Day one — A visit to Montreal has been on my bucket list for decades, and finally, I went on a three-day trip to this marvelous city last week. Montreal is not only the second-largest city in Canada but also the second-largest French-speaking city in the world, after Paris. I wanted to go…

The metamorphosis from a Historian to a Poet — After spending 50+ years on the planet, I am just living for myself and enjoying every moment. I’ll like to call myself a student of life. Being born in an intellectually wealthy family in India’s most culturally diverse cities, Lucknow, gave me a clear perspective that knowledge leads to success…

Tweaked for dramatic effect — A multigenerational household paid keen attention to the development of children’s etiquette and mannerisms, especially the female child. She was taught to be presentable, pleasant, and non-confrontational at all times in the presence of the guests. At home, their father treated her like a princess whom he wanted to excel…

Heart over the mind — Picturesque landscape or a warm corner in a café-the heart wants both. Plush luxuries or cozy home-the heart craves both. Pretty fancy friends or solid friendships-the heart wants the latter. Passion for building one niche- the heart prefers the former. Perfect life that everyone wants or settling for contentment-the heart…

Productivity for self-growth — When I’m not teaching — I’m reading. When I’m not reading — I’m writing. When I’m not writing — I’m painting. When I’m not painting — I’m thinking. Reading connects me to brilliant minds. Teaching fulfills my life’s purpose. Painting lets me be creative. Writing soothes my soul. Where is…

A cat perspective — She’s back from her trip in good spirits. I’m a little annoyed to see her happy state, as I was expecting her to be miserable without me. Nearly seventy-two hours without me should have been devastating for her. I don’t like this at all, but I’m relieved to see her…

A cat perspective — I’m elated beyond words. Woo-hoo! She’s finally leaving me alone for a few days. Obsessive lovers just suffocate me, as I need some breathing space. In my opinion, one should have a life outside their romantic interest for intellectual and emotional growth. Not only that but if the absence makes…

Roots of solid friendship Scorching heat of the summer didn’t deter us from meeting every day. Scary vacant houses didn’t faze us in enjoying our evenings.| Sounds of laughter gave away our hideouts. Stories of our camaraderie shocked young and old. She was my connection to all the memorable things…