The Chronicles of My Misadventures with Technology

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about myself, it’s that technology and I share a complicated relationship like that one couple in a sitcom who fight constantly but somehow end up together in the end. Let’s just say that if technology had a restraining order against me, I wouldn’t be surprised.

The Printer That Hated Me

My first skirmish with technology began in college with a printer. Ah, the humble printer, mankind’s cruelest invention. I had an assignment due in 10 minutes, and naturally, the printer decided it was the perfect time to go on strike. It blinked at me with its ominous red light, displaying an error code that might as well have been ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. After frantically Googling, restarting, and whispering sweet nothings into its paper tray, I finally managed to print the document. Only... it was upside down and backward. My professor now knows I can write essays and unintentionally create abstract art.

The Smart Home That Outsmarted Me

Years later, I decided to upgrade my home with "smart" devices. Big mistake. My smart speaker decided it was more of a stand-up comedian than a useful assistant. “Alexa, turn on the lights,” I’d say, and she’d respond with, “Sorry, I can’t find any lights connected to your account.” I live in a one-bedroom apartment, Alexa. You’re standing right there.

Then there was the time my smart fridge started sending me passive-aggressive notifications. “You’re out of milk again,” it beeped. I didn’t ask to be judged, Samsung.

The Social Media Catastrophe

Social media isn’t safe either. I once meant to DM my friend a funny meme but accidentally posted it to my story, which included my boss, my crush, and my overly concerned aunt who still doesn’t understand the difference between a like and a comment. Cue a flurry of messages:

• Boss: “Is this work-related?”
• Crush: “LOL, what even is this?”
• Aunt: “Are you okay? Do you need prayers?”

Deleting it only made me look guiltier, so now I just lean into the chaos.

The Time My GPS Turned Into a Saboteur

Technology’s greatest betrayal came in the form of my GPS. On a road trip, it decided that "shortest route" meant "bypass all civilization and take this sketchy dirt path." As I drove deeper into the woods, my GPS chirped, “You’ve arrived at your destination!” My destination was clearly NOT a field of cows, but thank you, Google.

Conclusion: The Final Laugh

Despite the constant misadventures, I can’t quit technology. It’s like an unreliable best friend who shows up late to your party but brings cake. Sure, it embarrasses me, frustrates me, and occasionally makes me question my life choices, but it also makes life entertaining.

And who needs peace of mind when you have hilarious stories to tell?

Who Wins?

 Who Wins in Life?

Life is a game that no one fully understands, yet everyone plays. Some seem to be born with an upper hand—wealth, connections, and a smooth road laid out before them. Others, however, must fight through darkness, hardship, and an endless cycle of struggles just to survive. But in the grand scheme of things, who truly wins?

The Weight of Struggles vs. The Lightness of Privilege

Does facing the biggest battles, one after another, make you small in the eyes of others? Society often measures success by visible achievements, not by the invisible wars fought in silence. But does enduring pain and coming out stronger not hold its own kind of victory?

On the other hand, does inheriting wealth and privilege make someone bigger? Is a life free of struggle a life well-lived? Can success, handed on a silver platter, truly feel fulfilling? Perhaps the real question isn’t who has it easier, but who finds meaning in their journey.

Winning and Losing, Do They Even Matter?

Life is fleeting—a bubble that can pop at any moment. If that is the case, does it even matter if we win or lose? Is the competition real, or is it just a construct we have built to give our lives direction? If life is impermanent, shouldn’t we focus more on how we live rather than what we accumulate?

Where Lies the Secret?

There is no universal answer, no single solution to winning at life. The secret, if there is one, lies in perception. The ability to smile despite adversity. The strength to remain kind despite pain. The courage to lead even when you feel lost. Winning is not about the absence of difficulties or the presence of wealth,it is about finding peace in your own existence.

How to Lead, How to Smile

The way forward is different for everyone. Some lead by example, some lead through inspiration, and some simply by being true to themselves. Smiling, despite everything, is an act of rebellion against the chaos. And maybe, just maybe, that is the only real victory there is.

So, who wins in life? Perhaps the one who stops measuring and starts living

-Love 
Lekshmi

Beyond Gender: A Universal Call for Liberation and Freedom

Feminism, traditionally viewed as a battle between genders, takes on a new dimension when reframed as a pursuit of universal liberation and freedom. Shifting the focus from comparisons with men to a broader quest for equal opportunities, feminism becomes a force for breaking societal constraints and promoting the personal and professional growth of all individuals.

Equality Beyond Gender:

Feminism, seen through the lens of liberation, advocates for dismantling restrictive structures not only for women but for everyone seeking freedom from societal norms. It strives for a society where individuals, regardless of gender, can break free from stereotypes and pursue their passions and aspirations without being confined by societal expectations.

Breaking Stereotypes:

Feminist ideology challenges and dismantles stereotypes, extending beyond gender-based expectations. True liberation involves breaking free from all preconceived notions that restrict personal and professional development. Men, too, face societal expectations that limit their authentic expression, and a feminist approach supports the freedom of all individuals to pursue their aspirations without constraints.

Intersectionality:

To address liberation comprehensively, feminism must embrace intersectionality. Recognizing the interconnectedness of different forms of discrimination, feminism becomes a movement advocating for the freedom and liberation of all individuals, transcending gender boundaries and acknowledging various aspects of identity.

Freedom in Professional Pursuits:

Liberation in professional pursuits requires dismantling gender norms and creating environments where individuals can thrive based on merit and capability. Both men and women should have equal opportunities, free from limitations imposed by societal expectations.

Embracing Emotional Freedom:

Societal expectations often confine individuals to rigid emotional norms. Feminism as a movement for liberation calls for breaking free from these emotional constraints, allowing everyone, regardless of gender, to express vulnerability without fear of judgment and to embrace a spectrum of emotions authentically.

Conclusion:

Reframing feminism through the lens of liberation and freedom makes it a universal movement that transcends gender boundaries. By focusing on shared struggles and promoting equal opportunities, feminism becomes a force for breaking societal constraints and fostering a world where everyone can achieve, grow, and live authentically. Embracing this inclusive perspective is crucial for creating a society where individuals are free to explore the vast possibilities of their own potential.

A Journey of Dreams from a Woman's Perspective

In a world where the echoes of empowerment and equality resonate louder than ever, the pursuit of liberation becomes an intimate and personal journey. As a woman navigating through the intricate tapestry of life, the concept of liberation transcends societal expectations and becomes a profound exploration of dreams, desires, and self-discovery.

Liberation is not merely breaking free from external constraints; it is about unraveling the layers of conditioning and expectations that have been woven into the fabric of our existence. For women, this journey often begins with a poignant realization, the understanding that dreams are not mere whims but powerful catalysts for personal growth and societal change.

Growing up, I was surrounded by a myriad of expectations and stereotypes, subtly ingrained in the collective consciousness. There was an unspoken script dictating the roles I should play, the dreams deemed acceptable, and the paths considered appropriate. Yet, as the world evolved, so did my perception of self and purpose.

The first whispers of liberation emerged from the depths of my dreams. Dreams that dared to challenge the status quo, dreams that refused to be confined within the limits set by others. I discovered the power of dreaming as a form of resistance, a rebellion against the predetermined narratives. Each dream became a step towards the uncharted territories of self-discovery, an exploration of the infinite possibilities that lay beyond the conventional boundaries.

Liberation, for me, is a continuous process of shedding the layers of societal expectations and embracing the authenticity of my desires. It is about recognizing that my dreams are not just individual aspirations but integral threads in the grand tapestry of collective progress. As a woman, embracing liberation means acknowledging the interconnectedness of personal dreams and societal transformation.

One pivotal aspect of this journey is the liberation of the mind. The shackles of self-doubt, societal judgment, and ingrained limitations are formidable barriers that often hinder the pursuit of dreams. Breaking free from these mental constraints requires courage and a profound sense of self-belief. It is a journey of unlearning and redefining, allowing oneself to dream without reservations.

In this pursuit, I found solace in the stories of trailblazing women who defied societal norms and shattered glass ceilings. Their narratives became beacons of inspiration, guiding me through the tumultuous waters of self-discovery. These women were not just dreamers; they were architects of their destiny, carving paths for themselves and future generations.

Liberation is not a solitary endeavor; it is a collective movement that gains momentum with every woman who dares to dream. Our dreams are not just personal ambitions; they are declarations of autonomy and statements of intent. In a world that is still learning to embrace the diversity of feminine dreams, each woman's pursuit becomes a revolutionary act, contributing to the dismantling of age-old stereotypes.

The journey of liberation also involves navigating the intricate balance between tradition and progress. It is a delicate dance between honoring cultural roots and forging ahead into uncharted territories. Embracing liberation doesn't mean discarding the essence of who we are; rather, it involves redefining traditions to align with the evolving narrative of women's empowerment.

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that liberation is not a destination but a continuous evolution. It is about embracing the fluidity of dreams, allowing them to shape-shift and transform as I grow. Liberation is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it is as diverse and unique as the myriad of women who embark on this transformative journey.

In the pursuit of dreams, there is an inherent responsibility to uplift others. Liberation is not a solitary triumph but a shared victory. As I chase my dreams, I am acutely aware of the ripple effect – the potential to inspire and empower those around me. Whether it's through mentorship, storytelling, or simply leading by example, each woman plays a crucial role in nurturing a culture where dreams flourish and liberation becomes a collective reality.

In conclusion, My journey of liberation from a woman's perspective is a tapestry woven with dreams, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of authenticity. It is about breaking free from the constraints that bind us and daring to dream beyond the prescribed limits. As women, our liberation is intricately linked to the liberation of society as a whole. In the vast landscape of dreams, we find not only our individual voices but also the collective roar of a movement that transcends boundaries, shatters stereotypes, and paves the way for a future where every woman's dream is not just celebrated but embraced as an integral part of the human experience.

-Love SP

Its Her Story

 In the tapestry of my life, my sister's story wove a brilliant and emotional thread that shimmered with the radiance of her achievements. It had always been about her, right from our childhood. From the earliest moments, I had heard tales of how my sister had made everyone around her proud. She was the embodiment of an ideal student, daughter, and sister. Eight years my senior, she was a prodigy in every sense of the word.

Let me paint a picture of her for you. She was tall, fair, and beautiful, with a steely resolve that shone through her smart, headstrong personality. Engaging in a conversation with her was no easy feat. She effortlessly dominated her academics, consistently ranking as the district topper in both science and math until her 12th grade. She pursued her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in engineering, earning recognition as one of the three Indians selected for a prestigious fellowship at Alabama University in the USA. But she didn't stop there.

Her academic journey continued with a Ph.D. in Aerospace from the renowned IIST in India, followed by a Postdoctoral Fellowship at IISC. However, amidst her academic triumphs, she navigated a parallel life filled with its own challenges, trials, and triumphs.

Let's rewind the clock and break her life into a timeline. But please indulge me as I weave in some assumptions, for this story is my perspective, cherished deep within my heart. She is my beacon of inspiration, someone I look up to for everything she has achieved and continues to accomplish.

For three decades, she maintained a consistent pursuit of academic excellence, as if it were a daily ritual. You might wonder about her personal life. This is where I implore you to pay close attention, for hers was not a life of unearned fortune. She faced hardships, but she fought valiantly to make things right. At the tender age of 24, as she embarked on her Ph.D. journey, she also embarked on the path to marriage. This chapter of her life wasn't smooth, with numerous challenges to overcome. Yet, together, she and her partner weathered the storms, continuously working to support and uplift each other.

Does she believe in love? Undoubtedly. Her truest source of comfort is my mother, but her son, my dear Kannan, personifies love in her life. He brought immeasurable beauty into her world and became her guiding light.

At the age of 33, she faced a harrowing diagnosis of Lymphoma, casting our entire family into a shadowy abyss. But we stood resolute, forging an unbreakable bond as we fought, cried, prayed, stumbled, and persevered together. During this challenging journey, I gleaned invaluable lessons I feel compelled to share:

• Life is ephemeral, and we know not when it will end. Pursue what brings you happiness and fulfillment.
• Understand the world around you, but never forget to understand yourself and protect your loved ones at all costs.
• Surround yourself with those who accept you for who you are. Spend less time conforming to others' expectations.
• Love yourself, care for your body, explore the world, protect your dignity, and savor the beauty of life between birth and death.
• Offer guidance only when asked, and fear not speaking your truth while respecting your values.
• Some events in life are beyond our control, and the universe operates by its own mysterious rules.
• Belief in something greater than ourselves can provide strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

Returning to her journey, my sister endured a year of grueling chemotherapy sessions, with hospitals becoming her unwelcome second home. Needles punctuated her days, and her physical strength waned. But her indomitable spirit and radiant smile persisted. She drew strength from within and relied on the unwavering support of her loved ones.

She fought with unparalleled determination, and in the 12th month of her diagnosis, a miraculous pet scan opened the door to a semblance of normalcy. She took her time to heal, replenishing her body and soul with newfound realizations and experiences. With her son Vasu by her side, she returned to us and embraced life once more.

During this period, she received news of her appointment as a professor of Aerospace at IIST, an achievement she had pursued even during her sixth chemotherapy session and a week before her second biopsy. It was a dark time for our family, but her resilience shone through.

Later, she was recognized for her contributions to the Chandrayaan 3 satellite launch mission, a project she had worked on even during her battle with cancer. What an extraordinary woman she is! I am grateful to have her as my sister, though I had never wished to see her endure tears and mysteries. Now, she has emerged as one of the strongest people I know, second only to our mother.

One profound lesson I would like to leave you with is this: When you've stared death in the face and emerged victorious, not even death can intimidate you anymore.

To my adorable and most beautiful sister Dr. Parvathi (Paroooo)

-Love
Ammu

Freedom Is Free For All

While I feel it, I also understand there is something that has been changing tremendously. In the early 20th century, women around the world began to taste independence in ways they never had before. With the suffragette movement gaining momentum, women were beginning to gain the right to vote and have a say in the political landscape. This newfound freedom also extended to the workplace, where women were beginning to take on jobs that were once reserved for men.

As women gained more independence, they also began to challenge traditional gender roles and societal expectations. They began to demand equal pay and access to education and fought for the right to make their own choices about their bodies and their lives.

While in the 1960s and 1970s, the feminist movement gained even more momentum, with women pushing for equal rights in all areas of society. They fought against discrimination and harassment and worked to shatter the glass ceiling in male-dominated industries.

Today, women continue to taste independence in new ways, with many holding high-powered jobs, running successful businesses, and making their voices heard in politics and beyond. While there is still much work to be done in achieving true gender equality, women have come a long way since the early days of the suffragette movement, and continue to push for progress and change.

Change is a constant, but still, the static thought of a bigger section is slowing down the process of equality in terms of freedom and equity in terms of various aspects of life. I see this is a slow and steady growth, while I live in the freedom of my choice I wish to see it all around me as well.

Some thoughts?

-Lekshmi

Letter To My Heart

This is an open letter to my heart because she seems to have gone on vacation for some time now since 2022 was overwhelming in many ways for her. But the way 2023 started, she is in demand. Hence sending her a letter because she is a bit old fashioned, a lot classy, and mildly dramatic.

To my heart,

I wanted to take a moment to express my appreciation and gratitude for all that you do for me. You are the driving force behind every beat and pulse, providing life and energy to every cell in my body.

You have been through so much with me, from the joys and triumphs to the sorrows and struggles. You have never given up on me, even when I doubted myself and my abilities. You have always been there to remind me of my strength and resilience.

You have also been a source of love and connection, bringing me closer to the people and things that matter most to me. You have helped me to feel, to empathize, and to understand the depth and beauty of human emotion.

I know that sometimes you may feel tired or overwhelmed, and I want you to know that I am here to take care of you. I promise to eat well, exercise regularly, and avoid anything that might harm you. I will also try to reduce stress and find ways to relax, so you can work at your best.

Thank you for everything that you do for me, heart. I am so grateful to have you by my side, and I will always be here for you. Also, it's important to remember that everyone makes mistakes and that it's possible to learn from them and grow as a person. Giving yourself a second chance is a courageous and mature step to take, and it's important to be kind and forgiving towards yourself. It's natural to feel scared or unsure about falling in love again after a difficult experience, but it's important to remember that love is a beautiful and powerful force that can bring great joy and happiness into your life.

Remind yourself that you are worthy of love and happiness and that it's okay to take a chance on yourself and others again. If you find yourself struggling with fear or anxiety about giving yourself a second chance, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor who can help you work through your feelings.

Indeed, I promise to take care of you in 2023 and always. I will make sure to listen to your needs and address any concerns that you may have. I will strive to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, getting regular exercise, and managing stress. I will also make sure to surround myself with positive and supportive people who bring joy and happiness into my life. I will continue to nurture our relationship and make sure to always show you love and affection. Together, we will create beautiful memories and live a fulfilling life. I love you.

With love and appreciation,
Lekshmi