Category: Ali’s Corner

Scared to allow someone to get too close? Sometimes we are scared to allow someone to come too close, for fear of loss of relationship. By trying to protect ourselves against hurt, are we missing out on getting happiness? If we are let down by someone we trust, or find…

Have you had occasion when you wanted to reach out to someone known to you, inquire about his welfare or express your solidarity – but hesitated wondering if the person would like your interference, may misinterpret your intentions, or give you a cold response? Similarly, have you had occasions when you…

The bright look of surprise, the glow of recognition, the thrill of the encounter – when you meet someone you are fond of, either alone or in a party after a long time, there is so much excitement. We give a warm handshake, a hug, or a friendly pat. We…

I am a firm believer in the proverb: “You will forget what people said, you will forget what people did, but you will never forget how they made you feel.” I get reassured on this fact very often. If I make it a point to focus on the positive people…

There were cruel kings and landlords who used to keep the masses in abject poverty, while they enjoyed unlimited luxuries. We believe that now in a democratic set-up with equal opportunities, the differences have been brought down to a great extent. But when I look deeper I find that the…

The New Year has begun and has erased whatever has happened in 2017. Sankranthi and Pongal marked the first major festival, and many more will follow in a never-ending stream. Different people celebrate their own festivals with fervor. Some do participate in others’ rejoicing too. There are the old timers…

Many people may have laughed at it, but I was truly touched by the concept of Munnabhai’s “Gandhi-giri”. Every now and then I come across someone who was hurt, insulted or put down by others, and who, instead of retaliating or taking revenge, decided to be nice to them and tell…

Last week there was a “bandh” and the bustling city of Bangalore had a sleepy look, no traffic jams or congestion. I spent the day catching up with correspondence and writing, leisurely enjoying cups of tea. But my heart goes out to those who are on daily wages and would…

He was much older than me. Unassuming, humble, no great achievements to his credit, he lived a simple life. He would drop by once in a while, but always when I was alone or feeling isolated. I don’t know how he could sense it, but he knew exactly when I…

Lately there has been a lot of buzz in the Internet on the “Imposter Syndrome (IS).” I don’t know if it is a fad that will die off soon as so many other ‘viral’ news do. The ‘IS’ theory is that high achievers often feel that they do not deserve…