EATING

We need to take an honest look at our eating habits to understand and make changes if required. We cannot change what we do not accept. The change will begin with observation and acceptance. There are broadly four types of eating. 

 

Fuel Eating is when we eat foods that support our body and its needs.  This is a good habit of eating real, whole, natural, minimally processed foods that provide us with energy and nourishment and feel good in our body. 

 

Fun Eating is eating foods that we love but do not give much back.  These taste great but don’t offer any real nutritional value, like cake, potato chips, candy, etc.).  We must eat them on a fewer occasions just for the joy they bring.

 

Fog Eating is anytime you eat without awareness, like eating while watching tv or the mobile.  It is neither enjoyable nor purposeful; it’s an unconscious activity that we are not even aware we are doing.  We must refrain from fog eating.  

 

Storm Eating is binge eating or eating out of control.  We may be aware that we are overeating but we can’t control. This happens if we let ourselves get too hungry or as a reaction to an overwhelming emotion. It is often followed by regret and shame, and many times it is done in private or in hiding.

 

We must be conscious of our eating habits. By identifying these patterns, we can develop greater awareness, differentiate between physical hunger and emotional cravings, and cultivate a more balanced relationship with food.  

 

Cultivate consciousness in those tasty bits

Create the right balance in what you eat!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Blind Tradition

 

Too many people hold on to traditions they don’t understand, customs they never questioned, and practices that no longer make sense in today’s world. Tradition without questioning can trap generations into following an irrational path 

 

We like to do things because ‘this is how my grandmother used to do it’, ‘this is how my father did it.’ We do things without first asking why. Our ability to think and discern is sacrificed at the altar of unquestioned traditions. Sense is needed more than sentiments.

 

We inherit traditions but what happens when what we inherit is not  understood for the context and relevance which may have changed with time? There are traditions that are meaningful and relevant even today. But there are many customs which are neither aligned to logic nor common good. 

 

So often, so many of us carry forward the habits, beliefs, and fears of our elders without realizing how deeply they shape our thought processes, choices, relationships, and even our responses to opportunities. We exist in a new reality but blindly follow old practices without confirming their relevance.

 

Buddha said, ‘do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations; do not believe in anything because it is rumoured and spoken by many… After observation and analysis, when it agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and gain of one and all, then accept it and live up to it.’

 

Use the questioning mind, let logic dwell

Wisdom lies beyond blind tradition spell

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Intouchable

Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, a wealthy French aristocrat and Abdel Sellou, his Algerian caregiver, formed an unlikely friendship that inspired film 'The Intouchables'.

In 1993, Philippe, a quadriplegic due to a paragliding accident, met Abdel, a young Algerian immigrant with a troubled past, including time in prison for theft. Despite their differences, they formed a strong bond, with Abdel becoming Philippe's caregiver and confidant.

Abdel's irreverent humor and carefree attitude helped Philippe overcome his depression and find joy in life again. Together, they shared adventures, like racing through Paris in Philippe's modified wheelchair and playing pranks on each other.

The title has a dual meaning. In the beginning, Driss is reluctant to care for Philippe, seeing him as "untouchable" due to his disability, similar to the historical discrimination Driss faces himself. Later, the two become "intouchable" in a figurative sense, becoming a team that can overcome any obstacle and is no longer held back by their limitations.

Their story continues to inspire, showcasing the power of friendship and human connection. When we truly connect as humane beings, we unite just as we are meant to be... members of the same team!

Two human beings can never be untouchable

Connect to become one and truly intouchable

~ Pravin K Sabnis

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Arusuvai

Arusuvai is a Tamil term meaning ‘six tastes’. It refers to the traditional South Indian culinary principle of balancing sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent flavours in food to make it healthy and complete 

 According to Ayurveda too, different tastes come from different minerals needed by our body. So consuming it with every meal helps with our physical wellness. A balanced meal should contain preparations that have all these tastes.

 

The habit of developing varied taste preferences, is achieved through repeated exposure and mindful consumption. We can train our brain to appreciate new flavours by consistently trying new foods, focusing on all our senses while eating and allowing our brain time to adapt. 

 

Our brain takes around 8-15 tries to adapt to a new taste. Beyond the taste, we must pay attention to the smell, texture and even the sounds the food makes. Hence we must avoid ‘fog eating,’ where you eat without being present. We must give our senses more time to process the food.

 

 We must try a wide variety of foods to be exposed to new flavour profiles through the practice of Arusuvai. Besides health benefits, Arusuvai develops an open mind to different cuisines. Rather than insist on the same old single taste, we welcome the rich diversity that is served by others.

 

Arusuvai makes for a palate so fine,

With all flavours bringing joy divine!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

 

 

NO BARRIERS written on 10 Nov'2025

Last Saturday was the Preview Night of ‘Festivals of Goa’ on occasion of the 10th anniversary exhibition at the Museum of Goa, celebrating Goa’s culture, community & heritage. It showcased over 90 artists and over 100 artworks, all celebrating the diversity of various art forms. 

Speaking on the occasion, founder Dr Subodh Kerkar underlined how the art & culture are unifying factors in times where divisive forces seek to widen the chasm between communities. He has been consistently seeking to connect and bring together artists to celebrate the joyful togetherness of distinct diversities.

 

Music, art, and culture are universal languages that transcend borders, boundaries and differences, connecting people from diverse backgrounds. They are powerful mediums of expression that know no bounds. They facilitate exchange and understanding among different cultures and communities. They promote inclusivity, embracing diversity and individuality.

 

We see genres like jazz, rock and classical music with global influences and appeal. Artists draw inspiration from diverse cultures. Cultural Festivals too showcase global cultural richness. The creative arts bring people together, overcoming barriers. Cross-cultural influences spark innovation and creativity. They foster empathy and understanding among diverse groups.

 

However, respecting the cultural origins of others remains a challenge. Also, protecting traditional arts in a globalized world is crucial. It is important to ensure inclusivity and access to cultural expressions. Music, art and culture are bridges that connect humanity, celebrating our shared creativity and diversity. They help the world to be one of no barriers!

 

'No barriers' will make our world so fine

In harmony, diversity will surely shine!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Willing to Wait

Shafali Verma wasn’t even part of the team. She was called up when Pratika Rawal was injured. She played the stellar hand in winning the Women’s World Cup for India. She opened with the bat, scoring a brilliant 87 at a quick pace.  

South Africa were going well with the chase when the skipper asked Shafali to bowl. She got two wickets in two, one of which was of the star, Marizanne Kapp and India got the match under control. This was special as Shafali is not a regular bowler.

 

She accepted the opportunity when offered, first shining with the bat and later unexpectedly with the ball. There were other good performances from other team mates, but Shafali’s efforts are special as she came in last minute.

 

She was watching the matches on TV. Yet she showed that she was fully aligned to playing the game, when called to play. Although not in the playing team, her focus and zeal was not lesser than the ones on the playing field. It was no mean task to have the willingness to wait!

 

Teams are empowered by the ones who are not weighed done by the ‘waiting’… by those who maintain the preparedness to play. We must be willing to wait and willing to play, when opportunity comes our way!

 

Be willing to wait when out of the way

Give only your best when called to play!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

 

 

Flawed

’You are imperfect, permanently and inevitably flawed. And you are beautiful’  - Amy Bloom

 

All of us want to be the best or the second best. Similarly, when we build our team, we seek for perfection. But an obsession with perfection is detrimental. It makes us unable to accept our flaws, other people’s flaws and unable to accept untoward events that happen in life. 

 

In ‘Don’t sweat the Small Stuff’; Richard Carlson suggests ‘making peace with imperfection’. A vicious cycle begins when instead of conceding the error; we engulf into guilt and berate ourselves. We refuse ownership of the mistake and enter a state of denial, often blaming someone else. 

 

The fact is, we will err, and often we will err repeatedly. We must be patient and calmly note the reasons for the mistake, and simply try to avoid it in the future. Making peace with flaws extends to others as well. It is unreasonable to expect perfection from our colleagues, particularly given our own lack of perfection. 

 

Life is imperfect. Things go wrong. We must learn to accept such things. The world is imperfect, we are imperfect, but that need not stop us from being happy. Happiness comes when we come to terms with our flaws and those of others. 

 

Accept that you will find yourself flawed

Others around too are of the same board!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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LIGHT WITHIN

Today we celebrate the Festival of Lights where the lights signify victory of good over the evil. Diwali or Deepavali has many legends associated with it. In North India, it is associated with Ramayana where people of Ayodhya welcomed Rama (after a 14-year exile) by lighting rows (avali) of lamps (deepa). In Goa, it is commemorates the defeat of Narakasura at the hands of Krishna & Satyabhama.

Founder of Jainism, Mahaveer is said to have attained Nirvana on this very day. Additionally as the day, chief disciple of Mahaveer, Gautam Swami attained complete knowledge, makes Diwali an important Jain festival. Sikhs celebrate Diwali as the day of the release from prison of their sixth Guru, Hargobind along with 52 other princes with him, from detention in the Gwalior Fort in 1619.

For the Hindus, the festival marks the triumph of good over evil and the homecoming of goodwill and faith. For the Jains it is a celebration of complete knowledge. For the Sikhs, it is a struggle for freedom. And it is a confluence of all these reasons that will add meaning and purpose to our lives.

To banish the darkness, it is not enough to light lamps. The battle for freedom from darkness needs the lighting of the lamp within. We have to connect with values of equality, justice and peace for all. We need to connect to knowledge and a better understanding with what’s happening around us.

To banish the darkness shade
Light the lamp within instead!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Super Moon

The full moon today marks the first supermoon of 2025, as well as the first of three supermoons in the next three months. This full moon will be the closest of the year, making it a special supermoon: large, bright and golden. 

A supermoon occurs when the moon is full and its orbit is closest to Earth. Because of this proximity, the full moon looks brighter and larger than a regular full moon, which is why it's called a supermoon

 

Perigee-syzygy is a term that observers of astronomy use when a full moon coincides with a close advance by the Moon towards the Earth. Perigee is the point at which the Moon is closest in its orbit to the Earth, and syzygy is a full moon. 

 

Modern superstition is full of doomsday predictions due to the ‘supermoon’ – a term coined by an astrologer, Richard Nolle in 1979. It is pertinent to note that earlier ‘supermoons’ was distorted by doomsayers to buttress their business of fear.

 

However inquisitive minds strive to know whatever possible impact due to perigee-syzygy. Obviously, the biggest impact of this event is that people have a choice to be better at analytical observation and critical thinking. All it requires is a thirst for facts and a fascination to unravel the unknown.

 

Look up to see the super moon and sift fact from fiction

View perigee-syzygy as a time for rationale validation!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

 

 

Pass the Torch

 The term ‘pass the torch’ has its roots in ancient Greek traditions, where torch relay races were an important part of religious ceremonies and Olympic Games. The act of passing a lit torch represented the transfer of knowledge, civilization, and responsibility. 

 Passing the torch is a symbolic expression that means transferring responsibility, authority, or leadership from one person to another. It signifies handing over a job, duty, or responsibility to a successor, often in a leadership or professional context. 

 

The idiom is commonly used in succession planning, mentorship, and knowledge transfer. The phrase can be used in various settings, such as business, sports, or politics, to describe the transfer of leadership or responsibility.

 

The true value of leadership is in handing over the reins, the smooth transfer of control and responsibility. Passing on the mantle requires us to give up authority and gracefully handing over the role to the next in line to now hold the light. 

 

Pass the torch, yield your role’s might

Let the successor now carry the light! 

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Right Focus

A story by Idries Shah tells us about Mulla Nasrudin was searching for something under a streetlamp. A passer-by asked, ‘What are you doing?’ Nasrudin replied, “I've lost my keys.’ The passer-by joined the search.

 After a while, he asked, ‘Where exactly did you lose them?’ Nasrudin said, ‘ in my house.’ The other person was puzzled and asked, ‘Then why are we searching for them here?’ Nasrudin replied, ‘Because the light is better here.’

 

This story teaches us about the importance of focusing on the right place or approach when searching for solutions. Often, we might be looking for answers in the wrong places or using the wrong methods. We need to think clearly and approach problems with a logical and focused mindset. 

 

Search in right place with clear prong

Right focus will bring solutions along! 

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

 

Engineer's Brain

Engineer Pedro had a problem with his washing machine with water leaking on the floor. His assessment was that the swirl tub had cracked and he would have to buy a new machine.. Anyway he called the service centre.

The mechanic seemed tired with his job. In an irritated voice, he asked: ‘Was the machine always placed such in this area?’ Pedro was surprised by the silly question but he thought over it and replied that he had changed the orientation but not the location of the machine.

 

The mechanic immediately identified the problem. The floor tiles had a slight slope that made a few drops of water slip outside the rim if the tub. Over a period of time, water accumulated on the floor would slip out. Pedro asked, ‘Don’t you want to check the tub for any cracks?’

 

The mechanic said that the tub was of tough seamless material and could not crack. Once the machine was shifted to its original orientation, the problem was solved. Grateful that he did not have to buy a new machine, Pedro thanked him and said, ‘I am an engineer but you have an engineer’s brain.’

 

The engineering brain is a blend of logic, creative open mindedness and problem-solving skills. Engineers have a distinct cognitive profile that enables them to design, build and innovate complex systems, structures and technologies. However it is important to ensure that every detail is considered and accounted for.

The Engineer’s brain solves the problem and creates solution
With attention to detail, logic and open minded innovation!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Thousand Times

The storylines of martial arts films are similar. The protagonist is a simple, nice guy. And the antagonist is an expert in martial arts. In the fight between the good and the bad, the bad one wins as he is stronger and skilled. The hero goes to a master to learn self-defence and attack.

He is exasperated when the master teaches him only a single move and insists that he practise it again and again. The hero pleads with his master, ‘Please teach me more moves’. The wise master replies, ‘it is not the thousand moves that you know that will help you… it is the one move you have practised a thousand times!’

Singers and musicians involve in dedicated riyaz! Batsmen practise the same stroke that they want to become better at. Bowlers strive to bowl the yorker again and again, in the nets. Novice artists keep drawing the same strokes till they become proficient. Actors keep repeating lines till they are flawless.

While it is good to know many moves, the ones that matter will be ones you have done many times! Interestingly, in every sphere, the fundamental moves are few and the rest are variations. So it makes sense to work a thousand times on the fundamentals.

Never mind thousand moves that you may know
Those done a thousand times are ones to show!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Eat!

‘Do not force feed, let the person freely eat’ - is an important lesson in the area of teaching. 

Traditional techniques choose the revealing theory followed by justifications to underline the importance and relevance of the revealed information. However the most effective method that meshes better with how the brain works and assimilates information, is to introduce it through the EAT theory.

The acronym EAT refers to Experience, Awareness and Theory. The approach starts with the learner going through an actual experience or sharing learnings from an earlier experience.

The second step includes debriefing and discussion to bring about an Awareness of what they experienced. Lastly to tie up loose ends, the trainer ensures the Theory is confirmed.

The reverse process focuses only on explaining the theory. Information is passed on but the probability of real transfer of knowledge is at a huge disadvantage.

Experiential learning draws its vision from the maxim that ‘lessons are not meant to be taught… they are meant to be learnt.’ It is about helping learners to embark on a dynamic journey of observation, thinking and interaction. We facilitate learning when we allow learners to EAT with an open mind!

Why fetter learners’ feet

Let them freely EAT!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Last Monday muse 25/8

 Here is the Monday Muse of 25 August

SOLO TRIP

Travelling leads to new insights of places, communities and their culture. While many prefer to travel with organised group tours, the truly liberating experience is on a solo trip.

Traveling solo offers opportunity for self-discovery, growth and exploration. It allows individuals to break free from constraints of routine, challenge themselves and develop a deeper understanding of the world and themselves

Solo trip gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary, make spontaneous decisions and explore at your own pace. Without the influence of others, you are forced to rely on yourself, leading to a greater understanding of your strengths and weaknesses.

Solo trip provides opportunities to meet fellow travelers and locals, potentially leading to lasting connections and friendships. Traveling alone pushes you to navigate unfamiliar environments, try new foods and engage in activities you might not have attempted otherwise.

Travelling in a group may bring along comfort and convenience, but it also makes for restrictive framework. When we are free to explore, it ensures the benefits of choice and expecting the unexpected. We end up discovering our true self.

Solo trip brings along lots of freedoms truly fine

Besides places and people, discover self sublime

~ Pravin K Sabnis

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Inspiration

Inspiration is a powerful force that can transform lives. It's the spark that ignites passion, fuels motivation and propels individuals to pursue dreams. It has the ability to touch our hearts and minds, motivating us to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in the world.

Inspiration can have a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. It can fuel creativity, encouraging individuals to think outside the box and explore new ideas.

Inspiration can motivate individuals to take action, pursue passions and work towards their goals. It boosts confidence, helping individuals to believe in themselves and their abilities. It can create a sense of connection and community, bringing people together around a shared purpose or passion.

Inspiration can come from a variety of sources. Role models inspire us with their achievements and vision. The beauty and wonder of nature can inspire us to appreciate the world around us and strive for sustainability.

When we're inspired, we're more likely to inspire others. This creates a ripple effect, where inspiration spreads and has a positive impact on those around us. By sharing our passions, ideas, and experiences, we can inspire others to pursue their own dreams and make a difference.

Inspiration turns dark to light

Ideas & action will surely delight

~ Pravin K Sabnis

One Hand Clap

A monk asked a Zen master, "What is the sound of one hand clapping?" The master responded with silence.

The monk asked again, "What is the sound of one hand clapping?" The master replied, "You are not listening to the sound of one hand clapping. You are listening to your own thoughts."

This Zen koan highlights the limitations of language and our tendency to think in dualistic terms. It encourages us to move beyond conceptual thinking and experience reality directly.

The sound of one hand clapping represents the paradox of trying to capture reality in words. It's a call to look beyond the surface level and explore the depths of our own minds.

One hand clap is silent despite the might

But inner joy will surely shine with delight!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Country First

Samraat Clubs across Goa are set to celebrate ‘Country First Week’ from 9 to 15 August to inculcate the spirit of patriotism. Yesterday a program was held to kick-off the event. State level ‘Country First Awards’ were presented to firebrand freedom fighter, Rohidas Dessai & Nehru Yuvak Kendra represented by its dynamic official, Kalidas Ghatwal.

Both the awardees made rousing speeches to prioritize the well-being, interests and development of one's country above personal or individual interests. They spoke about the need for accountability in governance as well as fulfilling of responsibilities by all citizens. They insisted that courage has to combine with conviction.

 

‘Country First’ promotes a mindset that prioritizes unity, civic responsibility and pride in our kinship as countrymen. We must take ownership of our actions and their impact on the country. We must embrace diversity and working together for the country's progress. All this calls for selflessness and sacrificing personal gains for the greater good.

 

The action approach must include civic engagement and active participation in participatory processes. We must commit to community service and finding innovative 

solutions to emerging challenges. Most importantly, the motto of Country First must not be an occasional emotion but a consistent and persistent value system.

 

May ‘Country First’ be a guiding light

As a responsibility to do what is right!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

 

 

Shinrin-yoku

Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) is a Japanese practice of immersing oneself in nature, to promote well-being. It involves engaging with the forest atmosphere using all our senses to reduce stress and improve overall health. It is not about strenuous exercise or hiking, but rather about mindful relaxation and connecting with nature. 

 

Shinrin-yoku encourages mindful observation of the forest environment, paying attention to sounds like birdsong or rustling leaves, the textures of bark and moss, the smells of damp earth and wood, and the visual beauty of the trees and sunlight. 

 

Studies have shown that spending time in nature, can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, reduce stress hormone levels, and improve mood and overall well-being. It's not about physical exertion but rather about slowing down, being present in the moment, and consciously connecting with the natural surroundings. 

 

Shinrin-yoku originated in Japan in the 1980s as a national health program to help stressed out workers. It gained popularity across the world, as a way to promote mental and physical health. Shinrin-yoku can have a positive impact on various health conditions, including reducing anxiety, improving mood, and even boosting the immune system. 

 

Take time out when you can in a forest so fine,

Shinrin-yoku will make peaceful calm entwine!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse 

COMMITMENT

An archer dedicated herself to mastering her skill, spending hours practicing her technique. Despite facing setbacks, injuries and self-doubt, she remained committed. She would wake up early morning to practice, rain or shine, summer or winter.

Years of consistent training paid off when she took her position, drew her bow, and released the arrow. It hit the bullseye. Henceforth, she could do it many more times to be confirmed as an achiever.

 

Commitment is about being fully dedicated to our goals and values. Perseverance aids in overcoming obstacles and staying focused despite challenges. Commitment gives mental strength to overcome doubts and nerves.

 

Commitment is not just about wanting to achieve something; it's about being willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen. Consistency is key for commitment to lead to success.

 

Stick to your goal, do all that is right,

Commitment brings success in sight!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Involve to Evolve

‘Involve’ and ‘evolve’ are two distinct concepts. Involve refers to participation or engagement in an activity or situation. Evolve refers to the gradual development or change of something over time. Involve is about immediate action while evolve happens over a period

 

However, there is a connection too. Those who involve in something, are likely to show transformations and evolve. Those who participate are most likely to display distinct changes. Hence when we involve, we will eventually evolve.

 

Evolution is a process of growth based on various experiences based on the involvement born out of initiatives by a person. Hence we must proactively involve in positive actions that will lead to progressive evolutions and desired results.

 

Involve and evolve are intertwined

Together they make progress shine

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Useless Tree

In the parable of the "Useless Tree" Hui Tzu said to philosopher, Chuang Tzu: ‘The trunk, of the tree in my garden, is so bent and knotty that nobody can get a good straight plank out of it.The branches are so crooked you can't cut them up in any way that makes sense. No carpenter will even look at it. Such is your teaching, Chuang - big and useless.’

Chuang Tzu replied: ‘No use? Then plant it in the wasteland. Walk idly around it and rest under its shadow. No axe or saw prepares its end. No one will ever cut it down. Useless?’

The large, gnarled tree stood unharmed because its twisted trunk and branches make it unsuitable for lumber. The tree's "uselessness" allows it to live a long and peaceful life.

 

The story highlights themes of non-action, embracing one's natural purpose, rather than forcing oneself to fit societal expectations. Sometimes, being "useless" can be beneficial, allowing one to avoid unnecessary stress, expectations, or exploitation.

 

This parable encourages us to rethink traditional notions of value and purpose, embracing the idea that being different or unconventional can be a strength.

 

Deemed useless was a tree, twisted with its fate to engage,

It stood free in wild harmony, its uniqueness its own stage.

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Start or Not

The Zen saying ‘Better not to start. Once started, better to finish’ means two things. While it highlights the potential pain of giving up after investing time and effort, it also emphasizes the importance of careful consideration before embarking on something new.

 

If a task is unlikely to be completed, it might be better to avoid it to minimize wasted time and energy. Starting and then stopping can be demoralizing and lead to feelings of failure or regret. Investing time and resources into one thing means potentially missing out on other opportunities. 

 

On the other hand, even if a project isn't fully realized, there is experience to be gained from starting and trying. Challenges and setbacks, even if they lead to stopping, build resilience and adaptability. Even with the possibility of stopping, starting something can lead to positive outcomes or opportunities. 

 

Ultimately, whether it's better to start or not depends on the specific situation and the individual's circumstances. The choice of whether or not to start something new requires consideration of potential benefits and drawbacks, as well as an assessment of one's own capacity and motivation. 

 

It's not always better to avoid starting, especially if there's a chance for learning, growth, or unexpected success. However, it's important to be realistic about the potential challenges and to avoid starting something that is likely to be unsustainable or lead to unnecessary disappointment.

 

To take the first step or let doubts reside

A choice to make: to take or quit the ride!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

  

Polarization

Polarization is a pervasive and pressing issue in today's world. From politics and social media to everyday conversations, polarization is increasingly dividing people, fostering extremism and hindering constructive dialogue. Individuals or groups are increasingly extreme in their views. 

 

In political polarization, the gap between liberal and conservative ideologies, leads to increased partisanship. In social polarization, we find segregation of people into like-minded groups. The intensification of cultural differences, leads to conflicts between different ethnic, religious or other groups.

 

Social media amplifies extreme views and limits opposing perspectives. Confirmation Bias makes us seek out information that confirms our existing beliefs, rather than challenging them. Polarization leads to erosion of civil discourse, increased conflict and decreased cooperation.

 

To mitigate polarization, we must encourage critical thinking, promote media literacy and belief in public discourse. We must encourage people to engage with opposing perspectives and foster empathy. We must cultivate inclusive, empathetic and constructive communities that celebrate diversity.

 

Be open to diverse view in every situation

Don’t be diverted by divisive polarization!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Value of work

A viral moment is making waves online: a teenager was caught on camera intentionally throwing his drink on the floor right in front of a cleaning staff member. What happened next quickly turned the situation around: he was immediately told to clean up the mess himself. 

 

The video is sparking global conversations about respect, accountability and the importance of valuing the work of others. Many are praising the reaction as a powerful lesson in empathy and basic human decency towards the workers who work so hard.

 

Valuing others' work is essential for fostering a positive environment and promoting mutual respect. We must express gratitude and recognition for others' contributions, no matter how small. We must offer constructive feedback that acknowledges others' efforts.

 

When we recognise others' work, it boosts morale, motivation and job satisfaction. Appreciating others' work creates positives vibes and strengthens relationships and builds trust. We must be at our best in valuing the work of those toil hard with devotion and care.

 

When others toil hard with great care,

Value their work with empathy to spare

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Sword's Edge

A minister entered the Government hospital and reprimanded the Chief Medical Officer in an aggressive and insulting manner, refusing the right to respond. He declared his suspension and asked him ‘to get out’. The incident was captured on video by a person accompanying the politician.  

The video was made viral to show the Minister as a hero and make him look like a fighter for the patients. However, the video had the opposite effect as many rallied against the politician who had to eat humble pie. He sought to ‘live by the video’ but eventually ‘died by it’!

 

In Matthew 26.52, Jesus tells Peter to put his sword away after Peter draws it to defend him. Jesus says, ‘All who take up the sword will perish by the sword’. It implies that relying on physical force as a means of defence is ultimately counterproductive and can lead to death. 

 

It warns against using harmful methods to achieve success, as those methods can eventually lead to negative outcomes. The phrase ‘those who live by the sword’ is followed by ‘die by the sword’. Individuals who resort to violence or aggression are likely to suffer a similar fate. 

 

It can be applied to personal relationships, cautioning against aggressive or violent behaviour, emphasizing potential risks and consequences. We must be careful of showing off our might and power. The same act can turn into a great leveller with terrible consequences.

 

If you live by the sword's sharp edge,

Do heed… your fate is a bloody ledge!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

 

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Unclog

As the monsoons have set in, there is waterlogging at many places. Social media is throwing up reels of the waterlogging as well as the unclogging of drains. Besides removing blockages or clogs from pipes or drains to restore proper water flow, unclogging can refer to various contexts. 

Physical unclogging also includes clearing blockages from airways, such as in medical emergencies or respiratory issues. Digital unclogging is about organizing emails to reduce clutter. It also involves organizing digital files, removing unnecessary data and optimizing digital storage.

 

This MondayMuse is about metaphorical unclogging: the process of clearing mental, emotional or creative blockages that hinder personal growth, productivity or well-being. By various ways, we can break through mental, emotional or creative barriers and achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.

 

Techniques include mindfulness and meditation to calm the mind and reduce stress; journaling and reflection (writing down thoughts and feelings to process and release emotions); engaging in creative activities like art, music, or writing to express oneself; and prioritizing self-care and relaxation techniques to reduce burnout.

 

In case of the drain, the blockage is noticed easily as it is visible due to the hurdles caused. But the blockages in mind may not be noticed so easily. So it is best to unclog the drain as well as the mind on a regular basis, before the blockage magnifies. 

 

 When the mind is cluttered and blocked tight

Unclog to let thoughts flow free like clear light!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Prejudice

The inspirational communicator of science, Dr Jayant Narlikar passed away on last Tuesday. The great astrophysicist, often spoke about prejudices in the context of science and society. Prejudice is preconceived opinion or attitude, often based on incomplete or inaccurate information, that can lead to discriminatory behaviour or unfair treatment towards others. 

Narlikar spoke about the importance of challenging conventional wisdom, questioning established theories and being open to new ideas. He encouraged scientists to remain objective and avoid being swayed by personal biases or preconceptions. 

 

Narlikar underlined the need for critical thinking and analysis in scientific inquiry. He advocated an open-minded approach, considering alternative perspectives and theories; and the avoidance of dogmatic thinking. He spoke against superstitions and pseudoscientific beliefs, emphasizing the need for evidence-based reasoning.

 

Prejudice can be overcome by education and exposure to different cultures, perspectives and experiences. We must engage with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences. By recognizing and addressing prejudices, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

 

Narlikar urged to escape prejudice's dark night

To learn with an open mind seeking critical light!

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Reading Habit

Last Saturday, Samraat Club Ponda started a meaningful initiative to be conducted in housing societies. ‘Vachchan Vel’ seeks to inculcate the reading habit among people, especially children. It is to help overcome the addiction of mobiles, internet and social media. 

 
The reading habits offers many benefits, including a significant impact on personal growth, cognitive development and emotional well-being. Books make for a desirable positive distraction in place of negative distractions. They aid better communication skills. 

 

Cognitive benefits include an improved vocabulary, enhanced critical thinking and better memory retention. The reading habit facilitates knowledge acquisition and broadened perspectives by reading about different cultures, experiences and ideas.

 

Emotional and social benefits include stress reduction and enhanced empathy and understanding. Reading requires focus and concentration, which can improve these skills. It also facilitates open mindedness and creative imagination by exposure to ideas, imagination and inventions.

 

Of course, the reading habit can be negative if we are reading the wrong books. The best parameter to ensure you are reading right is to examine the intentions of the writer and confirm the reality by exploring books which offer alternative interpretations. It is best to read deep and wide.   

 

The reading habit is truly fine

learn and grow with each line! 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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