I hope everyone is enjoying the summer. Even if you have to work all day, take time to go outdoors and breathe. Also, pay a visit to the local library. I forgot to mention the other novels which have kept me glued to the bed. Yeah I can't read read anywhere else. I have to be under the covers, with a bottle of water nearby. Sometimes I might have a plate of crackers and cheese on the nightstand. Yep, I find that the bed is the best place for reading. I also recommend that one wear earplugs and comfy pajamas.
Alright if one is craving humor (with a dose of drama), then I'd suggest "On Chesil Beach" by Ian McEwan. Brilliant writing. I had to look up some obscure words, but it was worth it. He's a British author, so be prepared for the English prose and style. I say humor because it's about the frustrations of a newlywed couple as they embark on losing their virginity. Now this takes place during the 1960's sexual revolution. With an English setting, it's even more amusing. Well, the humor fades away at the end. I felt sorry for both of them.
I also started a new job. The pay sucks, but it's a great atmosphere. I love working with the elderly. They have fascinating tales. They're like living history books. Of course, the drawbacks are the sad symptoms of dementia. Every night I come home with another bag of gratitude. I should use this body to its fullest. And laugh at the silly moments of life. They all seem to appreciate smiles and laughs. Some of us young people could learn from their wisdom.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Friday, July 20, 2007
A Woman's Place
I've been walking a lot since there's isn't an extra vehicle at the "palace." I don't want to fight over the available cars, so I rely on my feet to do the work. It's a good excuse to burn off the extra pounds. At this stage in life, I just want to be active. I wasn't alarmed by the weight gain because I knew I was indulging in sweets. I told the doctor that it might have been a side effect from the headache medication. It's always a good excuse! Seriously, the medication has affected my appetite (I eat well!) and uh, chest area. I'd rather deal with these side effects than go back to the annoying headaches/migraines?!
Currently I'm reading "A Woman's Place" by Lynn Austin. It's a novel about the lives of four women in the WWII era. They befriend each other while working in a shipyard. Each character is unique in her own way, and I find myself relating to their personalities and great expectations. Most of them are shunned by others for choosing the work, yet they continued to sacrifice for the war effort. I, too, faced a lot of criticism when I worked in a factory. It's not a glamorous job, but that's a way of life for many people. In fact, I'd say most of this region is known for the manufacturing industry. Back to the book...the author did an excellent job of portraying life in early 1940s, with its prejudices and expectations of women and minorities. It's hard to imagine that such an era even existed. Of course these attitudes are still prevalent in many parts of the world. So, while it may be a book about American life in the 1940s, I can relate to the issues as a 21st century woman. I have defied many traditions, and "according" to Indian culture, I should be an outcast. Speaking of women's issues, I'd like everyone to read this article
Currently I'm reading "A Woman's Place" by Lynn Austin. It's a novel about the lives of four women in the WWII era. They befriend each other while working in a shipyard. Each character is unique in her own way, and I find myself relating to their personalities and great expectations. Most of them are shunned by others for choosing the work, yet they continued to sacrifice for the war effort. I, too, faced a lot of criticism when I worked in a factory. It's not a glamorous job, but that's a way of life for many people. In fact, I'd say most of this region is known for the manufacturing industry. Back to the book...the author did an excellent job of portraying life in early 1940s, with its prejudices and expectations of women and minorities. It's hard to imagine that such an era even existed. Of course these attitudes are still prevalent in many parts of the world. So, while it may be a book about American life in the 1940s, I can relate to the issues as a 21st century woman. I have defied many traditions, and "according" to Indian culture, I should be an outcast. Speaking of women's issues, I'd like everyone to read this article
Monday, July 16, 2007
Blinded by the Light
I'd like to ask my fellow bloggers how long it took to accept yourself as you are...naked to the bone. Obviously we're all on our journeys. There is no quick detour. It involves a lot of pain, and rejection. But we have to live life for ourselves right? For example, I don't think life is about constant stress and worry. Yet, it seems to be a theme in my environment. Indeed one has to work hard to achieve his/her dreams. Does it also mean a loss of balance? I'll confess that the lack of balance led to the near-death experience. I was in a self-destructive mode, both physically and emotionally. It led to a healthier lifestyle, more nature therapy (i.e. walking, hiking), and acceptance of my imperfections. This path is continuing, yet it's not being accepted by my "loved" ones. It's true what they say regarding such an experience....one has to die, in order to be reborn. So, how come I'm being hassled for being more light-hearted and relaxed? I certainly don't want to go back to the days of insomnia and chain smoking. I keep getting lectures by various people that I've wasted enough time. Or that I haven't had any struggles, or hardships. Since I'm an immigrant "child," this topic is constantly thrown in my face. That I don't know what it means to struggle. Whatever the hell that means. Our struggles are different than the natives'. Don't ever compare me with the homies!!! Grrrrr. Even after mentioning various traumatic incidents, these revelations did not fly with a certain family member. So, what to do except carry on....I'm done with expectations for others. It's a period of true self-love and discovery...like my hobby for baked goods, novels, and silly humor. These are the finer things in life. Not what my peers have accomplished, and how much I've lagged behind. If anything, I've gained gratitude that no one will understand.
I was cleaning out the closet (again!) and found an old plaque that was awarded during senior year of high school. It says "Outstanding National Honor Society Member." I was chosen by my classmates, other NHS members. I remember being shocked at the awards dinner. My heart pounded as I accepted the plaque. Seems that everyone was doing his/her best to keep it a secret. Though our class was a competitive bunch, everyone was smiling as I returned to the table. They were genuinely happy. Indeed, we did a lot of community service during those years. All the more reason to be proud. So, I removed the bubble wrap and hung it on the wall. My medical diploma is still in the case...
I was cleaning out the closet (again!) and found an old plaque that was awarded during senior year of high school. It says "Outstanding National Honor Society Member." I was chosen by my classmates, other NHS members. I remember being shocked at the awards dinner. My heart pounded as I accepted the plaque. Seems that everyone was doing his/her best to keep it a secret. Though our class was a competitive bunch, everyone was smiling as I returned to the table. They were genuinely happy. Indeed, we did a lot of community service during those years. All the more reason to be proud. So, I removed the bubble wrap and hung it on the wall. My medical diploma is still in the case...
Friday, July 6, 2007
Total Recall
Random things that you don't about me....as if I haven't divulged enough material about myself...I've made a variation of several memes, so here it goes:
1) I have vivid recollections of childhood memories, dreams, favorite shows and movies, people.. Good or bad, I can recall them as if they happened yesterday. Yet, when it comes to studies, I have a hard time with absorbing the facts. I need to read, and re-read. Then rewrite the notes until it sticks in my brain. When Angel mentioned this habit, I knew that I wasn't alone.
2) My brother and I came to this country as unaccompanied minors. I was 7, he was 5. All the way from India to Texas. It was one of many independent travels, which have deeply affected my curiosity for the world, whether exotic lands or rural American towns..
3) Before coming to America, I studied in a Catholic boarding school (to learn English) which was nestled in the mountains of Southern India. It was a strange period, which was mixed with a love for solitude, as well as sense of abandonment. After six months, I forgot my native language and had a hard time communicating with my family. I was also fascinated with Christian rituals, like mass on Sundays and Holy Communion. Although I've had a Hindu upbringing, I'm always interested in other faiths and their traditions.
4) I lost touch with a good friend because I got tired of doing all the work. It didn't bother me that I was spending lots of money on overseas calls. I think she took this for granted. I also got lost on a greyhound bus when I went to visit her during college. I ended up staying at a stranger's home and the next day, I got on the right bus. It was Groundhog's Day, and the bus happened to pass through the infamous town. Of course this a funny story and everyone laughs at the details. Years later, she was surprised when I failed to meet her. Friendship isn't a one-way street.
5) When I was 16, I got busted for a very rebellious act. I can't tell you what it was, unless I meet you in person. It wasn't a crime. To this day, I still can't believe that I pulled it off. For a nerdy gal with glasses, it wouldn't have been expected.
6) My first love keeps haunting my dreams. As much as I try to forget and repress the memories, he shows up on random nights. The next day, I alternate between daydreaming and crying. Not profuse, just enough drops for renewal.
7) I don't know why I chose to study in Hungary. After 8 years of living in the country, I found out on a random day...that my birthday is also an Independence Day in Hungary. I was also born on the day of Lincoln's assassination. I suppose this explains my love of liberty..."Freedom is always and exclusively freedom for the one who thinks differently."--Rosa Luxemburg (Today's newspaper quote!) Not to say that I'm special or anything; true freedom is more than flying the flag and pledging allegiance. Go outside of the realm and look for the undiscovered beauty/humor in people and places.
8) I had a near death experience three years ago. I truly believe that we're all connected to each other in one way or the other. My friend made a random phone call with a random song in the background. "Celebration" by Kool and the Gang. Let's just say that it has a special meaning for me...
9) As much I as I claim to love independence...I hope to share the joys, sorrows and imperfections with a partner. Time is not a factor. If this dream doesn't happen, I have plans for a sunny retirement village or commune. I just don't like the finger jabbing by others in the community or family..I'm not an alien; please leave me alone for not following traditions. I've had enough of matrimonial ads and resumes. You can't conclude anything by one's accomplishments or how "good" one's family background is. I almost fell for this tagline a few years ago. Thank goodness I put my foot down.
10) I live at home because of school debt and transitions. As if medical school wasn't enough of an adventure, I plan on another round of graduate studies.
11) This week, I made two banana bread loaves because of uneaten bananas. My dad called me "Aunt Bee" as a joke.
12) I have a great sense of humor. Well, you already knew that right?:-) Have a fabulous weekend!
1) I have vivid recollections of childhood memories, dreams, favorite shows and movies, people.. Good or bad, I can recall them as if they happened yesterday. Yet, when it comes to studies, I have a hard time with absorbing the facts. I need to read, and re-read. Then rewrite the notes until it sticks in my brain. When Angel mentioned this habit, I knew that I wasn't alone.
2) My brother and I came to this country as unaccompanied minors. I was 7, he was 5. All the way from India to Texas. It was one of many independent travels, which have deeply affected my curiosity for the world, whether exotic lands or rural American towns..
3) Before coming to America, I studied in a Catholic boarding school (to learn English) which was nestled in the mountains of Southern India. It was a strange period, which was mixed with a love for solitude, as well as sense of abandonment. After six months, I forgot my native language and had a hard time communicating with my family. I was also fascinated with Christian rituals, like mass on Sundays and Holy Communion. Although I've had a Hindu upbringing, I'm always interested in other faiths and their traditions.
4) I lost touch with a good friend because I got tired of doing all the work. It didn't bother me that I was spending lots of money on overseas calls. I think she took this for granted. I also got lost on a greyhound bus when I went to visit her during college. I ended up staying at a stranger's home and the next day, I got on the right bus. It was Groundhog's Day, and the bus happened to pass through the infamous town. Of course this a funny story and everyone laughs at the details. Years later, she was surprised when I failed to meet her. Friendship isn't a one-way street.
5) When I was 16, I got busted for a very rebellious act. I can't tell you what it was, unless I meet you in person. It wasn't a crime. To this day, I still can't believe that I pulled it off. For a nerdy gal with glasses, it wouldn't have been expected.
6) My first love keeps haunting my dreams. As much as I try to forget and repress the memories, he shows up on random nights. The next day, I alternate between daydreaming and crying. Not profuse, just enough drops for renewal.
7) I don't know why I chose to study in Hungary. After 8 years of living in the country, I found out on a random day...that my birthday is also an Independence Day in Hungary. I was also born on the day of Lincoln's assassination. I suppose this explains my love of liberty..."Freedom is always and exclusively freedom for the one who thinks differently."--Rosa Luxemburg (Today's newspaper quote!) Not to say that I'm special or anything; true freedom is more than flying the flag and pledging allegiance. Go outside of the realm and look for the undiscovered beauty/humor in people and places.
8) I had a near death experience three years ago. I truly believe that we're all connected to each other in one way or the other. My friend made a random phone call with a random song in the background. "Celebration" by Kool and the Gang. Let's just say that it has a special meaning for me...
9) As much I as I claim to love independence...I hope to share the joys, sorrows and imperfections with a partner. Time is not a factor. If this dream doesn't happen, I have plans for a sunny retirement village or commune. I just don't like the finger jabbing by others in the community or family..I'm not an alien; please leave me alone for not following traditions. I've had enough of matrimonial ads and resumes. You can't conclude anything by one's accomplishments or how "good" one's family background is. I almost fell for this tagline a few years ago. Thank goodness I put my foot down.
10) I live at home because of school debt and transitions. As if medical school wasn't enough of an adventure, I plan on another round of graduate studies.
11) This week, I made two banana bread loaves because of uneaten bananas. My dad called me "Aunt Bee" as a joke.
12) I have a great sense of humor. Well, you already knew that right?:-) Have a fabulous weekend!
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Summer is magic
Hope everyone is enjoying the weekend. I'm enjoying the summer weather, cats, and home-cooked meals (lamb curry anyone??!). Caught up with old friends from my favorite haunts, which include a cafe and library. Also grabbed some novels from the library--I'll write those reviews later. I'm getting reacquainted with small town life. Yep, I've missed this setting. Perhaps I'll retire in middle-of-nowhere..finally! It's easy to get lost in the vast open space and hiking trails. I enjoyed the solitary walks in suburbia, but it was a different atmosphere. You can't beat the scenic PA hills! Especially with last night's full moon. Yes, I survived. Besides the weird dreams and heavy head, I'm alright...
I'll be busy during the next week with applications. So, I won't be blogging as much. Unless I find something to gripe about. Hehe. Kidding. Of course, it's not all about the spice. When I called a program on Friday, I was taken quite seriously as a candidate. Yay!
I'll be busy during the next week with applications. So, I won't be blogging as much. Unless I find something to gripe about. Hehe. Kidding. Of course, it's not all about the spice. When I called a program on Friday, I was taken quite seriously as a candidate. Yay!
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