I often wonder what life is all about and I am sure that such a thought crosses the minds of most persons living on this earth some day or the other brought upon by varying circumstances and situations.  As far as I know, nobody has been able to provide an answer to this question as yet, despite the great scientists, inventors, de-gooders, religious leaders, prophets etc. our world comes across from time to time.  Being born a Buddhist albeit not a hugely practicing one, I have read and occasionally yet read some Buddhist philosophy and have come to understand the Buddha’s teachings of the impermanence of life and that nothing lasts forever.

Thoughts, values and wants in a person’s life keeps changing throughout the years. Right now, I feel that I have reached a stage in my life where I would like to enjoy life at my pace. Breaking away from my past routine has definitely taken a 180^o turn and I find that I am enjoying my life very much. In time, I have learned not to be affected by what others think, say or speculate about me and feel that I have won a major battle in this fickle world that we live in.  Spending an evening at home and enjoying a movie, talking with my sister, having some friends or acquaintance home for a simple meal and a good chat and a laugh, meeting up with people I have known for years makes a huge difference in life.

Gone are the days, however, when we could nonchalantly use the terms “living on love and fresh air” and “money is not everything,” since some form of income is essential unless born with the set of silver cutlery in the mouth or had the luck to make a huge amount of money.  The sight of the monthly electricity bill brings one close to a cardiac arrest and the same goes when one does a trot to the supermarket or the market and see the dear prices of the fruits and vegetables and other commonly required grocery items; forget luxury items. Fortunately, if you are sufficiently lucky you can pick and choose jobs that you enjoy rather than the job becoming a chore and a curse.

When a break from the tranquil life is required all one has to do is to attend a social soiree and hear the all familiar stories of the new and latest purchase, who was entertained at what restaurant, who was seen with whom at which restaurant and overseas sojourns etc. 

Since local hotels are offering super discounts at the moment, this is an ideal opportunity to take advantage of such offers and enjoy a peaceful break away from home.  Many other things too could be enjoyed at no huge cost based primarily on a person’s values.  Finally, it is a matter of choice. 

We have heard many a person lamenting that they have not enjoyed their life although they have achieved great heights. Often, the happiest people in the world don’t have the best of everything…they just make the best of everything!  I guess nobody has found the answer to the ultimate key of happiness and only can try it their own way. Live simply, speak kindly, care deeply and love generously is the way I want to live my life and I hope that I have the willpower to go the distance.

Now, if you are free tomorrow evening, for some fun come over to Park Street Mews to watch the Rainbow Runway which begins at 1930 hrs.