Will my story be an INDEX to yours?

My blog always holds a special place in me holding different flavors and experiences happened in my life!

So here is the post all about my professional career with my organization. Wanted this to occupy a space here which means a lot to me! 

As a part of 25 years celebration at my organization, there was a "Story Club" event organized by the company to come up with their experiences they had with the organization. I was one among the employee who had posted my story to them which was well received by my team and panel of judges. I am eagerly waiting to get this published soon in our "Coffee table book". Fingers crossed :) 

I am sure my readers will be able to get back to their own memories at their organization and think about what would be their contribution to their team and to their company!! I also hope that this will be an index to the readers who are looking out for a great future in IT. Good luck!

Happy Reading. Be & Bring the Change at your organization!!!

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19th July 2015, Sunday 7.30 AM

My clock’s alarm beeped for yet another time, after me snoozing it for the 5th time. (I am still wondering how did I count the snooze correctly with my half sleep, May be I was right at times :) )

I was precisely able to recollect what I was pondering in my thoughts over my night!

At 7.45 AM,

With a hot cup of filter coffee, with nature’s cool breeze matching the coffee’s aroma, at my ever beautiful veranda, with my diary beside me, I started to pen down my association with my organization. My day started beautifully!

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People are just like puzzle pieces in your life. You search and search for the right ones until you find the most suitable ones. You pick up a few that don’t fit, get frustrated and then place them back in the pile. A few of them fall on the floor, and you seemingly lose them forever at the point. But sometimes, a few PIECES just fit in. I was lucky to have seen those PIECES that fit in my life to groom me as a good IT PROFESSIONAL!

“Are you all excited? I could read your pulse”, was the phrase I heard from the Senior Manager - the head of our training department. It was on Dec 2009, where my career for IT started. Yes, I was put up into a domain, after my 15 days of basic training which every trainee would have undergone. It was indeed a happy moment, that I was able to put my step into my domain right after my graduation. It all happened from an email from HR representative for an off-campus drive. Siruseri was one such location, placed far away at the outskirts of Chennai city. With so much of thoughts about my career, fear in mind, ambition in heart, thirst and passion to learn and courage to take up responsibilities; I stepped into my organizatio. The campus looked huge with a promising hope. The tag line “XXXX” caught not only my camera lens, but also my dream to achieve.

It was a thoughtful and a memorable 15 days of basic training that laid the foundation of my career. The training presentations, Our own organization portals, external tutors, assessments, kept echoing into everyone’s ears. How could one forget the teachings from a tutor who was a ‘the jack of all trades’ person, it was indeed a great experience attending his sessions, for every minute Joy is assured along with some new learning. I was blessed to be a part of his teachings and it kept me busy grooming for the next step in the company. “Learning & teaching has no limit or limitations, it is endless & priceless”. My learning began in a very nice way by remembering these lines from my fav tutor.

My domain XXXX proudly laid the next best foundation in my profession. The 2 legends Mr.XXXX and Mr.XXXX headed the domain from Chennai. We (a set of 13 members) were fortunate to be a part of this boundless inspiring team. MOTIVATION was the word that I keep recalling when I think of horizontal every time. With such encouragement and inspiring talks around, everybody deserved “Pat on back” happiness, or a “good job done” phrase for the task accomplished from the team. Our horizontal competency took the responsibility of creating a talent pool where one can express their hidden talents too which was proved over in the day out – 2010. It was an outstanding & memorable event for all of us.

With diary in his hand, spectacles making him look very professional, neatly ironed formals, excellent communication, with a pleasing smile and attitude, a 55 year old man greeted all of us into a conference room. He was our resource pool head who handled us very smartly with so much of Hope and confidence. “Always carry a personal diary & pen” – was the first phrase he conveyed us. For me learning has never stopped and grasped that phrase. He started out briefing us about the domain and the prospective customers. He taught us even the simplest things that one should carry over in his/her profession. It was a great credit sharing our interests with him; he picked up the right person for the right job. I learnt to be more disciplined from him. One shares a good rapport with him for his humbleness. His writings as a blogger made me to start my OWN blog which I am thankful to him till date. His last day email and farewell party organized by our competency was the first thing I experienced after me joining Hex. Every person miss his presence, but proudly his learning’s have made an ink in my notebooks! Indeed little things make a big difference.

My voyage began from there on. I joined my XXXX team headed by an efficient person. I was taught about the insights of the XXXX concepts with a supportive team. We delivered all the projects on time with our proprietary tools and technologies. Interactions with competency from Mexico team gave us many ideas to innovative. Not to forget the delivery head of Mexico team, who was the pillar of strength to all of us. That was the time when our organization acquired another one which became subsidiary. We had to race against time and be workaholic at times. I had to face some tough hectic situations during my projects, however my colleagues made it easy with a positive note always. Their assistance was remarkable. They taught me how to handle the project with the smartest ways, how to tackle even the rudest customer, they taught the more you give, the more you will get in return (it is always with the teachings you become better), how to get delighted with your hectic schedules, how to be supportive with your peers, how to get self motivated, so on and so forth. Our team effort was simply amazing and we rocked in every project. Everyday learning made me to groom for my next level. An unforgettable experience was bringing up a Journal for our team with all our experiences foot-printed. I was given an opportunity to interact with several people across the competency, Delivery, Sales, HR and management. Everyone was unique in their own way. Their views about our team/projects made us to carry our voyage with a great confidence. This improved & proved my leadership skills with me handling a team for a healthcare customer. What I learnt from my senior colleagues made me to transfer to the people under my team. Learnt to experience the people management skill from there. Our team spirit blossomed and stood still. I was amazed with the rapport I had with my line managers and directors. This was the Greatest STRENGTH that one could see in our Organization. Where ever you are and whatever innovation you do, you will be always been motivated and encouraged to become a better professional. It is said – “Creativity is the ability to say things in an unusual way. Confidence is the ability to do things in an unusual way. Charismatic people can do both”. My close colleagues in the team had the genuine charisma in them. One of the great personal joys is having the opportunity to work with them and enjoy the electricity they generate in projects & demos. I learnt how to be charismatic. Participating in fun events, celebrating birthday parts, organizing certificate distribution event as a token of appreciation to the team etc. made our team stood strong. Our visit to OTA (officers’ training academy) for the “Passing out parade ceremony” showed us that practice makes a man not only perfect, but responsible too. The cadets stood to show a significant leadership skill that one could possess in any industry.  It was indeed an unforgettable day for me. One of the memorable moments was on Aug 2013, where I received a $100 gift card from customer along with great lines on my work in a greeting. It was a pleasant surprise and honor to receive it from the client. The greeting card had the signatures of stake holders from customer’s end with whom I had worked with. It touched my day and made me proud of myself.

Carrying a pleasant smile on his face always, Mr.Z was one such gift to the entire competency whose simplicity and humbleness stands worthy. Armed with such knowledge, he had set as an example to every person who joins into the team. My association with him was immense as I learnt many appealing things from him. His prompt replies to even the simplest emails you send across, his heartfelt wishes and encouraging words to your achievements, his passion to grow the team more, his interest towards table-tennis, his intention to correct and mold people in a right manner, his leadership skills which draws the attention, his people management was an endless learning, his trust and respect to others, everything made him to develop a winning team of 2000 members within us till date. I am proud to be one among them. “Be a PEOPLE’s PERSON” – was the phrase I learnt from him!

Years passed on, My passions towards learning new concepts never stopped, my writings were recognized in the form of newsletters and magazines, My interest towards sports were kick started again after my college days, My passion to do something for women employees was satisfied from women forum in my organization, My leadership qualities were proved with the recognition from management, all put together made my work place beautiful and interesting.

Everyone will look out for an enlightening exposure in their career, I was no such different. One such big moment was my first Onsite trip at my customer’s location as a reward for my work at offshore. It was the fall season, with new faces around me, high expectation being set to our project and team, with my self-confidence; I landed in customer's place to a different country than India. It was a 6 month engagement that was a turning point in my career. I kept this as my second innings for which I had to keep the expectations right in place. I was welcomed warmly at the customer’s place by my client QA manager. He was a very nice person, a kind customer who gives you the space to explore and bring up new things. This was the thing he liked more about our company and the association with us speaks for it. It has been a long standing relationship with touching the 4 years. I was blessed to be at Customer’s location. Engagement started out to be in a nice manner, we delivered the scope of the project on time, received compliments from customer for the team effort we did. The way I carried myself on the customer’s end made me to think that I had received something big in my career. Those simple accolades from the client made a move in my career. Assisting peers of the customer & satisfying them was the biggest challenge. The assignment was completed on time and it was time for me to continue the role from Offshore. This was something that owe to my organization who had provided me with an opportunity to travel. My company does not have customers, it has admirers. To my surprise, I was given a touching farewell party. The cake had its phrases “You will be missed; Have a safe trip”. Words from my customer “You brought such a joy to this Office” left my eyes wet with happy tears. I still cherish these lovely moments in my life. Small things come in big packages. These waves of nostalgia keep me alive.

I often think that we all are conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments, but great moments often catch us unaware – beautifully wrapped in what we may consider as small ones. There may be a lot of failures in our path, lot of pain and embarrassment knocking at our doors often, ego and politics would be the first things which we hear on entering the team, we don’t think to apologize for your mistakes even if it doesn’t hurt to admit your mistakes, at peak situations we lose our temper among peers, so on and so forth. However with all these, we still make every effort to build a living in our career, we still serve to deliver quality outputs, and we still look our customers with a pleasing email. At the end of the day I understood that there is always a lot of beauty to find on the other side :)

It is now been close to 6 years, since my journey began. There had been a lot of changes I had seen till date with respect to the competency and organization. Changes are always good and it’s the only thing which stays permanent. With raising engineering block constructions, a certified green campus, striving to be on top 10 charts companies, a GREAT PLACE to work certified, changes to vertical and horizontal, new employee benefits, our new CEO, so on and so forth. I wish my organization continue to endeavor to improve and get betterment among employees.

Many reminiscing events are to be continued in my upcoming days. Wish to taste it with a sheer confidence & hope. I was right enough to choose, start my career with my organization and fortunate to share my space with such wonderful people around.

It is going to be an endless journey for me. I am going to rediscover the joy of life. Do you? :)

Let my tale be an index to yours!!!!!!!

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At 9.00 AM,

Sipping my last bit of my coffee, I closed my diary keeping my pen aside. I felt a great satisfaction penning down my thoughts. Three is so much of joy in sharing, that abundant happiness does not equal to what you receive. May be a pinch of it would definitely help someone to mold a career in this organization!

I went inside my room and booted my laptop. Drafted the thoughts from Diary to Laptop. With a positive hope, I kept my cursor to hit on the SEND button from my official email id to “StoryClub@XXXX.com” :)

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P.S - Any details related to my organization have been hidden and marked with xxxx. There is no mention of any names or teams in the post.

Frozen Thoughts!

It was during Feb 2012 when I got so much addicted on reading to every phrase of a magazine called "Frozen thoughts". Now its popularly known as "Infinitheism or Infinithoughts". The founder/author of the magazine T.T.Rangarajan would have framed even the smallest piece so well that it keeps the readers glued to their seat!

I was one among those ardent readers of the magazine who never missed any edition of it. Be it either motivational quotes, stories of big shots, some tips for healthy life etc every section of the magazine would be colorful and interesting. Somewhere down the lane during that year, there was contest portraying the best poets who inks their thoughts on the magazine. I penned my thoughts and post it across with a great anticipation. Deep in my minds I thought and wished that I would be the lucky winner whose poem gets published in the next edition, however it did not happen and i was not one among those 3 poets. Even though I had little sorrow with my expectation went behind, I thoroughly felt happy in finding a good poet inside me!!

So here you go to read over my lines about the magazine. Extract from my Diary 2012 !! 

Hi Frozenthoughts,

Feels so glad and proud to be a part of FT. A heartwarming poem with my thoughts and phrases embossed, dedicated to FT. This says it all……. :)

Refreshing is the first word that comes into my mind when I think of Frozen thoughts,

As it has always been my best pal to complete my dots.

Awakening, Alma Matter, why meditation and what not, you truly create everywhere your presence, 

With so much of real feelings and beauty in your sense.!

It gives me a new spirit each day,

It brings me a great zeal and confidence to handle things that come in my way.

Sorrow or happiness; pleasure or pain; you are always in my journey;

From whom I never want to lose even it was a thousand penny..!

Its just not a book with words spelled,

Its just not a book with quotes marked,

Its just not a book with experiences shared,

But it’s a book, with thousands of thoughts written yet feelings are hidden..!

You make ones feel from ordinary to extraordinary,

You turn ones pain to pleasure,

You change ones negatives into positives,

With all these you truly stay in one’s heart and soul.

No matter what the situations were,

I knew for with me, you are always there!

As a best pal in my life..!!!

From the day I started reading FT, it truly keeps my energy in high spirit and gives me the confidence to face life and its challenges across. The illustrations, quotes, motivating speeches, etc in the magazine keeps me going each day. Each edition has its own flavor which keeps nourishing our thoughts and experiences. Every word penned in the FT is powerful and hits you straight in your mind and soul where one can take their learning’s from it. I take this opportunity to thank the whole unit of FT for rendering us with such a great way to taste the success via FT. Hats off to the team.!

I wish my journey with Frozen thoughts continues forever..!! 

Nostalgic :) when I think on how my writings have improved and changed over the years! With the saying goes "Practice makes a man perfect", I wish to continue my posts for a greater run. I would like to humbly thank all my readers for rendering very honest comments and feedback on all my posts until date. This keeps me going without fading away. Thank you for all the authors of the books and magazines which adds more flavor to my writing recipes! 

Read a lot. Learn a lot. Write a lot !! 

(There is no other such way to express yourself than holding your PEN) :)

A fresh start, A fresh venture :::: Welcoming 2016 :)

When was the last time you thought you were inspired by someone in life? Or have you ever dreamed of being an inspiration to someone in life? When was the last time you thought that you could play a tiny role in other's happiness? Or have you ever taken an initiative to boost up someone who was in a terrible situation? When was the last time you came out of your comfort zone to explore things? Your last travel made with your loved ones? Your last movie with your parents? Your last volunteered action? When was your most recent time when you learnt some new art or practicing super Yoga? When was your last time you made a point to talk to yourself to understand you better!!

With the New Year 2016 just began, With so much happening around us, I wanted to post my thoughts which can reflect to get answers to the those questions. Let's welcome this year with fresh beginning indulged in good deeds! 

Ask someone on their resolution list for the year, the common answer of “Not to make any resolution” beats up the top in the chart. Indeed its up to an individual to make his/her resolute LIST. However one among the list can be practiced and preached. Good or bad, sweet or sour, life has its own ups and downs with its own charm. Let us begin this year with great hope and confidence, with the trust that YOU can be a change in this world, your ideas can create actions, your tiny assistance to someone can make a huge difference, appreciate the good in someone and the list goes on. 

Here are few of my sketches of thoughts which can paint your 365 days!! I will be most happy if at-least one these 37 views of mine is taken into your plate. 

• Enjoy the moonlight with your parents over a dinner. Give a hug and be grateful for them for what they have done for you all along, of course they are your pillars of strengths!
• Appreciate the good qualities in your spouse, give your time and attention to him/her, the love and care you show is the most deserving thing you could give your spouse. Praise more and criticize less, you will never get back these days!
• Have a room for your children’s ambitions and goals. Go into their space and teach them life’s good values and principles, indeed your life becomes complete when they achieve great heights in life :)
• Allow your kids to grow up and be in their foot. Hold and walk beside them. Don’t judge them by ranks, judge them by the attitude and talent within them, Spend with them happily and enjoy the moments with them. This is the costliest thing with No Price Tag!
• Teachers play an important role in bringing up the children’s education. A black board puts a good foundation in a kid’s career. Practice teaching not alone theoretically but practically too
• Don’t be a hard worker, be a smart worker. Not all last benchers are losers and not all first benchers are achievers J it's the Kid's interest and curiosity to learn and pursue his career
• Avoid procrastination of your activities both at your personal and professional front, there can be no regrets once you lose it
• Welcome the opinions and beliefs of your well wishers. Take some time to think about it before you step out to make a decision
• Plan for a surprise gifts to your loved ones, make them feel that you are most important to them, make them think that you value their relationship the most. Good things comes in surprising packages!
• Trying hands on new stuffs and exploring the things around. Get out of your comfort zone!
• Volunteer for a cause and see the glow of happiness which helping hands can bring. As said, a candle does not lose anything when it lights up another candle!
• Make friends, who can subtract your sorrows and double your happiness
• Listen to good music which rejuvenates both your mind and body. It's good to shake your legs with the beats once in a while especially at festive season!
• Follow a periodic way at your career, plan your tasks, be a role model for your team, be a motivating lead and a good manager liked by all! Team work is a key to success in any organization
• Have a goal towards your life, strive hard to meet your ambitions
• Take a step towards your dream interest and have a strong belief that you can achieve it one day. Have a dream for yourself and work towards it, keep trying
• Understand the failures and the situations in it, you will definitely identify a great inner strength within you during that period
• Learn to overcome your problems with a great courage and simple solutions
• Appreciating yourself with a "self pat on back" when you taste success.Give a spot award to yourself when you think you have achieved something. Sounds interesting right?
• Experiencing the good times ahead and cherishing every moment around you
• Noticing the peace around the surroundings and staying clam at peak situations. The calmer you stay, the better it is for your heart and blood pressure
• Avoid as much as conflicts and arguments for tiny pieces, those kill your time. Try to be in others shoes!
• Take up a sport this year, dedicate 15 mins of your precious time to meditate and think about nothing. Doesn’t it sound appealing?
• Sleep well; take a nap when needed the most. Letting go of your worries for a short period is a huge benefit.
• Pick a hobby. Painting, photography, writing, gardening whatever it may be, making a time for the little things will go a long way in helping you ease out the bigger issues
• Practice a good diet and stay healthy. When you are at a good health, you are considered as the richest person in the world
• Drink plenty of water which nourishes your skin. Your physical appearance grooms your attitude at best!
• Donate food to the hunger who are starving without a drop of water, volunteer to give the primary benefits to the needy, spend some time at orphanage and old aged home, they are waiting for your presence by some means
• Learning the art of thanking every day which is a destiny’s gift. You are blessed today!
• Be a source of inspiration to someone in this world
• Be honest and trust yourself. Make more love and be kind towards your dear ones
• Bold is always beautiful, take a step on your courage and speak out your views
• Let's not take stress on what we can't control. Everything has a reason behind it and of course its going to be alright, may be not today but eventually 
• Put your prayers to God daily, if you’re a Theist (believer of existence of god)
• Do good and be good, be nice, for definitely you would get better results in life
• Always find time for the things that make you to feel alive and keep going, not everyone are blessed to be in this world, so be happy for it
• Lighten up your day with a great optimistic attitude. Life is all about passing each day with courage, hope and faith, definitely good things are at your door step! :)

Aim for happiness with your list of resolutions which can be a success mantra in your life!A fresh start has an infinite possibilities! 

Start creating your memories in a clean slate. Write your failures in sand which vanishes away in due course, and keep writing your success in a rock which stays with you where ever you go. Do your job and wait for success to knock at your door, don’t run behind it!

Life is about YOU and YOUR perspective of looking at it!! You are the best judge to decide it. Start on and rock on this year. May all of you have a memorable year to cherish this year. Have a blessed year :)

As the saying goes - "Learn from Yesterday, Live for Today, Hope for Tomorrow"

With all this, my resolution for the year is to explore and write more with a hope that it gets benefited to someone. I owe this list to my parents and sister, who stood beside me on all of my writings!

As always you don’t lose anything by reading this, definitely gain a pinch of conviction in you. Of course writings can make wonders :)

Disclaimer – These are purely my views to see life from a different stand. Any real life scenarios pointing to any of these or any one is purely coincidental.

Jai Ho Master Blaster - The God of Cricket!!!

Never I have seen such a love and care for a person until date. Neither none can replace his presence nor create history of his records.!

With so much of bliss and excitement, I am going to pen few thoughts of our own Sachin Ji - the god of cricket. My much awaited post has finally got into shape with master blaster's words and pictures. I hope you enjoy reading this and feel the pleasure of being a true Sachin FAN!!!! Of course this is going to be a lengthy post in my blog until date which I will cherish forever!! As a writer, with tears of joy and pride, I feel proud to share the greatness of SRT's words and rare pictures in my blog space. Go ahead and enjoy the Sachin Fever!! :)

The beauty of Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar is that the whole world opens up windows for him, the world sees themselves within him,they put in their energy for him along with their prayers, the words "Sachin Sachin" keep echoing within everyone when he lands in the ground, their bundle of joy comes in the form of Sachin when he hits a four or six, and what not one does for him. The entire nation comes in unison when he is in the field!!! 

Its a journey of a common man who dreamed big, stretched his arms towards the sky, underwent so much pain and obstacles, had a single goal to reach, his magnificent hard work and sheer dedication paved way to reach the summit of his own game Cricket. He became the God of cricket capturing several hearts. Uncountable sleepless nights, commitment towards the game, strive for game's hunger and his loyalty in the field gave him tears of his happiness to this Bharath Rathna master. His passion for the game speaks for it with thousands of records on his plate. He kept the ball rolling with his pure love for the game and nation. Sachin always wanted to do something big for the nation and that's when he stroked the chord of game. He kept the momentum going all along the way from his debut match on 1989. What an inspiration was he to others, what a role model he was, they were all tremendous! He is always been the HERO for budding cricketers and many others. 

Master blaster's life was documented in such a manner that people wanted to take many items from it. It was a sheer magic that the god of cricket just played his way which created his own landmarks to touch the mountain. He is always in the the right positive flamboyant with so much of excellence in his hands. A unique personality, a left hander practiced to be a right hand batsman, the universal mother of cricket, Sachin had always captured people's hearts. He is always lead by an example where ever he pitches in. His sportive attitude, his helping hands to create cricket associations to nourish the talent of young achievers, his willingness to showcase himself for worthy advertisements in television has moved many people especially kids. His tips to the team in the dressing room has been a pillar of success to many. It was a stepping stone for every Indian cricketer to build their career. Every applauds they get from Master blaster was a award winning to their budding career. Every lesson that Sachin Ji learns was shared with the team. His greatness and intensity to teach others and mark a stand for the team was remarkable. 

An absolutely amazing, 24 long years is just unbelievable. Anyone who had watched Sachin closely would have learned a very important lesson in life. There is no short cut in life, with the 2 four letter words Hard Work one can touch his goal in life. They are blessed to share the space with Master blaster and get his teachings in a relish. Sachin's magnitude and importance is that he is ever so willing to contribute to the team and nation which keeps his on his top.When Sachin plays whole world celebrates its with unison! The support from his fans and family was incredible. Sachin got his traits from his father which he carried throughout his journey. The relationship between cricket and his family was always been good and solid. He picked up what he was naturally good at and earned people's respect which came with a priceless tag!

True words from MS Dhoni on Master blaster- "I often think if cricket is ram, then Sachin is Hanuman. Ram's biggest disciple. There is nothing beyond SACH on a cricketing field"

On Nov 16 2013, the whole nation was drowned by the Emotional speech from SRT at Wankhede stadium (Mumbai). It was the day when he bid a good bye to his own Cricket. It was his retirement with his last test match.

Sachin's Emotional Farewell speech! Here are the reminiscing memories from the master blaster! 

"All my friends. Settle down let me talk, I will get more and more emotional (crowd gets louder as he composes himself). My life, between 22 yards for 24 years, it is hard to believe that that wonderful journey has come to an end, but I would like to take this opportunity to thank people who have played an important role in my life. Also, for the first time in my life I am carrying this list, to remember all the names in case I forget someone. I hope you understand. It's getting a little bit difficult to talk but I will manage.

The most important person in my life, and I have missed him a lot since 1999 when he passed away, my father. Without his guidance, I don't think I would have been standing here in front of you. He gave me freedom at the age of 11, and told me that [I should] chase my dreams, but make sure you do not find shortcuts. The path might be difficult but don't give up, and I have simply followed his instructions. Above all, he told me to be a nice human being, which I will continue to do and try my best. Every time I have done something special [and] showed my bat, it was [for] my father. My mother, I don't know how she dealt with such a naughty child like me. I was not easy to manage. She must be extremely patient. For a mother, the most important thing is that her child remains safe and healthy and fit. That was what she was most bothered and worried about. She took care of me for the last 24 years that I have played for India, but even before that she started praying for me the day I started playing cricket. She just prayed and prayed and I think her prayers and blessings have given me the strength to go out and perform, so a big thank you to my mother for all the sacrifices.

In my school days, for four years, I stayed with my uncle and aunt because my school was quite far from my home, and they treated me like their son. My aunt, after having had a hard day's play, I would be half asleep and she would be feeding me food so I could go again and play tomorrow. I can't forget these moments. I am like their son and I am glad it has continued to be the same way. My eldest brother, Nitin, and his family, have always encouraged me. My eldest brother doesn't like to talk much, but the one thing he always told me is that whatever you do, I know you will always give it 100%, and that I have full faith and confidence in you. His encouragement meant a lot to me. My sister, Savita, and her family, was no different. The first cricket bat of my life was presented to me by my sister. It was a Kashmir willow bat. But that is where the journey began. She is one of those many who still continue to fast when I bat, so thank you very much.

Ajit, my brother, now what do I talk about him? I don't know. We have lived this dream together. He was the one who sacrificed his career for my cricket. He spotted the spark in me. And it all started from the age of 11 when he took me to Archrekar sir, my coach, and from there on my life changed. You will find this hard to believe but even last night he called to discuss my dismissal, knowing that there was a remote chance of batting again, but just the habit we have developed, the rapport we have developed, since my birth, has continued and it will continue. Maybe when I'm not playing cricket we will still be discussing technique.

Various things we agreed upon, my technique, and so many technical things which I didn't agree with him, we have had arguments and disagreements, but when I look back at all these things in my life, I would have been a lesser cricketer.

The most beautiful thing happened to me in 1990 when I met my wife, Anjali. Those were special years and it has continued and will always continue that way. I know Anjali, being a doctor; there was a wonderful career in front of her. When we decided to have a family, Anjali took the initiative to step back and say that 'you continue with your cricket and I will take the responsibility of the family'.

Without that, I don't think I would have been able to play cricket freely and without stress. Thanks for bearing with all my fuss and all my frustrations, and all sorts of rubbish that I have spoken. Thanks for bearing with me and always staying by my side through all the ups and downs. You are the best partnership I've had in my life.

Then, the two precious diamonds of my life, Sara and Arjun. They have already grown up. My daughter is 16, my son is 14. Time has flown by. I wanted to spend so much time with them on special occasions like their birthdays, their annual days, their sports day, going on holidays, whatever. I have missed out on all those things. Thanks for your understanding. Both of you have been so, so special to me you cannot imagine. I promise you [that] for 14 and 16 years I have not spent enough time with both of you, but the next 16 years or even beyond that, everything is for you.

My in-laws, Anand Mehta and Annabel, both have been so, so supportive [and] loving and caring. I have discussed on various things in life, generally with them, and have taken their advice. You know, it's so important to have a strong family who is always with you and who are guiding you. Before you start clapping, the most important thing they did was allowing me to marry Anjali, so thank you very much.

In the last 24 years that I have played for India I have made new friends, and before that I have had friends from my childhood. They have all had a terrific contribution. As and when I have called them to come and bowl to me at the nets, they have left their work aside to come and help me. Be it joining me on holidays and having discussions with me on cricket, or how I was a little stressed and wanting to find a solution so I can perform better. 

All those moments my friends were with me. Even for when I was injured, I would wake up in the morning because I couldn't sleep and thought that my career was over because of injuries, that is when my friends have woken up at 3 o'clock in the morning to drive with me and make me believe that my career was not over. Life would be incomplete without all those friends. Thanks for being there for me.

My cricket career started when I was 11. The turning point of my career was when my brother (Ajit) took me to Achrekar sir. I was extremely delighted to see him up in the stands. Normally he sits in front of the television and he watches all the games that I play. When I was 11/12, those were the days when I used to hop back on his scooter and play a couple of practice matches a day. The first half the innings I would be batting at Shivaji Park, the second half, at some other match in Azad Maidan. He would take me all overMumbai to make sure I got match practice.

On a lighter note, in the last 29 years, sir has never ever said 'well played' to me because he thought I would get complacent and I would stop working hard. Maybe he can push his luck and wish me now, well done on my career, because there are no more matches, sir, in my life. I will be witnessing cricket, and cricket will always stay in my heart, but you have had an immense contribution in my life, so thank you very much.

My cricket for Mumbai started right here on this ground, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), which is so dear to me. I remember landing from New Zealand at four o'clock in the morning, and turning up for a game here at eight o'clock just because I wanted to be a part of Mumbai cricket, and not that somebody forced me. That was for the love of Mumbai cricket, and thank you very much. The president is here so thank you very much, along with your team, for taking care of me and looking after my cricket.

The dream was obviously to play for India, and that is where my association with BCCI started. BCCI was fantastic, right from my debut they believed in my ability and selecting me into the squad at the age of 16 was a big step, so thanks to all the selectors for having faith in me and the BCCI for giving me the freedom to express myself out in the middle. Things would have been different if you had not been behind me, and I really appreciate your support. Especially when I was injured, you were right with me and making sure that all the treatments were taken care of, and that I got fit and fine and playing [right] back for India.

The journey has been special, the last 24 years, I have played with many senior cricketers, and even before that there were many senior cricketers with whom I watched on television. They inspired me to play cricket, and to play in the right way. Thanks to all those senior cricketers, and unfortunately I have not been able to play with them, but I have high regards for all their achievements and all their contributions.

We see it on the mega-screen, Rahul, Laxman, Sourav, and Anil, who is not here, and my team-mates right here in front me. You are like my family away from home. I have had some wonderful times with you. It is going to be difficult to not be part of the dressing room, sharing those special moments. All the coaches for their guidance, it has been special for me. I know when MS Dhoni presented me the 200th Test match cap on Day One morning. I had a brief message for the team. I would like to repeat that. I just feel that all of us are so, so fortunate and proud to be part of the Indian cricket team and serving the nation.

Knowing all of you guys, I know you will continue to serve the nation in the right spirit and right values. I believe we have been the lucky ones to be chosen by the Almighty to serve this sport. Each generation gets this opportunity to take care of this sport and serve it to the best of our ability. I have full faith in you to continue to serve the nation in the right spirit and to the best of your ability, to bring all the laurels to the country. All the very best.

I would be failing in my duties if I did not thank all the doctors, the physios, the trainers, who have put this difficult body together to go back on the field and be able to play. The amount of injuries that I have had in my career, I don't know how you have managed to keep me fit, but without your special efforts, it would never have happened. The doctors have met me at weird hours. I mean I have called them from Mumbai to Chennai, Mumbai to Delhi, I mean wherever. They have just taken the next flight and left their work and families to be with me, which has allowed me to play. So a big thank you to all three of you for keeping me in good shape.

My dear friend, late Mark Mascarenhas, my first manager. We unfortunately lost him in a car accident in 2001, but he was such a well-wisher of cricket, my cricket, and especially Indian cricket. He was so passionate. He understood what it takes to represent a nation and gave me all the space to go out and express myself, and never pressurised me to do this ad or promotion or whatever the sponsors demanded. He took care of that and today I miss him, so thank you Mark for all your contribution.

My current management team, WSG, for repeating what Mark has done, because when I signed the contract I exactly told them what I want from them, and what it requires to represent me. They have done that and respected that.

Someone who has worked closely with me for 14 years is my manager, Vinod Nayudu. He is more like my family and all the sacrifices, spending time away from his family for my work, has been special, so big thank you to his family as well for giving up so much time for my work with Vinod.

In my school days, when I performed well, the media backed me a lot. They continue to do that till this morning. Thank you so much to the media for supporting and appreciating my performances. It surely had a positive effect on me. Thank you so much to all the photographers as well for those wonderfully captured moments that will stay with me for the rest of my life, so a big thank you to all the photographers.

I know my speech is getting a bit too long (crowd roars with 'noooo'), but this is the last thing I want to say. I want to thank all the people here who have flown in from various parts of the world, and have supported me endlessly, whether I scored a 0 or a 100-plus. Your support was so dear to me and meant a lot to me. Whatever you have done for me.

I know I have met so many guys who have fasted for me, prayed for me, done so much for me. Without that life wouldn't have been like this for me. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, and also say that time has flown by rather quickly, but the memories you have left with me will always be with me forever and ever, especially "Sachin, Sachin" which will reverberate in my ears till I stop breathing. Thank you very much. If I have missed out on saying something, I hope you understand. Goodbye."

2011 was yet another remarkable year for Sachin Ji. It was the winning moment and we got the cup aganist Sri Lanka at the Wankhede stadium. The stadium which has been lucky for the master blaster. 

Few lines from the Bharath ratna winner - "I am speechless, to be honest, to express myself and how I feel. This is by far the best moment. This is the moment I have been waiting for, for such a long time, 21 or 22 years. It is really worth every bit of it. It is really, really special," "As an Indian we have all won this cup. It's not just us 15 (in the squad) but the entire nation. The cup belongs to the entire nation so I am sure they are feeling part of it." "I felt it was extremely important to chase my dreams and my biggest dream was this. So I continued to chase my dream and here we go. The team has managed to win this cup for the nation," 

Of course he is been chasing his dreams and aiming to do more for the Nation. Now currently he is focussed at the "Cricket All stars T20" match at New jersy. USA. It is a great treat for the eyes to watch the master blaster in full form. Expectations are set high to see his innings yet another time. Jai Ho Sachin Ji!!

Rare pictures of our hero. Just loved making the collage which makes it more perfect!

 

Few lines from Sachin on the book "SACH" (Skill.Attitude.Committment.Honesty) from Gowtham Bhaathacharya,

• Its all about cricket, you have to adapt and adjust 
• Music helped me to keep my mind on the game.
• You have to work at your body to make it strong
• I was motivated enough on my own
• I was just doing what every indian is supposed to 
• I believe in destiny. To me everything that has happened in my life has been god s gift. 
• Asha Bhosle and Amitabh Bachan are the people who enjoy every moment of their creative lives. They dont want short cuts!
• Anjali is my pillar of strength always

Here you go Sachin, my phrases for you..!!!

# Finest sportsmen that I have adored of

#intense innings# twinkling star in the records of history 

# God of cricket # humble and dedicated human being

# Balances awards and criticisms# Role model for millions 

# Legendary Indian batsman# Marvelous motivator for many 

# A masterpiece among nations # Noteworthy matches in world's cricket

# Fantastic feathers in cap.!!

None can be a replacement for you and your contributions. Salute and Hats off to all that you have done to make us feel happy..!! Proud to be master blaster's true fan!

"Playing it my way" - an autobiography of Sachin Tendulkar marks a way for the young indians who strive to achieve their goal in life. Reserve your edition now to get the best in your life!! :)

To post a "Comment" from your mobile

Dear Readers, 

Of late I am receiving a trouble from many that there are unable to post a comment in my blog from their mobile. This does not happen often and also it is not consistent too. However for the readers who are facing this trouble, here is a solution. 

• Go to my blog and select the post where in you want to comment your thoughts
• Scroll down the page and you will see a link called "View web version". Click on the link and it will take you to the normal version of the post. 
• You will be able to comment right away using your email id. 

Note : This is applicable irrespective of people using "Andriod" or "Iphone".

Thank you so much for all your constant support and honest feedback on my posts. This keeps me moving on with variety of posts in my blog. A real happiness for a writer is nothing more than a "Pat on back" phrase from her readers :) 

Destiny's Desire!

A narration which touched me and made my belief more strong in destiny!

A lady took her 6 yr old son to a shopping mall on one evening. The mall noted to be the coolest one in the city with the most wanted showrooms in place. It was the Christmas eve and the mall was fully packed with colorful decorations. Everywhere it had phrases of “Merry Christmas” and “Happy new Year”. People exchanged wishes and gifts as they pass through each showroom. The mall had some special events and carnivals were going on. The celebrations was at its peak which created the happy mood among everyone. 

The little boy was fascinated by the whole ambiance around him. He loved every moment being with his mom in the mall. Unlike the other kids this 6 yr old boy seemed to be very nice. Carrying a little smile on his face with his cute dimples, he accompanied his mom patiently to every showroom. He was well behaved throughout the whole shopping with his mom. They enjoyed the events going around him which made the little boy to win some pleasant gifts. 

They halted in front of a textile showroom to get some dresses for both. As the lady was keen in selecting her dresses and matching accessories for herself, the boy was looking around the other decorations in the showroom. He was very innocent and smiled at every person who came in for their purchases. He kept himself engaged by playing some games inside the shop. The lady was relaxed and happily started selecting dresses to fill her’s and her son’s wardrobe J Noticing all this, the owner of the showroom was amazed. He was carried away with the innocent boy and his attitude. 

The lady was at the bill section to make her payment. She paid her amount and held her son's hand to leave. The owner halted them and smiled at the little boy. They exchanged a brief conversation with smiles. The owner offered him some candies as a take away. The little boy did not accept the offer and looked at his mom's face. The lady asked her son to take some candies from the jar, however the boy did not take. He smiled innocently in reply. How much ever the owner forced the little boy, he was little reluctant to take the candies from the store. Seeing his goodness and amazed by the little boy's behavior, the owner with full of happiness immediately held a hand full of candies, and gave them to the little boy wholeheartedly. The boy's hands were filled with those lovely candies and he was unable to carry them. He handed over to his mom and thanked the owner for the candies. He bid a bye to him and happily left the store. After they left the showroom, the lady asked her son with a grin - "You initially said NO for the candies my sweet heart, but later on, you accepted them when the owner gave you. Kids love them right? J " The little boy with a cute grin replied - "Mom, If I had taken the candies by myself I would have got very little, but when the owner gave me he gave me an hand full of candies which surprised and indeed made me happy!" The lady was awestruck with the response she got from her son. She tightly hugged her with a kiss. She thought how could a little boy ponder so much and how could she get such a smart reply from her son. His reply astonished the lady and made her blissful to the core. She thanked God for blessing her with an innocent yet intelligent son in her life. He has added a sweet flavor to her life!

The owner resembles the God here or the Destiny which we can relate too. If the little boy had taken some candies by himself, he would have got very little for himself, however when the owner gave him, it was huge for him. It was a great pleasure for the boy.  That's the Destiny's Desire in your life. It plays an important charisma in your life. 

In life at times, we wonder as why things are not falling in place as desired by us, why are we still in search of a single missing tile when we have ample of other tiles in the ceiling, why do we make ourselves worried when something is beyond our strength, why do we go in search for the ones which does not belong to us, why we ponder and brood over for the moments which did not turn out to be good, so on and so forth. For all this there is another way which Destiny might show us, which will bring us for good, which will show us a right way to go, which will teach us valuable lessons in life, which will make us mature than what we are at present, which will make us realize that life has its other end which is truly beautiful to enjoy, which will groom you as a wonderful person, so on and so forth . One day we would receive it to the core which we cant carry as the little boy who was unable to hold a hand full candies :) Let us wait for that precious moment which you would treasure it for lifetime. 

However this does not mean that we leave everything to destiny to chose for ourselves, it is our choice to strive and do the best. We definitely have to take risk and chance in life. (If you win, you can lead but if you loose, you can guide) Turning it to be good or bad is not in your hands, its purely destiny's desire to chose one among them. Strive hard to do your best in life, leave the rest to god/ destiny to take action upon it. Lets not brood over for the things which is not under control. You really cant put a Goal until the ball is in your court!

There are certain things which we really cant go beyond. So let's stay positive and enjoy every moment that come across in life. There is of-course a reason behind everything until then enjoy the beauty around you. Take the eccentric charm of  happiness around you. Let's practice and preach than just writing or reading it out. 

Love and help all until you have the courage and strength to do. A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle!

Disclaimer : The above narrated story is just an imagination. Any resemblance to the real person living or dead is purely coincidental.

When will you arrive ?

"Happy 5th Anniversary" wished the neighbor to the lovely couple Neha and Madhav.!

It was Neha's 5th wedding anniversary and she is in her thoughts recollecting the memories of the big day. Indeed those are the ones which everyone would love to cherish. At the age of 25, she got hitched and it has been an unforgettable 5 years since she began her journey as a responsible wife, respectful daughter in law and of course blossomed as a beautiful lady. Life has so many twists and turns and at times we never know as what is missing in our life, there comes this extra flavor to add into our life, so called the Marriage. Neha's life saw a new color with her companion being beside her to share her burden and double her joy.

As many of them, Neha & Madhav's wedding was an arranged marriage done in a remarkably well manner with the blessings of entire family. Life began at the D-Day, and as every girl Neha bid a bye to her family to step into a new house with Madhav holding her hands. Blessed were the couple as they got inclined with each other in-spite of their differences of opinions and tastes. Fights, Trust, Faith, Hope, Joy, Tears, Pain, Arguments, Jealousy, Patience, Secrets, Expressions, Care and indeed LOVE makes a real relationship. 

Days passed on as the couple found the beauty of each of their side. Life always comes with a bundle of joy and sorrow, as they take a roller coaster ride with ups and down. Neha's days were one such thing, Struggles and difficulties were knocking at her door very often, as she had to quit her job and travel with Madhav long way. Time flew as quickly as possible and monotonous life made Neha's life little boredom. However she kept growing and maturing her own way with lot of learnings in her plate. She learned to be independent her way possessing the inner strength. She made her own stand in the new world and was carrying herself pleasantly with ray of hope & patience. Learning never stopped in her as she tried to learn and try out different things in life. With Madhav always being stood at her side, she was able to pursue her 2 great passion Music & Photography. Madhav and Neha's wonderful memories were captured and both lead a pleasant life. They made to live every moment and marked their signature for themselves. 

With all these going on in their life, Neha and Madhav was still missing a tile in their ceiling so called as Family. They could not take their life as "What a perfect ceiling it is?", Every tile which gets counted in the ceiling makes its importance. The couple was missing an important tile in their family. They were struggling hard to get this most wanted tile in their life. With faith and trust, the couple awaited that destiny will bless them soon with a perfect ceiling. They never let each other down and this is what i call it as a "Made for each other".

Days passed on by with thoughts in mind and heart of the couple as what's next. With a strong faith, trust for each other, their much wanted prayers were answered. Their hope stood strong with that missing tile getting its place. Yes it all happened that moment when they heard the most precious phrase in life,,,

"Congratulations, Your are on your family way!" said the gynecologist to Neha & Madhav. This was the much awaited moment for the couple and Neha felt the most wanted flavor for her life was fulfilled, Yes its her Motherhood!!

Neha hugged Madhav, touched her belly with tears and asked her baby- When will you arrive? 

Our SLR lens is waiting to capture your first moment,

Our garden is waiting to blossom with colorful flowers to welcome your arrival, 

Our music of happiness is waiting to touch your feet as you step in our lives,

Our faith of hope is waiting to see you grow and watch the world at your feet, 

Our prayers with blessings are waiting to teach you what our parents taught,

Our joy is incomplete without you and it will turn endless when we see you. 

Bless us soon with your lovely hands. :-)

We are waiting to love you every moment, teach you every moment, protect you every moment, give you happiness and joy, share your sorrows, and watch you stepping in every new phase of your life. 

You complete us!

---- Your proud mom & dad. We love you our little sweet heart ! 

Madhav Kissed Neha and conveyed, "I am ready to shoulder the happiness of the little one along with my Love beside".

The couple seemed to be extra complete now with the third one joining their family! 

Life's graceful moments like this are the biggest treasures in our journey. Praise it with your small gestures, SMILE :) 

This is your beginning, Keep hoping and Keep going, every step you put into might be harder than what you have imagined, but don't stop, the view at the top is always Beautiful!!!

Disclaimer : The above narrated story is just an imagination. Any resemblance to the real person living or dead is purely coincidental.

In their shoes....

Why can't I envision myself as Vidya who taught me happiness is everywhere ? Should I learn from Vineet who says sky is not the limit to your dreams? Can I make my mind as Rahul who sees the world in a different perspective? 

These were a few questions which were haunting in my thoughts after reading the fiction manuscript “In their Shoes” by Dipen Ambalia. 

The book is a collection of well portrayed short stories narrated in a realistic way by the author. It is an attempt made by the author to give the readers an insight to view the world in the different eye. It is about how the world will look and feel like by being in the shoes of different people. 

Starting with the title of the book till its epilogue, the author has kept his readers interesting with a good amount of thought processing. He has tried to bring in up 13 characters who act to be your next door person, yet they are different. They see the whole world in a different perspective which we fail to do so. They take the best things in the world and presume to be owner of their life. It made me to think that the best in you or the happiness in you lives among yourself while we are searching for it everywhere and everyone. Every phrase from the book makes you to be in the shoe of the 13 protagonists. 

The ones which touched and kindled me to write this post are some of the characters like 7 year old Vidya, 77 year old man, a 24 year old mentally challenged girl etc. 

I am not going to pen down more of the book here or else you will lose the crisp of the thoughts which the author wants to share with the readers. Who knows, may be you are about to read your own account there as well. I am sure the stories will definitely take you to reality to visualize the world and its people from their angle. 

This is one of the finest book I have come across in the recent times. Thanks to the author for portraying the characters as its own.

What are you still waiting for, go rush to your favorite site and add that to your cart.! I guess “Good Reads” gives the readers a good offer on this book, go grab it up. Indeed it is a good read to start your day with.!! :-)

Signing off from an ardent book lover. Books are always special and best pal for any blogger.! 

In short, as the author says – “In their shoes is : By the ordinary, Of the ordinary & For the ordinary…!