enjoying the lovely wet moments .

The steady beat of rain on my window pane, an inspiration for me to write something spontaneous and heartfelt.

Rarely did I ever sit and enjoy a morning like this, today I took the opportunity and to just watch nature.

So calming and peaceful.

Making me realise to just take a break and let the day unfold .

Take the day in its stride.

Good Morning beautiful souls .

Enjoy the day!