Pearl..

Pearl..

Apr 23, 2012

Change- 4 Good!!

CHANGE IT!!

While the world admires our culture, diversity, and traditions; we Indians see those exact same things and call them our differences on the basis of race, caste and color. 

Any logical person would know that no country/ city/ individual is perfect. Every region has something to offer while it lacks in something else. That's the whole point of bringing all the states together and making ONE country, India- diverse nation. So that we can co-exist and reap the benefits of a nation.

Of course, while growing up there have been many discussions where one city/state was being pinned against another and I felt I had to stand up for my city. But today, I know better not to participate in such a discussion even if it is done in 'good' humor. Not only I might not have the power to control everyone. But also, such discussions never reach a conclusion but definitely sew seeds of racism/regionalism. As well  educated, travelled & responsible adults, we all should think before we even try and make joke (or remark) which has even a hint of racism or discrimination.

The world is moving at lightening speed, while we are still arguing over whether South Indian food is better than North Indian food or if more color and tradition lies in West India than East India. I mean, who cares? We should be glad that we'll are luckily part of the same country and do not have to choose! Just imagine would you prefer to live in a world, where we needed "Visa" and "Passport" to go from one state to another. I mean, just imagine GOA not being part of 'YOUR' country? [I am sure that must have got your attention ;)]

SO, until WE do not cease axing our country in to regions and start seeing it as ONE, there is little to no-hope of 'real' advancement!!





Mar 12, 2012

Urgh 2 all the "Blah-2 Blahzz.."





I guess, most of the-Indian-girls encounter the 'common' stereotypical questions, throughout her lifetime. Some questions are universal and some even coincide with the ones asked from boys, but nonetheless after a point they are all just annoying and pointless. For example,
From a Young girl - "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
From a High-school girl - "What subject/major have to decided to take in college?"
From a College girl - "Do you have a boy friend?" (Only in Liberal families though!);
"When are you getting married?"
(In Traditional families)

From a Married woman - "When are you having a baby?"
P.S. Even if you are 21 years old you straight jump to being a woman from a girl, magically!

From a Mother of-a-child - Right after the birth of your first child, "Are you planning for a second child?"

Which is eventually followed by, "Which college are your kids going to?", "When are the kids getting married?", "When are you becoming in a Grand-mother?" .... & blah blah blah!! ....Urgh :|
I am at the stage of the "Married-woman-question". I love kids but why everyone has to ask when I am planning to have a baby. It's like their life will be incomplete without knowing this tiny detail about my life. At times it amuses me how everyone thinks they know what I should do in my life and when I should do it as well. Some people have even used the liberty to tell me when is an appropriate time to have one; & them there is the age factor- Just one question to those mind- What if I remain unmarried at this age too. Do you still expect a baby from me.. ;) :P
So, while I will withhold my opinions about when I should have a baby, I just want to say that sitting idle after marriage is most definitely not a good reason to have one!



Feb 29, 2012

Transformation.. ;)

We all know how some days are really gloomy days? When you dislike few things about yourself & feel all hmmm.. "Y Me!!" types.. I felt the same since few days.... But then I remembered the promise I made to myself for not being 'nagger' about anything & a 'cry baby' for many things (4 few things chalta hai as soon as it is working) ;) So Keeping on the commitment.. I peeked into my album & all of a sudden it made me realized 'dude' you did a killer work with your body so y not to show it via post ;) :P So here it goes.. :)

Can't stop floating around it, no doubt this morning has been filled with doses of narcissism.. (Duh!! I love myself :P..) Lately, I wondered, I might not have achieved any standard remarks to boast about, but then I realized 'babes' you made a change; a transformation & then I thought its better to write (flaunt.. ;)) about it.. :P 
Bottom line is I realized instead of cutting down my cravings for chocolates or sweet!! I kept indulging myself for my best-est hobby that turns out to be a fun workout- Dance, Dance & Dance.. Of course it was not a sudden one night change.. But ultimately, the feeling you get after a long process stays with you forever (till you don't give up!!) Now, I believed "Slow and steady, indeed wins the race!!"

Oct 28, 2011

L2 Norms..


This article aims at giving information to the new resident L2 visa holders about the rules to follow in USA.


L2 visa holders are spouses of a valid L1 visa holders ,who are hired on a contract basis by a US company through a foreign company for work.There are a lot of differences in rules and privelages between a permanent resident and a non immigrant resident in US.In the initial stages of entering US,a lot of confusion is there regarding the do’s and dont’s here. So i thought of providing a quick overview of these.


1.Work: The most common question arising is that “Can a L2 visa holder work in US”?
Answer: “YES” unlike a H4 visa holder. This is an advantage,and this can be utilized by applying for a Employment authorization document/EAD. This can be attained by applying online or through mail to the USCIS by filling a form I-765 at the cost of 340 dollars. Link to this- http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis Any person with a valid visa and I-94 can apply to this and start working once they get the EAD.


2.MEDICAL INSURANCE /CAR INSURANCE /SCHOOL BENEFITS: A person on a L2 visa can attain all the benefits of medical/car insurance; Can also have his /her child admitted for a public school ;use a public library.


3.DRIVING LICENSE: A L2 visa holder must have a valid driver’s licensefrom the state DMV office though they posses their countries driver’s license. They can take a written test for a temporary instruction permit ,which is valid for a period of 6 months to 1 year and meanwhile practice and give a behind the wheels driving test and attain a driver’s license. A few states give a grant for L2 visa holder’s to drive for the first 6 months with their countries driver’s license.


4.STUDIES: A L2 visa holder can have an added advantage of studying at US,and obtaining degrees from universities until they have a valid visa .But they need to make the financial arrangements themselves or need a green card holder/permanent resident for proof/witness to obtain a loan for studies.


5.ELIGIBILITY TO STAY:A L2 visa holder has the eligibility to stay at US, only as long as the spouse who has a L1 visa is valid to stay; So if the husband’s L1 visa expires and has to go back,then even a wife has to go back because her L2 VISA is invalid henceforth. Even in case of a divorce ,the spouse cannot stay back with the same visa status.He/she may have to apply for a different visa(H1 or F1 student visa)or may have to marry a permanent resident of the US,in order to continue staying.. ;)


6.BUYING A PROPERTY: A L2 visa holder can own a property under the L1 visa status ,provided they have their cash paid;but if financing is needed ,then again it would be a problem.There are different norms to be followed by a bank/finance company to issue a loan .They may have to take help from some green card holder /home country property as collateral/proof.



Oct 13, 2011

Chit chat between ME & me.. ;)

At times, I enjoy observing others act; try to analyze their behavioral patterns. Grab silly things from them, try to apply too. In my head, I match any song suiting to the situation & this way I pull myself out from any stress/ anger.

Lately, I just love walking between the nature & turning the time machine back to the old times>>
"Childhood Fantasies",
"Teenage Crushes",
"Blush 4 First Love" :p

Wondering how I went through the 'OSLA' time ;) # (OSLA- One sided lover association)

The thing is observing yourself on how we take steps ahead & simply move on, from time to time. Noticing, on how you struggled the hard times of childhood/teenage life, which might seems silly, today. But the catch is we must always maintain that connection to the past, and yet ceaselessly pull away from it.

Here, I am not asking to stick to the rotten memories & feel regret/gloom about it and whispering to yourself "Kash..aisa hota toh.."
My point is taking right actions today, could be the best apologies for bad actions in the past.
The more anger/ hatred feelings you carry in your heart, for not fulfilling the said promises or expectations, the less capable you are of loving in the present.

"Never regret something that once made you smile….at the time its what you wanted.."
Life is too big so is ur heart.. Simply spread smiles, love around. Forgive, forget & forgo.. :)


Aug 14, 2011

Sources of Inspiración..

Creativity and Inspiration tend to present themselves whenever they see fit. I have short listed few sure shot ways to spark the hidden enigma within everyone.. :)

Following ideas might serve few of us in a best manner & for some they may be just words. So my request to all the readers is to follow each point in calm & mind free manner.

Generally, I follow a "MANTRA" to sort out my answers is to Stop thinking. As when I find myself stuck on anything for a long time, I cease my wings from struggling to relaxing mode. The best way to go about is to stop looking for the answer and let the answer finds you.. ;)

>> X factor

The more I workout the more 'Nirvana' I feel. Facts remain constant as they say:
Being active is extremely important & walking can add minutes to your life..
Well I keep Trying to lose weight, but it keeps finding me :p

Jokes apart what my point here is exercise is an important factor to remain fit but whats more imperative is to know your physical state. Do your drill when ever you can and you’ll be more happier & lively. When accosted with a loaded assignments stumping your head, drill harder to release your endorphin.

>> Driving


Living with a conscience is like driving a car with the brakes on; So when you are stressed, go for care free driving; although get alert after rear-viewing the chasing cops ;) The line is to drive out all the negative energy in the air.. :)


>> Music


A genre that makes you fall into. Simply, clear all your consciousness of stresses & fears. Then play your chords. Let the music guide your brain & lets you to bring out a refreshing idea. Trust me its an invaluable tool while relaxing yourself & peeking your soul.. :)


>> Caffeine


This is an absolute last resort for me. I’m of the school of thought that my body is my temple and I keep it free of toxins as often as possible. But, a deadline is a deadline and sometimes I just can’t seem to get my brain out of second gear. This is when I have to head to my local mom & pop coffee shop (I like it better than the chain stores) where I can kick back and get myself a vat of caffeine to soak my brain in. Again, this is a last resort. The other natural methods I offered through brain power and thought control will keep you happier, healthier and more creative in the long run. You don’t want your creativity to become dependant on foreign substances.



>> People Watching


This is my best technique, especially when pouring my mind with some fresh thoughts. Go to any crowded place, empty your mind and subtly observe strangers. This can literally be ANYWHERE that there is a constant flow of new people to observe and absorb. This may seem awkward at first, but 99.9% of the time, nobody will notice what you’re up to and before long, you will probably find yourself quite entertained. Observe people and how they interact with each other, the world around them, and even with themselves. There is no better way that I know of to step outside yourself and get a fresh outlook from others viewpoint.



>> Being Kiddy


Sometimes its lovely to act fool & being notorious. As your dumbness can give chance to others to laugh/smile for a while. So I let my folks make fun of me, cause somewhere on my mind I have feeling of peace of making them happy for the moment. Anyway, the bottom line is to "Be happy & spread happiness.." So keep Spreading Smiles :)



>> Clear Mind to refocus
The greatest obstacle in creating something completely original is the frustration that tends to flare up when you can’t get your imagination to give you its goodies. When you try to force your imagination to generate something on the spot, it sometimes works. When you’re frustrated and you try to force your imagination, it never works. If my methods don’t work for you, I recommend you do what ever it is that works for you in order to take a step back, separate yourself from the problem, do something fun for a while and come back to it with a fresh set of eyes and a positive frame of mind.

Jul 17, 2011

Mind over Matter..



When bad things happens to good hearts, they become better instead of bitter. A lot depends on how we take sudden changes in our life. Blaming to thee or thanking him for not making it worse. One should seek solutions for the troubles, rather than inviting melancholic moods. Its not in the prayers, yet its about the prayers. Giving few minutes of thanking God, might do wonders. It just the showers of blessing we need.

An impure mind craves for an impure things. Only a pure mind can do wisdom. Its the condition of one's mind that determines the quality of life. Primarily, everyone is attracted to a good body, rather than a good mind. This ignorance is adversely affecting the life's quality.

Our mind has the capacity to imagine. Which can be good/bad. Our imagination projects reality. An individual expects his/her partner to like this or that. This is a projected reality. But the fact is that the object reality is different. The husband is disappointed with his wife or vice-versa, not for what she is, but for what she should be. External reality does not fit into his subjective reality. Many suffer from this. So, all this happens in a world that is within us, our mind.

So it depends on us whether we choose chaos or cosmos. When the inner world of our mind is orderly, then we will see the external order as being more orderly.

"God gives us problems to humble us; not to tumble us.."

Inspired by: Every Man's Speaking Tree..