Success and Failure

-No success without failing   

Failure does not lie in losing a game but in losing one’s heart. Keep pushing forward toward your goals. All attempts made may not be fruitful. Nothing worth having is easy to get. Success takes willpower, intelligence, determination, and grit. But more than anything else, it requires failure. Realizing the pain of failure tells us how difficult it is to succeed. The value of success will have worth and respect only after walking through failure.  

THE NEED TO FAIL

– Essential for growth  

Failure is the blacksmith’s hammer that tempers the sword of success. It builds and molds you into a stronger and wiser person. It helps you to reach new heights and potential. It builds character and makes you humble. It also toughens you and makes you more resilient over time. Moreover, failures provide us with an opportunity to introspect. As we reflect on ourselves and what we are doing, we see what we have done wrong and what needs to change.

– Helps change perspective/approach     

Failure teaches us a valuable lesson of what not to do. We also learn from the failures of others and pave our way by avoiding their mistakes, but actual experience and judgment only come from our own efforts and actions. We shouldn’t shy away from experiencing failures and face them head-on instead. You would feel fear and insecurity at first. But after overcoming it, you will feel a sense of accomplishment.

– Motivates to perform better 

Failure builds our experience and helps us reflect on everything we learn, feel, and see throughout the process and convert them into factors that motivate us to perform better. Let yourself feel the emotions, reassess the situation, and channel them into an action that will help you improve. Keep asking yourself these questions-  

  • What brought about the failure?  
  • How much of it is affected by my actions?  
  • What steps do I need to go through to try again?  
  • What can I do to ensure that my next try is better? 

-Conclusion
Failures tend to attack when nobody expects them in different forms. It is simply a bump in the road to achieving success. However, most see failure as the end of one road and leave it behind. View these failures as learning opportunities. How you stand back up after you fail is the one to remember, not how you failed.  

Restrictions

We all have faced restrictions in some way throughout our lives. However, are they a pro or con in our lives? Whether they are for good or not depends on how you think of them. It matters when and why you are restricted. It should never be to a level where you lose your freedom. Everyone has the right to enjoy things in their time. 

We all hate when our parents limit what we have or do. Teaching and restricting us from illegal, inappropriate and harmful things and addictions is all good. But what about refusing us from pursuing a hobby, making our own choices, and experiencing new things or people? Important decisions need more options and thought than being decided from the start. 

We should be able to distinguish between good and bad restrictions and understand why we have those restrictions before thinking of breaking free or going around them. For example:- restrictions out of insecurity, anger, or possessiveness are wrong.

Good restrictions can include those you put on yourself to help you grow. Following proper ideals and measures and knowing your limits keeps you healthy and safe. Limiting yourself and the things you do to a significant extent is always good.

In conclusion, I agree that children need restrictions in their lives until they understand what is right and wrong for themselves. However, support and appreciation is always better than restricting and scolding. Telling us why we aren’t allowed something is better than controlling our actions. 

Importance of hobbies in student life

So, what is a hobby? A hobby can be any activity that is part of your regular schedule that you do just for fun. You do it for your satisfaction and not because of any personal gains or outside influences. Hobbies are of three types- active hobbies- such as sports and other physical activities; creative hobbies- such as arts, instruments, music, etc.; and mental or spiritual hobbies- such as yoga or meditation.
My hobby is playing the guitar, which I picked up during the lockdown. But, once I joined Fiitjee and came to 12th, people started asking how I find the time; maybe I should take a break from my guitar classes and focus more on my studies. However, I did not do so because having a hobby has helped me as a student. Here’s how:
1) Hobby gives you the much-needed time to destress from the academic and peer pressures of school. Doing your hobby should keep your mind free and make you forget your worries for that short period.
2) It adds to your personality and builds you as a person. It connects you with yourself and others with similar passions.
3) It builds your self-esteem and gives you a sense of achievement, confidence, or happiness even when everything else feels wrong.
I’ll answer that question many people have asked me: It is not that I make time for playing the guitar; it is always part of my schedule. Anytime I feel like taking a break, I would play it happily. Contrary to popular belief, a hobby is not a waste of time. It is a much-needed mechanism to cope with their academic stress.

Effects of advertisements on consumers

Good morning to the principal, my teachers, and dear friends! I am Sana of class XI- ‘B’ here to speak to you on the topic: “Effects of advertisements on consumers.”
Advertisements are part of our lives today, found anywhere and made to catch our attention. They are very annoying sometimes and hence mostly ignored. How many people do you think get swayed easily by such advertisements? There are more than you might think.
Advertisements can be both good and bad. They are sometimes used to attract people to cover up scams or cheats, making people lose money and other valuables easily. Advertisements are hence misleading and dangerous too.
However, advertisements can also help consumers by presenting them with choices and sometimes even finding the right product they like. Advertisements spread on a large scale and help with mass- communication, and awareness.
To me, advertisements are just a distraction, but sometimes helpful. They effectively convey their product in a pleasing and easy-to-understand way that benefits everyone. However, it is duly advised not to trust and blindly accept their content. Be more informed and aware as a consumer and be safe.

Education Without Boundaries

Our world is changing every second, and we must keep pace. STEM education changes society by offering learners a new mindset and skills valued in any profession. It merges science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and presents more in-depth lessons focused on communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The overall motto is: explore and experience.

Earlier, education focused mainly on textbooks and was goal-oriented toward a career. From now on, education should be the holistic development of the students with a wide choice of subjects and courses from year to year. Combining art and other extracurricular activities like: P.E., arts and crafts, computer science, broadcasting, and other cultural clubs with knowledge is essential for students to find their interests in topics other than a fixed career option.

All career paths will be equally respected. And there would be freedom of choice, having the 

students learn that there is life beyond science and mathematics. However, implementing this model is not as easy as it seems, and not many schools agree to incorporate this change. The 

problems can be as follows:

  • Parents, educators, or anyone influencing the child don’t equally support and push the student towards subjects other than academics.
  • Students themselves doubt the choice of pursuing their passion over academic (and stable) careers.
  • The overall success rate of an academic career path over a non-scholastic career path is much larger. Hence, students taking up non-scholastic careers work harder to achieve the same standard in society.
  • Even in society, non-scholastic subjects do not have many training institutes to foster their talents. With the existing few in demand, pursuing a career is sometimes unaffordable for most.
  • All schools generally follow public opinion and public investments. Hence, they patronize what the crowd wants and thus academics over non-scholastic subjects.

To overcome these challenges, I suggest that:

  1.  Parents should be more encouraging and open toward their child’s future.
  2. Every career should be equally valued. No one should ever doubt the choice of pursuing a passion.
  3. The government should open schools and institutes to support such careers. For example: in Germany, at a given age, students are provided the choice of attending academic or vocational schools where they teach the required techniques and skill sets for specific jobs they are confident the student will succeed in.
  4. Only with a shift in the opinions of society and the removal of stereotypes can non-scholastic careers receive proper growth and participation, leading to more private facilities, working institutes, and job opportunities.
  5. The government or charity organizations, funds, and donations should help set up stages for all children waiting to showcase their talent and passion to society.

Importance of cleanliness

In the words of the great John Wesley: Cleanliness is next to godliness. Good Morning respected principal, teachers, and my dear friends. Today, I stand before you to deliver a speech suggesting that the state of cleanliness reflects the character of its citizens. Everyone needs to learn about cleanliness, hygiene, sanitation, and the various diseases caused due to poor hygienic conditions. It is crucial for physical well-being and maintaining a healthy environment at home and school. Even if we imbue certain habits like washing hands before and after meals, regular brushing, and bathing from a young age, we are not bothered about keeping public places clean. For this, on 2nd October 2014, PM Modi launched a nationwide cleanliness campaign: ‘Swachh Bharat’ to provide sanitation facilities to every family, including toilets, solid and liquid waste disposal systems, village cleanliness, and safe and adequate drinking water supply. Good health will ensure a healthy mind, leading to increased productivity and a higher standard of living, thus developing the economy. A clean environment is a green environment with fewer people falling ill. Cleanliness, hence, is defined to be the emblem of purity of mind.

Media has a stronghold on society

Greetings to the Principal, teachers, and my dear friends! Today, I stand before you to deliver a short speech on the topic “How media influences public opinion.” As we know, in the last two decades, the influence of media has grown exponentially. The media regards itself as a means to reflect and project the minority. Through media, people can share, discuss and debate topics equally. Therefore, we have come to trust the media as an authority for news and information. However, the media also makes the public form opinions and make judgments that limit the thinking capacity of people and affect the youth in society who lack experience and blindly believe in what they see or hear. Also, the news covered is exaggerated and sensationalized, diverting public attention from the actual problem. Thus I conclude by stating if people continue blindly believing what the media tells them, our democracy could suffer badly. In the end, it is the responsibility of the media personnel to direct their efforts to build a constructive, balanced nation. Thank you!

YouTube has a positive impact on the young minds of today.

Greetings to the moderator, the jury, and my dear friends! I’m Sindhu, here to talk for the proposition on the positive impacts of YouTube on the young minds of today.
YouTube has gained so much popularity over the years. Nowadays, a ‘YouTuber’ is an actual and profitable profession. YouTube’s the second-most popular social network. Everything has a video posted there. Having said this, I’d like to ask you: Is this platform a boon or a bane to youngsters today? Well, let’s see.
Viewers can build their general knowledge from videos on current affairs and news flashes. YouTube also provides opinions on career options, different people, cultures, and practices. Learning something new, fixing something, gathering ideas, or even advertising is possible using YouTube. Moreover, this saves you money. Many YouTubers have created channels dedicated to tutorial videos, life hacks, DIYs, advice, and reviews.
Let’s talk about education. With the pandemic and lock-down, when all schools took to online schooling, even teachers cited YouTube video links for the students to refer to. The views on study channels rose exponentially. Mostly all children relied on YouTube for its visuals and advanced teaching as opposed to long PDFs sent by the school.
A survey revealed that 62% of youngsters aged 13-24 have more respect and admiration for YouTubers than celebrities. Why? Because teenagers relate to them, as they are people of the same age group who enjoy doing simple everyday activities. They know they are not the only ones facing any struggle. They feel happy knowing others who share their opinion.
My worthy opponent mentioned that social media had developed a bad rap for disengaging youth, isolating and creating a wall inside youngsters, and thus detrimental. But I strongly feel YouTube can be a place where viewers relax and unwind away from their stressful and monotonous lives. There are many channels on YouTube that focus solely on positivity and relaxation.
I conclude by saying YouTube does have its pros and cons: but if done in moderation, surely the pros outweigh the cons. I thank my teacher for allowing me to share my opinion on this topic. I also thank the audience for their cooperation till the end. I hope the jury makes the verdict in our favor. Thank you

 

How to Distinguish yourself

In this universe, many other beings continue to exist, like us. They might also have intelligence, hearts, and limbs: living to protect their existence. All living things are similar in many ways. We all carry out basic life processes to live. Most of our similarities are due to our common ancestors and adaptations for survival. According to many theories on the evolution of life: hydrogen, oxygen, methane, and other simple compounds gave rise to air and water and living beings and humans. Therefore, among all these similarities, how do you distinguish yourself? What is it that defines me?
This question is often asked by many to themselves. On the other hand, others don’t want to pursue this question. “Even the sky is not the limit unless we restrict ourselves in our definition.” “I consider myself beyond any definition since every definition limits myself present in me.” I agree that the definitions others give you are not critical, but the definition you give yourself is necessary. Finding ambition and happiness is an inborn characteristic of every living being. One could say the journey towards your goal itself is your purpose in life.
Coming back, I feel our person is the product of all our past actions. “…It’s not who you are underneath, but it is what you do that defines you.” Everyone can say they want to build a business, improve themselves, become more attractive, and learn from their mistakes. But at the end of the day, these words are meaningless if no action follows them. Our efforts and daily choices help form our surroundings that affect our lives for the good or bad. People change according to their company. People learn many things by observing others. They develop character according to what they think is right or wrong according to their surroundings. “Your character- It speaks you!”
In conclusion, focusing on yourself and your actions is the key. Our mental health and emotions are the main factors affecting our decisions. Therefore, cultivating and rightly communicating your emotions is vital in building your person. You will get many opportunities to grow in your journey toward your goal. If you pay attention, you will soon be able to define yourself.

Excess of Everything is Bad.

This practical theme conveyed in the lesson is a beautiful life lesson for all. In the story, Tricki, a pet dog, had been living a luxurious life, fulfilling all a dog could desire. However, due to his over-doting owner, Tricki grew into a hugely fat and listless dog. He had been receiving extra meals and snacks between his meals. Every dog doesn’t know how to refuse its food, so it kept eating and got a little exercise. Hence, we realize that such excess food given to Tricki ruined his physical health.

Usage of electronic devices for learning

Learning is a natural part of our lives. Besides, with the developing society and tech: many innovators have found different ways to make learning a more structured and competitive yet easy and fun experience. The addition of AV rooms, clubs, field trips, rankings, and competitions has made all learning institutions a better place.

We are all aware of the growing electronics trend, and many have suggested their way into classrooms (For ex: Virtual classrooms, task calendars, and online tests). Accordingly, I will discuss various advantages and disadvantages of electronics in learning.

Advantages:

  • The advantages of gadgets in the classroom are enormous: They help improve the efficiency of teaching methods and the learning capacities of students. Audio-visual presentations became not only available but portable for students. Both students and teachers can customize techniques to understand different study elements using electronic gadgets.
  • Students can explore the world outside their classroom. Children learn other perspectives on a problem than the ones taught in class. They have access to the knowledge and experience of many professors from all around the world. They can understand reviews and concepts from their seniors on various topics.
  • In Communication: Email, chats, and group discussions are all made possible. Hence, students can share tasks, information, and reports and participate in group activities and projects. Students can verify information through the internet, increasing communication, collaboration, and cooperative problem-solving among students and teachers.
  • In Learning: Students find the online tools that help research, edit, and grasp study material very helpful. Many learning apps, educational videos, nurturing programs, and competitions are available online. Retention helps determine whether students are successfully learning in class. Co-relatively, activating multiple senses while using electronic gadgets may help their knowledge retention in class.
  • As a Succourer: Research has shown that using gadgets in class can aid learning, especially for students with special needs or having difficulty understanding. Students with special needs, such as those with neurological conditions, find using electronic devices in the classroom a priceless option that assists them as they write research papers. Such students may experience difficulty in learning and writing by hand. Hence, typing with a learning assistant may bring relief and enable them to learn at the same pace as other students.
  • Lessons expenses: Reference books, textbooks, workbooks, and sample papers: all have an enormous use of paper, ink, labor, and money during manufacture. The usage of e-books (available online for free) saves these expenditures and allows us to collect and study more. Information is within their grasp in a matter of seconds.

Disadvantages:

  • However, benefits can be increased only with proper control over these gadgets. Their excessive use can lead to poor health, a sedentary lifestyle, and bad eating habits: therefore, be minimized. Otherwise, using electronics in classrooms may become a cause of distraction and hence be counterproductive for students.
  • Back then, students read books, socialized, or engaged in something active in their free time. But now these gadgets occupy their priorities one by one, especially creativity aspects.
  • More commonly, it also makes student forget their basics. As they depend on the internet instead of books and teachers: their language and writing practice deteriorate. Many misspell words because they use spell checkers.
  • These electronics are a double-edged sword. It can develop poor educational habits and lazy attitudes or explore enhanced learning. Hence, the end choice lies with us: whether we succeed or fail in developing ourselves toward a better future.

Upcycle

In today’s world, most houses are all filled with furniture and plastics everywhere. Such used-and-thrown expired and other wastes pile up more than often. The regular disposal of these wastes is advised, but that would affect us on a global scale. Therefore, up-cycling is the best way to organize and utilize these wastes. Up-cycling results in the reuse of the product into higher qualified and valued items. It also helps rekindle our creativity and imagination. Similar to the Three R’s, up-cycling also helps the environment by minimizing the pollution and harm caused by the human world.

Revision

As we students hear the word ‘revision’: uneasiness accompanies us with the thought of more studies. But revision has another meaning: looking back and understanding your past actions. Revising such helps us realize and confront our mistakes, making us think more efficiently and become better people. Writing a diary, discussing your day with family, friends, or even the mirror is the same. Expressing all our emotions and achievements of that day, reflecting upon them, and preparing for tomorrow is the best revision.

Fitness Beats Pandemic

As we all know, children and the elderly are vulnerable during the pandemic. They lack immunity and resistance against foreign bodies as compared to others. Therefore, us improving this weakness is the best way to fight back. Hence, ‘Fitness and Good Nutrition’ come into play. Making ourselves healthier and fitter to fend off the pandemic is essential.
Keeping this in mind, some have taken this opportunity of staying at home to improve their fitness. They have either taken to yoga, running, dance workouts, etc. or involved themselves in household chores like sweeping, mopping, washing, etc. This wise decision has secured them a better chance against the pandemic.
However, many others have grown lazy, comfort-loving, and accustomed to their chairs, spending most of their day with electronics: weakening their resistance against the pandemic. But there is still time left to change these ways and realize the importance of fitness during this pandemic.
Taking a break from the radiation of screens, breathing fresh air, and napping prove vital. The regular practice of any form of physical exercise and meditation is a necessity. I hope, through this essay, I have highlighted the importance of fitness in general and motivated you to choose the wiser and healthier way forward.

Iron Man of India- Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel

Background
Sardar Vallabh Bhai Jhaver Bhai Patel was born on 31st October 1875; in Nadiad, Gujarat. His parents were Jhaver Bhai Patel and Lad Bhai. At the late age of 22, Patel completed his matriculation, pursued his law degree abroad, and became a barrister even after sacrificing his first attempt for his elder brother.
Freedom struggle
While Patel was practicing law back in Ahmedabad, he attended a lecture by Mahatma Gandhi, whose words impacted him profoundly. He went on to lead the ‘No Tax Campaign’ and supported various freedom movements, especially the ‘Quit India Movement. He helped collect more than 1.5 million and recruit 300,000 members!
Uniting India
However, even after independence, there was a total of 575 divided princely states in India. Sardar Patel approached every small kingdom and requested them to create a ‘United nation’ together. During this pursuit: he was jailed many times, but his patriotism drove him forward. This effort earned him the title of Iron Man of India.
Credits
Under his name, the ‘Statue of Unity’ (the tallest monument in the world) was constructed. It has a height of 182 m and a total cost of ₹2,989 crores. Further, the titles of ‘Bharat Ratna’ and ‘Sardar’ were bestowed upon him. Lastly, several monuments and institutes have been built in his memory: the Sardar Patel University (Gujarat); Sardar Patel Vidyalaya (New Delhi); Sardar Vallabh Bhai National Institute of Technology (Surat); Sardar Patel Memorial Trust & Sardar Sarovar Dam (Gujarat) and Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel Stadium (Ahmedabad).

Our School Gardener

Our school gardener, aged 53, is the most devoted person to mother nature I have ever seen. He has a solid build, is six feet tall, and is fit for lifting 120 kgs of sandbags! He has a family of seven, six children- two daughters, four sons, and a wife. He is a matriculate, and apart from gardening, he also likes watching movies. He is not a very conservative person and loves chatting with people around him. The quality I like about him the most is his kind and helping nature with everyone in the school.

Books

People often find reading books boring, a waste of time, and of no reasonable value. However, science and facts oppose this mindset. Books are man’s best friends. They provide needed solutions and train us in handling various situations. Their failure to demand anything in return except being read and taken care of: makes them true friends. Secondly, they keep us entertained, kill our boredom and give us great company when alone. Thirdly, books improve our vocabulary and make us more fluent in languages. And lastly, books boost our creativity and expand our vision. They give us a newer perspective and a deeper understanding of things. Reading a book transforms a reader into a detective in a new world, following other characters along the journey.

Music

Music surrounds us in our everyday lives. It can be created & enjoyed everywhere. Playing or hearing music always provides satisfaction and soothing. Comparison of music: 1) Yoga: music makes us happy and helps keep hormonal balance in the body. It relieves our body and mind and keeps us physically and mentally healthy. 2) Meditation; if music is practiced daily with passion, it improves concentration and mental health. It is a powerful and potential thing that sparks anyone’s emotion. 3) Lastly, language; music is a very soft, universal language that tells everything peacefully and can finish any problem peacefully. It can convey positive messages and all sorts of emotions without a word. It is a way to translate feelings and desires that are sometimes difficult to express using language.

Gratitude

Gratitude is the feeling and attitude of appreciation and thankfulness for the good we receive. Gratitude makes you greater not lesser. It increases your value as a human being. It also improves the quality of our personal lives and strengthens our bonds with family and friends. Parents sacrifice so much for their children. They cared for us when we were helpless infants. But, when their parents grow old and frail, they ignore them. There is nothing in the world by which we can repay them. The least we can do for them is express our love and gratitude. Showing gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful things humans can do for each other. Therefore, we must always express gratitude whenever required, and return the gesture whenever the opportunity arises.

Abraham Lincoln

Introduction

Often hailed as the greatest President of all time, Abraham Lincoln was a strong leader during one of the worst crises in American history. His impact on America helped to abolish slavery and bring the Union back together.

Lincoln was born on the twelfth of February, eighteen hundred-nine: as the second child to Thomas Lincoln & Nancy Hanks in Kentucky. He only attended school for nine months and taught himself arithmetic and grammar.

Political career

He began his political career at twenty-three years of age, with an unsuccessful campaign for the Illinois General Assembly as a member of the Whig Party. In 1834, he won the election to the State Legislature. In 1836 he received his license to practice law and soon became a respected and successful lawyer in Illinois.

Abolishing slavery

In 1837, he protested against slavery in the Illinois House, which later led to the abolition of slavery. He again won the 1838 state legislature and beat Douglas. In 1846 he became a candidate for the state representative when slavery was intense in the country. Lincoln thought that if not allowed to spread, slavery would eventually die. On twenty-second July eighteen hundred-sixty-two, Lincoln drafted the Emancipation Proclamation, which outlawed slavery. The The13th amendment was passed in January 1865, abolishing slavery.

President

In 1858 he ran for US Senator against Stephen S Douglas. They set up a series of 7 public debates to gain popular support, commonly known as the Lincoln-Douglas debates. However, though he lost the election, he did gain a national reputation that later won him the Republican nomination for President in 1860. Lincoln was re-elected in 1864.

Conclusion

Lincoln was popular with people. But a sudden turn of the wheel of fortune led to his assassination. Lincoln left to attend the play ‘Our American Cousin’ at Ford’s Theatre on 14th, April 1865, Good Friday. John Wilkes Booth, a well-known stage actor, fired at him.

Habits

A habit means the repetition of the same action in similar circumstances. They are things that we feel comfortable with and do not bother doing. A habit can be many things, some good, some not so good. No one has control over thirst, hunger, and sleep. They are, therefore, inborn habits like brushing your teeth, taking a bath, wearing clothes, combing your hair, etc. In my opinion, good habits are behaviors linked to our everyday life. There are a lot of good habits, such as smiling, greeting teachers, helping, respecting, waking up early & exercising. Smoking, drinking alcohol, drugging, lying, teasing the weak, committing acts of theft, being rude/uncourteous, bullying people, and backbiting is bad habits. In conclusion, good habits lead to good manners. Good manners lead to good friends; good friends mean good environment, and a good environment leads to a happy and peaceful life. Sometimes, one habit leads to another and another, forming a chain of habits from which an escape is impossible. It is rightly said, “Sow an act, and you reap a habit. Sow a habit, and you reap a character. Sow a character, and you reap a destiny”.

Social Media

Introduction

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc., bring the whole world to our fingertips. In the last few years, social media has grown tremendously at a quick rate and captured millions of users, especially the youth. But social media is a topic of controversy today. Many feel it’s a boon, but there is a majority- who consider it a curse.

Advantages

The most important advantage is it is a device for education. Students educate themselves on various topics using social media. International live lectures are now possible because of social media. It is also a medium for e-news and advertisements. Most importantly, it gives everyone a platform to voice with complete freedom of expression, be it for supporting a cause or addressing a national or international issue of any sensitivity. Social Media Websites can reach millions of people across nations in an unimaginable time frame. Lastly, it strengthens bonds with your loved ones. Distance is not a barrier anymore because of social media.

Disadvantages

Not controlling the use of social media can lead to grave consequences. It invades your privacy like never before. The oversharing happening on social media makes children a target for predators and hackers. It also leads to cyber-bullying, which affects any person significantly. Also, addiction to social media hampers the academic performance of a student. It has altered our sense of reality; we forget to connect with the people around us and grow emotionally distant. Lastly, social media also creates communal rifts. Fake news is spread, poisoning the mind of peace-loving citizens.

Conclusion

In conclusion, social media has expanded the horizons of communication more than ever and has changed the pace of life forever. While eliminating Social media from our lives is out of the question, moderating its usage by limiting our time is one solution. The youth must balance their academic performances, physical activities, and social media usage. Excess use of anything is harmful. Therefore, we must strive to live a satisfying life with the right balance.

Sky is The Limit

The phrase means as much as one wishes: an infinite or unlimited amount. Pushing ourselves to achieve more and surpassing others will always result in a step closer to success. This is done only through risk-taking. Everybody admits that, but I declare the sky is not my limit as there is no abolishment in learning. Limitlessness allows society to move forward by letting it grow above and beyond expectations. Bigger dreams lead to bigger achievements. There shouldn’t be any limits to creativity and goal in one’s life.

Festivals in India

India is a land of festivals. Despite the diversity, every festival is celebrated together by people of various faiths and beliefs. They reflect their rich cultural heritage and faith in each other’s religions. They break the monotony and bring some cheer into our lives. India alone has about 100 festivals divided into national, religious, and seasonal festivals: the national festivals are celebrated with great patriotic favor. Seasonal festivals are celebrated to remember those days and personalities who inspire people. They also mark the change of season that the public celebrates their faith or seasonal change with gaiety and enthusiasm.

Think Twice Before You Act

Thinking over and looking deeply into matters is always advised. There are often many ways of solving a given problem. Some solutions to a problem can be a bit obvious. Others require careful deliberation and patience. Once a list of possible solutions or courses of action has been arrived at, select the solution that best addresses the given problem at ease. No action is right, done angrily. The famous snake & mongoose story defends this statement. I believe that this maxim will improve our relationships and help our souls. Every day: people make decisions they regret, and taking just a few minutes to think through all the consequences will prove much better.

Importance of Sports

Games and sports have paramount importance. They are an integral part of human life. Firstly, sports help build the character & personality of a person along with happiness & joy. Good health is one of the most important benefits of games and sports. It makes them mentally alert and physically strong. Secondly, sports improve the quality of bones. Also, sports bring discipline to life. It teaches the values of dedication and patience. It teaches how to handle failure. Sports also help in improving one’s cooperation skills. Becoming part of a team requires teamwork to ensure success. Lastly, sports help to reduce the levels of stress. They help one to look away from stressful things and focus on having fun instead. Therefore, everyone should play sports regularly and get away from their monotonous life.

The Marine World

Marine waters cover two-thirds of the surface of the Earth. Within this ocean habitat: live a wide variety of organisms that have evolved in response to various features of their surroundings. These organisms take many forms, from the tiniest single-celled plankton to the largest animal on Earth, the blue whale. Understanding the life cycles, habits, habitats, and inter-relationships of marine life contributes to our understanding of the planet as a whole. Adaptation & unity is a major value learned from marine diversity. However, toxic spills, oxygen-depleted dead zones, marine debris, increasing ocean temperatures, over-fishing, and shoreline development are daily threats to marine life. The oceans are a major source of our growth, by harming them we only harm ourselves.

Time

Time is priceless to everyone; time is complimentary to all. However, no one can buy or sell it. It is more powerful than everything in this world. It may destroy a lazy person, strengthen a hard-working person, and make one a king or a beggar in seconds.
Analogies on time:
Firstly, time is like a running river that constantly flows ahead and never runs back. Time is valued more than money. It is rightly said, “The greatest gift you can give someone is your time because when you give your time, you are giving a portion of your life that you will never get back”.
Secondly, time is said to be a wise counselor. The passage of time allows an individual to grow. This growth gives experience. There is time for everything. Every movement of creation depends on time.
Thirdly, time is an opportunity. Every moment is a storehouse of new changes in life. So, we should never let go of such precious time and make full use of it. Time gives us only one chance: put in the right effort and intelligence and use it to the fullest.
Lastly, time is the best medicine. It helps to heal all our wounds, feelings, and broken hearts. Time also helps to forgive the person for his mistakes. In conclusion, time is vital in many ways. Therefore, we should utilize it in the most efficient & wisest way. Time management is the key to success. Realizing the value of time has got many bright minds to succeed too. ‘time and tide wait for no one’.

Murder on the Orient Express

Title:    Murder on the Orient Express                            Date: 29/9/2020

Author: Agatha Christie                                        Published:  1934

Pages: 256 pgs.

Subject: Adventure of Hercule Poirot

Summary: Hercules Poirot while traveling to Stamobul receives a telegram to summon to London. While on the train, Mr. Rachett asked Poirot to take up his case and work for him. Poirot disagrees. The next morning Ratchett is found dead in his compartment! Poirot then agrees to investigate the case. While investigating he finds a handkerchief with the initials “H”, a pipe cleaner, a round match different from Ratchett’s, a burnt piece of paper that mentioned the name ‘Daisy Armstrong’ on it, and a pocket watch which was stopped at 1:15. Ratchett was stabbed 12 times. Will Poirot solve the case? Who might be the culprits? Read to find out.

Impression: This book proved to be Agatha’s famous one with a gripping mystery. I just couldn’t get my hands of the book. This book is great, I would recommend it especially for teenagers. But it does fit all age groups.

Knowledge is Power

The proverb- ‘Knowledge is power’ was given by Francis Bacon. We can prove the power of knowledge through many examples:
Firstly, it proves us mentally superior to animals. It prevents us from making the same mistake twice. Secondly, it provides a glimpse of our potential and helps convert our ideas into reality. It helps us to overcome our weaknesses/ faults and helps us face challenges with courage and confidence. Thirdly: contrary to money, it only grows and can never be stolen. Hence it proves more powerful. Materialistic possessions always come and go, but knowledge stays with you. If you have the required knowledge, you can use it anytime to gain back things. Lastly, the growth & development of a nation truly depends on the number of knowledgeable people it nurtures, not on the strength of its arms and resources. However, the use of knowledge depends on the man. He could either use it to create a better & safer world. Or he may even destroy the planet. In conclusion, knowledge forms the building blocks of the future. It is the greatest power that leads us to success & happiness.

Mending Wall- Robert Frost

‘Mending Wall’ (1914), written in blank verse, is one of the famous poems by the American poet Robert Frost. Set in rural New England, the poem describes how the speaker and a neighbor meet to rebuild a stone wall between their properties in Spring. This ritual raises some important questions over the course of the poem, as the speaker considers the purpose of borders between people. When he asks his neighbor what the purpose of the dividing wall are, his neighbor utters: ‘Good fences make good neighbors. It sounds like the neighbor is putting up a metaphorical ‘wall’ between him and his neighbor. Despite, the need for such a barrier, the opening line – Something there is that doesn’t love a wall, – implies that the idea of a wall isn’t that straightforward. The speaker disagrees with the statement about good neighbors and presumably intends for us to disagree with it as well.  

Public Speaking

We all know about the power of words. A well-directed, stirring speech motivates and inspires innumerable. Developing good public speaking skills is one of the stepping stones toward success. Firstly, our voice: speaking in our most powerful voice is essential to draw attention. Secondly, body language: facial expressions, gestures, and movements conveys what is going on in your mind. Be facially expressive- matching the message you want to convey. Also, be in tune with the audience and make eye contact. And lastly, attempt to grab the audience’s attention and captivate them before they tune out in the first minute of your speech. Ask questions and tell captivating stories and examples to keep them intrigued throughout.

To Live and Let Live

The well-known idiom ‘Live and let live’ expresses the moral of tolerance towards others: to be open-minded toward or tolerant of others. In our life, there can be several occasions when we may have differences from others. There have been great cruelties and persecutions in the world using the name of religion, nation, race, and caste. However, a man should learn and follow the policy of universal love, peace, and brotherhood. He must have a spirit of adjustment and accommodation. He should not try to impose his own will on others. This is the principle of life which alone can make life peaceful, and this peace brings happiness. Which is possible only when you ‘live and let live’.

Co- Existence in Life

Everyone is essential to each other and has to live together, respecting their differences and embracing their likeness. The core of coexistence is that individuals and groups differ in numerous ways like- class, ethnicity, religion, and gender. Peaceful coexistence exists where individuals and communities actively accept and embrace diversity. (active coexistence) Where individuals and communities merely tolerate other groups (passive coexistence). A state of coexistence provides psychological and physical conditions for individuals, organizations, and communities to reduce tensions and for peacemakers to attempt to resolve the causes of the conflict. In a diverse country like India, coexistence becomes almost unachievable. But, in some parts, people live in harmony, sharing their gifts.

Developing Good Speaking Skills

In today’s developed world, more and more people are exposed to foreign and overseas countries and their opportunities. Developing good speaking skills is hence important. People may judge how fluent and polite you are. To develop good speaking skills, we need to follow some simple objectives. Firstly, practice good pronunciation: You might know many words, but if you fail to form sentences: you will not be understood. Secondly, learn the natural flow. The secret of speaking fluently- lies in the flow of sentences. Thirdly, self-talk: talk to yourself in that language loudly, and notice your voice modulation, posture, and expression. Lastly, read good books/ articles regularly and listen to many speeches in that language.

Speaking

The beautiful ability called speaking and how to develop it.

Speaking is a boon bestowed upon us. Without words, thought can never become a reality. Everything begins with a word. It is also the best way of expressing oneself. While speaking, we can read the emotions on the face of the other person and notice the tone too. While writing, using sign language would not help much. If we do not convey the right intentions to a person, not speaking with them or not understanding them might get us quite stressed. No one likes to shut up.

Being able to express oneself in the right way is a want that everyone has. Misunderstandings have its root linked with speech. 

Speaking is the key to any relationship- as conversation forms the four walls of a strong connection. Secondly, speaking helps us in justifying ourselves in critical situations. Lastly, a good, stirring speech can inspire or influence numerous people. The power of words is really something. 

Words have the energy, power, and ability to help, heal, hinder, hurt, harm, humiliate, and humble. The words we speak and hear shape our lives. We need to become aware of how we talk. We must discipline ourselves to speak in a way that conveys respect, gentleness, and humility. One of the signs of a moral life is right speech. We should speak mindfully- solidifying peace and compassion in our characters. Words can be considered either bullets or seeds by the other person.

Many people struggle to find constructive words while speaking, as they are more focused on finding fault than appreciating. Hence the importance of positive words in one’s pursuit of happiness is highlighted. Positive words expressed with a sincere inner intention have the strength to heal a broken heart. Similarly, harshly spoken words-expressed with a negative motive, can destroy even the most solid relationships. Adding a few positive words to our daily vocabulary when conversing with family and friends will bring happiness at no cost to you.

Aims Of Education

Education helps in achieving and developing- skills, abilities, insights, and scientific temper. The main aim of education is the overall development of a student (growth and development of mind, spirit, and body). It aims at bringing out the best of a student’s inner personality and is made capable of becoming independent. Other aims and objectives of education include the proper integration and harmony between feeling, thinking, and doing; and to develop good character. Character is not only the individual’s pattern of behavior but also- moral strength, mental presence, self-discipline, courage, and reputation. Only those with strong characters are capable of controlling and guiding the destinies of nations and the world. Hence, their many problems would take care of themselves.

The Happy Prince- A Wonderful Story

‘The Happy Prince’ is a very practical and inspirational allegory (it contains various hidden themes and important morals). Written by the famous Irish poet and playwright: Oscar Wilde. Its beautiful and transparent language reaches out to all readers in a lovely manner. The story begins with the mention of the Prince’s statue situated high above the city, gilded all over with gold and precious stones for eyes and sword-hilt. Then arrives a little swallow en-route to Egypt. He was very tired and sought shelter under the “Happy Prince’s” statue for the night. However, just when he was about to fall asleep, a droplet of water fell on him followed by two others. He looked up and found the prince weeping.

Upon being questioned, the Prince explained that when he lived, he wasn’t exposed to any kind of sorrow, and hence named “THE HAPPY PRINCE”. But now, after his death, as a statue, he can see all the ugliness and misery of the people. He then, seeing a friend in the swallow started requesting the swallow to aid him in helping the poor and homeless. The swallow agreed to stay for only one extra night. Which was extended twice by the prince till he gave away, his ruby, and both sapphires. He had therefore gone blind.

The swallow loved the prince and insisted on staying with the prince and helped him by becoming his eyes, flew over the city, and reported the prince on what all he saw. He witnessed the disparity between the rich and the poor; loss of compassion and innocence; and social injustice. Now, the prince only had his gold-plated body left with him to help his poor subjects and he was willing to sacrifice it too. So, he stressed that the swallow must peel his covering leaf by leaf and hand it over to the poor till the prince was quite dull and grey.

Soon the winter arrived; everyone wore furs and caps, except the poor swallow who grew colder and colder each day. He was hungry too and survived through leftover crumbs in the bakery. His good deeds were not recognized by anyone and he didn’t mourn and expect it either. Shortly, he knew he was going to die and when he said goodbye to the prince, the prince thought the bird was finally taking off to Egypt.

The swallow just kissed the prince and fell dead at his feet. The prince was shocked, he was so moved that his lead heart snapped right in two. The next morning, the mayor and his councilors happened to notice the shabby, dull prince and the dead swallow. The mayor felt disgusted and ordered the statue to be melted. Further, an art professor who had designed the statue agreed and said: “As it is no longer beautiful, it is no longer useful.” Showing his and foolish mentality towards outer beauty as opposed to inner beauty.

Finally, while the men melted the statue in the furnace, they faced difficulty in melting the lead heart and had to throw it away. Now, God asks one of his angels to bring the two most precious things of that city and hence the swallow and prince find a new life in God’s city of gold full of warmth and compassion. This shows that doing something purely out of compassion and understanding will never go unacknowledged.

Clean The Clutter

Cleaning is an everyday task for most of the world. Not just houses: some even have the responsibility of cleaning the city roads, lakes, seas, beaches, and so on. Cleaning never stops. If not your house, you can start to help clean the complex. Clutter will never stop accumulating, but it can reduce. At the home level: begin with cleaning small portions till we cover the whole house. If you don’t know how to do away with the items: try sorting them into piles- recycling, giving away, keeping, and maybe selling. After this, the ones to keep may accumulate, so try again organizing them into places to keep them like the bedroom, kitchen, basement, terrace, attic so on. Keeping things clean is done easier the moment you notice them: to prevent work from accumulating. Firstly, by cleaning, we feel happy and accomplished. It makes us productive in a way too. Secondly, we would find things in our time of need without difficulty. We also save money spent on repairs and maintenance. But the main gain is our health- a clean environment is a healthy environment.

Indian Cuisine

Our Indian cuisine is a wide-ranged mix of tastes due to the reign of multiple dynasties over the years. In India, we have gotten to savor the many spices, sweets, dals, bowls of cereal, millet, vegetables, and fruits grown in India. To the south, we devour the staple food- rice with sides made with lentils and south Indian spices- pepper, cumin, coriander, chilies, ginger, and garlic. Mostly, coconut and tamarind with native vegetables such as plantain, ash and snake gourd and sweets like- Mysore Pak, obbatu, chiroti, Kesari Baath, and payasam. To the north, we find wheat-based Rotis eaten with side dishes made with spices like cumin, onion, garlic, and common vegetables like okra, brinjal, and paneer in making paneer butter masala, baingan Barta, pulao/ biriyani, and other chat items. Sweets include besan laddu, jalebi, malpua, and halwas. North India is also famous for its barbecued meats- of which Tandoori chicken is very famous. The British rule and frequent visits of tourists have witnessed a rise in western and ethnic cuisine too. Oh, how I behold India in awe and wonder for its rich diversity in its cuisine and spices.

Dhoni- An Inspiration

One can only lead by example- Dhoni’s journey as a cricketer and captain is an inspiration. From a small-town cricket lover to such a world-famous cricketer, awarded Padma Bhushan in 2011 and was a lieutenant colonel in the military service. His calm and composed demeanor is known the world over. He stood by his players, gave individual attention, and positively influenced them through his trust and confidence. Captaining such a diverse team like India was not very easy too. However, he succeeded through his leadership and encouraging attitude. The sole reason for the many achievements of the Indian team under his captaincy is this. Also, he declared that he wouldn’t keep blocking the position for a promising young wicket-keeper. He did not hesitate to retire when the time came, as he felt that was best for the team. He will always inspire me to aspire for the best, strive harder and keep humble.

Independent India

The Indian freedom struggle is a beauty in itself. After attaining our independence in 1947, we actually didn’t have all political structures fully in order. Our leaders had good knowledge of a well-structured political country from their journeys abroad to many countries to learn about democracy, government, constitution, and fundamental rights. They put all their knowledge together and tried to provide equal opportunity and recognition to all communities and religions of this diverse country. The constitution was the hardest achievement. Looking after the needs of all minorities and majorities posed a threat to the cabinet. But finally, on 26th January 1950, the constitution came into action- our country became a sovereign democratic republic.

Equality of Treatment

Respect and equality are two things every citizen has the right to have. Our independent India focused more on equality as our nation was full of discrimination, prejudice, and castes, providing freedom of expression and equality to all citizens. Through this, we abolished untouchability, recognized backward classes, and gave equal voting rights. However, discrimination still prevails: prominently against female children, among the rich and the poor, color and against homos, and Muslims. Tackling this, the government started the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti padao’ scheme encouraging women’s birth and education. Recently, the government also launched an umbrella scheme providing better education facilities and financial aid to many homos. It provides a monetary benefit to families with transgender children, encouraging them against abandoning their children. All these have led to a good start against inequality. However, without the cooperation of the people, it can never develop: such discriminated groups will continue to have ruined lives. Therefore, we must pledge to an equal and just nation without discrimination and prejudice.

My Dirt- Free City

Nowadays, the world is full of pollution and material waste, making it harder every day to find solutions for a cleaner environment. It has become the reason for the deaths of many marine organisms and animals too. The cost on the line due to this everyday waste is becoming higher and higher. I think the day is not far when we might lose all animals and marine life indirectly linked to our survival. Prevention is more important than cure. We should look towards a pollution-free nation, a vision of dirt- a free world that has to culminate in every individual.
For this change, we all have to start by taking small steps and keeping our surroundings clean from a city’s point of view. From keeping our homes, streets, towns and then cities clean too. For this, we might want to visualize what a clean and environment-friendly place would look like to help achieve this goal. Thinking of such a place, the first to come to mind is a remote, self-sustained and peaceful village where the pollution of the cities won’t reach.
Here, everyone wants their village to be clean and healthy, and no one wishes to pollute it. Everyone works towards keeping it clean. It will make use of natural resources for energy. Therefore, having sufficient energy to sustain itself and not rely on imports. Also, situated on the banks of a flowing river and covered in undergrowth, the village has a good supply of fresh air and water. Everybody stays outside most of the day, inhaling the fresh air and interacting, playing, and working. From my point of view, this would be an ideal vision for our future city and world.
Working towards such a goal will prove easy with such a mindset and a step-by-step process. Firstly, we should try reducing the most abundant pollutant- plastic. The simplest ways from a consumer’s point of view are to use the four ‘R’s and waste segregation. Other modern solutions have arisen to the growing plastic crisis, for example- incineration, plastic ingesting fungi, recycling plastic into oil, and mushroom packaging. All these steps are slowly progressing towards a waste-free world.
However, as earth shares its land with all of us, we should all share its concerns. Everyone should contribute their best to bring up a new, clean and healthy city for our successors. Only with the cooperation of a majority can this be possible. So, let us all sleep today in the thought of a dirt-free city at night and work towards it during the day.

Plastics and the Environment

Apart from the many inevitable advantages that plastics provide, we should also consider the catastrophic side of these indestructible materials. Plastics have sharply increased with the onset of this pandemic due to the rise in medical protective equipment and packaged goods. These harmful particles are not affected by even the strong currents of the ocean. But, some of them break down to form micro-plastics which sometimes break down into very minute particles and mix with air and drinking water. Plastics have been found in every corner of the globe and are a part of all types of pollution. Of which water pollution is the most and is still increasing. The marine world is most affected than humans due to plastic hazards. Besides all this, on the brighter side, scientists have found effective ways to reduce plastic pollution like: incineration, plastic ingesting fungi, recycling plastic into oil, and mushroom packaging. But at a consumer level, we can try taking a small step and practicing the four ‘R’s toward a clean and pollution-free environment.

Importance of Mother Tongue

Mother tongue is the language that a person grows up speaking from childhood. It is the best and easiest way of effective communication, since it helps to express feelings or views more clearly and genuinely. Being fluent in one’s mother tongue has many benefits. It connects them with culture and ensures better cognitive development. It is a step towards language learning. The stronger the child’s mother tongue, the easier it is for them to learn new languages and develop better literacy skills in other languages too. Therefore, parents need to promote conversation in the mother tongue and not any foreign language for the good of the child’s growth.

Home Sweet Home

Home: the word alone emphasizes the pleasant feeling of a cozy, warm and comfortable environment. A place everyone needs that is trustful, safe, and secure. Bound within those four walls lies the foundation for a happy life. It is a happy sight- a welcoming home as we come tired and hungry after a long journey. However, it is unfortunate to see many homeless due to a lack of money and other circumstances or natural calamities. Also, many houses lack the vital signs of love and belonging, not giving it a feeling of a home-sweet home. Making a home is hard work but once done, it remains as one for life.

Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein, now considered a synonym for genius, was the greatest physicist of all time. Born in Germany, he studied his favorite subjects- physics and maths. Einstein further became the inventor of the world’s famous formula: E=mc^2 which explains the relationship between mass and energy. He concentrated on his strengths and developed a dashing personality with a walrus mustache, a well-built body, and curly white hair. Apart from science, Einstein also pursued the violin because of his mother. He received the Nobel Peace Prize for physics in 1921. Also, he turned down an offer to be the president of newly-formed Israel. He is popularly known as a world citizen for his want for universal peace and worry about the aftermath of atomic power. He will always be an inspiration to all the creative and curious minds of the world.

Why Do We lead a Life of Co-Existence With Animals?

Animals are a gift of nature given to us. They are an essential part of the ecosystem and are the main part of the food chain. Many animals are being domesticated by man and used as produce for food or labor. A world without animals is unimaginable. Most animal products are sources for food, medicine, clothing, and tourism. Animals also take care of various needs of humans such as transportation, company, many economic needs, protection, and as valuable assistants. Some dogs help special people as guide dogs. Therefore, animals are essential for the everyday survival of humans. Hence we should stop killing them and instead save and protect them. 😊


Staying Consistent

Consistency is one of the keys to success. To stay consistent is to accomplish specific and realistic goals set for each day. It is important to take small steps towards the end goal but to do so every day. It becomes even more essential during desperate times when a person loses hope in something. Sometimes, it will help to set small rules and habits to follow. It helps us not to procrastinate and instead develop coherence. Such an attitude will help us stay systematic and organized, paving the path to success. As we all know, results happen over time, not overnight. So stay consistent and progress towards your dreams.

My Favorite Sport

Sport is of many kinds. Any physical, mental, outdoor, or indoor sport brings joy to all through its play or view. Keeping with this, I find various sports that are engaging uniquely. Chess, table tennis, kabaddi, and badminton are all my favorites. However, the most appealing among them is the Frisbee. The skill of throwing the disc, making it fly for the desired time, towards the desired point. The prowess of diving and jumping long and high while catching it is truly inspiring. I heartily enjoy playing Frisbee and have become quite proficient at it. Still, I know Frisbee hasn’t reached the whole world yet, and I would like more people to realize its value and enjoy it.

Importance of Yoga In Present Times

Yoga is simply a way of life. It comprises a group of physical, mental, and spiritual practices resulting in the conditioning of the body overall. It mainly includes breathing exercises, meditation, and various asanas depicting a simple workout, only slowly. During these Covid times, stress and depression have become common. Practicing yoga will help bring mental peace and discipline and develop a positive attitude toward the everyday-challenges of life. As it is practiced anywhere without extra equipment, its practice has risen considerably. It has also helped me develop focus, concentration, patience, memory, and creativity nowadays.

Importance of Positive Words In Our Speech

Words are powerful, especially while communicating with others. Many people struggle to find constructive words while speaking, as they are more focused on finding fault than appreciating. Hence the importance of positive words in one’s pursuit of happiness is highlighted. Positive words expressed with a sincere inner intention have the strength to heal a broken heart. Similarly, harshly spoken words-expressed with a negative motive, can destroy even the most solid relationships. Adding a few positive words to our daily vocabulary when conversing with family and friends will bring happiness at no cost to you.

Where there is a Will, There is a Way

The famous proverb: ‘Where there is a will, there is a way.’ is a very practical proverb for life. For example: in the current Covid-19 situation, where most people do not have the willpower to persevere on their goals. It is a simple truth that if one follows something wholeheartedly and works hard towards it, one will surely achieve it sooner or later. In essence, this proverb gives us the self-confidence to not give up hope and take on opportunities right as they happen.

The Best Present

Presents, in general, generate a happy feeling. Any present big or small will always bring joy to anyone. Everyone loves presents. Hence, children are fond of aunts and uncles who live abroad and always return with lovely gifts of any kind😊. But indeed, there will be a particular present that would speak to oneself. It may be from a loved one who is no longer with you, a gift you were longing to have, or even something or someone that brings you joy.
All the same, I love presents very much too. In my childhood, I kept wants of mere material joys like cool stationery, games, toys, etc. But it all changed with time. Now I realize that all these only give me temporary happiness. All these things mattered so little in the face of things that would bring me joy throughout my life. This realization enabled me to appreciate the presence of the best present of my life: “my family”.
My family is the best gift I have. My mother, father, and sister will always keep me happy, provided for, and loved. All I wanted was this. To know it has been with me all this time, and I failed to cherish it!
I hope through this article, everyone looks up to their family and feels proud to have such a beautiful family that it is worth having a place in the list of best presents for their life.

Doing Excercise

Doing exercise is very important for our proper health and fitness. Exercise refers to the practice of any physical activity regularly. It helps us revive and recondition our body, makes our muscles strong, maintains youthfulness, and also helps us to be immune to many health problems by keeping our body fit and healthy. Exercise also helps students as it releases proteins in the brain that helps improve your memory and increase your analytical performance (It energizes the brain). Therefore, exercises are essential for the overall development of one’s life.

Say No To Procrastination

Procrastination is the act of avoiding or postponing an event. It is a common tendency of humans to procrastinate. The famous saying ‘A stitch in time saves nine’ defines procrastination. Not starting or finishing a task in time leads to many more such tasks piling up. Ultimately it leads to stress and anxiety in completing tasks on time. It also lowers self-esteem and leads to depression. Therefore, as the Hindi saying goes: ‘Kal kareso so aaj kar, aaj kareso ab.’ We should start and finish all our tasks right on time and not procrastinate on any of them.

My Experience on Online Classes

The online class, for each subject, roughly happens two days a week for a whole hour. I sincerely appreciate the effort teachers have taken to make the students absorb the concept and learn. However, in contrast to a normal school, online classes have lot more notes to be taken and feel a bit rushed.  School teachers also seem to take advantage of the time left after and provide extra notes that take much more time copying, beyond a class schedule. As there is a lot of traffic of all notes of each subject at the end of an exam; it gets hard for the student to memorize… Hence, I suggest there could be interactive question-answer sessions at the end of one lesson, to make the main points get absorbed well at the time of teaching itself.

Success or Failure? Which is Important in Life? Why?

Success plays a vital role in each of our lives because the other option, failure, is always a looming threat. We always want to be successful and not the latter. Failure could lead to losing our reputation and so much more as well. Sure, failing hurts. Yet, it is necessary. The problem with our lack of ability to handle failure in life is that it makes success much harder to achieve. Failure teaches you in ways success can’t. It shapes you as a person. Therefore, failure is equally important as success in life.

Examination

Examination- no matter how you say it, represents fear, pressure, and anxiety. The most irritating part is when the schedule for the upcoming exam gets announced right when the last exam gets over. My feelings during the exam week is a mixture of nervousness, uncertainty, and fear before the exam; and joy and relief of one subject getting checked out from the seven- after the exam. Everyone has definitely experienced ‘Examinophobia’- the fear of exams. However, in the end, we realize that exams boost our confidence, time management, and knowledge capacity. Therefore, exams are essential for the enhancement of a child.

An Argumentative Person

An argumentative person is someone- prone to starting disagreements and a person who always says controversial things stirring up trouble. Besides, handling argumentative people has become a big part of our lives. Sometimes, the person might be unaware of how his behavior affects others. So, helping them realize its effects more calmly will prove the best. Most importantly, not engaging oneself in such arguments is the most simple and practical reaction. Lastly, most misunderstandings come from unresolved anger, hatred, or resentment from the past. Hence, resolving such problems is the ultimate medicine. Following such guidelines will surely improve the situation and lead us toward the bright side of life.

A Proactive Approach to Life

Being proactive is controlling a situation rather than responding to it after it has happened. Acting prescient will help one plan for and understand future goals. The thought- “if this happens, what will I do?”. It does take time since we have to consider all our options, weigh alternatives and make our own decisions. On the contrary, being reactive means solving problems when they turn up: with the minimum effort. It forces us to do something at the last minute without understanding the facts and consequences resulting in more problems. Therefore, being proactive and enjoying being more relaxed, prepared, and positive will be the wiser choice.

Mother Teresa

Popularly known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta- mother Teresa has helped many homeless families, including orphaned children dying of various diseases, by taking them as a refuge to her Missionaries of Charity, a Roman Catholic religious congregation. She first got into helping the poor when she received an order to go to Calcutta in 1929. Mother Teresa dedicated her life to helping the poorest of the poor. Due to her caring and loving nature, she had won herself a new family. And they called her Mother Teresa. Her acts of charity and selfless love towards the poor also earned her a Noble Peace prize in 1979 after 30 years of founding the missionaries of charity.

Best Moments of My Life

Everyone must have gone through many defining moments at different stages of their life. I have many memorable moments worth sharing. So- it was morning on the cruise and time for breakfast. We entered the buffet service and found ourselves surrounded by all kinds of food, all possible cuisines! I grabbed one to two pieces of every dish I found interesting. The lavish dinners on the cruise were an out-of-this-world experience. On the trip, we also visited the famous redwoods national park. Its beauty and prowess were breathtaking. Camping there for a day was too much excitement for one day. This trip to the USA will be a lifelong memory.

What Will You Do When Someone Hurts You

There will be many instances in life where we could get insulted or hurt by someone else, either a stranger or a loved one. One, we get agitated and snap back, or two, we could walk away or not listen. How we react in those instances is what matters the most. To start with, recognize if the offense is intentional or a misunderstanding. Choose to respond knowingly instead of reacting instinctively. Difference of opinion: one person being right and the other wrong is not always the case. Do not try holding the situation till you prove yourself right. Try to forgive and forget. Lastly, when you propose your concerns with a door open to an agreement, the other person will surely choose to walk through. A soothing attitude of love and acceptance is much easier for everyone to deal with than a hostile, defensive one. If either party needs to apologize, don’t debate it. Such reactions will be a mature way to respond to such situations.

Nature- The Best Teacher

Nature teaches all the life-transforming lessons that one needs to be a moral human being. However, it is a silent teacher. It teaches you the most complex elements in the simplest way. If you would only listen, everything in nature, big or small, is significant and inspirational in its own way. The sun: though a symbol of prowess stands for selflessness, it burns itself to provide us with light. It teaches us to share our light of knowledge. The trees: though we cut them for wood and and throw stones at them for their fruits: they stand tall for us, always giving without any expectations. They teach us to forgive, be patient, and be generous. Not to forget the rivers: they teach us the message it teaches us to enjoy life, fall, get up, but most importantly, keep moving forward, overcoming all obstacles. Also, the dark sky appearing every day; reminds us to be grateful for being able to experience the lighted day. And lastly, the ocean, which thanks every small drop that has contributed to its vastness. It shows that every good deed we do, be it small or big, ultimately contributes towards the well-being of the whole planet.

A Rainy Day

I love rainy days. It fills our hearts with a joyous feeling. The positiveness brought about by this pleasant show of nature is truly enriching and keeps us cheery throughout the day. The cool breeze and drizzle are awaited by all age groups as soon as the black clouds cover the sky. It a wonderful to see the trees and plants drenched- appearing greener and brighter. It is ecstasy to feel the droplets on the underside of the leaves. The clouds in the sky overcast the sun and give relief from the scorching heat on a rainy day. During such a day, I love sitting on the swing and enjoying the pleasant breeze listening to songs, or reading a book while sipping hot milk on the balcony.

Why Wikipedia

Wikipedia is a 21st-century encyclopedia website. Wikipedia is the largest and most popular general reference on the World Wide Web. It is considered one of the best search destinations for users to gain initial and basic knowledge about any topic. It also features exclusively free content users do not need to sign up or pay for use. The sources, references, and all points of view in terms of user perspective are available on the same site therefore, we get an overview of the topic easily. It also has articles published in many other languages. Most importantly, Wikipedia has all ads blocked and, the content index lessens the work of scrolling up and down. Wikipedia has many benefits from a student’s point of view. Firstly, students acquire extra knowledge on the topic while reading through the content and reference texts. Mainly their vocabulary and reading skill is developed. Students develop the ability to summarize, edit, and screen through the content. Also, students learn how to reference and use reliable sources correctly. Lastly, students grow interested in the topic and willingly learn more.

Overcoming Laziness

Laziness is the desire to do nothing, resist the effort, and procrastinate doing things. Therefore, overcoming laziness makes us stronger. Every time we choose to act, we increase our ability to win, achieve goals, and improve our life. Always try recognizing the real issue, the reason to be lazy, like tiredness, exhaustion, overwhelm, or just plain non-inspiration. If the overwhelming size of the task is tiring or taking too much of our time, breaking it down into smaller tasks will help. Sometimes, the reason is a lack of motivation. We can motivate ourselves by making the task a bit joyful, for example, by listening to songs or keeping the work colorful, attractive, and organized. Mainly, getting organized and thinking of its positives will motivate us to finish it and avoid procrastination. Once we overcome laziness, nothing can drive us away from our goals.

A Person With A Wonderful Management Skill

Time-management skills are a gift that not everyone will have. It is an important quality that defines a person. Such a person stands out from others. They are always punctual, organized, and work purposefully. They don’t procrastinate and waste time doing something unnecessary. They concentrate on one task at a time and complete the tasks and goals set for each day. They are great at prioritizing their work. Such qualities make them more opportunists to achieve success. Managing our time helps us even more than we think it can change our life.

My Grandmother

Overall, all grandmothers are very similar. Always smiling and motivating along with their ever-engaging stories, love, and scrumptious recipes. Time spent with them is never considered wasted. However, sometimes, they get a little annoying while opposing any of our actions and advising us on why we shouldn’t have done something. Nevertheless, my grandma is an expert at olden games like pallangui, seettu, kallaattam, etc… playing, laughing, chatting, and all combined, having fun with her always makes my day. Sometimes, just lying down on her lap is so calming. Besides, her different sweet recipes are just mouth-watering and top all others. And the fact that she is just never short of stories to tell is amazing. May it is from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, or any other folk tale is always interesting. Our bond is so strong and unbreakable. I love my grandma very much. 😊

My Favorite Book

I like reading a lot. The genres that I read have changed over time. Before, short stories, comics, and the Amar Chitra Katha series were my favorites. We have a whole collection of them in our bookcase. I still like reading the Amar Chitra Katha but have left comics. At the moment, my favorite books are among the famous Agatha Christie series of murder novels. I first got into her books through my friend and the school library. ‘The secret Adversary’ is my most liked novel of hers to date. It revolves around two friends, Tommy and Tuppence, who currently were unemployed. Their lives change when they sign up to track down a dangerous criminal and safeguard a country’s secret. It involves many twists, climaxes anti-climaxes. The suspense keeps building every time you turn the pages. I definitely recommend this book for children aged 12 and above.

Self- Discipline

Discipline is an essential part of life; it brings stability and structure. It teaches a person to be responsible and respectful. Self-discipline is a sign of inner strength and control over your- self, actions, and reactions. It involves a high toll of patience, manners, respect, etc. A person with self-discipline should have acceptance, willpower, hard work, persistence, and industry. The possession of self-discipline enables you to choose and then follow with your actions, reactions, and behavior. You will have the power to overcome addictions or laziness and to persuade yourself into something better.

Benefits of Reading

People often find reading books boring, a waste of time, and no reasonable value. However, science and facts oppose this mindset. There are various reasons why reading every day could make you a better person. A book lover could improve his memory, thought, concentration, behavior, creativity, and imagination. Also, it is the best way of educating oneself. While reading, the reader experiences a new world full of imagination and creativity. It pulls a person out of their lonely surroundings and introduces them to their new best friend. In conclusion, books have all the qualities of a great friend. And therefore, reading helps us lead a happy and healthy life.

My Mother

My mother is the person whom I could depend upon the most during good and bad times. She never ceases to pour her unconditional love upon me and there as a strong pillar of support and protection. She always has my back and is ready to sacrifice everything for my well-being. Also, her knowledge of what to do and when is very accurate. Not to forget her mouth-watering recipes and dishes. Therefore, in my opinion; the six-letter word MOTHER would rightly equate to the qualities of generosity, hard work, kindness, love, patience, reliability, giving, and understanding.

What Success Means To Me

Many people refer to success as the attainment of fame, wealth, social status, or the ultimate goal in life. However, there is more to it. What is after success? Does everything end there? No. Nothing can stay forever. We don’t what tomorrow will bring us. Therefore, spending each day working hard towards that big goal of your life is not the right thing to do. Instead, find happiness every day of your life rather than thinking of achieving success and happiness in the future. I always try to succeed every day by seeking perfection in my work and feeling happy about my improvement that day compared to the day before. Keeping with this, every person should try and succeed each day and learn to live in the moment.

What Values Have I Learnt From School

School provides the best environment for learning. It fosters the best values in life. Especially with everybody constantly interacting, conversing, sharing, helping, playing, and building friendships. It makes it a happy, positive, and cheerful atmosphere. In school, I have learned many values. Firstly, not being self-centered and being altruistic instead. Secondly, I understood that the more you give, the more you get, and don’t do something expecting others to do the same. Also, to be polite and understanding and to offer a kind hand to whoever needs it. Lastly, the importance of frequent, casual conversation forms the heart and soul of a friendship. The realization of these things has changed my experience in school altogether. Now, school is my happy place where the scope of learning new values never ceases.

My Sister

My sister, Kavya is long-haired, chubby, and of medium height. She has brown eyes, an oval face, and a fair complexion. She looks smart and very cute at first glance. She is also honest, reliable, and has self-esteem. Her happy, frolicking nature is a joy to all. Certainly, we have had good times playing silly games, making silly faces, and having silly reactions that lead us to hearty laughter that continues throughout the day. All these are my sweet memories of our childhood. Needless to say, we have also had our share of fights, quarrels, and misunderstandings. But without these moments we would have never cherished our good times together. In essence, she has been and will be a perfect sister for me.

Slow And Steady Wins the Race

Slow and Steady Wins the Race is a well-known English proverb popularly based on the tortoise and hare story. It delivers a direct message. A determined, stable, and meticulous progress: even slow, will show better results than rushing, as the latter would result in inaccurate and clumsy work full of mistakes. It can’t be relied upon. In short, doing something with more patience, concentration, accuracy, and thought will always be worthwhile

Chennai- My Favorite Place

Chennai is the capital of Tamilnadu and one of the big developed cities in India. It was initially known as Madras, one of the three presidencies of India during British rule. Its right location near the sea keeps the land from experiencing extreme climates. Still, it is a bit scorching most of the time. It has many renowned universities with international recognition, and the long Marina beach completes its splendor. Its respect, ideal position, coast, majestic temples, and celebrated intelligence are what speak to me. Also, its mixed appearance of both modern and traditional ways of living and it is a reservoir of our Indian heritage and culture won’t cease to impress me.

A Visit to the Museum

My last visit to a museum dates a year back to the national museum of the USA. I went there accompanied by: my cousins, uncle, aunt, grandparents, parents, and sister. It was a wondrous experience that I shared with my relatives. There, I saw on one side of the museum: skeletons, bones, and fossils of many extinct animals and many other models of such animals and early humans neatly displayed. On the other side, colorful fishes, frogs, lizards, spiders, and many more such reptiles, highly contrasted the dry and boring bones, fossils, and rocks. There were also many visual screens explaining the exhibits and one movie on marine life in a small theater. It was very educational and worthwhile. 😊

The Mirror

A mirror is a flat, decorated object having one side as a reflecting surface. It forms an upright but laterally inverted image of the same size and shape as the object placed in front of it. It gives us a fulfilling picture that tempts us to appreciate ourselves. It influences our vanity. I also look at the mirror and smile, and sometimes dance and make faces. Staring at the mirror for a long time somehow tempts us to sing, dance, and laugh without reason. Also, talking to a mirror is considered a genius.

Hard work Leads to Success


Different people have different opinions. Today many arguments have arisen between hard work, and smart work. Which is better? Now, while smart work bases on time management and efficiency, hard work involves tedious and monotonous work. However, we should also know that smart work mainly results from hard work. Only when you work hard; do you gather the expertise and understanding of the task at hand along with the ability skillfully improve on it and work smartly. Therefore, combining both is the right choice: resulting in a perfect mix leading to success. The harder we work, the smarter we’ll get, and the sweeter the fruit.

The Calendar In My Room

Mostly everyone has a calendar hanging in their rooms to help them schedule their work and keep track of time. Our calendar is very colorful, as it was with our bare hands. It is three-quarters of an a4 sheet, hung on the door out of our room, kept in place with tape. The days are marked horizontally, starting with Sunday. We designed it in such a way the months alternate between blue and pink, keeping in mind blue comes on my birth month and pink on hers. Finally, we colored all the special dates (birthdays of close relatives, friends, festivals, and other important dates).

 

A Contest That I’ve Won

I was 12 years old when I first won the Grand Champion Title (a national-level tournament for Isshinryu Karate) on my second attempt in Pune. The day started chaotic as we arrived late at the venue. The place was quite the same as I remembered from my last visit. Seeing my blackbelt rivals performing a flawless welcoming team-kata demonstration made my head spin. To top it all, the organizer clubbed me with the 15-17 age category in the knockout round. Fortunately, the organizer found a solution and asked me to compete in the final directly. Against boys and girls of my age category, as I had competed with seniors way above my age category. The organizer himself judged us. I won the title!! In both Kata and Kobudo events! This episode remains one of my favorite and funny memories.

A Hot Summer Day

In Chennai, summer is at its peak every time of the year. Scorching afternoons become unbearable. Thank god dad bought ACs that have negligible harmful effects on the atmosphere. Otherwise, I would feel guilty whenever I turned them on. We can’t do anything much outside on such days. At school, it is worse due to the packed classrooms with rising temperatures and rates of sweat. I return home drenched, in a sad way. Summer also increases the craving for ice creams, buttermilk, and gallons of water which is acutely short in Chennai. The pandemic has saved us from these hot summers. Being indoors mostly, the weather outside doesn’t matter much to most nowadays.