"Forces of evil on a bozo nightmare
Ban all the music with a phony gas chamber
’cuz one’s got a weasel and the other’s got a flag
One’s on the pole, shove the other in a bag
With the rerun shows and the cocaine nose-job
The daytime crap of the folksinger slob
He hung himself with a guitar string
A slab of turkey-neck and it’s hangin’ from a pigeon wing
You can’t write if you can’t relate
Trade the cash for the beef for the body for the hate
And my time is a piece of wax fallin’ on a termite
who's chokin’ on the splinters"
( "Loser" - Beck)
Monday, July 09, 2007
Monday, May 07, 2007
Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish
The following is an article from Time magazine. It is about Steve Jobs and his inspiring speech at a commencement ceremony in Standford University in June 2005. Three stories, three messages. Read on...
-------------------------------------
Commencement Addresses tend to be pleasant and forgettable. But the speech that Steve Jobs delivered at Stanford University in June is still being talked about as the summer winds down. In his address, the CEO of Apple Computer and Pixar Animation Studios shared three life lessons, and they struck a powerful chord- not only with Stanford’s graduating class but also with tech cognoscenti in Silicon Valley and beyond, who have posted his words on websites, discussed them on blogs and passed them, email to email, around the globe. In case you missed it, we reprint Jobs’ address here, with his permission, in it’s entirety.
I am honored to be with you today at your commencement from one of the finest universities in the world. I never graduated from college. Truth be told, this is the closest I’ve ever gotten to a college graduation. Today I want to tell you three stories from my life. That’s it. No big deal. Just three stories.
The first story is about connecting the dots. I dropped out of Reed College after the first six months, but then stayed around as a drop-in for another 18 months or so before I really quit. So why did I drop out?
It started before I was born. My biological mother was a young, unwed college graduate student, and she decided to put me up for adoption. She felt very strongly that college graduates should adopt me, so everything was all set for me to be adopted at birth by a lawyer and his wife. Except that when I popped out, they decided at the last minute that they really wanted a girl. So my parents, who were on a waiting list, got a call in the middle of the night asking: “We have an unexpected baby boy; do you want him?” They said,” Of course. “My biological mother later found out that my mother had never graduated from college and my father had never graduated from high school. She refused to sign the final adoption papers. She only relented a few months later when my parents promised that I would someday go to college.
And 17 years later I did go to college. But I naively chose a college that was almost as expensive as Stanford, and all of my working class parents’ savings were being spent on my college tuition. After six months, I couldn’t see the value in it. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and no idea how college was going to help me figure it out. And here I was spending all the money my parents had saved in their entire life. So I decided to drop out and trust that it would all work out okay. It was pretty scary at the time, but looking back, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The minute I dropped out I could stop taking the required classes that didn’t interest me and begin dropping in on the ones that looked interesting.
It wasn’t all-romantic. I didn’t have a dorm room, so I slept on the floor in friend’s rooms. I returned Coke bottles for the 5-cent deposits to buy food with, and I would walk seven miles across town every Sunday night to get one good meal at the Hare Krishna Temple. I loved it. And much of what I stumbled into by following my curiosity and intuition turned out to be priceless later on. Let me give you one example.
Reed College at that time offered perhaps the best calligraphy instruction in the country. Throughout the campus every poster, every label on every drawer was done in beautiful hand calligraphy. Because I had dropped out and didn’t have to take the normal classes, I decided to take a calligraphy class to learn how to do this. I learned about serif and sans serif typefaces, about varying the amount of space between different letter combinations, about what makes great typography great. It was beautiful, historical, artistically subtle in a way that science can’t capture, and I found it fascinating.
None of this had eve a hope of any practical application in my life. But ten years later, when we were designing the first Macintosh computer, it all came back to me. And we designed it all into the Mac. It was the first computer with beautiful typography. If I had never dropped in on that single course in college, the Mac would have never had multiple typefaces or proportionally spaced fonts. And since Windows just copied the Mac, it’s likely that no personal computer would have them. If I had never dropped out I would never have dropped in on this calligraphy class, and personal computers might not have the wonderful typography that they do. Of course, it was impossible to connect the dots looking forward when I was in college. But it was very, very clear looking backward ten years later.
Again, you can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in you future. You have to trust in something – your gut, destiny, karma, and life, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.
My second story is about love and loss. I was lucky I found what I loved to do early in my life. Woz and I started Apple in my parents garage when I was 20.We worked hard , and in ten years Apple had grown from just the two of us in a garage into a $2 billion company with over 4,000 employees. We had just released our finest creation – the Macintosh – a year earlier, and I had just turned 30.And then I got fired. How can you get fired from a company you started? Well, as Apple grew we hired someone who I thought was very talented to run the company with me, and for the first year, or so things went well. But then our visions of the future began to diverge and eventually we had a falling-out. When we did, our board of directors sided with him. So at 30 I was out. And very publicly out. What had been the focus of my entire adult life was gone, and it was devastating.
I really didn’t know what to do for a few months. I felt that I had let the previous generation of entrepreneurs down – that I had dropped the baton as it was being passed to me. I met with David Packard and Bob Noyce and tried to apologize for screwing up so badly. It was a very public failure, and I even thought about running away from the Valley. But something slowly began to dawn on me – I still loved what I did. The turn of events at Apple had not changed that one bit. I had been rejected, but I was still in love. And so I decided to start over.
I didn’t see it then, but it turned out that getting fired from Apple was the best thing that could ever have happened to me. The heaviness of being successful was replaced by the lightness of being a beginner again, less sure about everything. It freed me to enter one of the most creative periods of my life.
During the next five years, I started a company named NeXT and another company named Pixar, and fell in love with an amazing woman who would become my wife. Pixar went on to create the world’s first computer animated feature film, Toy Story, and is now the most successful animation studio in the world. In a remarkable turn of events, Apple bought NeXT, I returned to Apple, and the technology we developed at NeXT is at the heart of Apple’s current renaissance. And Laurene and I have a wonderful family together.
I’m pretty sure none of this would have happened if I hadn’t been fired from Apple. It was awful-tasting medicine, but I guess the patient needed it. Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith. I’m convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You’ve got to fin what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to live what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. And like any great relationship, just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don’t settle.
My third story is about death. When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like “If you live each days as if it was your last, someday you’ll most certainly be right.” It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself, “ If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” And whenever the answer has been no for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.
Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything- all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure – these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.
About a year ago I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a scan at 7:30 in the morning, and it cleanly showed a tumor on my pancreas. I didn’t even know what a pancreas was. The doctors told me this was almost certainly a type of cancer that is incurable, and that I should expect to live no longer that three to six months. My doctor advised me to go home and get my affairs in order, which is doctor’s code for “Prepare to die.” It means to try to tell your kids in just a few months everything you thought you’d have the next ten years to tell them. It means to make sure everything is buttoned up so that it will be as easy as possible for your family. It means to say your goodbyes.
I lived with that diagnosis all day. Later that evening I had a biopsy in which they stuck an endoscope down my throat, through my stomach, and into my intestines, put a needle into my pancreas and got a few cells from the tumor. I was sedated, but my wife, who was there, told me that when they viewed the cells under a microscope the doctors started crying, because it turned out to be a very rare form of pancreatic cancer that is curable with surgery. I had the surgery and I’m fine now.
This was the closest I‘ve been to facing death and I hope it’s the closest I get for a few more decades. Having lived through it, I can now say this to you with a bit more certainty that then death was a useful but purely intellectual concept: No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don’t want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life’s change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now he news is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.
You time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma-which is living with the results of other people s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other s opinions drown out your inner voice. And most importantly have the courage to follow your heart and intution. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.
When I was young, there was an amazing publication called The Whole Earth Catalog, which was one of the bibles of my generation. It was created by a fellow named Stewart Brand not far from here in Menlo Park, and he brought it to life with his poetic touch. This was in the late 1960s, before personal computers and desktop publishing, so it was all made with typewriters, scissors, and Polaroid cameras. It was sort of like Google in paperback from, 35 years before Google came along: It was idealistic, and overflowing with neat tools and great notions.
Stewart and his team put out several issues of The Whole Earth Catalog, and then when it had run it s course, they put out a final issue. It was the mid-1970s, and I was your age. On the back cover of their final issue was a photograph of an early-morning country road, the kind you might find yourself hitchhiking on if you were so adventurous. Beneath it were the words:” Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.” It was their farewell message as they signed off. Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish. And I have always wished that for myself. And now, as you graduate to being anew, I wish that for you.
Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.
Thank you all very much.
-------------------------------------
Commencement Addresses tend to be pleasant and forgettable. But the speech that Steve Jobs delivered at Stanford University in June is still being talked about as the summer winds down. In his address, the CEO of Apple Computer and Pixar Animation Studios shared three life lessons, and they struck a powerful chord- not only with Stanford’s graduating class but also with tech cognoscenti in Silicon Valley and beyond, who have posted his words on websites, discussed them on blogs and passed them, email to email, around the globe. In case you missed it, we reprint Jobs’ address here, with his permission, in it’s entirety.
I am honored to be with you today at your commencement from one of the finest universities in the world. I never graduated from college. Truth be told, this is the closest I’ve ever gotten to a college graduation. Today I want to tell you three stories from my life. That’s it. No big deal. Just three stories.
The first story is about connecting the dots. I dropped out of Reed College after the first six months, but then stayed around as a drop-in for another 18 months or so before I really quit. So why did I drop out?
It started before I was born. My biological mother was a young, unwed college graduate student, and she decided to put me up for adoption. She felt very strongly that college graduates should adopt me, so everything was all set for me to be adopted at birth by a lawyer and his wife. Except that when I popped out, they decided at the last minute that they really wanted a girl. So my parents, who were on a waiting list, got a call in the middle of the night asking: “We have an unexpected baby boy; do you want him?” They said,” Of course. “My biological mother later found out that my mother had never graduated from college and my father had never graduated from high school. She refused to sign the final adoption papers. She only relented a few months later when my parents promised that I would someday go to college.
And 17 years later I did go to college. But I naively chose a college that was almost as expensive as Stanford, and all of my working class parents’ savings were being spent on my college tuition. After six months, I couldn’t see the value in it. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and no idea how college was going to help me figure it out. And here I was spending all the money my parents had saved in their entire life. So I decided to drop out and trust that it would all work out okay. It was pretty scary at the time, but looking back, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The minute I dropped out I could stop taking the required classes that didn’t interest me and begin dropping in on the ones that looked interesting.
It wasn’t all-romantic. I didn’t have a dorm room, so I slept on the floor in friend’s rooms. I returned Coke bottles for the 5-cent deposits to buy food with, and I would walk seven miles across town every Sunday night to get one good meal at the Hare Krishna Temple. I loved it. And much of what I stumbled into by following my curiosity and intuition turned out to be priceless later on. Let me give you one example.
Reed College at that time offered perhaps the best calligraphy instruction in the country. Throughout the campus every poster, every label on every drawer was done in beautiful hand calligraphy. Because I had dropped out and didn’t have to take the normal classes, I decided to take a calligraphy class to learn how to do this. I learned about serif and sans serif typefaces, about varying the amount of space between different letter combinations, about what makes great typography great. It was beautiful, historical, artistically subtle in a way that science can’t capture, and I found it fascinating.
None of this had eve a hope of any practical application in my life. But ten years later, when we were designing the first Macintosh computer, it all came back to me. And we designed it all into the Mac. It was the first computer with beautiful typography. If I had never dropped in on that single course in college, the Mac would have never had multiple typefaces or proportionally spaced fonts. And since Windows just copied the Mac, it’s likely that no personal computer would have them. If I had never dropped out I would never have dropped in on this calligraphy class, and personal computers might not have the wonderful typography that they do. Of course, it was impossible to connect the dots looking forward when I was in college. But it was very, very clear looking backward ten years later.
Again, you can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in you future. You have to trust in something – your gut, destiny, karma, and life, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.
My second story is about love and loss. I was lucky I found what I loved to do early in my life. Woz and I started Apple in my parents garage when I was 20.We worked hard , and in ten years Apple had grown from just the two of us in a garage into a $2 billion company with over 4,000 employees. We had just released our finest creation – the Macintosh – a year earlier, and I had just turned 30.And then I got fired. How can you get fired from a company you started? Well, as Apple grew we hired someone who I thought was very talented to run the company with me, and for the first year, or so things went well. But then our visions of the future began to diverge and eventually we had a falling-out. When we did, our board of directors sided with him. So at 30 I was out. And very publicly out. What had been the focus of my entire adult life was gone, and it was devastating.
I really didn’t know what to do for a few months. I felt that I had let the previous generation of entrepreneurs down – that I had dropped the baton as it was being passed to me. I met with David Packard and Bob Noyce and tried to apologize for screwing up so badly. It was a very public failure, and I even thought about running away from the Valley. But something slowly began to dawn on me – I still loved what I did. The turn of events at Apple had not changed that one bit. I had been rejected, but I was still in love. And so I decided to start over.
I didn’t see it then, but it turned out that getting fired from Apple was the best thing that could ever have happened to me. The heaviness of being successful was replaced by the lightness of being a beginner again, less sure about everything. It freed me to enter one of the most creative periods of my life.
During the next five years, I started a company named NeXT and another company named Pixar, and fell in love with an amazing woman who would become my wife. Pixar went on to create the world’s first computer animated feature film, Toy Story, and is now the most successful animation studio in the world. In a remarkable turn of events, Apple bought NeXT, I returned to Apple, and the technology we developed at NeXT is at the heart of Apple’s current renaissance. And Laurene and I have a wonderful family together.
I’m pretty sure none of this would have happened if I hadn’t been fired from Apple. It was awful-tasting medicine, but I guess the patient needed it. Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith. I’m convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You’ve got to fin what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to live what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. And like any great relationship, just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don’t settle.
My third story is about death. When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like “If you live each days as if it was your last, someday you’ll most certainly be right.” It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself, “ If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” And whenever the answer has been no for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.
Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything- all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure – these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.
About a year ago I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a scan at 7:30 in the morning, and it cleanly showed a tumor on my pancreas. I didn’t even know what a pancreas was. The doctors told me this was almost certainly a type of cancer that is incurable, and that I should expect to live no longer that three to six months. My doctor advised me to go home and get my affairs in order, which is doctor’s code for “Prepare to die.” It means to try to tell your kids in just a few months everything you thought you’d have the next ten years to tell them. It means to make sure everything is buttoned up so that it will be as easy as possible for your family. It means to say your goodbyes.
I lived with that diagnosis all day. Later that evening I had a biopsy in which they stuck an endoscope down my throat, through my stomach, and into my intestines, put a needle into my pancreas and got a few cells from the tumor. I was sedated, but my wife, who was there, told me that when they viewed the cells under a microscope the doctors started crying, because it turned out to be a very rare form of pancreatic cancer that is curable with surgery. I had the surgery and I’m fine now.
This was the closest I‘ve been to facing death and I hope it’s the closest I get for a few more decades. Having lived through it, I can now say this to you with a bit more certainty that then death was a useful but purely intellectual concept: No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don’t want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life’s change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now he news is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.
You time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma-which is living with the results of other people s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other s opinions drown out your inner voice. And most importantly have the courage to follow your heart and intution. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.
When I was young, there was an amazing publication called The Whole Earth Catalog, which was one of the bibles of my generation. It was created by a fellow named Stewart Brand not far from here in Menlo Park, and he brought it to life with his poetic touch. This was in the late 1960s, before personal computers and desktop publishing, so it was all made with typewriters, scissors, and Polaroid cameras. It was sort of like Google in paperback from, 35 years before Google came along: It was idealistic, and overflowing with neat tools and great notions.
Stewart and his team put out several issues of The Whole Earth Catalog, and then when it had run it s course, they put out a final issue. It was the mid-1970s, and I was your age. On the back cover of their final issue was a photograph of an early-morning country road, the kind you might find yourself hitchhiking on if you were so adventurous. Beneath it were the words:” Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.” It was their farewell message as they signed off. Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish. And I have always wished that for myself. And now, as you graduate to being anew, I wish that for you.
Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.
Thank you all very much.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Thursday, April 12, 2007
York - Sightseeing & Sightpeeing.
I visited York day before with a couple of friends. It was just a day trip. Quick run through of what we did :
Caught the 9.29 am train to York. The Midlandmainline website had apparently provided wrong information. I had read that the 9.21 to York would take only 46 mins, but when we reached the train station...there was no 9.21 and the 9.29 took 1 hr 20 mins. Did not matter though, I had a good chat with co-passengers.
Reached York at 10.53 am. I had noted the time. I led my friends through to the Travel Centre mistaking it to be the Visitor Centre. Well, I realised my folly when all I could see were train time tables and queues. So, we came out saw the Visitor Centre , walked in, gathered brochures, spoke to the advisor. So now we had a list of places to visit. We were on our way.
First stop, The Wall, no ..not Rahul Dravid. According to history, Romans built a wall around the city of York. Basically, it was their most important city in that part of England. It was a fortress and had an administrative centre as well. Anyway, back to the wall. It runs round the city and is really well maintained. We walked along the wall, along Leeman Road and soon reached a Tower. I guess this was where the tower gaurds sat and drank, cracked jokes etc. We took some snaps there and then, walked down the stairs towards the river. River Ouse it was. One of my friends had the crazy idea of pissing in the river. Well, hold on. Not exactly pissing. I am sure you might have done this once in your life. He took out his bottle and with his back towards us and facing the river he squeezed water out of the bottle. For a person who was on the street..it looked like my friend was pissing. Job done. Took a few snaps, got some ice-cream, and then ventured forward. A little bit of sightseeing and a little bit of sightpeeing.
Next stop, York Minster. Nope, not Westminster. Its a cathedral and it is Norman style. It started out as a small barracks + cathedral, built by the Romans. It was strategically placed and the Romans loved it. They had about 5000 soldiers in and around the small cathedral. Of more importance is the fact that Constantine the Great was proclaimed the Emperor of the Romans right here in Yorkminster. He was at York with his father, the Emperor when the Emperor passed away. Constantine was made king and as the years passed he became the Constantine the Great, and he did some great things indeed. Anyway, Yorkminster can be split into three parts if you plan to visit it.
Firstly, the Cathedral itself...we paid 7.50 pounds to get in and have a look at all the three parts. That is with student discount. The Cathedral is quite posh and nice to look at. There are some nice seats and if you are tired of walking, there is always place to sit. For more serious readers, there are some brilliant mural paintings on the windows dating back to 1310. If I am not wrong, the construction of the whole place was finished in the 14th or 15th century. The intricacy and architecture is worth seeing. The place has a calm and nice feeling about it. We took a guide..they come free. But our guide was very boring, and he took a long time. We had just one day, so we gave him the slip. We had a look at the place ourselves, tried to appreciate the beauty, kissed the pope's head and made our way to the Undercroft.
The Undercroft. You can guess that by the words Under we had to walk down a flight of stairs with a pair of earphones. It was cool because, you could press start on the small gadget and this voice would start playing. The voice explained what to do and for the next half hour it explained various parts of the Undercroft. The tour starts with an explanation of where we are and why the Cathedral was made, right from the Roman time. After the Romans left, the Anglo-saxons rebuilt on the same site and created a new Cathedral. This was then expanded by the Normans later on. The tour also talks about the various people who helped build the cathedral and the construction methods used. There is also a drainage system underneath the Yorkminster which we can have a look at in one section of the tour. The tour of the Undercroft ends with a quick walk through the Crypt, where the artifacts and personal possessions of the various Archbishops of England are kept. I enjoyed the Undercroft tour because you had the choice of stopping the audio commentary, have a look at some artifacts, then press play and hear the voice continue. It was great.
Lunchtime. We walked out way to a Pizza Hut, but decided against eating there and rightly so. If we have come to York, its better to eat something different and maybe some local shop...not boring old Pizza Hut again! So we found this nice italian place, ordered paninis and drank some coke. The local indigenous food of Fish and Chips etc was not what we wanted. The hot steaming paninis was really tasty and the chips were what you expected. The waitresses and waiters were Italian or Spanish, so we would occasionally hear Graci, Beuno sera etc.
Yorkminster Tower. A flight of 275 steps. An extremely narrow path, spiralling towards heaven. There were three of us, and each decided to count the steps while going up the stairs. Unfortunately, I lost count after 25. We all did. The walk up the stairs was tiring and we needed to stop at regular intervals. Do not doubt our stamina, it was just the fact that the space was so narrow, that you had to walk keeping one eye on the stairs, one eye on the person in front of you, one hand on the wall, and one eye on the camera. I have a third eye. We reached the top and were not dissapointed. The view was fantastic but it felt like we were in a cage. There was a net enclosing the walking areas but there were large enough gaps at regular intervals to take a proper picture. I clicked many pictures and we spent about 15 minutes on top. Oh yeah, there was a lady who vomitted upon reaching the top. I guess it was her idea of leaving some indication or signature of her having made the ascent. We started our descent and were determined to get the counting right. 1....5...10...20...24..."What's 25 +1 ?" 25...26....28..The guy in inverted commas was my friend who was trying his best to distract us. He cracked some of the silliest jokes ever which resulted in three people laughing continuously and then sitting down on the stairs. Yeah, and holding up the concerned people above us. We made the landing safely though.
Clifford's Tower. Not worth it. 2.30 pounds down the drain. It is just a tower and that is what is left of the Clifford Castle. There wasn't much to see and not much history either. There was a poster inside the tower of who used to stay in the castle. Not worth a mention.
18.00 hrs. We walked along the crowded streets and made our way to the National Rail Museum. BUT it had shut for the day. Bad timing. We eventually made our way to the River again and sat on one of the benches. Just chilled for an hour. We then made our way to the train station at around 7.30 and caught the 8 pm train back to Sheffield.
An enjoyable day trip. Walking through the streets and exploring places is always more fun. Very peaceful and beautiful city. I had a good break. It's back to work now.
So...when are YOU visiting York?
Saturday, March 24, 2007
It's great that we live in a life surrounded by material objects. These are things that can be replaced. These are things that we choose to buy or borrow and keep so that we can live in style. Sometimes we get them because it is a necessity. We are also in a great position to choose our friends, whom we like/dislike etc. We can choose what life we lead, what we want to study etc.
But we cannot choose our family.
The family cannot be replaced. You cannot choose your brother or your parents. They cannot be replaced. These are the people who will never let you down. So never let them down. Love your sibling and cherish every moment you spend with them, whether it is a fight or sharing a joke moment. You share a special connection with your sibling, realise it and keep it strong.
Try to make it as strong as possible, because you never know what may happen in the future. He/she will be gone and then all you will be left with are photos, videos and memories. The times you fought, the times you laughed, the times you hated each other...they will keep haunting you.
Only Time can heal, so let it. A person cannot be replaced, so forget it.
But we cannot choose our family.
The family cannot be replaced. You cannot choose your brother or your parents. They cannot be replaced. These are the people who will never let you down. So never let them down. Love your sibling and cherish every moment you spend with them, whether it is a fight or sharing a joke moment. You share a special connection with your sibling, realise it and keep it strong.
Try to make it as strong as possible, because you never know what may happen in the future. He/she will be gone and then all you will be left with are photos, videos and memories. The times you fought, the times you laughed, the times you hated each other...they will keep haunting you.
Only Time can heal, so let it. A person cannot be replaced, so forget it.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Ponder (refer to "Analyse this")
- A Bubble is round because it is the most energy efficient configuration for it to exist in and hence attains stability. It has a minimum energy surface. For more details..ask some science kid or your proffesor.
- Yeah, blinking is same as winking with two eyes at the same time. Only difference is that the person you are winking (blinking??) at will not realise...so why do it? Just a thought.
- The parallel universe theory has not been proved. If anyone has seen the movie K-Pax that person will agree with me. As Prot (Kevin Spacey) tells Dr. Mark Powell (Jeff Bridges) in the end, the universe will expand and then contract. It will then expand again and then contract again. This cycle will continue....FOREVER.
What we must realise is that, we as human beings will keep making the same mistakes we make in our lives over and over again in each cycle. It is upto us to change that and rectify our errors. It is we who decide how we lead our lives.
So, it doesn't really matter whether parallel universes exist. It is what you do in this life that makes a difference.
- Manholes are round because they no matter which way you try to put the lid back on the manhole, ..it always fits perfectly. Imagine a rectangle manhole. There are so many possibilities of placing the lid the wrong way. Infact, if you put it vertically ie. the shorter side facing downwards....the lid will just go right through the hole. With a circle that is not possible. Full marks to the reader who answered this correctly :) .
- Why are girls so complex? They are not the only ones. We are all complex. No one knows why we are complex but we do know that we are complex. Is this getting too complex? No? That's cool.
- Yeah, blinking is same as winking with two eyes at the same time. Only difference is that the person you are winking (blinking??) at will not realise...so why do it? Just a thought.
- The parallel universe theory has not been proved. If anyone has seen the movie K-Pax that person will agree with me. As Prot (Kevin Spacey) tells Dr. Mark Powell (Jeff Bridges) in the end, the universe will expand and then contract. It will then expand again and then contract again. This cycle will continue....FOREVER.
What we must realise is that, we as human beings will keep making the same mistakes we make in our lives over and over again in each cycle. It is upto us to change that and rectify our errors. It is we who decide how we lead our lives.
So, it doesn't really matter whether parallel universes exist. It is what you do in this life that makes a difference.
- Manholes are round because they no matter which way you try to put the lid back on the manhole, ..it always fits perfectly. Imagine a rectangle manhole. There are so many possibilities of placing the lid the wrong way. Infact, if you put it vertically ie. the shorter side facing downwards....the lid will just go right through the hole. With a circle that is not possible. Full marks to the reader who answered this correctly :) .
- Why are girls so complex? They are not the only ones. We are all complex. No one knows why we are complex but we do know that we are complex. Is this getting too complex? No? That's cool.
We are complex because of our actions and thoughts. We have emotions. Too many sometimes. And now I am talking like I know everything in this world. Why did I just write what I wrote? Because I felt like answering a question. ----> Why? I don't know, it's complex.
(My apologies to the reader who thought this question was too gender biased. I agree that it is, so I am sorry)
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I had to write this in the blog. I saw Norbit on saturday. Don't you ever watch it.
I went with my friends to the cinema hall with no particular movie in mind. We reached Odeon and we had to choose between Norbit, Ghost Rider or Becoming Jane. No one was really sure of which movie to watch, so people were saying they want to watch GhostRider, but they do not mind Norbit etc.
I didn't want us to waste anymore time, so I told my friends that if no one is sure of what to watch, lets watch Norbit. BIG MISTAKE.
I spent 100 minutes of my precious time in boredom. It was supposed to be a comedy but all I could laugh at was Eddie Murphy who plays Norbit/the wife/ Mr. Wong. She is called Rasputia!!! She is humungous. She has flab and fat all over her body. She is ugly.
Thandie Newton comes in trying to rescue the film but she fails. Cuba Gooding Jr. has a short role and is ok.
I got the feeling that Eddie Murphy was trying to show off his acting skills and his impresseive chinese accent. The movie is funny in parts with the best scene coming in the middle, when Rasputia shows that she is no chicken when it comes to having fun on a water slide. Imagine 500 pounds of fat coming at you from the top of a looooong water slide. You cannot? Good, don't even try to. It is totally stupid. Stupid Stupid Stupid...and I cannot believe Eddie Murphy was allowed to release this movie.
No wonder, it has a rating of 2.8 at IMDB. ( http://imdb.com/title/tt0477051/ )
I do not think I will ever be forgiven by my friends for taking me on the most boring 100 minutes of their life. It was even boring than normal uni lectures!!. But, mistakes happen. Norbit? It should be renamed to a definite..No hit.
Finito.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Friends, Football and Decisions
Pic left side(l to r) : Nobu, Himanshu, me, Brishni. Pizza Pronto. As we sat there waiting for our pizzas, each one came up with some of the best impersonations ever. Ofcourse, as a 3rd person you will not understand what we are talking about or who we are impersonating. But, it was hilarious...and we laughed so hard. Good times. These are the little things that you will remember the most once you graduate and leave Uni life. So I am recording it all on video and photographs.
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Arsenal 1 - 1 PSV Eindhowen (1-2 Aggregate)
And with another lapse of concentration, Arsenal FC is out of another tournament. It's becoming a habit now. We play attractive football, create chances but when the chances come we don't score. Arsenalitis - The condition of a football team which creates chances and wastes them.
The situation was worsened with Thierry Henry (in the picture to the left) breaking something in his body again leading him to be ruled out of the season. To be more precise, he damaged his stomach and groin muscles.
It's been a strange season. A season which started with high hopes is ending with a 'Welcome back to reality' sign hanging over our heads. The possible reasons for the 2nd season in a row with no silverware. And yet, some of these are also the positives that have come to light. Read on.....:
Most of the players are young and are going through the learning process. The first team that got us through to the Champions League final last year still had veterans like Pires, Bergkamp, Lauren, Ljungberg playing as well as Campbell playing in patches. With age comes experience and consistency, which the likes of Senderos, Flamini, Djourou, Clichy and Walcott will learn. To be a better player and a better team one has to go through both the hard and good times. That is football. Fact.
Injuries. Yes, a few niggles here and there are fine. But, the same players getting injured again and again is not something very common. This only means that players were being rushed back. Gallas and Henry being the most prominent cases. We have a big enough squad so injuries cannot be an excuse. And yet, it is partly due to the injuries to key personnel at the crucial junctures in the season, that the season has turned out the way it has. With all our best players on the pitch, we have shown and will continue showing that we are equal if not better than the best in the league and maybe Europe.
Luck. You make your own luck. Cut back to the Arsenal v Manchester United game at the Emirates. The goal Van Persie scored was lucky.It was a great finish and an almost poachers goal. He ran for the ball, he wanted the ball, he wanted to score. And yet, if Henry had not miskicked or misplaced his shot we may have not even won the game. You want luck, you make it. The same applies for bad luck. Yes, there are somethings in this world you cannot control, but if you want the luck then you have to work for it. Fact.
Stability. A stable team is a winning team. A stable team is a happy team. If players keep coming and leaving...it is difficult to maintain that team spirit which is required to win titles. An example is Manchester United, with the only entry in the summer being Michael Carrick if I am not wrong. We lost Ashley Cole,Pires, Lauren, Bergkamp, Campbell, Reyes all at the same time. Bergkamp...the stabiliser, the man with the killer pass. Gallas, Baptista and Rosicky have had mixed seasons and we have never had the same starting line up for god knows how many games. Stability breeds success. Fact.
There might be many more reasons for the downfall of the once great Invincibles. But, we have to believe in this squad. We have to believe in Wenger. Of course, he has to be blamed for his mistakes as well. But, we have to believe. Hope and belief. This will be a more stable team next season. The Best always learn from their mistakes. We seem to be committing the same mistakes again and again. But, hey...we will learn. Everyone makes mistakes. Let's get on with the season and finish it off on a high.
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Last but not the least, I have decided to stop writing poems....... temporarily. To all my fans, I have realised lately that people get bored reading my poems. There is nothing wrong with the readers, but in fact with my poetry. It is too vague, similar topics, and needs something different. So I am taking a break and you can live again. I shall make a comeback with fresh ideas and better rhymes.Monday, March 05, 2007
Analyse this
Analyse this:
-Why is a soap bubble round?
- Isn't blinking the same as winking, using both eyes at the same time?
- If parallel universes do exist, why worry? You must be definitely in a much better position in some other universe. Or maybe worse??
- Why are manholes always round?
- Why are girls so complex?
-Why is a soap bubble round?
- Isn't blinking the same as winking, using both eyes at the same time?
- If parallel universes do exist, why worry? You must be definitely in a much better position in some other universe. Or maybe worse??
- Why are manholes always round?
- Why are girls so complex?
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
There's Something About Mary
And she should get new clothes
maybe add some flair..
She looked at me with fury
and did something quite contrary
And told me that she liked my hair!
I was sitting right beside her
My eyes they looked inside her
and I tried to turn away
from that stare..
I got up in a second
A story I was makin
A tale that would get me
out of there!
She sprang up like a spider
and I was suddenly right beside her
She tried to make the sweetest face..
But I was now much the wiser
I felt our gap go wider
and the chance to run was almost there.
Yet there was something about Mary
that made me tell this story
She was my honey and I was her Bear..
So, I took her to the church
and kissed her on the porch
And a little house on the hills we shared.
We had one boy, one girl
We named them Tom and Pearl
and saw their future
before us unfurl.
They grew up to be famous
and gave us two a boost
But there was something about Mary
that made the kids never forget their roots.
Now, I feel we are old and dry
a couple of fish ready to fry
Our life we feel has been complete
a few regrets yes, but mostly replete..
Yet,I look at Mary now
and her eyes still have the glow
There is Something about Mary
that makes our river flow.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Get Busy Living, or Get Busy Crying
"If you are going through hell, just keep going" - Walt Disney
Monday(19th Feb)
Went to Uni with a fresh mind and a new resolve. I was determined to work hard on my project and to finish as much as I can in this week. Only 4 weeks left. I had lots to do. Started working in the lab at 9.30 am and went on till 3.30pm. Not at a stretch but with a lecture inbetween and a small lunch break. I listened to my favourite tracks as I worked on my circuit and work went well. However, I was dismayed to find my PCB not working. Maybe, I worked hard but in the wrong direction. Well, it was a good day's work anyway. I returned home by 17:00 and had dinner, read a bit and slept.
Tuesday(20th Feb)
I went to Uni with a new resolve and set to work on my project again. I had scheduled a meeting with my group members at 10:00. I had a thorough discussion about each members objectives and their progress. Things looked good with each of them except for mine. I was the project leader so it was a bit embarassing but hey..every one has his/her bad day. I then left for a lecture and got engrossed with the professor's head. The shine on the bald head(top) was a constant distraction and I soon lost what he was trying to say. I just copied what he wrote on the board while I thought about cracking a head on the prof's head. What will crack first? The egg or his head?
The day ended with me in the lab again with my head restin on my hands and my PCB looking kaput. The evening began on a good note with a football game on TV. Arsenal v PSV Eindhowen, Champions League. I had to leave midway for my friend's treat. The treat was for him getting an internship in Corus(steel company). We had a jolly good time, by jove with my first pint of Carling. It was yuck and bitter. I will never have it again. I couldn't really refuse the drink as I thought I would give it a shot. I felt a bit tipsy...yeah I know 1 pint n all...but couldnt help it. Once I was out of Bar One and walking I felt better. I think I laughed a lot and when I say lot, I mean a LOT! A few friends of mine imitated some profs and a few characters..it was hilarious. I couldn't stop. I slept at around 1am and had a good sleep.
Wednesday(21st Feb)
I had a lecture at 9 am, so I had to get up early and rush. I missed breakfast and reached the lecture theater just in time. It was a 2 hr lecture but finished in 1 and a half so I could go to the IT Centre and check my email. I shall fastforward to 1pm when I had my weekly project meeting with my supervisor. It was a rude wake up call with the supervisors telling me to start showing some results and get something ready for testing. This basically meant that I had to get my PCB(sorry..PCB- Printed Circuit Board) working properly. I also had to build two more circuits and so I had a loooooong way to go. And with only 3 and half weeks left, I was in deep shit and it was smelling bad. I was quite disheartened actually and I suddenly felt under severe pressure. The meeting ended at 2pm sharp as my supervisors had to rush off to an examiners meeting.
I made my way to the IT Centre and checked my email. I saw that Citigroup, the company I had an interview with the week before had sent an email. "We at Citigroup were impressed with your achievements and activities. However, there was a stiff competition and it was impossible to choose everyone. It is regret that we inform you that you have not been successful this time. We wish you good luck with your career and future".
That was great, and very touching. They also added that I could call up the next wednesday for feedback. I think I will and find out what went wrong because I thought it went well. I'll be frank and say that I was quite dejected. I was supposed to go for a basketball session with my friends but I ended up going to my room and falling flat on my bed. The rest of the day and evening was the usual. I was chatting with my cousin online and told her about this and how dejected I was. I ended up fighting with her..haha, but apologised later. I was really down.
Thursday(22nd Feb)
I woke up and decided that I am going to make this a good day. I attended lectures, got into the lab. My circuits failed me again and I was clueless. I spoke to a few professors who had no time to meet me. I spoke to a few friends who suggested a few things to do. It helped but not as I expected. Later in the day I went to meet my supervisor to get my exam marks. I thought I had done well, but no..I mean it was not a bad result but it was not a first class. I got a 64.4% overall. But the worst was yet to come. My supervisor told me that my expected grade in my project was 2.2(50-60%). I was shocked..I mean I knew I was struggling but this low!
Friday(23rd Feb)
I was in the lab the whole day. I met one of my supervisors for advice. He had no clue about what to do with the circuit and said that he will have to check the circuit himself. He gave me a few tips of what to do about the other things. I worked till 5.30 pm and was still unsuccessful. Pretty shite. My other supervisor did not have the time to meet me. Not surprised really, I guess thats how the way it is.
Saturday, Sunday
Relaxed and prepared for my interview with another company. Its on wednesday 28th Feb. Lets see. Arsenal FC lost to Chelsea FC in the Carling Cup final played at Cardiff. 1-0 up with Theo Walcott scoring his first in Arsenal colours before succumbing to 2 goals by Didier Drogba. "Football, ..Bloody Hell!" (Sir Alex Fergusson). A sad ending to a bad week.
Self pity? Feeling down? Things not going according to plan? Shit Happens?
Who knows how the next week is going to go....good/bad/so-so?
And then it keeps hitting me...
Shit Happens...Grin, bear the stench and clean it!!
Monday(19th Feb)
Went to Uni with a fresh mind and a new resolve. I was determined to work hard on my project and to finish as much as I can in this week. Only 4 weeks left. I had lots to do. Started working in the lab at 9.30 am and went on till 3.30pm. Not at a stretch but with a lecture inbetween and a small lunch break. I listened to my favourite tracks as I worked on my circuit and work went well. However, I was dismayed to find my PCB not working. Maybe, I worked hard but in the wrong direction. Well, it was a good day's work anyway. I returned home by 17:00 and had dinner, read a bit and slept.
Tuesday(20th Feb)
I went to Uni with a new resolve and set to work on my project again. I had scheduled a meeting with my group members at 10:00. I had a thorough discussion about each members objectives and their progress. Things looked good with each of them except for mine. I was the project leader so it was a bit embarassing but hey..every one has his/her bad day. I then left for a lecture and got engrossed with the professor's head. The shine on the bald head(top) was a constant distraction and I soon lost what he was trying to say. I just copied what he wrote on the board while I thought about cracking a head on the prof's head. What will crack first? The egg or his head?
The day ended with me in the lab again with my head restin on my hands and my PCB looking kaput. The evening began on a good note with a football game on TV. Arsenal v PSV Eindhowen, Champions League. I had to leave midway for my friend's treat. The treat was for him getting an internship in Corus(steel company). We had a jolly good time, by jove with my first pint of Carling. It was yuck and bitter. I will never have it again. I couldn't really refuse the drink as I thought I would give it a shot. I felt a bit tipsy...yeah I know 1 pint n all...but couldnt help it. Once I was out of Bar One and walking I felt better. I think I laughed a lot and when I say lot, I mean a LOT! A few friends of mine imitated some profs and a few characters..it was hilarious. I couldn't stop. I slept at around 1am and had a good sleep.
Wednesday(21st Feb)
I had a lecture at 9 am, so I had to get up early and rush. I missed breakfast and reached the lecture theater just in time. It was a 2 hr lecture but finished in 1 and a half so I could go to the IT Centre and check my email. I shall fastforward to 1pm when I had my weekly project meeting with my supervisor. It was a rude wake up call with the supervisors telling me to start showing some results and get something ready for testing. This basically meant that I had to get my PCB(sorry..PCB- Printed Circuit Board) working properly. I also had to build two more circuits and so I had a loooooong way to go. And with only 3 and half weeks left, I was in deep shit and it was smelling bad. I was quite disheartened actually and I suddenly felt under severe pressure. The meeting ended at 2pm sharp as my supervisors had to rush off to an examiners meeting.
I made my way to the IT Centre and checked my email. I saw that Citigroup, the company I had an interview with the week before had sent an email. "We at Citigroup were impressed with your achievements and activities. However, there was a stiff competition and it was impossible to choose everyone. It is regret that we inform you that you have not been successful this time. We wish you good luck with your career and future".
That was great, and very touching. They also added that I could call up the next wednesday for feedback. I think I will and find out what went wrong because I thought it went well. I'll be frank and say that I was quite dejected. I was supposed to go for a basketball session with my friends but I ended up going to my room and falling flat on my bed. The rest of the day and evening was the usual. I was chatting with my cousin online and told her about this and how dejected I was. I ended up fighting with her..haha, but apologised later. I was really down.
Thursday(22nd Feb)
I woke up and decided that I am going to make this a good day. I attended lectures, got into the lab. My circuits failed me again and I was clueless. I spoke to a few professors who had no time to meet me. I spoke to a few friends who suggested a few things to do. It helped but not as I expected. Later in the day I went to meet my supervisor to get my exam marks. I thought I had done well, but no..I mean it was not a bad result but it was not a first class. I got a 64.4% overall. But the worst was yet to come. My supervisor told me that my expected grade in my project was 2.2(50-60%). I was shocked..I mean I knew I was struggling but this low!
Friday(23rd Feb)
I was in the lab the whole day. I met one of my supervisors for advice. He had no clue about what to do with the circuit and said that he will have to check the circuit himself. He gave me a few tips of what to do about the other things. I worked till 5.30 pm and was still unsuccessful. Pretty shite. My other supervisor did not have the time to meet me. Not surprised really, I guess thats how the way it is.
Saturday, Sunday
Relaxed and prepared for my interview with another company. Its on wednesday 28th Feb. Lets see. Arsenal FC lost to Chelsea FC in the Carling Cup final played at Cardiff. 1-0 up with Theo Walcott scoring his first in Arsenal colours before succumbing to 2 goals by Didier Drogba. "Football, ..Bloody Hell!" (Sir Alex Fergusson). A sad ending to a bad week.
Self pity? Feeling down? Things not going according to plan? Shit Happens?
Who knows how the next week is going to go....good/bad/so-so?
And then it keeps hitting me...
Shit Happens...Grin, bear the stench and clean it!!
Monday, February 19, 2007
Silence is Easy by Starsailor...
Everybody says that they are looking for a shelter
Got a lot to give but I don't know how to help her,
I should just let it go, till they learn how to grow
and how to liberate.
Everybody says that she's looking for a shelter
got a lot to give but I don't know how I felt her
They should just let it go, till these cities learn to grow,
and how to liberate.
Silence is Easy...it just becomes me
you don't even know me, you all lie about me.
Everybody says that I'm looking for a home now,
looking for a boy or I'm looking for a girl now
I can still let it go, I can still learn to grow
into a child again.
Silence is Easy..it just becomes me
you don't even know me, why lie about me?
Silence is Easy..it just becomes me
you don't even know me, why do you hate me?
...
Got a lot to give but I don't know how to help her,
I should just let it go, till they learn how to grow
and how to liberate.
Everybody says that she's looking for a shelter
got a lot to give but I don't know how I felt her
They should just let it go, till these cities learn to grow,
and how to liberate.
Silence is Easy...it just becomes me
you don't even know me, you all lie about me.
Everybody says that I'm looking for a home now,
looking for a boy or I'm looking for a girl now
I can still let it go, I can still learn to grow
into a child again.
Silence is Easy..it just becomes me
you don't even know me, why lie about me?
Silence is Easy..it just becomes me
you don't even know me, why do you hate me?
...
Sunday, February 18, 2007
A Week to Remember
Welcome Back! How is it going? I am fine thanks. It has been a crazy week, almost like a new adventure. Lemme start from the start. The day ..Sunday, time... 15.30 hours, place....my room. I was reading a book called Hitler and Churchill - Secrets of Leadership, good book. Like the name suggests it talks about Daffy Duck and Bugs Bunny and their camaraderie....Zoinks!!? Naah, dont worry, just checking whether you were reading or not. Ok,..good. You should now be actually reading this and would have left all other activities. So back to that book. Yeah, as the name suggests it is about Hitler and Churchill and talks about their leadership qualities and other similarities as well as differences. Good read.
Ok, so I read about 10 pages and then felt like checking my email. I was expecting some guy to email me stuff about my project and was pleasantly surprised to see an email from Citigroup. I opened the page and was shocked to find some lady from Citigroup asking me to confirm my interview for the job of a Summer Analyst. I quickly went to the Citigroup website to check which days are available. I was hoping with fingers crossed (the ones I wasn't using to type) that I have more than enough time to prepare. Nope, as luck would have had it, the dates available were 15th and 16th of February which means I had 4 days to prepare. This was the First round of Interviews, so they said it should be ok. I was not ok. My first proper job interview ...I closed my eyes, listened to some songs and I was alright. I felt confident but was very nervous. I feel nervous for many things...it's like a habit now. I started preparing for the interview by reading the Citigroup website, and trying to absorb various bits of information in short periods of time.
Later on in the evening, I spoke to my parents. They were happy and wished me luck. I told my mother I was feeling nervous. She immediately rubbished my fears saying that I have to face it and that there will be many more to come. I felt better after the talk and then proceeded to chat with my cousin sister who has a problem for every solution. I mean, a solution for every problem. I told her about the interview and that I was feeling nervous. She congratulated me and then proceeded to give me a pep talk which made me more positive. Life was beautiful again.
Interview? What Interview? Child's Play...I passed my first interview when I was about a minute old. The doctor who got me out and held me upside down had this quizzical look on his face. "Are you going to wail or not? Coz if you dont..you know what's going to happen!!" I was barely awake, I had no idea what these guy's were looking at me for...so I did what any normal baby would do...I let out a wail. Success..I had passed my first interview. Well done..This interview would be a breeze too.
The rest of the week just flew by. I spent my mornings attending lectures, afternoons working on the project and the evenings reading for the interview. I had applied for an Investment Banking summer internship so I needed to read about basic economics and business. I already had a habit of reading The Economist and The Wall Street Journal so I was upto date with recent business events. My father gave me some advice about the questions they might ask, and one of his colleagues called up to advice me too. The help was helpful.
Finally the day arrived. My train for London was at 8.30 am. I reached the station, got in the
train, sat down on my seat and breathed a sigh of relief. I was on my way...until I realised that I had forgotten to bring the piece of paper on which I had written the address. But not to worry, I called up my friend and he succeeded in navigating through the highly confusing Citigroup website to find the address of my interview venue. The train journey was for 2 and half hours. I got out at St. Pancras station, caught a tube on the Picadilly(not sure) to get off at Green Park. Then, I caught the Jubilee Line tube and got off at Canary Wharf.
I found a guy who looked like he could direct me to the Citigroup building and asked him. He had this uninterested look on his face, reminded me of those crocodiles on Animal Planet who would just laze in the sun. Growl.. Anyway, he turned out alright and after a few repetitions of my question he understood what I meant. "Turn right, walk down the escalator, go through the glass doors and Citigroup is to your right". Thank you kind sir. I followed his directions and ended up facing a dead end. There was this huge wall in front of me! I was tempted to follow Gandalf and say the elvish phrase "Ballor" to see the wall open and lead me to Citigroup..but no..this wasn't the Lord of the Rings.
After consulting a few more people, I finally found the place. Canary Wharf was amazing! The whole atmosphere was out of this world. Posh huge buildings, and people dressed in suits walking past me. I had expected something like this..but this was great. To my right was Citigroup, to my left Lehmann Brothers, in front of me the Thames River, and to the side a giant news ticker displaying the latest business news and share prices. This meant "Business".
I still had 2 hrs to kill, so I went to Starbucks and sipped a cappuchino and nibbled on a Double Chocolate Doughnut...which was yuck. I spent about an hour and a half there, and stared at the people passing as I sat near the window. At 1 pm , I finally decided enough was enough and walked towards the Citigroup building. Got in , and informed the receptionist that I had arrived. While I was seated in the reception area, I met a girl who was also there for the interview. She was quite nervous as well and we chatted till the interview time. It was good as it sort of cooled our nerves. Her name was Asia..but she was British. She was born in Hongkong it seems. Kool.
We were led to the conference room upstairs and we met our interviewers. One guy was Pakistani called Womick, or Womik, no idea about the spelling. Nice guy, and the other was a Swedish fellow. Nice guy again. Asia was interviewed by the Swedish guy first , and I was interview by Womick at the same time. He asked me a few general questions at first and then proceeded to ask me some logic questions. "What is the angle between the hour hand and the minute hand of a clock when the time is 3.35?" and the second question was " What is 99x99 without using pen, paper?". I managed to answer them fine.
The other interviewer asked similar questions..and then by 3.30 it was over. I couldnt believe I had just finished two interviews...I know..big deal..but, my first proper job interview! I thanked the interviewers and left the building. That half a minute in the elevator was just amazing. I felt this nice feeling inside, and I suddenly felt more confident of myself. I then went and sat down on a bench on Canary Wharf...just to soak in the atmosphere. My train to Sheffield was at 7.30 pm, so I had about three hours to kill. I took the tube to Westminster and sat down on a bench beside the river Thames. Spoke to a few friends in London, and around the city. I then just roamed around the place, until it was time to get back to St. Pancras. Train arrived on time, went in and sat down at my seat...A tired man, but one whose confidence had definitely been boosted. I will know whether I go on to the next round of the interview by Wednesday(21st)..but whatever the result, it has a been a learning experience. And as my mother always says, its the experience that counts and what you learn from it.
Then came friday, saturday and sunday..and now I am writing this blog. I had planned many things for the weekend but I couldnt do them all..but nevermind. There is always another day. It's been a crazy week, but one that I will never forget.
Finito...
Ok, so I read about 10 pages and then felt like checking my email. I was expecting some guy to email me stuff about my project and was pleasantly surprised to see an email from Citigroup. I opened the page and was shocked to find some lady from Citigroup asking me to confirm my interview for the job of a Summer Analyst. I quickly went to the Citigroup website to check which days are available. I was hoping with fingers crossed (the ones I wasn't using to type) that I have more than enough time to prepare. Nope, as luck would have had it, the dates available were 15th and 16th of February which means I had 4 days to prepare. This was the First round of Interviews, so they said it should be ok. I was not ok. My first proper job interview ...I closed my eyes, listened to some songs and I was alright. I felt confident but was very nervous. I feel nervous for many things...it's like a habit now. I started preparing for the interview by reading the Citigroup website, and trying to absorb various bits of information in short periods of time.
Later on in the evening, I spoke to my parents. They were happy and wished me luck. I told my mother I was feeling nervous. She immediately rubbished my fears saying that I have to face it and that there will be many more to come. I felt better after the talk and then proceeded to chat with my cousin sister who has a problem for every solution. I mean, a solution for every problem. I told her about the interview and that I was feeling nervous. She congratulated me and then proceeded to give me a pep talk which made me more positive. Life was beautiful again.
Interview? What Interview? Child's Play...I passed my first interview when I was about a minute old. The doctor who got me out and held me upside down had this quizzical look on his face. "Are you going to wail or not? Coz if you dont..you know what's going to happen!!" I was barely awake, I had no idea what these guy's were looking at me for...so I did what any normal baby would do...I let out a wail. Success..I had passed my first interview. Well done..This interview would be a breeze too.
The rest of the week just flew by. I spent my mornings attending lectures, afternoons working on the project and the evenings reading for the interview. I had applied for an Investment Banking summer internship so I needed to read about basic economics and business. I already had a habit of reading The Economist and The Wall Street Journal so I was upto date with recent business events. My father gave me some advice about the questions they might ask, and one of his colleagues called up to advice me too. The help was helpful.
Finally the day arrived. My train for London was at 8.30 am. I reached the station, got in the
train, sat down on my seat and breathed a sigh of relief. I was on my way...until I realised that I had forgotten to bring the piece of paper on which I had written the address. But not to worry, I called up my friend and he succeeded in navigating through the highly confusing Citigroup website to find the address of my interview venue. The train journey was for 2 and half hours. I got out at St. Pancras station, caught a tube on the Picadilly(not sure) to get off at Green Park. Then, I caught the Jubilee Line tube and got off at Canary Wharf.
I found a guy who looked like he could direct me to the Citigroup building and asked him. He had this uninterested look on his face, reminded me of those crocodiles on Animal Planet who would just laze in the sun. Growl.. Anyway, he turned out alright and after a few repetitions of my question he understood what I meant. "Turn right, walk down the escalator, go through the glass doors and Citigroup is to your right". Thank you kind sir. I followed his directions and ended up facing a dead end. There was this huge wall in front of me! I was tempted to follow Gandalf and say the elvish phrase "Ballor" to see the wall open and lead me to Citigroup..but no..this wasn't the Lord of the Rings.
After consulting a few more people, I finally found the place. Canary Wharf was amazing! The whole atmosphere was out of this world. Posh huge buildings, and people dressed in suits walking past me. I had expected something like this..but this was great. To my right was Citigroup, to my left Lehmann Brothers, in front of me the Thames River, and to the side a giant news ticker displaying the latest business news and share prices. This meant "Business".
I still had 2 hrs to kill, so I went to Starbucks and sipped a cappuchino and nibbled on a Double Chocolate Doughnut...which was yuck. I spent about an hour and a half there, and stared at the people passing as I sat near the window. At 1 pm , I finally decided enough was enough and walked towards the Citigroup building. Got in , and informed the receptionist that I had arrived. While I was seated in the reception area, I met a girl who was also there for the interview. She was quite nervous as well and we chatted till the interview time. It was good as it sort of cooled our nerves. Her name was Asia..but she was British. She was born in Hongkong it seems. Kool.
We were led to the conference room upstairs and we met our interviewers. One guy was Pakistani called Womick, or Womik, no idea about the spelling. Nice guy, and the other was a Swedish fellow. Nice guy again. Asia was interviewed by the Swedish guy first , and I was interview by Womick at the same time. He asked me a few general questions at first and then proceeded to ask me some logic questions. "What is the angle between the hour hand and the minute hand of a clock when the time is 3.35?" and the second question was " What is 99x99 without using pen, paper?". I managed to answer them fine.
The other interviewer asked similar questions..and then by 3.30 it was over. I couldnt believe I had just finished two interviews...I know..big deal..but, my first proper job interview! I thanked the interviewers and left the building. That half a minute in the elevator was just amazing. I felt this nice feeling inside, and I suddenly felt more confident of myself. I then went and sat down on a bench on Canary Wharf...just to soak in the atmosphere. My train to Sheffield was at 7.30 pm, so I had about three hours to kill. I took the tube to Westminster and sat down on a bench beside the river Thames. Spoke to a few friends in London, and around the city. I then just roamed around the place, until it was time to get back to St. Pancras. Train arrived on time, went in and sat down at my seat...A tired man, but one whose confidence had definitely been boosted. I will know whether I go on to the next round of the interview by Wednesday(21st)..but whatever the result, it has a been a learning experience. And as my mother always says, its the experience that counts and what you learn from it.
Then came friday, saturday and sunday..and now I am writing this blog. I had planned many things for the weekend but I couldnt do them all..but nevermind. There is always another day. It's been a crazy week, but one that I will never forget.
Finito...
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Sick of being Sick
I've been sick. And now i am Sick of Being Sick. Started with fever and sore throat. Then, fever subsided, to be replaced with cold and cough. Then, I was visited by my old friend...Conjunctivitis. We had met once in 7th grade..I had told him we would meet again. Anyway, after that..attended my project meeting on tuesday. Attended some boring lecture on wednesday. It started off well, its about our module which has a mini project in it. But then this proff entered the room to give a lecture about disability. He showed some video about his mum and dad, and how difficult they found it to open jars. Zoinks!! No offence to anyone, the topic was interesting, but his long drawling voice made me fall asleep pronto. I woke up to find my eyes watering again. And people looking at me and asking what time did I go to sleep coz my eyes were strawberry red.
Anyway..enough. Read the following chat messages..and you would kind of guess how my week's been. Cheerio then, and C u around. Keep smiling.
- Hey Chenoblee,..alrite?
(After 30 sec wait)
- Timbuctoo, i m fine yaar how abt u?
- Things goin fine here 2 man, bit sick. Conjunctivitis n all , cough , fever...u know usual.
- Ass, whts usual in that? anyway, get well soon ttyl
- Oye! where u running off 2? saala, paanch min bhi baat nahi karta! gud for nothing
- Abbe o, i m a busy man, i have to watch CSI now. Kya? Tere jaisa nahi hoon main, full time sleeping or chatting.
- OK ok, dont embarasss me on net. Get lost bugger
- U tc 2
------------------
- Chenoblee, Yo man wassup?
- Kish Kish ,Yo man wassup?
- i m fine
- im fine
- stop copying me
- stop copying me
- hows ur day been?
- day fine, conjunctivitis, cough n cold, been resting.
- conjunctivitis...oye u should not be on the comp man.
- i know, but i m gettin bored sleeping man, n if i sleepp then there is this cough
- ok ok, u take care.
- yeah i m !
- man its snowing outside
- yeah , i know..man i wish i could go out n play in the snow..
- u can do that now man, of course ur cold n cough will take care of itself
- lol, :D
oye, why arent my smleys trning?
- hota hai..life mein sometimes, turns nahi aate
- :D:D So wht u upto?
- Took my girlfriend out on a date. ended up fighting, so dropped her off and i m back on the comp. These girls naa...so much natak.
- hahaha..
- Then i saw this girl man, blonde hair n all. Whoa she was a classic i tell u. straight from those 40's movies. I m going to take the next step 2morrow.
- oh..venturing into unknown territory, where no man has been ever b4...dude, u r going to get shot one of these days.
- Courage is destiny man...anyway, i gtg. Have to return the libray books.
- kool , cu around man
- Cya
--------------------
- hi wassup
free?
- heyyy
- shahrukh style eh?
- huh? oh hahehehe
- hows ur day been? m sure more eventful than mine
- was out from 9 in the morning till 9 in the nite, then had to a friends party, endedup totally clueless, it was theme party! haha, and then i had to rush back home
how abt u? :)
- been a bit sick, fever, cold cough n then conjunctivitis.
- oho! met the doc?
- yeah, gave me some drops. fevers gone..cold cough still there, eyes still sore but better
just had breakfast..bread munching
- eat well!! :)
- yeah! i m !
- eat chocolates
- but dont they cause more cough?
- well, eat little, dont overdo it,
--------15 sec pause-------
- ok..well..will Bourbon chocolate biscuits do?
- yup , attack :)
- haha
- chal i m off, eyes watering
- bye take care
eat well!!:)
- yes maam!!
- get welll soooon!!!
Anyway..enough. Read the following chat messages..and you would kind of guess how my week's been. Cheerio then, and C u around. Keep smiling.
- Hey Chenoblee,..alrite?
(After 30 sec wait)
- Timbuctoo, i m fine yaar how abt u?
- Things goin fine here 2 man, bit sick. Conjunctivitis n all , cough , fever...u know usual.
- Ass, whts usual in that? anyway, get well soon ttyl
- Oye! where u running off 2? saala, paanch min bhi baat nahi karta! gud for nothing
- Abbe o, i m a busy man, i have to watch CSI now. Kya? Tere jaisa nahi hoon main, full time sleeping or chatting.
- OK ok, dont embarasss me on net. Get lost bugger
- U tc 2
------------------
- Chenoblee, Yo man wassup?
- Kish Kish ,Yo man wassup?
- i m fine
- im fine
- stop copying me
- stop copying me
- hows ur day been?
- day fine, conjunctivitis, cough n cold, been resting.
- conjunctivitis...oye u should not be on the comp man.
- i know, but i m gettin bored sleeping man, n if i sleepp then there is this cough
- ok ok, u take care.
- yeah i m !
- man its snowing outside
- yeah , i know..man i wish i could go out n play in the snow..
- u can do that now man, of course ur cold n cough will take care of itself
- lol, :D
oye, why arent my smleys trning?
- hota hai..life mein sometimes, turns nahi aate
- :D:D So wht u upto?
- Took my girlfriend out on a date. ended up fighting, so dropped her off and i m back on the comp. These girls naa...so much natak.
- hahaha..
- Then i saw this girl man, blonde hair n all. Whoa she was a classic i tell u. straight from those 40's movies. I m going to take the next step 2morrow.
- oh..venturing into unknown territory, where no man has been ever b4...dude, u r going to get shot one of these days.
- Courage is destiny man...anyway, i gtg. Have to return the libray books.
- kool , cu around man
- Cya
--------------------
- hi wassup
free?
- heyyy
- shahrukh style eh?
- huh? oh hahehehe
- hows ur day been? m sure more eventful than mine
- was out from 9 in the morning till 9 in the nite, then had to a friends party, endedup totally clueless, it was theme party! haha, and then i had to rush back home
how abt u? :)
- been a bit sick, fever, cold cough n then conjunctivitis.
- oho! met the doc?
- yeah, gave me some drops. fevers gone..cold cough still there, eyes still sore but better
just had breakfast..bread munching
- eat well!! :)
- yeah! i m !
- eat chocolates
- but dont they cause more cough?
- well, eat little, dont overdo it,
--------15 sec pause-------
- ok..well..will Bourbon chocolate biscuits do?
- yup , attack :)
- haha
- chal i m off, eyes watering
- bye take care
eat well!!:)
- yes maam!!
- get welll soooon!!!
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Cause and Effect
"Did you see the pictures on TV?" Raza was referring to the blasts in Baghdad the night before. Suicide bombers had entered the market place and killed 25 people.
"No, I don't have a TV. Thanks for reminding me again." Azim was referring to his TV which had been stolen the night before. Living in a shack 2 blocks from the police station offered no protection whatsoever. The shack was built on sweat and hard earned money by Azim's father who was a construction worker. A resilient and honest worker, he had made enough money to build a shack and send his two kids to school.
"Hahaha, sorry for that ..again! But don't you worry man, come over to my place. My mother is making rotis and dal today. It's going to be a feast. We can watch something on TV. Raaj told me that Cartoon Network is now in Hindi. Sahi naa?" Raza's english was not too good. He could understand what Porky Pig was doing to Bugs Bunny, and he could laugh his head off. But with hindi it was going to be a blast.
"Whassap Doc? Whassap Doc? Haha, it's great. Yeah, I might come over Raza. But I have to finish my homework first. You know how my sister pretends to help me and then puts me in more trouble. So I have decided to do it on my own, no matter how much time it takes."
"Ok, ok whenever you want to. Now watch this.", saying this Raza walked towards the pipeline. He jumped over it and landed on some yellowish squishy semi-liquid stuff. Raza slipped and fell on his back. The stench of human feces made him squirm his nose for a second. But he was used to it. They all were. Azim couldn't disguise his laughter and Raza joined in too.
"Cmon, lets go. I am sure you have another shirt". Azim was pointing to Raza's wet shirt.
After walking for five minutes next to the main road, they took the right near the bus stop and walked towards the sweet shop. " You know Azim, my teacher tells me that Hindu's and Muslim's should not fight. We are all the same."
" Yeah I think the same. Raaj is a good guy. I don't know why I would want to kill him. Why do people kill? I don't know. The lunch he brings is always the best. I mean, his mother cooks so well. I would never want to kill him", said Azim.
"Haha, yeah, we are all the same. You know, once my father entered a house of some wealthy Muslims. He did not know that they were muslims. But once he found out, he immediately withdrew. I don't know why he did that. He told me never to hurt a fellow Muslim." Raza's father was a thief. He stole enough so that his kid could go to school and not become a thief like him. It was a risky business, but Raza's father was good at what he did and was as slippery as an eel.
"Hey guys, wait up" Raaj came running up the street and stopped before Azim and Raza. " Why didn't you wait for me, guys? I was only 10 minutes late."
"Raaj, Raaj it doen't matter man. Let's buy the sweets. 3 eclairs Ramu chacha"
After carefully checking for any disparities in the size of the three eclairs and satisfied that they had equal shares, they placed the elixir of life in their mouths and chewed to glory. All three smiled and looked at each.
"Eclairs.Eclairs....What is this life if full of care, we have no eclairs to eat and share?? I forgot who wrote that, I never pay attention in class anyway", said Raaj, clearly satisfied with himself and his Eclairs. Laughter, laughter and resignation when they finished with their eclairs.
" Raaj, what do you think about Hindus and Muslims man?" asked Azim.
"Well, I am standing here with two Muslim friends. Haha, cmon man, we are all friends. I dont really care if my friends are Sikh or Hindus or Muslims. As long as the person is nice to me and likes Eclairs, I am their friend."
"Hmm...I was watching the news yesterday. You know, all these fights everywhere. America attacking Iraq, Israel- Palestine, it's everywhere. We hate each other. I felt really sad", said Raza in a rather maudlin tone.
" I agree Raza, it hurts me too. But do we really care? I am more concerned about my tests coming up next week. If I don't pass, I will be thrown out of my house yaar! What then? We are friends, some people want to fight. Let them. It's not our business" observed Raaj. Raaj was the wiser of the two, atleast thats what he thought. He was older by a couple of years. But he had failed twice. Sixth grade was difficult, but he had promised himself he would do it this time.
" Hmm,..good good. Yeah, what do we really care about? We have better things to worry about. I need a another Eclairs. Want one guys?" At the same time, unnoticed to the three boys, a van screeched itself to a halt on the other side of the road. Seven hooded men got out. They had swords in their hands and a couple of grenades. No one noticed them in the market. After all, this was the busy time of the day. And in Mumbai, no one really cares about what the other person is doing. The city that never sleeps.
" Charge. Kill anyone who comes in your way. Bloodshed. Kill them all. Make this the biggest of them all!!!", the hooded man who seemed like the leader bellowed.
The seven hooded men, ran in different directions. At the same time, BOOOM!! blasts everywhere. People thrown up in the air, everywhere. Silence...and then pandemodium. People running everywhere. Women holding whatever grocery they had bought ran helter skelter. A man holding his cut arm ran past the sweet shop. No one noticed the three boys lying on the road. One of them was still breathing. Azim lay on the ground. Motionless. He had heard about heaven and hell. This was nothing like it. He slowly tried to get up, but couldnt. He raised his head and saw that his leg was caught under the aluminium roof. Nearby lay Raza and Raaj. He shouted out to them, but they did not respond. He half smiled, realising that the eclairs they ate were the last ever by Raaj and Raza. Azim felt a sharp pain in his hand, something was inside his arm. It looked like some sharp object...he fainted.
----------------
The Next Day...
"Good Morning everyone. 13/7. The day Mumbai was once again stopped in its tracks by a series of bomb blasts. Initial reports claimed that there were 10 blasts throught the city, but was later brought down to 8. 205 people are already dead and 500 hundered are injured. The most severely hit area has been the Lowranji Market area where an estimated 50 people are dead and many more injured. People are stunned and are blaming the government for doing nothing. Chief Minister Rajnath Mungekar has strenously denied any lethargy on part of the government and has promised complete compensation to all family members of the dead and injured. But what we, the people want to ask you Mr. Mungekar is what was the Government doing before the blasts? Latest reports say that the government had indeed received threats from the terrorist gangs but had not done anything about it. Clearly, the results are for all to see. The opposition leader Mr. Gopinath Thakur has once again come out with a bold statement challenging the current government and warned of anarchy and riots if things are not controlled.
But, what about the people? Has anyone thought of the people? The most depressing image of two boys found dead lying outside a once existing sweet shop have been printed on the front pages everywhere. The common man once again suffers. Where are we going? Is this the Mumbai we envisioned? .......
....And finally, in a salute to the people of Mumbai we present a 2 minute video showing the strength, resilience, and spirit of the Mumbaikar. The city that never sleeps. We respect you and feel for you in such trying times. This is Anurag Shastri for CBCD news. Goodnight."
-------------
Azim stared at the TV screen in front of his bed. He was lucky to be alive. Two broken bones, and some stiches on his left arm. Amputation was required for his left leg. Right now, he was in his hospital bed looking at the news. Anurag Shastri had just concluded his news bulletin. He looked sombre. Don't know if he really meant that look on his face. Azim kept thinking. Maybe, Mr. Shastri stays in Delhi or Calcutta, dont know where this is broadcast from. Maybe, he has a family, a happy family with two cars, a lawn etc. Maybe, someone like him would come and lend some money to Azim's parents for hospital bills. Oh sorry, just one parent, his mother. Azim's father was not to be seen anywhere after the blasts. His mother had no idea where he had dissapeared. Maybe he is dead,..maybe..he was..one of the masked ...no. No. Azim's father would never do that. Why would anyone kill? Azim had just lost two best friends. Why would his father endanger his own son? Not possible no. Raaj's father was missing too. Could he....no..Azim didn't think so.
His mother was now asleep on the chair. There was a lot of noise in the corridoor outside, many more people were being brought in. There was some kind of smell in the room. Don't know what.
Dont care really. Why do people fight? Politics, Religion, Borders, Faith, Race, ...do I really care? It doesn't affect me. I live a normal life. Other people do the same. Let them fight it out. I don't really care. It never affects me! Or does it? Is it already affecting me and I have no idea? Why is this world so confusing? Azim finally dozed off at 2 in the morning. Outside,..sirens and people shouting. Maybe, it's the start of another riots. Mumbai..the city that never sleeps....
"No, I don't have a TV. Thanks for reminding me again." Azim was referring to his TV which had been stolen the night before. Living in a shack 2 blocks from the police station offered no protection whatsoever. The shack was built on sweat and hard earned money by Azim's father who was a construction worker. A resilient and honest worker, he had made enough money to build a shack and send his two kids to school.
"Hahaha, sorry for that ..again! But don't you worry man, come over to my place. My mother is making rotis and dal today. It's going to be a feast. We can watch something on TV. Raaj told me that Cartoon Network is now in Hindi. Sahi naa?" Raza's english was not too good. He could understand what Porky Pig was doing to Bugs Bunny, and he could laugh his head off. But with hindi it was going to be a blast.
"Whassap Doc? Whassap Doc? Haha, it's great. Yeah, I might come over Raza. But I have to finish my homework first. You know how my sister pretends to help me and then puts me in more trouble. So I have decided to do it on my own, no matter how much time it takes."
"Ok, ok whenever you want to. Now watch this.", saying this Raza walked towards the pipeline. He jumped over it and landed on some yellowish squishy semi-liquid stuff. Raza slipped and fell on his back. The stench of human feces made him squirm his nose for a second. But he was used to it. They all were. Azim couldn't disguise his laughter and Raza joined in too.
"Cmon, lets go. I am sure you have another shirt". Azim was pointing to Raza's wet shirt.
After walking for five minutes next to the main road, they took the right near the bus stop and walked towards the sweet shop. " You know Azim, my teacher tells me that Hindu's and Muslim's should not fight. We are all the same."
" Yeah I think the same. Raaj is a good guy. I don't know why I would want to kill him. Why do people kill? I don't know. The lunch he brings is always the best. I mean, his mother cooks so well. I would never want to kill him", said Azim.
"Haha, yeah, we are all the same. You know, once my father entered a house of some wealthy Muslims. He did not know that they were muslims. But once he found out, he immediately withdrew. I don't know why he did that. He told me never to hurt a fellow Muslim." Raza's father was a thief. He stole enough so that his kid could go to school and not become a thief like him. It was a risky business, but Raza's father was good at what he did and was as slippery as an eel.
"Hey guys, wait up" Raaj came running up the street and stopped before Azim and Raza. " Why didn't you wait for me, guys? I was only 10 minutes late."
"Raaj, Raaj it doen't matter man. Let's buy the sweets. 3 eclairs Ramu chacha"
After carefully checking for any disparities in the size of the three eclairs and satisfied that they had equal shares, they placed the elixir of life in their mouths and chewed to glory. All three smiled and looked at each.
"Eclairs.Eclairs....What is this life if full of care, we have no eclairs to eat and share?? I forgot who wrote that, I never pay attention in class anyway", said Raaj, clearly satisfied with himself and his Eclairs. Laughter, laughter and resignation when they finished with their eclairs.
" Raaj, what do you think about Hindus and Muslims man?" asked Azim.
"Well, I am standing here with two Muslim friends. Haha, cmon man, we are all friends. I dont really care if my friends are Sikh or Hindus or Muslims. As long as the person is nice to me and likes Eclairs, I am their friend."
"Hmm...I was watching the news yesterday. You know, all these fights everywhere. America attacking Iraq, Israel- Palestine, it's everywhere. We hate each other. I felt really sad", said Raza in a rather maudlin tone.
" I agree Raza, it hurts me too. But do we really care? I am more concerned about my tests coming up next week. If I don't pass, I will be thrown out of my house yaar! What then? We are friends, some people want to fight. Let them. It's not our business" observed Raaj. Raaj was the wiser of the two, atleast thats what he thought. He was older by a couple of years. But he had failed twice. Sixth grade was difficult, but he had promised himself he would do it this time.
" Hmm,..good good. Yeah, what do we really care about? We have better things to worry about. I need a another Eclairs. Want one guys?" At the same time, unnoticed to the three boys, a van screeched itself to a halt on the other side of the road. Seven hooded men got out. They had swords in their hands and a couple of grenades. No one noticed them in the market. After all, this was the busy time of the day. And in Mumbai, no one really cares about what the other person is doing. The city that never sleeps.
" Charge. Kill anyone who comes in your way. Bloodshed. Kill them all. Make this the biggest of them all!!!", the hooded man who seemed like the leader bellowed.
The seven hooded men, ran in different directions. At the same time, BOOOM!! blasts everywhere. People thrown up in the air, everywhere. Silence...and then pandemodium. People running everywhere. Women holding whatever grocery they had bought ran helter skelter. A man holding his cut arm ran past the sweet shop. No one noticed the three boys lying on the road. One of them was still breathing. Azim lay on the ground. Motionless. He had heard about heaven and hell. This was nothing like it. He slowly tried to get up, but couldnt. He raised his head and saw that his leg was caught under the aluminium roof. Nearby lay Raza and Raaj. He shouted out to them, but they did not respond. He half smiled, realising that the eclairs they ate were the last ever by Raaj and Raza. Azim felt a sharp pain in his hand, something was inside his arm. It looked like some sharp object...he fainted.
----------------
The Next Day...
"Good Morning everyone. 13/7. The day Mumbai was once again stopped in its tracks by a series of bomb blasts. Initial reports claimed that there were 10 blasts throught the city, but was later brought down to 8. 205 people are already dead and 500 hundered are injured. The most severely hit area has been the Lowranji Market area where an estimated 50 people are dead and many more injured. People are stunned and are blaming the government for doing nothing. Chief Minister Rajnath Mungekar has strenously denied any lethargy on part of the government and has promised complete compensation to all family members of the dead and injured. But what we, the people want to ask you Mr. Mungekar is what was the Government doing before the blasts? Latest reports say that the government had indeed received threats from the terrorist gangs but had not done anything about it. Clearly, the results are for all to see. The opposition leader Mr. Gopinath Thakur has once again come out with a bold statement challenging the current government and warned of anarchy and riots if things are not controlled.
But, what about the people? Has anyone thought of the people? The most depressing image of two boys found dead lying outside a once existing sweet shop have been printed on the front pages everywhere. The common man once again suffers. Where are we going? Is this the Mumbai we envisioned? .......
....And finally, in a salute to the people of Mumbai we present a 2 minute video showing the strength, resilience, and spirit of the Mumbaikar. The city that never sleeps. We respect you and feel for you in such trying times. This is Anurag Shastri for CBCD news. Goodnight."
-------------
Azim stared at the TV screen in front of his bed. He was lucky to be alive. Two broken bones, and some stiches on his left arm. Amputation was required for his left leg. Right now, he was in his hospital bed looking at the news. Anurag Shastri had just concluded his news bulletin. He looked sombre. Don't know if he really meant that look on his face. Azim kept thinking. Maybe, Mr. Shastri stays in Delhi or Calcutta, dont know where this is broadcast from. Maybe, he has a family, a happy family with two cars, a lawn etc. Maybe, someone like him would come and lend some money to Azim's parents for hospital bills. Oh sorry, just one parent, his mother. Azim's father was not to be seen anywhere after the blasts. His mother had no idea where he had dissapeared. Maybe he is dead,..maybe..he was..one of the masked ...no. No. Azim's father would never do that. Why would anyone kill? Azim had just lost two best friends. Why would his father endanger his own son? Not possible no. Raaj's father was missing too. Could he....no..Azim didn't think so.
His mother was now asleep on the chair. There was a lot of noise in the corridoor outside, many more people were being brought in. There was some kind of smell in the room. Don't know what.
Dont care really. Why do people fight? Politics, Religion, Borders, Faith, Race, ...do I really care? It doesn't affect me. I live a normal life. Other people do the same. Let them fight it out. I don't really care. It never affects me! Or does it? Is it already affecting me and I have no idea? Why is this world so confusing? Azim finally dozed off at 2 in the morning. Outside,..sirens and people shouting. Maybe, it's the start of another riots. Mumbai..the city that never sleeps....
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
A Slice of Luck
Its 5pm. Just got up from a siesta. Nothing much to report actually, my saturday was a short day. I played a bit of NBA, resumed reading my novel and then went for a walk in the evening. Sunday was similar, but saw the Australian Open final in the morning. Roger Federer was amazing. He didnt play perfect tennis and he committed quite a few uncharacteristic errors in the first set. Gonzalez had that perfect chance, two set points to tie up the first set and then go into the second set with confidence. He would be the first person to have won a set against Federer in that tournament. But it was not to be. Federer like a true champion dug out the game, and then crushed Gonzalez in the tie breaker to win the first set. He then went on to finish off the match.
Gonzalez was finished. If he had just got won those two set points, he earned that slice of luck or opportunity (whatever you would like to call it). But, then he didnt take his chance. Taking your chances. So this means that you may get your slice of luck and good fortune, but it is upto you to take full advantage of it. Some lessons to learn.
The same can be said for Arsenal FC who played Bolton Wanderers in the evening in the FA Cup 4th round tie. Bolton who are often termed as Arsenal's bogey team, did the trick again. Bolton went close to scoring in the first 20 minutes, and Arsenal again showed their lack of aerial prowess. Headers were won by the Bolton players at set pieces, and the man marking on set pieces was awful by Arsenal. Arsenal got their slice of luck, just like Gonzalez, but in this case did not earn it. Arsenal players realising that this was their chance tried to muster up pace and score, but were found wanting. There was no determination and the chances were not too decisive. Half time. Arsenal came back on, realsing that they dont want to go back to the North to play Bolton in their home ground. Arsenal have won only twice in the last 5 years at The Reebok!
And it was no surprise when Bolton playing some great passing finally broke the deadlock and went ahead. Arsenal who were used to going behind at the Emirates, knew that a fight was on. They put pressure after pressure to score eventually and secure a replay up north. I am not too confident about them winning in Bolton. And this is where Arsenal lost it. They had the opportunity or slice of luck that they got a home tie. They again had the luck of the score being 0-0 , inspite of numerous Bolton chances. They did not make the most of it. Same story. It has to be seen whether, the save made by Almunia(arsenal goalkeeper) when the score was 1-0 would prove decisive. He made most of his opportunity.
The above two situations has taught me something. Who says football is not educative!!?? ha.
I got another rejection today morning. So I was thinking, if I get that slice of luck and get an interview offer, I am not going to let it go. I should give it my best shot and shoot for goal. But let me get my slice of luck or opportunity first. 6 rejections uptil now. No interviews as yet. Maybe I am worrying too much about this job situation and maybe I should. I don't know. I don't know my future. So I am playing it day by day, application by application. There was this doctor once who looked at my hand and said that there are problems and obstacle throughout my life and that there is a lot of hardwork required. Well, I don't believe in palmistry or anything like that. I kind of agree with the latter part of what he said. In the words of Hellen Keller, "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired and success achieved."
Finito...
Gonzalez was finished. If he had just got won those two set points, he earned that slice of luck or opportunity (whatever you would like to call it). But, then he didnt take his chance. Taking your chances. So this means that you may get your slice of luck and good fortune, but it is upto you to take full advantage of it. Some lessons to learn.
The same can be said for Arsenal FC who played Bolton Wanderers in the evening in the FA Cup 4th round tie. Bolton who are often termed as Arsenal's bogey team, did the trick again. Bolton went close to scoring in the first 20 minutes, and Arsenal again showed their lack of aerial prowess. Headers were won by the Bolton players at set pieces, and the man marking on set pieces was awful by Arsenal. Arsenal got their slice of luck, just like Gonzalez, but in this case did not earn it. Arsenal players realising that this was their chance tried to muster up pace and score, but were found wanting. There was no determination and the chances were not too decisive. Half time. Arsenal came back on, realsing that they dont want to go back to the North to play Bolton in their home ground. Arsenal have won only twice in the last 5 years at The Reebok!
And it was no surprise when Bolton playing some great passing finally broke the deadlock and went ahead. Arsenal who were used to going behind at the Emirates, knew that a fight was on. They put pressure after pressure to score eventually and secure a replay up north. I am not too confident about them winning in Bolton. And this is where Arsenal lost it. They had the opportunity or slice of luck that they got a home tie. They again had the luck of the score being 0-0 , inspite of numerous Bolton chances. They did not make the most of it. Same story. It has to be seen whether, the save made by Almunia(arsenal goalkeeper) when the score was 1-0 would prove decisive. He made most of his opportunity.
The above two situations has taught me something. Who says football is not educative!!?? ha.
I got another rejection today morning. So I was thinking, if I get that slice of luck and get an interview offer, I am not going to let it go. I should give it my best shot and shoot for goal. But let me get my slice of luck or opportunity first. 6 rejections uptil now. No interviews as yet. Maybe I am worrying too much about this job situation and maybe I should. I don't know. I don't know my future. So I am playing it day by day, application by application. There was this doctor once who looked at my hand and said that there are problems and obstacle throughout my life and that there is a lot of hardwork required. Well, I don't believe in palmistry or anything like that. I kind of agree with the latter part of what he said. In the words of Hellen Keller, "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired and success achieved."
Finito...
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Freedom
After almost a month of studying and worrying, I am finally rid of my exams. Yesterday was my last paper, and I am glad it's all over. It is a mere coincidence that India's Republic day and my last day of exams just happened to be the same day. I feel like people back home are celebrating not only the Republic day but also my end of exams. Haha..what a stupid and crazy thought..ahem..the world does not revolve around me. Reality check!! Anyway, my exams started on 23rd, tuesday and I had four in a row which meant that I had to finish studying for them well before hand. First two exams were great, third one was crappy crappy doo and yesterday's one was great. So that's that then.
It has been an eventful week, with surprises and shocks. I almost got my marks for one of my submissions deducted due to some plagiarism issue. I was foolish enough to email my assignment to my friend, so that he could get a "basic guideline" of the assignment. Unfortunately, the report he ended up submitting was identical to mine except for a few graphs and diagrams which were different. I had no idea about all this and so was surprised when I got an email a week ago from my proffesor, saying that he wants to meet me on the 26th(ie. yesterday). My first reaction on reading the email was...I have either failed the module, or I am in for plagiarism. My friends tried to cheer me up by stating that the reason he wants to meet me is that he is so pleased by my report that he wants to meet this new young prodigy..haha.
Anyway, I decided that whatever will happen will happen and I had better things to concentrate on..such as my exams. So, I successfully gave my exams day by day until it was the 26th. The meeting was in the morning and I had an exam in the afternoon at 13.30 hrs. I had luckily finished revising the night before so I was feeling fine. I was prepared for the worst at the meeting, and I had a slight feeling that this meeting was something to do with my assignment and the fact that I had emailed it to my friend. So, I went to the meeting, and my worst feelings were confirmed. My friend was present at the meeting. Anyway, to cut a long story short...my friend admitted he had plagiarised my stuff and I was free of any charge with no reduction in marks. However, my friend is in serious trouble.
The moral of the story...you cant trust anyone. This guy was a very good friend, and I thought he was smart enough to realise what he should and what he shouldnt do. But, "thats the way the cookie crumbles". Anyway, all's well that ends well. I am a free bird now, with a week of holidays. I have nothing planned for the next few days, just relax in my room, maybe watch a movie or something. There is some "End of semester big bash" at the union next friday, so I will be going for it. Should be fun and this will be my first time.
I woke up late today morning, and missed breakfast. Lunch in the halls are from 11 am to 1 pm on weekends. So I'll have a brunch most probably. 
Hokey tokey, I gotta go. And Oh yeah, ..tomorrow is the Aussie Open final, and the lovely BBC are streaming it live on their website, ..brilliant. Also, Arsenal play Bolton Wanderers at The Emirates tomorrow evening. This is an FA Cup tie and we are gunning for revenge after last year's dissapointment at The Reebok. Go Gunners!!!
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Yo man, just stop
I can't see no end to this revolution,
Can't see no answer or any solution,
The power is theirs, one cant share or borrow,
I can't see the start, can't see no tomorrow.
And so I say hey man just stop,
and have some fun.
Thats why I say hey man just stop,
put down your gun.
I see some troops ready to surrender
Just keep on poking till the chicken is tender
The power is ours, their uncertain tomorrow
I can see the broad smiles, observing the sorrow.
And so I say yo man just stop,
and have some fun.
Thats why I say yo man just stop,
put down your gun.
I see now that the end is near
we have killed ourselves..oh dear, oh dear
A choice was made, our power would provide
A hole was dug in which we were to reside.
And so I say yo man just stop,
and have some fun.
Thats why I say yo man just stop,
put down that gun.
Can't see no answer or any solution,
The power is theirs, one cant share or borrow,
I can't see the start, can't see no tomorrow.
And so I say hey man just stop,
and have some fun.
Thats why I say hey man just stop,
put down your gun.
I see some troops ready to surrender
Just keep on poking till the chicken is tender
The power is ours, their uncertain tomorrow
I can see the broad smiles, observing the sorrow.
And so I say yo man just stop,
and have some fun.
Thats why I say yo man just stop,
put down your gun.
I see now that the end is near
we have killed ourselves..oh dear, oh dear
A choice was made, our power would provide
A hole was dug in which we were to reside.
And so I say yo man just stop,
and have some fun.
Thats why I say yo man just stop,
put down that gun.
Music
Some songs I like to hear again and again(song name followed by artist).
1. Where do I begin - The Chemical Brothers
I like to wake up to this song.
2. Everything in it's right place - Radiohead
Because I want my day to be perfect.
3. Out of the city [Hardcandy mix] - 2 Heads
Sets the right mood.
4. When it's over - Sugar Ray
Nice, just nice.
5. Take a picture - Filter
Beautiful song, something I can relate to.
6. Stand Back - Linus Loves feat. Sam Obernik
A dance tune with a difference.
7. Hai Hai - Panjabi Hit Squad
Fast paced song to get you into the groove.
8. Strange Magic - Darren Hayes
Pure magic...transports you into a different world.
9. Lucky Man - The Verve
Relaxing song, with some great lyrics.
10. Jenny was a friend of mine - The Killers
Dont know..just like it.
11. Just my Imagination - Motown
Close your eyes, relax, imagine....
12. Fix You - Coldplay
We all need those lights to guide us home.
13. Have You Forgotten - Red House Painters
"I cant let you leave...coz you're beauty won't allow me to.." Simple but beautiful.
14. You're all I have - Snow Patrol
Reminds me of someone.
15. This Year's Love - David Gray
Melts my heart.
16. Roobaroo - A.R. Rahman
With your friends, on a long drive, wind blowing in your face, ...perfect song.
17. Breathe - Telepopmusik
Close your eyes, lie on the grass...and just breathe.
18. Head over Heels - Tears for Fears
Great song, great band.
19. Mother, Just can get enough - New Radicals
For that someone special.
20. Elevator Beat - Nancy Wilson
I can see my whole life flash me by ( From the Vanilla Sky soundtrack).
1. Where do I begin - The Chemical Brothers
I like to wake up to this song.
2. Everything in it's right place - Radiohead
Because I want my day to be perfect.
3. Out of the city [Hardcandy mix] - 2 Heads
Sets the right mood.
4. When it's over - Sugar Ray
Nice, just nice.
5. Take a picture - Filter
Beautiful song, something I can relate to.
6. Stand Back - Linus Loves feat. Sam Obernik
A dance tune with a difference.
7. Hai Hai - Panjabi Hit Squad
Fast paced song to get you into the groove.
8. Strange Magic - Darren Hayes
Pure magic...transports you into a different world.
9. Lucky Man - The Verve
Relaxing song, with some great lyrics.
10. Jenny was a friend of mine - The Killers
Dont know..just like it.
11. Just my Imagination - Motown
Close your eyes, relax, imagine....
12. Fix You - Coldplay
We all need those lights to guide us home.
13. Have You Forgotten - Red House Painters
"I cant let you leave...coz you're beauty won't allow me to.." Simple but beautiful.
14. You're all I have - Snow Patrol
Reminds me of someone.
15. This Year's Love - David Gray
Melts my heart.
16. Roobaroo - A.R. Rahman
With your friends, on a long drive, wind blowing in your face, ...perfect song.
17. Breathe - Telepopmusik
Close your eyes, lie on the grass...and just breathe.
18. Head over Heels - Tears for Fears
Great song, great band.
19. Mother, Just can get enough - New Radicals
For that someone special.
20. Elevator Beat - Nancy Wilson
I can see my whole life flash me by ( From the Vanilla Sky soundtrack).
Monday, January 08, 2007
Under Pressure
"Hi Doc. How are you today?"
"I'm fine thank you, Marvin. Why dont you take a seat?"
"Doc, you know why I am here, right?"
"You need someone to talk to. You like talking, and share your thoughts, feelings"
"Doc, you know it all. Today, I want to ask you about intelligence. What is intelligence?"
After a moment's pause.
"It is the ability to think of a suitable answer to this question" smiled Doc.
"Okay...I mean...does it boil down to the fact that we have the ability to think and make decisions? Is that intelligence? I think it is."
"Hmm..good point. Okay, what else do you think?"
"Umm...I was thinking,..well, do ghosts have intelligence. This is assuming that ghosts exist. Ghosts apparently can pass through walls, are see-through. Atleast, thats what we think we know. So, if they are all that, I dont think they can have brains,...so how can they think? I mean, you are a ghost, a ghost has to think sometime or the other, rite? So, if he is dead, and no blood flowing through, no feelings, no senses....hence no brain. Then, how the hell can ghosts think?"
"Interesting...I am sure researchers are working on this, I recently spoke to one of my..."
Marvin cut in.
"It's just an observation. You think I am mad anyway, but I am trying to think here, doc."
"Okay, okay. How was breakfast? Old Jim giving you any trouble?"
"Naah, that ass can go and f... kiss some roses. Ha! That old humbug, he cant live alone in his shanty ..so he comes up and stays here with us. He just wants us to see us suffer from his food. Anyway, breakfast was fine. Some crap and some other crap. And then I washed it all down my gullet with some coca crap. I then went and took a nap, and then went for a crap. Hehe hee, I love rhyming words, they are great. Do you like poetry doc?"
"No Marvin, I don't do poetry, I listen to some music though. Do you want to listen to some now?"
" Nope, doc."
" How are studies going? Project alright? Do you like what you are doing?"
" Kind of. The project takes up so much of time that I don't study. None of the professors want to see me. Its funny. I send emails, I have even spoken to the Principal, but what can I do? If they are busy, they are busy. The lab assistants are nice though, they help me a lot. If it were'nt for them I would be lagging behind. But the pressure is killing me, doc. Really...I dont know about you but, I heard that Roger Bircham quit in his last year and started working in the garage. He is so lucky you know. His parents won't say anything. But my father will not allow that, there is so much pressure. He thinks I am like him, but I am not. My mother is understanding though. We get along well, really well. She tells me to do what I want"
" And what else Marvin, how is your football going?"
"Its fine, but havent practised in a month. No time. I am a busy man, I have work to do. This is an important year."
Beep Beep. Beep Beep.
"Hokey tokey, time's up Marvin. I will see you in a week's time then. Good Luck...and take it easy, you will do well in tomorrow's exam."
"Thanks, doc. Intelligence, thats what I am searching for, but if ghosts get along well without a brain my chances look smashing indeed!! Ha! See you later doc."
"See you later, Marvin."
Doc picked up the phone and dialled a number.
"Nurse, get me Mr. Williams, Principal of Largeville High please."
" Hello! Yes?"
"Hello Mr. Williams, I am Dr. Clark speaking."
" Yes, Dr. Clark, how is Marvin?"
" His condition, it is better, Mr. Williams."
" You mean, he knows nothing about ..about..what happened."
" No, he is working for his exams. He keeps repeating that he is under a lot of stress. His line of thought is linked with the pressure of doing well in his last year. But I can see that he is much better now. He feels safer."
" So ...there will not be any more attacks?"
" It is too early to say. His parents visited yesterday. The father blames himself for putting too much pressure on Marvin. The mother just sits there and listens. Cries sometimes. She says that there were so many other options for him. His final year was not the last thing in life. I tried my best to explain that their son needs medication and lot of care. They seemed to understand and then left."
" I pity them. He was such a quiet and good natured boy. Everyone in his class liked him. Maybe, it was is ..the school..to be blamed. Maybe we put too much pressure on students to perform well these days. "
"Well, Mr. Williams, it is hard to explain. His mother says that Marvin was studying in his room. There was a phone call from his friend. He spoke on the phone for five minutes. He then silently placed the phone down and went up to his room. After about half an hour , his mother went up to see if he was alright. Marvin was just seated in his chair, with his books in his lap. He then said, Look ma, I have my most important exam tomorrow and I still haven't finished the portion. Saying that, he went hysterical, threatening that he will not give his exam. His mother tried to calm him down until he became unconscious. He then had to be admitted to the hospital. He missed his exams. He spent a week in the hospital."
" And then he was normal again"
"Yes, and thats when his mother contacted me. Since then, I have been coming here to his house to check on his progress. He seems alright now. God willing, he gets through this phase and graduate."
"Yes, anyway Dr. Clark, I have a meeting in five minutes. Thank you for your call. Its good to know that he is on the road to recovery."
"My pleasure"
Dr. Clark put down the phone.
"Won't you wait for some tea, Dr. Clark?" asked Mrs. Smith, Marvin's mother.
"No thanks Mrs. Smith. I need to get going."
He put his watch on. Set the alarm off and walked towards the door. Marvin just needs to think about other things now. Football, girls, or maybe he is ? Its a complex thing this mind. It makes you do crazy things. Hysterics...atleast he didn't commit suicide.
Thud!!
Dr. Clark stopped in his tracks. The gate was halfway open. He gulped. Leaving the gate open, he ran towards the garden and then he saw the body. Prostrate on the ground, was Marvin Smith. 16 years of age and blood flowing through his side. There was a piece of paper next to his body. Dr. Clark picked it up and read.
"Tomorrow is my toughest exam and I have not finished the portion. What am I going to do?"
Dr. Clark looked at the body. "Why Marvin, why?"
He heard a scream and then someone running towards the garden. He closed his eyes. Somewhere, someone was playing the Queen and David Bowie hit,.."Under Pressure..".
"I'm fine thank you, Marvin. Why dont you take a seat?"
"Doc, you know why I am here, right?"
"You need someone to talk to. You like talking, and share your thoughts, feelings"
"Doc, you know it all. Today, I want to ask you about intelligence. What is intelligence?"
After a moment's pause.
"It is the ability to think of a suitable answer to this question" smiled Doc.
"Okay...I mean...does it boil down to the fact that we have the ability to think and make decisions? Is that intelligence? I think it is."
"Hmm..good point. Okay, what else do you think?"
"Umm...I was thinking,..well, do ghosts have intelligence. This is assuming that ghosts exist. Ghosts apparently can pass through walls, are see-through. Atleast, thats what we think we know. So, if they are all that, I dont think they can have brains,...so how can they think? I mean, you are a ghost, a ghost has to think sometime or the other, rite? So, if he is dead, and no blood flowing through, no feelings, no senses....hence no brain. Then, how the hell can ghosts think?"
"Interesting...I am sure researchers are working on this, I recently spoke to one of my..."
Marvin cut in.
"It's just an observation. You think I am mad anyway, but I am trying to think here, doc."
"Okay, okay. How was breakfast? Old Jim giving you any trouble?"
"Naah, that ass can go and f... kiss some roses. Ha! That old humbug, he cant live alone in his shanty ..so he comes up and stays here with us. He just wants us to see us suffer from his food. Anyway, breakfast was fine. Some crap and some other crap. And then I washed it all down my gullet with some coca crap. I then went and took a nap, and then went for a crap. Hehe hee, I love rhyming words, they are great. Do you like poetry doc?"
"No Marvin, I don't do poetry, I listen to some music though. Do you want to listen to some now?"
" Nope, doc."
" How are studies going? Project alright? Do you like what you are doing?"
" Kind of. The project takes up so much of time that I don't study. None of the professors want to see me. Its funny. I send emails, I have even spoken to the Principal, but what can I do? If they are busy, they are busy. The lab assistants are nice though, they help me a lot. If it were'nt for them I would be lagging behind. But the pressure is killing me, doc. Really...I dont know about you but, I heard that Roger Bircham quit in his last year and started working in the garage. He is so lucky you know. His parents won't say anything. But my father will not allow that, there is so much pressure. He thinks I am like him, but I am not. My mother is understanding though. We get along well, really well. She tells me to do what I want"
" And what else Marvin, how is your football going?"
"Its fine, but havent practised in a month. No time. I am a busy man, I have work to do. This is an important year."
Beep Beep. Beep Beep.
"Hokey tokey, time's up Marvin. I will see you in a week's time then. Good Luck...and take it easy, you will do well in tomorrow's exam."
"Thanks, doc. Intelligence, thats what I am searching for, but if ghosts get along well without a brain my chances look smashing indeed!! Ha! See you later doc."
"See you later, Marvin."
Doc picked up the phone and dialled a number.
"Nurse, get me Mr. Williams, Principal of Largeville High please."
" Hello! Yes?"
"Hello Mr. Williams, I am Dr. Clark speaking."
" Yes, Dr. Clark, how is Marvin?"
" His condition, it is better, Mr. Williams."
" You mean, he knows nothing about ..about..what happened."
" No, he is working for his exams. He keeps repeating that he is under a lot of stress. His line of thought is linked with the pressure of doing well in his last year. But I can see that he is much better now. He feels safer."
" So ...there will not be any more attacks?"
" It is too early to say. His parents visited yesterday. The father blames himself for putting too much pressure on Marvin. The mother just sits there and listens. Cries sometimes. She says that there were so many other options for him. His final year was not the last thing in life. I tried my best to explain that their son needs medication and lot of care. They seemed to understand and then left."
" I pity them. He was such a quiet and good natured boy. Everyone in his class liked him. Maybe, it was is ..the school..to be blamed. Maybe we put too much pressure on students to perform well these days. "
"Well, Mr. Williams, it is hard to explain. His mother says that Marvin was studying in his room. There was a phone call from his friend. He spoke on the phone for five minutes. He then silently placed the phone down and went up to his room. After about half an hour , his mother went up to see if he was alright. Marvin was just seated in his chair, with his books in his lap. He then said, Look ma, I have my most important exam tomorrow and I still haven't finished the portion. Saying that, he went hysterical, threatening that he will not give his exam. His mother tried to calm him down until he became unconscious. He then had to be admitted to the hospital. He missed his exams. He spent a week in the hospital."
" And then he was normal again"
"Yes, and thats when his mother contacted me. Since then, I have been coming here to his house to check on his progress. He seems alright now. God willing, he gets through this phase and graduate."
"Yes, anyway Dr. Clark, I have a meeting in five minutes. Thank you for your call. Its good to know that he is on the road to recovery."
"My pleasure"
Dr. Clark put down the phone.
"Won't you wait for some tea, Dr. Clark?" asked Mrs. Smith, Marvin's mother.
"No thanks Mrs. Smith. I need to get going."
He put his watch on. Set the alarm off and walked towards the door. Marvin just needs to think about other things now. Football, girls, or maybe he is ? Its a complex thing this mind. It makes you do crazy things. Hysterics...atleast he didn't commit suicide.
Thud!!
Dr. Clark stopped in his tracks. The gate was halfway open. He gulped. Leaving the gate open, he ran towards the garden and then he saw the body. Prostrate on the ground, was Marvin Smith. 16 years of age and blood flowing through his side. There was a piece of paper next to his body. Dr. Clark picked it up and read.
"Tomorrow is my toughest exam and I have not finished the portion. What am I going to do?"
Dr. Clark looked at the body. "Why Marvin, why?"
He heard a scream and then someone running towards the garden. He closed his eyes. Somewhere, someone was playing the Queen and David Bowie hit,.."Under Pressure..".
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Laugh like you mean it
You're Beautiful (rewritten for men bored with their wives, based on James Blunt's hit, sing along ,same tune)
My life was brilliant
Now it's a bore..
I saw an angel,
but now I'm not so sure..
She smiled at me on the subway,
She was with another man
But I won't lose no sleep on that
'Coz
I had a plan
Was such a fool
Was such a fool
Was such a fool..it's true
I see your face
such a big disgrace....,
And I don't know what to do
Got my whole life to live with you.
Yes, she caught my eye,
as I ran by..
She could see from my face that I was..
RUNNING
fast,
And I didn't think that I'd see her again,
But we shared a moment that I'll regret till the end...
Was such a fool
Was such a fool
Was such a fool...so true..
I see your face
such a big disgrace
And I don't know what to do,
I've got to bear your tantrums too...
No No No Noo
Nah Nah Nah Naah
Nah Nah Nah Nah Naaaaaaah
Was such a fool
Was such a fool
Was such a fool, it's true...
There must be an angel with a "smile" on her face
When she thought up that I should be with you...
But it's time to face the truth...
I will always be with you.
My life was brilliant
Now it's a bore..
I saw an angel,
but now I'm not so sure..
She smiled at me on the subway,
She was with another man
But I won't lose no sleep on that
'Coz
I had a plan
Was such a fool
Was such a fool
Was such a fool..it's true
I see your face
such a big disgrace....,
And I don't know what to do
Got my whole life to live with you.
Yes, she caught my eye,
as I ran by..
She could see from my face that I was..
RUNNING
fast,
And I didn't think that I'd see her again,
But we shared a moment that I'll regret till the end...
Was such a fool
Was such a fool
Was such a fool...so true..
I see your face
such a big disgrace
And I don't know what to do,
I've got to bear your tantrums too...
No No No Noo
Nah Nah Nah Naah
Nah Nah Nah Nah Naaaaaaah
Was such a fool
Was such a fool
Was such a fool, it's true...
There must be an angel with a "smile" on her face
When she thought up that I should be with you...
But it's time to face the truth...
I will always be with you.
Friday, January 05, 2007
An Interrospection
Year 2006: The Year that just went by
Fell in love with the IPod Nano.
Fell in love with the IPod Nano.
Visited home twice for the first time.
Death... Cry over it, and then get over it.
Time... The best healer of them all.
Graduate Jobs.... Keep faith and persevere.
Friends...the only difference between Friends and Fiends is an 'r',hehe.
Two types of people....1)People who you know and 2)People who you like to be with.
Fell in love again, I think...But chances of meeting her are low now.
Once Smitten, Twice Shy.....Never told her that I liked her even though she stayed just next door.
2007 ?
Graduate...with distinction.
Get a job.
Ride the bumps and surf the waves.
Go with the flow, but in the right direction.
Butterflies
I saw her on the moon and gently went and told her,
that I really liked her,
and I'd like to know her.
The last time I saw her she was walking in the noon..
with beauty and splendour,
faces around her in wonder.
There.. she.. goes again..
looking at her makes me feel the pain.
She said I'm not the kind of man,
somehow I didn't fit her plan,
Her ideal man is somewhere I don't care
but how can I ever forget that stare?
There are words that will never rhyme
There are sheep that will never climb
These words...well, never mind..
Her smile unforgettable, and her voice, sweet like a chime.
But, I didn't get a letter back
maybe its Jim now..or maybe its Jack.
Stolen words can never find their rhythm,
Maybe I should have learnt some french,
maybe I should cooked some chicken.
But there... she... goes again,
looking at her makes feel the pain.
She said I'm not the kind of man,
somehow I didn't fit her plan.
Her ideal man is somewhere I dont care,
but how can I ever forget that stare?
Now my life is like a comma
just waiting for the full stop.
And girls are like butterflies
they flutter around you..and they never stop.
that I really liked her,
and I'd like to know her.
The last time I saw her she was walking in the noon..
with beauty and splendour,
faces around her in wonder.
There.. she.. goes again..
looking at her makes me feel the pain.
She said I'm not the kind of man,
somehow I didn't fit her plan,
Her ideal man is somewhere I don't care
but how can I ever forget that stare?
There are words that will never rhyme
There are sheep that will never climb
These words...well, never mind..
Her smile unforgettable, and her voice, sweet like a chime.
But, I didn't get a letter back
maybe its Jim now..or maybe its Jack.
Stolen words can never find their rhythm,
Maybe I should have learnt some french,
maybe I should cooked some chicken.
But there... she... goes again,
looking at her makes feel the pain.
She said I'm not the kind of man,
somehow I didn't fit her plan.
Her ideal man is somewhere I dont care,
but how can I ever forget that stare?
Now my life is like a comma
just waiting for the full stop.
And girls are like butterflies
they flutter around you..and they never stop.
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