Learning...

This new year, I have learned a few things about myself and about life in general:

1. PhD is not my cup of tea. I could probably finish it if I continue, but I simply have no desire to. Other than patience, I probably won't gain much and there are better ways to learn That anyway!

2. I can not be a not-close friend to anyone. Either I am a good enough friend to share your secrets with, or I am just an acquaintance. I am simply not the one you call to kill your time. That won't do.

3. I can make oily, spicy food. Earlier such kinds had no flavor since I always messed up the proportions and would stick to my very plain, half-European variations. but now I am beginning to use spices with confidence. yesterday's matar-panir was just another proof.

4. Life is 'different' with kids. I can't say better, since haven't been around them much. But when we attended a B'day party for the two daughters of a friend, it was a totally different world, with toddlers all over the place busy in their own beautiful worlds with their own toys. None of them was cranky, teary, sleepy, annoying - all were <>

5. I have learned to wrap gifts perfectly. I also know knitting well now. youtube has been a blessing.

6. I love flowers. I did not think I would enjoy plants as much before. but lately I have been reading up a lot on them to design our front yard. To my delight, I could easily spend 2 hours in the sun looking for that perfect plant to brighten up our space. The variety of colors and textures that one finds in a garden is not found elsewhere.

7. We feel miserable because we are too self centered. Life is a challenge - for everyone. And we all try doing our best with the cards we are dealt. You only know your bad cards, 'coz you haven't seen others'.

8. Meeting and marrying the right person is such a chance event. Almost like being born into a normal family or being born without a genetic disorder.

9. Good human beings make good relationships, and vice-versa.