Perception

As a child, I loved all that my mother cooked, except idli. My mother had a strict rule that the first offering of all food had to be eaten, even if it was disliked. I would gulp down two idlis to ensure that the unpleasant experience was over at the earliest.

However, this strategy would boomerang at homes of other people. Seeing me consume the idlis in quick time, they would think I loved them and they would drop more idlis in my plate. Hence, I had to change my approach. 

 

I began put little pieces of the idli in my mouth and chew slowly to stretch the time. Interestingly, this made me indulge in the taste and eventually I developed a liking for the idli. Now idlis are my favourite food to eat!

 

I realised that my dislike for the idlis was due to perception rather than real experience of taste. Our likes and dislikes may be born of perceptions or even interpretation of experiences. We must give time to the experience to connect with facets that unravel only with deeper application of our senses. 

 

We need to consider whether our dislikes are mere inferences from erroneous perceptions made in a hurry. We have to find ways to escape hurried perceptions and experience the same with an open mind.

Stop succumbing to hasty hurried opinion
Don’t be confused by errors of perception!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Why & Wherefore

 

An Aesop’s fable is about the encounter of a wolf and a little lamb. Wanting to find reason to turn the lamb into lunch, the wolf growls: ‘last year you insulted me’! The lamb replied, ‘I was just born a few months back.’ 

 

The wolf retorts, ‘You grazed in my pasture.’ The lamb said, ‘I don't eat grass yet.’ But the wolf persisted, ‘You drank from my pond.’ The lamb replied, ‘The only thing I drink is my mother’s milk.’  

 

At that point the wolf ate the lamb saying, ‘Well! You certainly like to argue!’

 

The phrase ‘why and wherefore’ is in Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors: ‘Was there ever any man thus beaten out of season, When in the why and the wherefore is neither rhyme nor reason?’ 

 

So often, some of us defend the indefensible.  We scout for justifications based on our prejudice born of divisions that see one human being as lesser than oneself. Like the wolf finds many why and wherefores for his predetermined act of violence against the innocent lamb.

 

Every time, we indulge in irrational choice for our ‘why and wherefore’ we are walking the talk of murderous hate mongers. In the aftermath of the violent act, as time passes, we become complacent. And history repeats…

 

Vested interests, on all sides, start planting the seeds of hate again, under the garb of nationalism, religion, ethnic pride and more. Messengers of hate talk about ‘teaching them a lesson’. But lessons are meant to be learnt by us by challenging the divisive ‘why and wherefore’.

Why should humanity be trampled out of season

When in the why and the wherefore is no reason?

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Centipede Effect

A centipede was happy

Until a toad in fun

Said, ‘Pray, which leg moves after which?’

This raised her doubts to such a pitch,

She fell exhausted in the ditch

Not knowing how to run!

 

The poem underlines the psychological ‘centipede effect’ that occurs when an otherwise unconscious activity is disrupted by consciousness of it. When asked how he played a certain passage of Beethoven, violinist Adolf Busch replied that it was quite simple – and then found that he could no longer play the same passage.

 

George Humphrey identified the effect as hyper-reflection and said that ‘no man skilled at a trade needs to put his constant attention on routine work... If he does, the job is apt to be spoiled’. Humphrey's law states that once performance of a task has become habitual, conscious thought about the task, while performing it, impairs performance.  

 

Habit reduces and then removes the attention required for routine tasks. This automaticity is upset by attention to a regular unconscious competence. For example, someone thinking too much about how they knot their tie may find their performance of the task impaired. Hence, we must not allow the centipede’s dilemma to derail what has turned a habitual performance.

The centipede need not reflect on keeping feet in line,

But if it starts to ponder they get twisted all the time!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Active Waiting

Boman Irani, the versatile actor has a remarkable story of perseverance. He was dyslexic, as well as having ADHD & a lisp he eventually overcame. Due to financial constraints, he dropped out of college and took up a job as a waiter at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai.

He worked as a waiter, struggling to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, he never lost sight of his passion for acting. He would participate in amateur theatre performances. In 1987, his life took a dramatic turn as director, Alyque Padamsee, offered him a role in a play. 

 

His breakthrough came in 2003 film ‘Darna Mana Hai’. His portrayal of Dr. Asthana in ‘Munnabhai MBBS’ brought him recognition. Since then, he appeared in many films, showcasing his incredible range as an actor.

 

Boman Irani's story teaches us valuable lessons. His journey from waiting tables to waiting for opportunities as an actor is a testament to his passion and determination. While his success is a result of his hard work, dedication, and willingness to learn... it is also his attitude to actively wait!

 

Waiting is not about staying idle. Rather, it is about being active and alert while little may be happening. Active waiting is a powerful mindset shift that can transform downtime into uptime. So, when you find yourself waiting, remember that you have the power to turn downtime into an opportunity.

 

Indeed active waiting is divine,

it turns downtime into a shine!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Recce

Sportsmen want to see the stadium, before they play. Singers, orators, performers want to see the stage, before they perform. Traders, entrepreneurs, sales persons involve in what they call a trial run. They use different words but what they are doing is a ‘recce’ 

‘Recce’ is a regularly used by those in trekking and mountaineering. Every time we plan a new trail, some of us undertake a ‘recce’ – an exploration to confirm the best possible route. We identify spots to visit as well as estimate the time budgeting. A well done ‘recce’ ensures success. 

 

The term derived from ‘reconnaissance’ refers to an exploration conducted to get information. Also known as scouting, it is a military idiom for a preliminary survey to gain facts. However, a ‘recce’ is more than a survey and analysis. It is about pre-experiencing the proposed plan to be better in responding to the challenges of the situation.

 

So often we plan to do embark on certain paths or projects. Quite often we do not start for lack of knowledge and experience. The path becomes familiar when we embark on a ‘recce’. 

 

Larger dreams are better realised by exploring the ‘recce’ experience that helps us understand the situation. Hence we are better prepared to tackle traps and plan strategies to optimise use of resources, including time.

 

Before every big excursion

Do the recce of exploration!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Innovation

Innovation is a common value declared by corporates and other teams. It refers to the spark that ignites progress, driving human advancement and fuelling transformations and possibilities. It is the catalyst for growth, improvement and positive change. 

Innovation challenges conventional thinking and fosters creativity. It encourages experimentation and calculated risk-taking. It drives entrepreneurship and economic growth. Overall it enhances effectiveness, efficiency and quality of life

 

The innovation mindset involves the tolerance for curiosity and overcoming fear of failure. It needs collaboration approaches that allow for ideas to be expressed, discussed and considered. It requires the attitude of adaptability and resilience.

 

To unlock our innovative potential we must adopt the five steps. Start by identifying problems to solve. Next question assumptions or prejudices. Explore new perspectives. Experiment and develop models or prototypes. Last, seek feedback and iterate.

 

Innovation has transformed ideas into reality, shaping the future and improving lives. Embrace the innovation mindset, unlock your potential, and join the ranks of history's game-changers to create positive disruptions.

 

Choose to involve in innovation 

Unleash the positive disruptions!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

 

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Work with, not for

Aloo Gomes Pereira, COO Charters & Goa, of Trail Blazer Tours India, is a great person to learn from. While meeting him in his office, I noticed he would walk across his cabin, step out of the door to request his staff for tasks like getting tea or a photocopy or some document.  

I asked him why doesn’t use a bell to call his office help instead of taking the effort every time and this is what he replied, ‘They are not my slaves to be summoned by a bell. They work with me, not for me! They are my team members and I have to treat them with dignity.’   

 

What a wonderful sentiment of sensitive synergy! The traditional employer-employee dynamic needs a significant shift. The phrase ‘work with, not for’ underlines this transformation, focussing on collaboration, mutual respect, and shared goals.

 

The industrial revolution was about working ‘for’ someone, characterized by hierarchy, authority and control. However, today’s times are of autonomy, flexibility and purpose. ‘Work With, Not For’ is about shared ownership, open communication, collaboration, trust empowerment and true team spirit. 

 

Benefits of ‘Work With, Not For’ are increased motivation, innovation, engagement, retention and better work-life balance. By embracing this shift, teams can attract and retain top talent; drive innovation and growth; and foster a positive, productive work environment.

 

Choose collaborative, empowering work approach

‘Work with, not for’ is boarding the synergy coach!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Carpe Diem

In 1989 movie ‘Dead Poets Society’, Robin Williams plays teacher John Keating who gets his class of male students to step close to a photograph of achievers from a previous generation... and whispers in the background: 

‘You've walked past them many times. I don't think you've really looked at them. They're not that different from you, are they? Invincible, just like you feel. The world is their oyster. They believe they're destined for great things, just like many of you. Their eyes are full of hope, just like you. 

 

Did they wait until it was too late to make from their lives even one iota of what they were capable? Because you see gentlemen, these boys are now fertilizing daffodils. But if you listen real close, you can hear them whisper their legacy to you. Go on, lean in. Listen. 

 

Do you hear it? Carpe. Hear it? Carpe. Carpe Diem. Seize the day boys. Make your lives extraordinary.’ 

 

In Latin poem, Odes by Horace, we find the line ‘carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero’. It means ‘Seize the day, put very little trust in tomorrow (the future)’. The verse says that the upcoming is unforeseen and we should not leave future happenings to chance, but rather do it now!

 

The gist of ‘carpe diem’ is not to ignore the future, but rather to skip procrastination and do things on time. In the film, Keating urges his students to follow their heart and break free from indecision. He inspires them to unite passion with timely actions related to a set of purposeful goals. 

 

Carpe Diem! Do not be stalled by procrastination
Connect to passion, purpose and timely actions!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Turmoil

‘Smooth seas do not make skilful sailors’ - African proverb

 

The test of the skill of a sailor is his ability to manage the challenges of a rough sea. And the biggest challenge is in the mind. Will self-doubts overcome belief? Will wild winds blow holes in our purpose? Will the turbulent waves drown down perseverance? 

 

The dictionary explains perseverance as steady persistence in adhering to a course of action, a belief or a purpose. Yet, often we are derailed by the changing tracks of chaotic challenges. So often, our craving for peace results in running way from turmoil. 

 

Craving for selfish peace in the midst of turmoil is akin to sterile thinking. It will never enhance your acquired skills. On the other hand, the biggest achievements in arts, science, and also in history, are the outcome of turbulent thoughts taken head-on by resolute minds. 

 

Do not sing a loser’s song,

Take the turmoil head-on!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

MONDAY MUSE now into the 21st year, is written by Goa based Corporate Coach, Pravin K. Sabnis, since the first Monday of 2004. Send feedback to 8698672080 or 9422640141 or unlearning.unlimited@gmail.com

 

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Obituary

Alfred Nobel was inventor of dynamite. He later created other explosives. They brought benefits to engineering but were also used for war. He believed that his weapons would create deterrence, ultimately proving to be a boon to mankind. The exact opposite happened.  

In 1888, Ludwig, one of Alfred’s brothers, died while visiting Cannes. A French newspaper erroneously confused the deceased’s identity with that of Alfred and published a scathing obituary entitled, ‘The Merchant of Death is dead.’ It condemned him for his inventions.

 

The error was later corrected, but life had granted him a rare opportunity of reading his obituary. It horrified him and it led to a re-evaluation. He realized that the end-result of his life’s work was to be worldwide condemnation. Fame and fortune now felt like a burden. 

 

He decided to establish a positive legacy. He wrote his will to reward those who selflessly worked for society. The Nobel Foundation laid down five categories - Chemistry, Literature, Medicine, Physics, and Peace. Alfred donated almost his entire possession to the Foundation.

 

His last testament indicated a sense of apology with a strengthened resolution to work for the Peace. An erroneous obituary, a mistaken identity altered the destiny of Alfred Nobel, and made his legacy synonymous with peace.

 

Imagine your obituary and what it might say

Change track now… on what you do today!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

Greenhorn

At the Installation Ceremony of a one year old Samraat Club Balli Mahal, the young President and Secretary mentioned about being rookies despite their stellar performance. As State President, I admitted that I was a greenhorn too. After all, I was in this position for the first time.

 Interestingly, in organisations where a new President and Board of Directors are installed at the start of the activity year, more often than not most are new to their role. They are rookies… greenhorns… a person who is new to or inexperienced to a particular role and responsibility.

 

A greenhorn will not have the ‘burden of experience’ and is likely to be more open-minded and enthusiastic to learn and apply that learning. The experienced ones have to put extra effort to have a fresh approach to what they may have done before.

 

We must choose to have the clean slate that a greenhorn brings along. We should opt to be eager to learn new things. We must embrace new resolves to empower a newcomers approach. Even the experienced, when cast in an old role, should reclaim the attitude of when they were greenhorns.

 

The score book doesn’t really mind…
when greenhorn turns into a true find!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Grabbing

36 persons attended Pedro’s party. He had brought 40 return gifts. Yet he was unable to give the gifts to two persons. Obviously six gifts were grabbed by a few unscrupulous persons.

 

From shop-lifting thefts to grabbing things meant for someone else is bad behaviour. Ditto for people who take gifts intended for others. That can be frustrating and hurtful, especially if the gift held sentimental value.

 

The psychology behind people taking gifts intended for others is complex and multifaceted. The motivations could be acting on impulse without considering consequences or taking advantage for personal gain or plain lack of empathy and respect for the giver’s feelings.

 

The psychological factors could range from excessive self-interest and entitlement; low self-esteem; difficulty regulating impulses; antisocial personality disorder; and cultural or environmental influences where taking others' belongings is normalized.

 

The consequences could lead to damaged relationships (eroding trust and respect), guilt and shame (internal conflict and self-blame), social consequences (loss of reputation and social standing) and personal growth stifling due to reinforcing of negative patterns.

 

We must embrace model respectful behaviour and demonstrate consideration for others' property. We must set boundaries and encourage empathy and compassion. If not, we must seek professional help for psychological concerns. But grab we must not!

 

Your trustworthiness should not be eroding

Do not succumb to the ill habit of grabbing!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

  

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Racing

Racing is often viewed as a contest where one person emerges victorious, while others are left behind in defeat. This narrow view overlooks benefits and accomplishments that every participant achieves, regardless of their finishing position. 

 

Nobody loses in a race! Each racer gains invaluable experiences, skills and personal growth. Racing is not solely about crossing the finish line first. It is about the journey, perseverance and self-discovery. It is about pushing boundaries and exploring potential, building character and resilience

 

The true rewards of racing extend beyond the winner's podium. We improve our competencies and capacities. We emerge mentally tougher and confident. We gain opportunities for personal reflection and self-improvement.

 

Success in racing should not be measured solely by finish times or positions. Completion itself is a triumph. Personal records are to be celebrated. Overcoming our own obstacles is victory. After all, success is in the journey, not just the destination.  

 

Let’s learn from those who run despite major adversity and personal challenges. Let’s also run for lofty reasons like the charity runners, who raise funds and awareness for noble causes. Let’s run for fun like recreational runners, who find joy and community in the sport.

 

Winning is not just a final position

Racing is really about participation!!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Meraki

Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of attending an interschool English Language Festival: Meraki 2.0 organised by Holy Cross High School in Bastora, Goa. It sought to promote the love for language by engaging students through a plethora of events to exhibit their talents. 

Meraki is a Greek term that means to do something with soul, creativity or love; to put something of yourself into your work. It's about pouring your heart and soul into something, and doing it with passion, care and dedication. 

 

Meraki is about adding a piece of yourself to whatever you do; and making it special and meaningful. In Greek culture, meraki is often used to describe the act of cooking with love, but it can apply to any activity, skill or endeavour. 

 

When you meraki something, you're not just doing it, you're living it! Meraki is a beautiful concept that encourages us to bring our real selves to whatever we do… to make it a reflection of our love, passion and creativity.

 

With love and flair, create and share

Meraki, meraki… show that you care!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

 

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Adaptation

Arunima Sinha was born with a passion for adventure. In 2011, her life took a tragic turn when the former national volleyball and football player, boarded a train to take an examination to join the CISF.  

She was pushed out of the train by thieves who she resisted. As she fell down, another train on a parallel track crushed her leg. Rushed to the hospital with leg and pelvic injuries, she lost her left leg below the knee.

 

Devastated, she faced two choices: succumb to her circumstances or adapt and overcome. She chose the latter. With prosthetic leg, she began training. In 2013, Arunima became the first amputee to summit Mount Everest. 

 

Her next goal was to climb all highest peaks in all seven continents. She covered six peaks in Asia, Europe, South America, Australia, Africa and North America by 2014. In 2019, she climbed Mount Vinson in Antarctica.

 

Her determined adaptation taught us to embrace change and find new ways to achieve goals. She showed us to focus on abilities, not limitations. Her courage redefined possibilities and pushed boundaries. She climbed mountains, literally and figuratively.

 

Arunima's story is a testament to human adaptability and resilience. She did not give up on dreams. Her courage inspires us to face challenges, adapt and overcome the challenges in our life, never mind how large they loom. 

 

Adaptation is the key to be

In every challenge, set free! 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Green Skilling

As our world grapples with climate change, environmental degradation and resource depletion, sustainable practices have become critical. Green skilling, the process of acquiring skills and knowledge to support ecological responsive behaviours, is vital in addressing these challenges.

Green Skilling includes various aspects: Renewable energy technologies; Sustainable agriculture and forestry; Eco-friendly construction; Waste management; Environmental conservation; Climate change mitigation; Green infrastructure development

 

Green skilling is crucial for transitioning to a low-carbon economy, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring environmental stewardship. By investing in green skilling, we empower individuals, communities, and industries to drive positive change and create a more sustainable future.

 

It is important to integrate Green Skilling into curriculum of Educational Institutes, Government programs, Corporate investments; we have to ensure involvement of individuals and collectives. No systems or programs will make an impact without participation of more and more people. 

 

We must equip ourselves with the skills, the knowledge and more importantly the attitude to align our actions to the cause of rising environmental concerns. If everyone does their little bit, a huge collective positive transformation will come to fruit. 

 

In Green Skilling, we must take part,

To save Earth and its delicate heart!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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After You

My friend was furious with posts on social media requesting a reduction or nil use of fireworks and other pollutants. He kept playing the broken record, ‘what about festivals of other religions? Why don’t they speak up then?’

 ‘You are right!’, an inebriated passer-by joined IN. ‘my doctor is telling me to quit alcohol… I told them to tell the others first. Let the whole world first stop drinking. Don’t tell me to do it first! Tell them first!’

 

My friend got angry, ‘you are not in your senses, you had too much drink!’ The intoxicated one replied, ‘so are you… you have too much of victimhood!’ Playing adjudicator, I said, ‘both of you have consumed contaminant!’

 

In etiquette, the phrase ‘after you’ displays courtesy. It is an attitude to politely urge another person to do something first... at the door, at the buffet table, at circumstances when both are in queue for the same purpose. 

 

However, in a situation of individual initiative, it is irrational to insist on ‘after you’. Positive transformations happen when individuals step ahead to seize onus instead of weltering in victimhood. ‘If it has to be, it starts with me.’

 

When we consider ourselves as victims of negative actions of others, we use it as an excuse to insist that the ‘other’ should first ‘do’ the desired action. Such approaches of ‘after you’ are plain excuses at the best and devious escapism at the worst. We must take onus for our actions.

 

Unless in queue, quit the insistence of ‘after you’ 

Major transformations start with initiatives of few!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Credit

‘There are two kinds of people, those who do the work, and those who take the credit. Belong to the first category, since not only do things get balanced, but there is much less competition’

 

This quote highlights the distinction between two types: those who put in efforts and those who claim the credit. The first consists of individuals who are willing to put in the time, energy, and dedication required to complete tasks and achieve goals. They make things happen.

 

On the other hand, the second category comprises persons who are more concerned with how they are perceived than with actually contributing to the outcome. They often take credit for others' work, seeking to boost their own image and status.

 

The quote suggests that belonging to the first category has advantages. When individuals focus on doing the work, the workload is distributed evenly and tasks are completed efficiently. There is less competition among those who are willing to get the job done. 

 

Those who take credit create unnecessary competition and conflict. They step on others' toes, take advantage of their colleagues' efforts and create a toxic work environment. By focussing on work rather than take credit, we can achieve greater personal and professional satisfaction.

 

Doers work hard with sincere dedication… 

Takers seek credit with little contribution!

 

~ Pravin K. Sabnis

 

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Spoken Word

Encore Academy of Performing Arts is organising the first ever Spoken Word Festival in Konkani Language, on 20 August in Goa. On this day in 1992, Konkani was included in the 8^thSchedule of the Constitution of India. Since 2000, Rene Barreto initiated World Goa Day on 20 August to bring Goans together at the global level.

 

The Spoken Word unifies the Konkani community while the written word in Konkani is spread across diversity of 5 scripts. Indeed it is possible to understand the Spoken Word even of languages that we have not learnt. It goes beyond language as it moves to the ambit of voice, tone and gesture. 

 

Spoken word has roots in ancient oral traditions, where thoughts, emotions and experiences were passed down through generations by word of mouth. In 1960s and 70s, Spoken Word experienced a resurgence with the rise of slam poetry, which underlined performance to add meaning beyond words.

 

Spoken word is a diverse and inclusive form, beyond poetry recitals. It can include stories, essays, rap, stand-up, monologue or other improvisations. The beauty of spoken word lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to varied styles and forms, making it a powerful tool for self-expression.

 

With para language and body language

The Spoken Word is ahead of language!

 

~ Pravin K. Sabnis

 

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Giant leap

From a young age, Neil was fascinated by flight, earning his pilot's license at 15. He studied aeronautical engineering, served in the Korean War, and later became a test pilot, pushing the boundaries of human innovation. 

Neil's selection for the Apollo 11 mission was a culmination of his tireless efforts. Despite the overwhelming risks, he remained steadfast, driven by an insatiable thirst for exploration.

 

Neil Armstrong's historic moonwalk on 20 July 1969, was a testament to his unwavering dedication, unrelenting passion, and unbridled curiosity. As he stepped onto the moon's surface, he declared, ‘That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.’

 

The ‘small step’ referred to Neil's individual action, but the ‘giant leap’ represented the monumental accomplishment of the Apollo 11 mission and the collective efforts of thousands of scientists, engineers, and technicians who worked tirelessly to make it possible.

 

This phrase has transcended the space program and has been used to describe breakthroughs in various fields. It serves as a reminder that even the smallest actions can lead to significant advancements and that human ingenuity can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

 

One small step, a giant leap

testament to power we keep

 

~ Pravin K. Sabnis

 

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Olympic Spirit

The original values as expressed in the Olympic Charter were to ‘encourage effort, preserve human dignity and develop harmony’. Over time, they have evolved and are now expressed in more contemporary terms: excellence, friendship and respect.  

Excellence is about striving for greatness, pushing limits and achieving personal bests. Friendship is about building camaraderie, showing solidarity and celebrating shared experiences among athletes and nations. Respect is about embracing diversity, inclusivity and fair play, both on and off the field.

 

This is the idea of setting your rivalries aside. There is more that unites us than divides us. The goal of the Olympic Movement is to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practiced without discrimination of any kind and in the Olympic spirit.

 

The Olympic spirit inspires athletes to compete with integrity, respect their fellow competitors and unite the world through sport. It's a powerful symbol of global unity, peace and athletic achievement.

 

Olympic Spirit is a leading light

To play it as sport, not as fight!

 

~ Pravin K. Sabnis

Rain Lessons

The incessant rains that have been battering our region for weeks have left a trail of destruction in their wake. While the rains have brought devastation, they have also taught us valuable lessons:

 

The rains have shown us that nature's fury can be unpredictable and unforgiving. Despite advances in technology and weather forecasting, the rains have caught us off guard. This humbling experience reminds us to always be prepared for the unexpected.

 

The rains have exposed the vulnerabilities of our infrastructure, highlighting the need for better planning, design, and maintenance. We have seen how inadequate drainage systems can exacerbate natural disasters. This experience serves as a reminder to invest in robust infrastructure.

 

The relentless rains are a stark reminder of the impact of climate change on our environment. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns are a wake-up call to take climate change seriously and to adopt sustainable practices in our daily lives.

 

These and other lessons from the unstoppable rain should not go down the drain. Otherwise the lessons may get unforgiving in the coming future. We have to set the course right by correcting the collective wrongs.

 

Heed the lessons, says the ruthless rain

Ignoring them will unleash further pain! 

 

~ Pravin K. Sabnis

 

MONDAY MUSE is now into the 21st year, written by Goa based Experiential Coach, Pravin K. Sabnis, since the first Monday of 2004. Send your feedback to 8698672080 or 9422640141 or unlearning.unlimited@gmail.com

 

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Intention

‘Wise men speak because they have something to say, fools because they have to say something’ – Plato

 

Plato says that the wise speak with purpose and intentionality. They possess valuable insights which they share with others. Their words are carefully chosen and characterized by clarity, concision, and sincerity. They speak to share their wisdom and to contribute to the greater good.

 

There are others who feel an inherent need to speak, often without any meaningful contribution to offer. Their words are often empty, lacking substance and depth. Fools speak to gratify their own ego, to manipulate others, or to conceal their own lack of understanding.

 

This quote from Plato encourages us to reflect on our motivations for speaking and to strive for wisdom in our words. By doing so, we can create a more meaningful and impactful dialogue, where our speech serves to uplift and enlighten, rather than merely to impress or deceive.

 

the wise speak with worthy intention…

avoid casual posturing and deception! 

 

~ Pravin K. Sabnis

 

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Determination

Derek Redmond, a British sprinter, was a favourite to win the 1992 Olympic 400-meter dash in Barcelona. Mid-race, he suffered a devastating hamstring injury that left him writhing on the ground in agony.

 

As medical staff rushed to his aid, Derek's father, Jim, pushed aside security and rushed onto the track to support his son. Together, they rose to their feet, and with Jim's help, Derek began hobbling toward the finish line.

 

The crowd erupted in a standing ovation as Derek refused to give up. Though he didn't win the race his courageous display of resilience and determination won the hearts of millions worldwide.

 

This iconic moment taught many lessons: never give up, no matter the obstacle; empathy and encouragement makes for great support; the strength of the human spirit can overcome the most daunting challenges.

 

Derek's unbreakable spirit inspires us to face our own challenges with courage and perseverance, reminding us that true victory lies not in winning, but in the unwavering determination to rise again, no matter the fall.

 

Every fall is just a momentary punctuation…

If we rise to move ahead with determination!

 

~ Pravin K. Sabnis

 

MONDAY MUSE is now into the 21st year, written by Goa based Experiential Coach, Pravin K. Sabnis, since the first Monday of 2004. Send your feedback to 8698672080 or 9422640141 or unlearning.unlimited@gmail.com

 

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