People and Paying it

Summary

The author reflects on the influential people in their life and the importance of sharing experiences and support, which is a key part of their 100 Happy Days series.

Abstract

The author of the article acknowledges the profound impact various individuals have had on their personal growth and journey, emphasizing the significance of both close relationships and the generosity of strangers. Through sharing experiences and time, these individuals have provided guidance, encouragement, and support in various forms, from helping the author refine their doctoral study intentions to simply offering comfort over ice cream. The author expresses gratitude for these interactions, noting that they inspire and are inspired by those who are courageous enough to seek help and strive for excellence. The act of paying it forward is a cornerstone of the author's philosophy, as they take the time to respond to numerous inquiries daily, whether about study abroad scholarships, job searches, or curriculum consulting. These meaningful exchanges contribute to the author's happiness and are celebrated as part of their commitment to the 100 Happy Days series, an initiative aimed at fostering a deeper self-connection and sharing joy with others.

Opinions

The author believes that the people we meet, both intimately and casually, play a crucial role in our personal development.
They value the courage it takes to ask for help and have deep respect for those who reach out for guidance.
Sharing experiences and knowledge is seen as a way to encourage others and is a source of happiness for the author.
The author is inspired by individuals who aspire to make a positive impact in the world through their expertise and skills.
They consider the act of responding to others' queries, despite being busy, as a meaningful contribution to the community and a personal joy.
The author feels that the simple act of sharing, whether through calls, emails, or messages, enriches their life and the lives of others.
They emphasize the importance of paying forward the help they have received, suggesting a cycle of support and mutual growth.

Day #24: 100 Happy Days

Credits: Author’s own image

Just like you, I have had many people in my life who I’d attribute to making me who I am today. Certainly, these are ‘my people’ whom I am close with and have encouraged me to do the right thing. At the same time, I am also grateful to many people who are not in my closest circle, but have shared their time, patience, and experiences that helped me take one step ahead. The next step is often the only step.

How did I meet these people?

I meet them everywhere. At one instance, I met one teacher when I was observing her classroom (I was a teacher professional learning personnel then). She was reciting “We shall overcome …” with her students. To my surprise, the class sang —

“We shall overcome … We shall overcome … We shall overcome … today.

Deep in my heart, I do believe, that we shall overcome … today.

How impressive, right? This was five years ago. :)

I also met one who helped me see that my why behind doctoral studies wasn’t strong yet (a year ago). And, yet another one, who helped me reframe the way I approach writing my statement of purpose for school (three years ago). Oh, yes, another one who took me to have ice-cream with her because I was not feeling the best (two years ago).

Basically, they are everywhere.

Many of the conversations have been uplifting and many others, constructive. I enjoy sharing my learning and experiences, too. I love talking with people who seek help, who are open to inquiring more so that they can put their best foot forward. In many instances, I end up talking with around fifty people in a year just helping them with their questions.

The last few days, my inbox has atleast five new messages/emails from people everyday who are seeking to apply for study abroad scholarships. The numbers generally increase during job search times or university application cycles or for general curriculum/ school consulting and questions. I take time and try to respond to as many people as I can, however busy I am because—

People who aspire to make a dent in the world through their deep knowledge and skills inspire me.

It takes courage to ask for support/ guidance/ help. I have huge respect for the courage of seeking help.

I love to share my experiences so that someone can feel encouraged.

Someone helped me and I hope to pay it forward.

These conversations over calls, emails, and messages make me happy and deserve a spot on my list of 100 happy days. Nothing better than sharing. :)

PS: Just to note the classroom recitation was actually in Hindi:

Hum honge kamyab…Hum honge kamyab… Hum honge kamyab… HAR din…

Mann mein hai vishwaas… poora hai vishwaas… Hum honge kamyab… HAR din…

PPS: This article is a part of the 100 Happy Days series where I have committed to writing about simple things in life that bring me happiness and joy. Hoping that this experiment will help me cultivate a deeper relationship with myself. If you like it, please follow the list in the link above. Deeply appreciated!

People and Sharing of Experiences

Day #24: 100 Happy Days

How did I meet these people?

Basically, they are everywhere.