Right on Track: The Belgian Grand Prix

Watching the Belgian Grand Prix from the VIP gallery of Ferrari was a dream come true for my husband Frank. The outcome of the race was even more sensational with Ferrari winning the title and the Force India team clinching a podium finish.
I have seen the Spa-Francochamps circuit while on a leisure trip to Spa a couple of years ago (Read -- There is a place called Spa!!).It looked as if perched in the middle of nowhere from the rugged TEC bus we were in. We were not impressed with Spa then but this time Frank was clearly on top of the moon.

He was babbling out of excitement in being able to watch the F1 from the red VIP stand, the home of the most prestigious F1 team. He kept stressing that the babes in the adjoining Martini stalls were gorgeous much to my amusement. The guests in the F1 Ferrari club wined and dined in style while watching the race. Champagne and wine to tease the appetite and platters of skewered prawns, lamp chops, beef brochettes, grilled monk fish and much more to add to the luxury.
Frank was taken aback by the preparations that go into making an F1 race a success. The car as well as the driver need to be maintained to the minutest level possible. The tyres have to be kept in a temperature controlled environment. The engineers and mecanics have to be on alert throughout the race. There are so many similar nuances to be kept in perspective such as the fuel levels, weight of the car, engine technology and not to mention, the physique of the driver.
(Photographs Courtesy - Mr. Philippe Bogaert)
With all this planning and detailing, it might seem as though F1 is a precision-driven sport. On the other side, the huge budgets and extravaganza make it more of entertainment.

So here is the million dollar question: Is this a sport showcasing skills and technology? Or else is this some form of gas guzzling, cash crunching entertainment?? I guess the debate will just never end...

Once Upon a Time...

It's been a long time (over a year or so) since I have blogged. There are good reasons for this long break from writing.

The year 2008 was very hectic for me on a personal and professional level. After the chaos and mayhem of the previous year, I am back to my relaxed pace of life in Brussels. I thought it would be interesting to put down a few lines about the year gone by.

Although last year was quite tough, it was also a year of many milestones. I completed the assignment at work. The assignment that got was open-ended...meaning I had to create protocols and patterns from scratch. It was a role-based assignment requiring a lot of patience and creativity. I lost my cool at times during the the ups and downs of the assignment...but in the end I am satisfied with the results.

I also completed my evening French course. It was difficult to manage the classes, work and the travel all together. I didn't get so much time to study for the many tests but I managed to pass and scrape through the level.

On the personal front, I had an absolutely wonderful time. I got my first baby a couple of months ago. I am thrilled and overjoyed to have this handsome baby boy in my life. I am currently revelling in the joys that only motherhood can bring.

Frank and I managed to squeeze in a bit of travel during the weekends or holidays the past year. We visited the historic "Den Haag" (The Hague),ultra-modern Rotterdam and the charming Tournai.

So here it is - a short summation of all that happened during this long break from blogging. As always, I will update the blog with a little more details about the places we visited in 2008!!

French Immersion in Brussels..

Knowing French and speaking French is not the same. I noticed this when I came to live in Brussels, a very francophone city.

French was my second language all throughout schooling. I was proud of knowing another foreign language after learning French for about six years. I was in for a shock when I came to Brussels.

I realized painfully that I could not catch the flow of the spoken language. I could read and understand French but always heard only the first and the last words of the spoken word. The message in between was a blur.

I wanted to go for French classes ever since I came to Brussels to remedy my unfortunate condition.

I have always admired the French language. I believe it to be beautiful, romantic and passionate - almost like a language of love. I wanted to speak the language so badly. I was searching for a good language school in Brussels.

There was always some hindrance when I searched for language classes. Sometimes the timings didn't match or the school was too far. My quest for language fluency came to a stand-still for a while.

I was again searching for some intensive courses in French this summer. My internet search led me to a very reputed, government recognized language school in Brussels. I decided to give it a try.

I got on the bus to the institute after giving them a call to ask about the admissions. A very cheerful lady met me at their secretariat and explained the nature of the course to me. I was not yet convinced.

I met with Dominique next, the French professor, and asked permission to sit in class for an hour before deciding whether to join or not.

I was so impressed by her classes. It was perfect for my needs. The course was intensive but it was easy for me to follow. I had years of french lessons, the required vocabulary and grammer. The emphasis was on spoken language (oral) and this was what I had hoped for.

I stayed on for the entire day after informing Dominique that I was enrolling in her class. I also signed up for the entire course (50 hours in two weeks).

After a week of classes, I am so relieved to have gained the confidence to speak in French. I spoke in French to the police lady who came for a verification survey yesterday. My slightly bewildered husband looked on as I conversed with her. I felt so proud after the incident.

I understood the conversations around me for the first time after coming to Brussels. The announcements in the supermarket, the instructions at the shop counters, conversations in the bus and the random ramblings on the street all make sense to me now. It is all about picking up the flow of the language.

I was so excited after my first 25 hours of the course that I picked up French dictionary and newspapers for me to read from a shop near my institute.
There are 5 students in class besides me in my French class. We are allowed to speak only in French in the institute and the classes are held in only French (not a word of English).

Dominique, our instructor, has an interesting way of presenting the language. She is very enthusiastic and explains new French words using the French words we already know. If she can't get through to us, she uses actions (but never a word of English). She takes us to the video and computer labs (language labs) to help us understand the accents, tones and situations in French.

I made quite a few friends in my French class. Two of the lovely ladies in class are from Latvia. They work for the European Commission in Brussels. I go out for lunch with these two beautiful damsels to nearby eateries.

Inara, one of the Latvian ladies, is a tall and graceful female. I admire her maturity and her knowledge of world cultures and customs. She gave me a book called Monsoon Diary written by a South Indian about her Indian heritage. Isn't it so strange to get a book on Indian culture from a European?

Ivetta, the other Latvian, is vivacious, pretty and elegant. She has curly blond hair and takes great care to apply and reapply her make-up. I am not a fan of bright, violet lipstick but somehow, I love the contrast of her violet lips and clear, white skin.

Post lunch, we take a stroll on the crowded street below and visit a few shops. I gleefully notice few heads turning at the sight of a brown, Indian lady flanked by tall and fair-skinned European beauties.

Brigette, another one of the students, is a German expert in international relations for the European Commission. I look at her in awe during the coffee break as she explains her work and her trips to conflict zones such as Iraq, Afganistan and Kosovo.

Seyonara is a brazilian student who is here in Brussels to learn fashion. True to her interests, she stands out due to her stylish boots and chic outfits.
I can't leave out Claudio, a young Romanian, who boasted happily that he has a girl-friend in ever country he visits (how truly romantic).
I have the next 25 hours to finish up next week and we will sink into a more advanced
level of French.

There are downsides to this entire episode. I feel so tired after each day because the session is so intensive (continous thinking and training the brain to accept a foreign language). I go to bed early but need a crane to lift me up in the morning (Thank you Frank).

I constantly rush to the bus stop only to miss my bus by a whisker (how annoying). Then it is a harrowing 20 minutes wait at the bus stop followed by a sleepy 40 minutes bus ride.

The benefits of the course far outweigh the cons. I love the feel of the language around me during the classes. I try to extract the maximum out of the language classes with a zeal and persistence that amazes even myself.

It is one more trying week of intensive language lessons for me. I am going to make the most out of the experience.

As for now, Au revoir from Brussels!

Work...At Last!!

I managed a small breakthrough yesterday by finding something worthwhile to do while I am here in Brussels. I got associated with an international association that was looking for a Research & Communications Specialist.

Their office is located in the most prestigious avenue of Brussels. This is the most happening place in the city. I looked around and found a community much unlike the calm, residential township where we currently stay.

I saw busy tram lines neatly criss-crossing the area. The wide avenue had very posh boutiques all around. Young people in minis and micros were thronging the stylish eateries in the area. People in crisp suits and leather bags were hurrying in and out of the many glass towers lined along the busy avenue .

I really liked the bunch of people in my office also. They were very friendly and made me feel comfortable.

I started doing a bit of work yesterday after a very long time. It felt different to be back at a desk in front of the system. I had trouble concentrating yesterday because I was so overwhelmed with the newness of the place.

Hopefully, that will wear out with time and I will get an opportunity to hone my skills.

Highs and Lows of Expatriate Life in Brussels, Belgium

Expatriate life is full of ups and downs. It is like a pendulum of emotions oscillating between towering mountains and abysmal pits.

I am desperate to find a middle ground. I am yearning for a place of comfort. At times, I find it for a short moment but that solace never lasts very long.

Here is a list of the highs and lows of living among strangers in a very curious place:

What I like the most about Life in Brussels...

• Living with my husband - I like the small joys and pains of family life. I delight in our companionship. I despair at our slight disagreements. After all, life is this mixture of experiences.
• Quiet Surroundings - Belgium is a very quiet country where people value silence. It is quality living at its best.
• Random Wanderings - I like moving around in Belgium. It can be just a walk around the neighbourhood or trip to a friend's house. It can be visits to a shopping mall. It may even be hopping to tourist destinations. I enjoy all the outings just the same.
• Cleanliness - There is greenery all around. The roads are neat. The neighbourhoods are well planned and carefully laid out. Best of all, the country is littered with parks loaded with fresh air.
• Environmentally Conscious - Garbage is meticulously sorted to ensure recycling and reusing. Shops generally do not give out plastic or paper bags. Customers are expected to bring their own carts and bags. No where else have I seen such a level of concern for the environment.
• Integrated Transport System - The buses, trams, metros, trains, flights all operate in a coordinated manner within Belgium and also with respect to the rest of Europe. You will never get stranded in Belgium without any mode of transport. The credit goes to the efficient public transport system of this country.
• Everything is Online - You can chart your journey on the public transport system websites, check your flight status, book your tickets and even do your shopping online in Belgium. Most of the forms and notices can be downloaded from the internet. The list is endless. Technology is exploited very well in Belgium.
• Healthcare - Public health infrastructure is excellant and dependable. That itself is a major relief for those living abroad.
• The Royal Touch - The Belgian royal family plays an important part in the country's history. There are palaces, churches, gardens, pavilions, parks and other monuments all around the country dedicated to the family that still rules the Kingdom of Belgium (Le Royaume de Belgique).

What I Dislike about Belgium...

• Confusion - The country is slightly schizophrenic. The roads signs are confusing and in different languages (mainly French and Dutch). All the landmarks, buildings and streets have names in the two official languages. The people speak either of these languages or a combination. English is not very widely used. Public notices, bills, offices etc. use either of the languages. It is all very confusing to an outsider.
• Bureaucracy - There is a huge amount of paper work and procedures for anything and everything. Foreigners are subjected to this systematic torture due to the elaborate functioning of bureaucracy. It feels like the commune (town administrative unit) keeps a tab on all your movements.
• Weather - The climate is a major dampner. The days are cold and morose. The skies are grey and depressing on most days. It rains sporadically every now and then. The weather makes one want to stay indoors all the time.

What I Miss about India...

• I miss the feeling of being home. I search my mind for memories of the colourful imagery and variety of people of India.
• I miss my family. I wish I could spend time with them more often especially for family occasions. Everyone just about becomes a voice at the other end of the telephone when you are living overseas.
• I always wish I could have continued working. I know this would have been possible if I was home.
• I would have heard from my friends more often if I was in India. It is easy to maintain contacts over the internet...but I am sure I would have been part of a closer-knit community in India.

Expat life is not challenging without these hurdles. Neither is it amusing without the many simple pleasures. That is why I say it is a blend of highs and lows.

Feminism and Me

I am scared of considering myself as a 'feminist' for fear of evoking the negative connotations of that word. Although I am a staunch ally of the womens' rights movement, I would not dare to call myself a 'feminist' in the conventional sense of the term.

I have strong views about the position of women in the society. I believe that a woman is never below a man in her ability to set sail in the stormy sea of life. Like most others, I am proud to see fellow women succeed in all walks of life.

I cheer when the likes of Nancy Pelosi, Hillary Clinton, Condoleeza Rice, Sonia Gandhi and Segelene Royal voice their opinions in public. My heart was filled the day Wangari Maathai stood on the stage to recieve her Nobel Prize for Peace. Likewise, so many women have proved to the world that success is a personal journey totally independant of gender.

Some women have flawed perceptions of their role in society. They believe that womens' liberation involves freedom from the traditional roles of women such as cooking and cleaning. They also feel that hating men is a form of feminism. I consider these women to be a confused lot not sure of the very nature of women.

A woman is often a daughter, wife, mother, sister and a friend rolled into one. It is the woman who makes life around her blessed or cursed. Women need to understand that there is nothing demeaning about fullfilling the demanding chores of daily living. Those around will definitely reciprocrate the efforts of a well-meaning woman.

Women also have certain rights along with the responsibilities. Universal womens' suffrage guarentees all women the right to participate in a democracy. The increasing percentage of women in leadership positions around the globe is a good indication of a progressive society.

Closer home, a woman should have the right to make decisions on the domestic front. After all, she is the corner-stone of a family, the basic unit of society. She should also have the right to choose and pursue a meaningful career.

I get enraged while watching clips of abuse of women on TV. No religion or culture can justify such henious practices.

Sadly, women are kept veiled and segregated in some societies. They are not given the opportunities to learn and improve. They are kept isolated by oppressive regimes and treated as mere objects. Society should never condone such practices.

The value of a woman is priceless. Those who have experienced the strength, companionship and care of a woman will know their true essence. I firmly believe that a society that protects and respects its women will go very far in the future.

Addicting Actions..

I have had a strange captivation for the written word for a very long time. It started with flipping glossy magazines as a toddler.

My strong language programmes in school pushed me further into this habit. Now, with the advent of the information super highway, reading is more like an obsession to me.

During elementary school in the US, I was too shy to admit that I had read 'The Scarlet Letter' for my sixth grade summer project. This master piece by Nathaniel Hawthorne dealt with some mature themes and was not the perfect reading matierial for a school girl of my age.

My tryst with books continued even when I joined a convent school in Mumbai. I was caught reading 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by the Principal (a nun) during school hours. I went to the Principal's office to recover my confiscated book expecting some form of reprimand. Strangely enough, she returned the book without saying a word.

I was more into journals, magazines and newspapers during my college days in Allahabad. I still read some amazing books that came my way during that period. Some of my all time favourites like 'The God of Small Things' (Arundhati Roy), 'City of Joy' (Dominique Lapierre) and 'The Thorn Birds' (Colleen McColough) were read during my student life in Allahabad.

I couldn't get enough of the newspaper that was kept in the hostel lobby in Allahabad. That single copy of the newspaper was meant for about 300 girls in hostel. Somebody always took it to their room after the lunch hour. Besides, our gruelling schedule in college did not leave enough time for frequent trips to the library.

I ordered my own copy of 'The Hindu' from the local newspaper vendor. That paper was a Delhi edition that came a day later to Allahabad. Neverthless, it served my purpose.

I was known as the girl who went around to other people's rooms to borrow/read newspapers in my hostel. There were a number of girls who ordered dailies other than the one I bought.

During our hostel farewell, my juniors called me onto the stage and presented me with a package. Beneath that colourful gift wrap was a bundle of old newspapers. The crowd roared when I opened my gift. I remember feeling sheepish but I figured this was better than being known for something else.

I was really glad to have complete access to the internet and a wonderful library during my post-grad days. A Suitable Boy (by Vikram Seth), a book that I read during these days, provided me with some priceless insights about choices in life.

I enjoyed my work as a Research Executive in Mumbai mainly because it revolved around this addiction of mine. The Research team had a small library of latest journals, newspapers, internet and subscriptions to online databases at their disposal. I loved getting paid for doing something I considered my hobby.

Marriage disrupted this obsession of mine to a certain extent. I was allured by the passion, love and strength of being in a relationship.

I am back to my habits now that life has stabilized just a little more. I am lucky to have a husband who understands this uncanny obsession.

He has taken subscriptions to various magazines he knows he will never get time to even skim over. He brings me few newspapers from office everyday knowing my liking for curling up in bed with the daily roundup of news. He even introduced me to an exclusive portal meant for self-learning.

There are very few people whom I have met who share this genuine fondness for print. I must mention that I met one such specimen, Akshay, during post-grad days. There is no end to the expanse of topics we cover when we both start talking. The rest of the gang used to melt away out of sheer frustration when we were in the state of conversation.

I know that too much of anything is not helpful. I try to balance the other activities in my life with my hobbies. I don't know how successful I am in doing that but I am definitely trying.

Hot Girls and Cool Guys!

I had a chat about the thought processes of guys and gals the other day with my friend Akshay. We used to have a lot of these random ramblings over a cup of tea in the college canteen. We still do communicate online and it feels just like old times.

He mentioned that most girls ask about their appearance to their boy friends at some point during the relationship. They want to know if they look better, have become fat or added weight.

The poor guy doesn't know that he is walking into a trap when faced with this seemingly innocent query. Guys, being simplistic in nature, respond with the utmost sincerity. The sensitive girl in question harbours this thought everytime she interacts with this honest fellow.

This is where I feel a little bit of white lies does no harm. Guys have to learn to tread carefully on this one if they value their relationship.

I figured out exactly how the male mind works only after living with one of the typical specimens. I realized that the amazing facet of the male psyche is it's simplicity.

The female mind is always wandering into the ifs and buts of an issue. The male mind is binary. They see only the two natural possibilities. They can't fathom the intricacies of probabilities and consequences like the females.

There was a time when I expected my husband to infer my likes and dislikes without expressing them verbally. I thought that he would figure out what I wanted through the many perceivable signs. The funny part is that he could never understand what I was trying to convey.

I found out that communicating with him just required discussing openly. He is not tuned to analyzing and deliberating my actions. It is just not his style of functioning.

He would understand more if I could just blurt out my thoughts without beating around the bush. This straight-forward approach saved us a lot of misunderstandings in the future.

I consider this to be the fundamental difference between the two genders. Girls tend to think too much and make a mountain out of a mole hill. Guys, on the otherhand, ignore even the mountains of life.

Both the attitudes are extreme. Following the middle ground is the key to a path of compromise.

May Mayhem!

Frank and I are expecting a period of chaos at the end of this month. We are preparing to shift to another appartment a few yards away from this one. The decision to move was an impulsive as well as emotional one for both of us.

Frank started looking for a house even before I joined him in Belgium. He is very used to living in spacious and luxurious surroundings. The only exception to that came when he started living in Europe. The appartments in Brussels (Europe) are generally small and cramped compared to other parts of the world. I would say that they are miniature copies of those in the United States.

I remember asking him over the phone about his new house when he moved into his tiny, serviced appartment before I came to Brussels. He didn't sound happy at all. He said it resembled something of a dark hole. Mom and I had a laugh over his comment in India at that time.

He was still living there when I arrived in Brussels in October. He had already booked another furnished, one bedroom appartment nearby. We were just waiting to shift after that place became available.

We shifted to this place on a cold, winter morning early in december. The appartment was small but sufficient for a couple. It was on the eleventh floor at the end of a row of appartment complexes. The building was quite old and the appartment required some maintenance.

The Land Lord was quite understanding. He managed to fix up the leaking faucets, damaged cupboards and replace the broken furniture within a few weeks.

We even started decorating our new abode with photographs and paintings. Frank managed to get souvenirs from his many business trips across the continent to fill up the showcase in the living room.

The lack of space to accomodate any relations who may visit us during our tenure here was bothering us. We were once again on the look out for an appartment with a couple of extra bedrooms for this purpose. That is when we saw an advertisement for a bigger appartment in the same area.

Frank contacted the advertiser and took an appointment to visit the place. We both went there the following weekend.

The appartment was spacious, had the extra bedrooms we wanted and was well designed. I liked the snazzy kitchen and the large balcony space. We loved the fact that it was on the first floor right in front of the bus stop.

Frank was eyeing me the entire time during our visit that day. He was searching for my reaction. I liked the design, layout and location of the appartment. I was still concerned and cautious about making a decision.

The appartment came unfurnished. This meant that we had to buy our own furniture for the house. I was not too happy about bearing that initial investment.

The kitchen was fully equipped meaning that it had the refrigerator, oven, stoves, cupboards, microwave and dishwasher installed. We had to bring our own crockery. We didn't have any furniture or crockery of our own since we currently live in a furnished appartment.

I knew Frank would not back down just due to furniture. He is the kind of person who would strive to make a dream come true despite all odds. Within a week, he managed to round up the essential furnishings for the house. Yesterday, he hauled in a giant TV from somewhere for our new house.

He is still running after all the legal wrangles of renting a house in Belgium. This includes the hefty security deposit, bank guarentee papers and contracts. We are almost done except for the trouble of shifting our belongings.

The new Land Lord and his wife were not so sure about renting their appartment to an Indian employee. Frank asked him to come to meet him in his office. The Land Lord was more than happy to rent it to us after visiting Frank's attractive office in a prime locality. I can even imagine Frank giving his usual business talk in his deep voice to convince this chap.

Shifting into a new house is a big responsibility. We have to change our address in the commune for updating our Belgian identity cards. We have to transfer our phone and internet connections. Our electricity account also needs to be changed. All this is in addition to moving our personal possessions.

This last week of May will be a very hectic week for both of us. I am excited about moving to a new place but afraid of the tiring procedure. Then again, there is no gain without the pain.

I will miss my view from our eleventh floor balcony. I can see the flights taking off and arriving at the Brussels International Airport from here. I also have the sight of a beautiful garden below.

We will be closer to the ground in our new home. It will not be the same as living in the air like on the eleventh floor. I am hoping that the increased space and better facilities will make up for this small disadvantage.

Grocery Shopping in Brussels

I know that shopping for provisions is not one of the most enviable tasks for many of us. It is a routine chore that cannot be avoided.

It is easy to walk around open-air markets in India for groceries. The market place is full of fresh produce and many vendors. With a little bit of bargaining, we can get the best food items for a reasonable price.

Supermarkets in Brussels offer a wide variety of produce also. I usually go to different shops during the week to compare and contrast the items and prices. The supermarkets are quite large with different departments for fresh produce, stationary, clothes and even furniture.

In these department stores, everything is sold under the same roof. All the items are sorted and placed in racks. The shoppers can walk around this endless maze of shelves to pick and choose whatever they need.

I am a slow shopper in comparison to Frank, my husband. I like reading all the labels on each of the items. Ofcourse, all the labels are in French and Dutch. It takes a long time for me to translate the labels and register them into my memory. I also like buying new products or different brands each time.

On the other hand, Frank is a frantic shopper. He scours through the shelves in no time. He manages to pick up most of what we need within minutes. I think he is slowing down a bit now a days when we are together to adjust to my pace.

I am now used to grocery shopping in Brussels. I get to know a great deal more about the origin of the produce from the labels. Banana from Equador, grapes from South Africa, oranges from Spain and a host of other items from all around the world are up for grabs.

There is an entire section in the store dedicated to wine also. We are still trying to find some sweet wine around here. I am sure its available but we will have to sift through the shelves and find the right french words.

I especially like the 'Boulangerie' (Bakery) counters in these markets. There is an endless array of tarts, cakes, croissants, baguettes and freshly baked breads for sale. There is often an instrument in the bakery area for slicing the bread that looks like it was taken from medieval times.

I do enjoy the supermarket experience in Belgium. It is nice to find everything you need stacked in the same space.

Retailing is becoming a phenomenon in India as well. Carrefour, Metro, Field Fresh, and Reliance are vying for a share of this market. Hopefully, by the time we return to India, we may even have the same stores in India.

Oprah and Her Dreams...

I was watching the popular talk show host, Oprah Winfrey, talking to Larry King today. I couldn't help wondering about these two successful individuals who have altered the course of TV history. It was as though the two legends were exploring their phenomenal achievements.

Oprah comes across as a sincere lady despite her wealth and fame. She shared some of her childhood memories during the interview. Her recollections of her youth are not pleasant. They are stories of abuse including that of a failed pregnancy during her teenage years. Despite all odds, Oprah forged ahead. She won scholarships, awards and recognition during her studies.

Oprah started her talk show during the 1980s on a very low scale. The 'Oprah Winfrey Show' was an instant hit. She has never had to look back ever since. She won multiple Emmys for her performances. 'Oprah Winfrey Show' is now the highest rated talk show in TV history. Oprah, also an acclaimed actress and publisher, is the richest Afro-American of the 20th century.

I have seen her show many times over the years. She has the striking ability to emphatize with her guests. She is a responsive talk show host who shares in the troubles of her guests. I have seen her distribute gifts including homes and cars during her show. Her latest philantrophic effort is the leadership academy for underprivileged girls in South Africa.

"The drums of Africa are still beating in my heart", she screamed to the crowd during the inaugration of her school. This school is close to her heart. It is the begining and end of her dreams. Oprah is back to her roots in South Africa to do what she does best - giving back to society.

The Film Parzania - Remnants of an Unforgotten Tragedy

Unilike the previous few weeks, we spent this weekend holed up inside our house. Ofcourse, we did our routine grocery shopping on saturday but that was it. It was just bouts of sleeping, eating, TV and enjoying the view from the balcony. There was some time to catch up on the movie Parzania.

The DVD was lying around for a while. Parzania is based on the 2002 Gujarat riots that shook the communal fabric of India. The movie is very bold in its depiction of the events that led up to the riots. Parzania explores the tragedy, pain, violence and the conspiracies behind the riots through the simple tale of a family caught in the storm.

Most directors would not have the nerve to portray the Gujarat state government in bad light but Parzania delves deep into the state administration. It highlights the flaws behind the approach of the Government in the aftermath of the riots. This movie critiques the Indian society and its misgivings through the eyes of an American who comes to learn about Gandhi. There is a subtle constrast here as the American comes to Gujarat, the birth place of Gandhi, to learn about the non-violent ideals of Gandhi. Instead, he witnesses one of the most gruesome tragedies of all time.

The plot revolves around a Parsi (origins in Persia) family who lived in a predominantly muslim neighbourhood in Gujarat. Nasserudin Shah plays a very loving father in Parzania. His content life is spoiled by the communal violence that takes his son away from the family. Saritha is a resilient mother coming to terms with the loss of a child in Parzania. The viewer can feel the agony of the family as they frantically search for their son after the riots. The callous attitude of police and the senseless acts of the state authorities are skillfully woven into the grief of one family.

I remember being in Ahmedabad shortly after the riots. There were some reminders of the violence like the charred hotel complex in the down-town area of Ahmedabad. I remember walking through one of the pre-dominantly Muslim pockets in the city with my Bengali friend in search of some shopping bargains. There was some demonstration going on in the city commemorating a Hindu festival that day.

I can distinctly remember the piercing look in the eyes of the people in that area. Their expressions revealed the horror they endured in the past few months. Perhaps it was a grimace of intense hate towards life after the tragedy. My hindu friend and I were slightly unnerved while being in that area. She was fumbling to remove the 'bhindi'on her forehead, a mark related to the hindu faith. We never ventured into those areas again and the image of the people there haunts me in a strange way.

Parzania captures the plight of a terror-stricken community through a simlple story. It is effortlessly told but leaves a lasting impression. The violence of Gujarat riots is recounted yet again through Parzania.

There are many lessons to be learnt from history. Understanding history is important because history should not be repeated. Movies like Parzania send out this message to the masses. The message that terrible events such as Gujarat riots should never occur in a country of many religions.

10 Short Cuts to Happiness!

People often find it difficult to reach contentment even when they are richly blessed. There are reports of celebrities committing suicide or falling into long years of drug abuse despite their riches. This proves that unlike the popular perception, money has very little to do with satisfaction.

So is there a short cut to happiness? Here are some tips that I follow to keep moving towards the happier end of the road.

1. Never compare with others.

This is a golden rule. Remember that your brain tricks you into believing that ‘the grass is always green on the other side’. If you compare, you will always end up feeling short. Then there is a mad scramble to catch up and try to beat someone else. You are never going to catch up just because this feeling is just a figment of your imagination. Be inspired through the lives of people who have conquered odds but always remember that you can only be yourself.

2. Count your blessings.

I used to be overly concerned about what I did not have. Before long, I realized that this was eating away my pie of happiness. I also found out that I have so many obvious blessings that I took for granted just because I focused more on what my friends or cousins have. Instead, I now concentrate on my blessings especially my family, friends and my circumstances. This is a sure way to happiness as it alleviates a whole lot of misery.

3. There is joy in giving.

I have noticed that I feel most happy whenever I am able to give. Of course there is joy in receiving but there is much more of it while giving. A thoughtful gift or a word to someone in need is a sure step to happiness.

4. Help those who are in need.

There is a huge mental satisfaction when you are involved in helping others. There is something alluring in being of assistance to others. I found a lot of pleasure in helping others with studies during my college days. Many of my juniors in college came to me for advice. I was so happy to realize that I was a source of inspiration for them.

5. Prioritize

I have seen many people obsessed with their careers. Most of them find very little time for family and friends. I feel sorry for them since I am sure that they will come to a point of regret sometime at the end of their productive lives. This points to one of the most important rules of life - prioritize. If you make sure that you have time for others, others will surely find you in your hour of need.

The busy executive will never realize that his wife is continuously building up negative thoughts in her mind. The overly busy mother will never realize that there is less of her in her child’s life. It is a vicious circle. So, make time for your friends and family before time runs out.

6. Think before you act.

Most unpleasant actions can be avoided by triggering the thought process. There was a time when I was quick to react. I would blow my fuse every time someone disagreed with me. It took me some time and a lot of interaction with different types of people to realize that slow to anger is a sure key to success.

7. Experience positive vibes.

The first thing that comes to my mind when I think of a possible course of action is all that could go wrong after implementing it. I would have a short bout of imagination where all these wrong effects haunted me as demons. Fortunately, I have now realized that much of it is due to negative feelings. I now try to fill myself with positive images that reinforce a positive outcome. Needless to say, that works well.

8. Manage your desires.

Ambitions are a part of life but desires have a tiny role. Desires magnify emotions and point to inadequacies. I would consider having a meaningful career as an ambition but trying to outsmart others for that undeserved promotion is more of pursuing a desire. Manage those desires before they manage your life!

9. Don’t aim for revenge.

I used to keep a count of the wrongs that others did to me. This was before I came to know the power of ‘letting go’. Otherwise, the counts keep increasing as well as negative needs for revenge. I don’t aim for revenge anymore or keep a track of those who have wronged me. This is a sure step towards happiness.

10. Be yourself!

There is magic in believing that you are unique. I know that I am a person with a difference with distinct abilities and needs. I carry this positive reassurance throughout my journey of life. This realization will pave your path to success.

Species Undefined – The Men in My Life

It is often remarked that women are the most complex out of the two sexes. That may be true but I am sure that men are by far the most diverse. There is such a variety in terms of personality, behavior and physical stature. I have had the fortune of being associated with some of the most amazing male specimens in my life.

Each of them has enriched my life to a great extent. I am grateful to them for helping me in times of need, showering me with warmth when I felt down and for the wonderful companionship I have felt through their lives.

Most of us would associate love, care and affection with mothers but I have a different story to tell. My mother was largely occupied with my sister during my childhood since we were born only a year apart. She also had a career to cater to making spending time with me very difficult. I associate much of my childhood memories with my father as he filled into her shoes.

My father perfectly balanced his busy, public profile and his large family. He took us to school and kept a watch on us after we were back. He did this in unconventional ways but always with a certain grace. I remember him letting us play under the huge Almond tree after school in the premises of the institution where he taught. His eyes were occasionally peering out of the classroom window to make sure that we were alright. Other times, he took us to the library and gave us magazines to flip through while he worked. I could only admire the pictures in those glossy magazine pages since I didn’t know how to read then. This fascination for magazines, journals and books continues to this day.

He helped me with my homework as I moved into a new school system in the United States. He came to meet the teachers regularly and was active in the Parent Teacher Association. I was always welcome into his cabin in the University where he was a doctoral student. He introduced me to all the latest journals and newspapers in the University library while I was just in school. He made me believe that he needed a shortened newspaper because he didn’t have time to read the newspapers. He wanted me to condense each day’s news from leading newspapers like ‘The New York Times’, ‘The Washington Post’ and ‘The Star Ledger’. I did not realize then that he was opening a window to the world by asking me to read those papers.

Life was not always about work for him. He played badminton and Frisbee with his children while hot barbecue was being prepared for dinner during summers. He took us to the University gym for sports and games. He showed us the beauty of nature during our trips to the University arboreum.

He was also adamant that I spent time away from home during studies. I found it difficult to live alone at first since I missed the presence of my father. As an educationist, he believed that living with peers in a hostel environment would increase self-reliance and boost social skills. After spending about seven years in hostels and other places, I now know that he was absolutely right. I faced a life where I made my own choices, suffered or enjoyed the consequences of my actions, forged life-long friendships and shook off my fear of being on my own.

Throughout my lifetime, I have felt his presence as a guiding force. There is a special place in my heart for this remarkable man who is strong enough to tackle problems with ease but gentle enough to search for solutions. He showed me the power of mental resilience, spirit of humility and the influence of good-will. He is one of the men who have influenced me so much and I am very blessed to have him in my life.

I am amused at the striking resemblance in the voices of my father and my brother. My six-foot, dark & dusky brother looks very different from my father. Yet, I can feel the same traits running through him as well. He is very caring but at the same time very paranoid about all his sisters. My brother is more of a man of action and is quick to react. His giant frame deceives his tender nature. We both worked in the same building in Mumbai but for different companies. He was always so obsessed with my safety especially while commuting to and from work. He is an honest and genuine person and I am very proud of him.

My brother’s one-year old son is the other significant presence in my life. This hyper toddler brings unspeakable joy to the entire family. I enjoyed playing with him and crawling after him. He has a way of looking back to see if anyone is following him before speeding away. I have never seen such fast-paced crawling in all my life. I will always remember his innocent and playful character. He is the crawling wonder in my family.

Likewise, my brother-in-law is also another example of the diversity of male species. He is temperamental but jovial. I am sometimes shocked by his carefree disposition. He is the one who got me accustomed to my new home in Pune. He took me around to all the shopping centres and malls in the city. He accompanied me to the hospital when I went to do my lengthy medical check-up in the absence of my husband. The look of desperation on his face as he waited for me in the hospital lobby for my check-up to be over is imprinted in my memory forever.

I also have many friends who characterize every possible facet of the male psychology. I am in constant touch with my highly intelligent and super 'know-it-all' friend from post-graduate days. I liked conversing with this self-proclaimed ‘geek’ because he is one of the very few people with whom I can discuss any topic without sounding philosophical and profound. I have never seen such a wide array of interests ranging from technology, science, current events, history and sports emerging from a single brain. He reminds me of those men who are achievers in life but believe that they have “miles to go” before they sleep.

During my college years, I have also come across men who valued the old ideals of chivalry or respect for women. I am highly indebted to a friend of mine who supported me through thick and thin. He never forgot to call me whenever I felt lonely or overwhelmed. His voice was a support through the trying periods of my life. He is one of the few people I feel that I have the right to call at any time for help. I have an air of confidence in asking him for a helping hand for I know I won’t be denied.

Throughout life, I have encountered men with unique personalities. I cannot forget the dreamy Piscean who planned celebrations for my achievements even without my knowledge. I came to know of his fondness for me only during the last few months of my four-year tenure in college. It seemed more childish to me but I was surprised to see that he was sincere in his efforts. I even had a friend from Rwanda who shared his culture and experiences with me. Then, there was the elder colleague of mine in graduate school to whom I went to for advice. I have no words to describe the many men who enlightened me with their companionship.

This list will be complete only with the mention of the most important man in my life now. His personality defies all the boundaries that I set for the description of my husband. I find him to be different from my expectations in many ways. However, I believe that he has bettered my imagination.

I expected a quiet and calm partner in my life. I got a warm and boisterous husband. I got a person who stops at nothing to achieve his goals. I asked God for a partner who was content with what he has. Instead, I got a man lurching for the skies.

He is known for his determination and admired for his wit. He conquers my pensive attitudes with loads of energy. He is known for his impatience but he makes time for my wanderings. He spends time in the city centres looking around just because he knows I enjoy it. This impulsive man waits for me outside offices while I attend interviews. He assists me during my hospital visits and helps me with medications. He is everything I dreamed of in a husband but within a very unique mould. We are like two divergent beams filling light in the darkness. We are distinct but pursue a common dream. We are living proof of the old adage “opposites attract”. Out of all the men I have known, he stands out just because he is mine.

Update - May 2009

I have to update this post with a mention of the most special man in my life now. The long wait to bring him into this world was worth every second.

My life has changed dramatically after his birth. He fills my days with smiles, coos and laughter. I feel a sense of pride when I look into his eyes.

I realize that being a parent is a huge responsibility. I am awed by the task of transforming my tiny baby boy into a caring and sensitive young man.

I am sure that both of us will discover and learn much during this challenging journey of life.

Marriages are made in heaven…

I still can’t believe that I made the single-most important decision in my life within a mere forty minutes. The stage was set that day in August for the customary prelude to the arranged marriage. The prospective groom comes to meet his bride to be so as to make a final decision. The parents had discussed this match for a couple of months and agreed on a suitable meeting venue. As in the case of modern arranged marriages, there is never any coercion since the children are free to accept or reject the match.

As a free-spirited young lady, I was never in the right frame of mind to get married. I wanted to work more and pursue higher studies. My head was brimming with ideas and I was sure that a wedding at this time would foil all my planning. I was also sure that I will always be plotting my next moves and marriage would never figure in my lengthy list.

I belong to a traditional society where staying unmarried is akin to being afflicted with some disease. I knew that my parents would never allow me to keep my single status any longer. I didn’t have a choice in that matter but I knew I would get to pick the most suitable person.

I was considering a shift of residence and other job opportunities. I had many job applications floating around and was waiting for the elusive interview-call.

That summer was therefore an intense time for me in-terms of personal and professional life. Mumbai would be the venue for meeting the husband-to-be. I got the railway reservations done for traveling to this great metropolis of modern India. Just as all the plans were looking picture-perfect, catastrophe struck.

Strong rain showers lashed the entire western India. Mumbai and adjoining areas were flooded with monsoon waters. The communication and transport infrastructure was severely damaged. The railways cancelled all their services. Mumbai city was crippled leaving scores of its stranded inhabitants scurrying for cover.

I was only too happy that my ordeal was postponed. I had read too much about these meetings. There were often the prying eyes of the future in-laws, criticizing comments in some cases, bashful grooms-to-be and difficult decisions to be made. However, the delay was short-lived. The groom had only a few days to spend in India and he was due to continue his global travel ventures.

Air travel had resumed in India despite the bad weather. I managed to get flight bookings for Mumbai. There was again a last-minute delay in the travel after I reached the airport in time for the early-morning flight. A plane had over-run the runway in Mumbai and the airport was not accepting further traffic until the plane was removed. In the mean time, the rains in Mumbai worsened.

I sat inside the airport blissfully unaware of what was going on. I was already checked-in and waiting for my flight when I received a phone-call from my brother who was waiting to receive me in the airport in Mumbai. I noticed the pandemonium in the airport with delayed and cancelled flights. People were standing in long queues but were not given boarding passes.

“Avoid traveling to Mumbai unless absolutely necessary”, a sharp voice beamed through the airport speaker system.

Within minutes the passengers were up and running to cancel the tickets or to make alternate arrangements. Some passengers with small kids in tow lamented about missing their connection flights. Others were arguing with the airport personnel. Confusion filled the airport lobby.

There were others who accepted their fate and waited patiently. Some families spread sheets on the ground to settle down their weary children. The normally calm airline staff members were fretting. Confusion reigned supreme as airlines were unable to pacify the irate customers.

I was thinking of an alternate course of action. I thought of cancelling or postponing the flight. I would then have to retrieve my checked-in baggage. I would have some difficulty going home in the adverse weather. I decided to wait and monitor my flight status. The major private airline cancelled all their flights to Mumbai. I was booked on the national carrier and they had just labeled my flight status as “indefinitely delayed”.

I approached the counter for further enquires about my flight. The lady in charge explained to me that they don’t have any information from Mumbai airport. She told me that the airline was willing to take the stranded passengers to the nearest airport hotel. They agreed to bring us back as soon as the flights to Mumbai resumed. I realized that this is the only viable option. I was soon sent to the comfort of a nearby hotel.

I was able to relax and have refreshments there. I spent hours surfing the TV channels in the hotel room waiting for some information from the airport. It was about ten in the night when I got a call from the hotel informing me that my flight was ready for travel. I was already sleepy by then but managed to scramble down to the hotel lobby.

Upon reaching the airport, I realized that passengers were still stranded. The private airlines were not being given authorization to land in Mumbai. The national carrier that I was flying on managed to get a slot. After a quick security check, the flight took off and was on its way to Mumbai. However, the plane had to still circle around Mumbai for some time before given clearance for landing.

I reached Mumbai at around two in the morning. It was not so difficult to locate my brother. His tall stature made sure that his head was visible amongst the crowd waiting for the delayed passengers. He also had his regular Punjabi taxi-driver with him. We loaded the taxi with my luggage and got inside to go to his house in Mumbai.

My unlucky streak continued even then. The taxi refused to budge and was stationed like a stubborn child facing reprimand. My brother and the jovial taxi-driver got out and pushed the taxi. The motors came to life after some frantic pushing. I saw the submerged roads, flooded shanty-towns and people trying to make it home even at that odd hour.

I relaxed for a couple of days in my new surroundings. The preparations were on for the important meeting in Mumbai. The groom had to travel to Mumbai from a neighbouring city to meet me. Even his plans were thwarted a couple of times due to the weather conditions. The day before the suggested date for the meeting, I received an interview call from a Mumbai-based company as a result of an application I had sent months earlier. They seemed very happy to know that I was already in Mumbai. They asked me to come in the next day in the after-noon for the interview.

I was pleased to have both the events on the same day. I was only anxious to get it over with. It would be thrilling to experience the results together. Hospitality is revered in the Indian culture and meetings such as this one required the utmost perfection. My brother arranged to have my aunt come the next day for some guidance.

I got up early in the morning to fix up a meal of chicken stew and bread, halwa, fruits and sweets. I wanted the meeting to be as natural as possible. A flash of lightening went through my head as the door-bell rang. I was wondering whether I was ready for entering into marriage. It meant a lot of commitment, changes in life-style and many compromises. My head was exploding with thoughts as I was called to the living room to meet the guests.

I was glad that the atmosphere was very informal. We both went to a corner to talk in peace. I was shocked to see that the groom was not following the conventional norms. He was in casuals and was in a relaxed mode. He outlined to me a little about his past, his aims and his vision for the future. I distinctly remember him telling me that his family wanted a daughter and not a daughter-in-law. We had a brief exchange of experiences and ideas. In India, the final decision is always made collectively as a family. Contrary to that, he expressed his decision to proceed with the marriage.

I was happy with the proceedings of the day and was still thinking of coming to a conclusion. I was impressed by the laid-back nature of the groom, his reasoning, his ability to communicate and strong personality. I considered myself an accomplished lady educated around the world and pursuing diverse interests. I was sure that he would match my abilities if not better them.

My brother and I rushed to the job-interview venue as we were running late. I didn’t relax much until I came to the lobby of the office. I met with the interview panel within a short time. The interview was a little lengthy but was quite simple. I was able keep poise and answer well all throughout. I was sure that I would be called for the next round.

As expected, I was called for another round the next day and joined soon. During my tenure there, I have never come across such an immediate appointment in that company. It really mesmerizes me to date. That is one of the fondest memories I have of that place. The decision to leave my job was especially painful because of that swift appointment. The job was satisfying, rewarding and the people were warm to me. My work was appreciated and my views were valued. I am trying to find a job in this new country. I have gone through many rounds with companies here and even reached final stages. However, I have not seen the same level of openness to diversity in companies here in Belgium.

After that customary meeting with the groom, I made a quick decision to marry him. Both the families worked on the details of a marriage to be held six-months later on my birthday. We both came to know each other more only after the event was fixed. I believe that there is a great deal of trust that we placed on each other in making this decision.

Choosing a life-partner is a difficult decision that people take years to finalize. They wait for the right time and person. Arranged marriages work on the concept that it is not so much about finding the right person but in being the right person. This brisk decision is one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. Although we are completely opposite personalities, there is a common chemistry binding us together. We laugh at our differences and the very few similarities.

Entering into marital life is one of the most life-changing incidents. It is a unique learning experience. There is going to be a lot of marital bliss and some inevitable arguments. All healthy relationships have difference of opinions also. The success lies in managing the differences and keeping the delicate balance of life. It is often said that marriages are made in heaven. I would like to add that heaven is made on earth for those in successful marriages.

A Tribute to the Feminine Spirit!

"The strength of women comes from the fact that psychology cannot explain us. Men can be analyzed, women... merely adored." - Oscar Wilde

She is a mother, a sister, a friend, a wife, a nurse, a nurturer and so much more. She has diverse talents and forges relationships with others. She can connect well and is emotionally sensitive to the needs of those around her. She is often lost in thoughts and has powerful dreams. She wins great praise with her feminine grace and gentle words. After all, she is a woman and she is not weak at all.

There were days when women were considered delicate. It is not so anymore since women have proved their mettle repeatedly. Traditional roles of women have slowly wilted and they now occupy the coveted spots in all spheres of life. Condoleeza Rice, the United States Secretary-General, advises the top executive of the United States. Her movements are fodder for the papparazzi and her words are resounded all across the globe. Oparah Winfrey, a celebrated talk-show host, won accolades for opening a school for the under-privileged children of South Africa. All eyes are set on Hillary Clinton, a US Senator, as she prepares to tackle the presidential election. These women exude the courage, determination, versatility and the humanitarian facets of the female personna.

Very few men can match the emotional-sensitivity and the warm nature of women. Most women can sense other people's difficulties without a single word spoken. This is an amazing intrisic trait of women that makes her excel in her traditional roles as wives, sisters, daughters and friends. Women in the medical profession use this innate ability to patiently care for the sick. Those in the teaching profession form strong bonds with the students to effectively guide and mentor.

Besides all this, women are clever and crafty. They are gifted with foresight and can see clearly through others intentions. This warm, charming but intelligent mix is a deadly but efficient combination. There is no question as to women being the "weaker sex" any more. The feminine spirit is unconquered and indomitable.

Here is a salute to women all over the world on "International Women's Day", a day dedicated in honour of the phenomenon called 'Woman'. All you need to do is just look around you to catch a glimpse of this amazing species. They are everywhere but conveniently blend into the background. Yet, they make their presence felt throughout with unparalled simplicity and kindness.

Fishing It Out!

We have all heard of the amazing health benefits of eating fish. The lean, flaky and delicious fish meat is supposed to be high in omega-3 fatty acids. It is also rich in Vitamin A, lowers the risk of heart attack and even contributes to intelligence. With so many benefits, fish seems to be a veritable treasure trove.

I was watching a programme on BBC the other day that outlined the beneficial aspects of eating fish. A few stressed-out London cabbies were asked to go on a high-fish diet. Their stress or hormone levels were monitored before and after the experiment. I was astounded to note that the stress levels of these cabbies decreased after just a couple of weeks on this diet. They responded better to customers and had improved tolerance to the agonizingly slow traffic in a busy city like London.

Although I am a hard-core non-vegetarian, I was never so interested in eating red-meat dishes. I come from a region where the people are fond of fish. I know that my maternal grand-mother and mother don't even eat meals properly without a dash of fish curry. We always had a variety of fish in our house and even had a long list of family favourites.

I got a new splurge of energy after watching that BBC programme and decided to add more fish dishes to our non-vegetarian diet. The names and types of fish are so strange and varied in the country where I currently reside. To add to the confusion, all the labels and descriptions are also in a foreign language. Therefore, selecting and buying fish is more of an adventure for me and includes researching species names, common names and cooking tips.

Last week, I managed to buy 'fillet de pangasius' and tried frying it with spices. The common name for this fish is 'Iridescent Shark' and is mainly used by the Vietnamese. Despite the name 'shark', Pangasius is actually a sort of Catfish. Pangasius fry was very tasty and I got bold enough to try something else this week. After careful deliberation, I selected "fillet de cabillaud" today. This is supposed to be 'Cod fish' and from what I have read, has a mighty tasty flavour. I am planning to make a traditional, spicy fish curry with this Cod fish.

Ofcourse, I use canned Tuna fish to make fish cakes quite frequently. I also stock up on frozen prawns to make a trade mark 'prawns in coconut milk' curry. So, I have been using some sea-food items in the past but I'm going to aggressively add to that list with more fresh fish dishes. If all the beneficial effects of consuming fish are true, I am certainly looking forward to a healthier and more intelligent me.

I am now concerned more about how to monitor for these changes. Will I become smarter, better equipped to deal with pressures and have high tolerance levels? Is fish really good for health or is it mere publicity? And more importantly, are favourable health changes more due to positive thoughts and reflections rather than dietary changes? I will surely find out soon after some tricky experimenting.

Always Connected!

It is now difficult for me to think of a time without the sleek and trendy gadgets that keep us connected all the time. We talk and chat using laptops, cells and palm-top devices while eating, sleeping, walking, driving and other activities. It is multi-tasking at its best and those who master this art are the most successful in today's fast-paced world.

The technology companies continously innovate to cater to the constantly-changing tastes of the people. It is a mad scramble amongst these companies to market the most tiny, fully-enabled gizmos. In the same way, we are over-enthusiastic to own these shiny gadgets regardless of how useful it will be for us. It is a matter of prestige to own the latest equipments and accessories. The companies target their advertisements on the youth because they are the most faithful consumers in this technology-crazy world.

I always wonder whether being connected all the time is really good for our lives. It surely has its benefits. The word 'global village' denotes the advances in information & communication technology. Time and distance are not a factor anymore. People telecommute to work everyday and that can bring considerable ease to the quality of life. Companies conduct business around the world from any location and business booms from this kind of networking.

Everybody has the power of knowledge since information dessimination is so easy over the internet. The internet is also relatively inexpensive and that increases the strength of this medium. It is possible to connect to any remote corner of the earth and communicate with anyone from anywhere. The internet is powerful, unique and is now a global phenomenon. Cell phones are a rage across nationalities and beyond race barriers. Everybody is connected and can be reached all the time.

It is hard to imagine that all this was a novelty just a few years ago. Land phones were most common and cordless phones were considered advanced. This was the time that people could conveniently slip-away for some solitude without any disturbances. There was a structure to life then since work was in office and did not follow into home. We concentrated on what we were doing at present and not on the blabbering over the phone. The family dinners were without the annoying mobile ring tones and mid-nights without the flickering monitor of the laptop.

Moving back to that leisurely life-style of yesteryears is not advisable or even possible now. Life is all too advanced and there is a formidable urge to be connected. The pros of communication technology definitely outweighs the cons. The increased reach of technology, information access, faster exchange of ideas and ease of conducting business make this boom worth the effort.

Sometimes, I think of those times when I had to wait patiently for hours for half an hour usage of internet. I also wonder about the slow and broken internet connectivity we used to have and it seemed like ages for a page to load. I remember the obsolete, bulky computers I used to practice in schools. I remember queuing infront of the public-phone booth for making that weekly call home while away in college. Then, I am puzzled to realize that it was all just a few years ago and so many changes have happened in very little time. It also dawns on me that technology is being updated at such a fast pace and that the future holds so many surprises and promises.