Superficial Me

If you know me well, then you know that I am one of the most immaterial people in the world. Diamond bracelets, fancy cars, designer shoes or upper east side apartments have no value in my life. I have always felt like these things are just immaterial and unnecessary real happiness in life: love. But of course I am human and there are some things I have come to realize I simply cannot live without. These "things" have become an intricate part to my functioning on a daily basis. And thus, an important part of my life. So this post is dedicated to those very items that help me get through each and everyday.

BlackBerry: How I ever managed without my amazing red BB is beyond me!

Planner: I know it is the age of the PDA but I prefer my old fashioned paper planner. It keeps my life organized.

Laptop: My entire writing career is stored on my laptop. It really is my version of a bank locker.

I-Pod: I heart music. My red I-Pod is the only way I can stay on the go and still stay musically in tune.

Wallet: Yet again my RED wallet stores many important necessities...moolah and cards!

Time Wear: I have never lived without a watch. And while I am in need of a new one, I love my silver Bulolva for now.

Eyewear: For the sun, my Miyagi's and to see, my glasses; I need them and how!

Protection: My mother gave me an Om pendant which I look to when I feel like I need a kick from God.

Outer Wear: My grey hoodie and Tolani scarf accompany me all season long. I need my warmth.

Messages: I love my daily messages from my Dad. It keeps me going.

Phones: I need to talk to my sister and nani on a daily basis. Their voices keeps me smiling.

Bollywood: It runs through my skin and blood. I need my daily dosage.

Showers: Its the only time I get time to myself. I love my "ME" time.

And Love: In whatever form, I need my daily dose of love! And most of the time, I get it.. and lots!

Thank you "Things!" You are valued and appreciated. Lovesssssss!!!

Valentines Shmalentines

By Roshni Mulchandani

Yet again another February 14th has arrived, and yes, once again (for the nth time), I am all alone. Although, I have to admit that this year more than ever, I really don't care. However, I'm not sure what the big deal is really about. I agree with the pessismists who firstly, obviously are not in relationships and secondly, claim that V-day is just another money spending, Hallmark holiday. Technically, this is "my" holiday, what with Rati being cupid's wife in Hindu Vedic mythology and the Goddess of Loving[The picture above is Rati and her husband Kama].But if I go by that, I should be pro-love and excited for today. For the most part I love the idea of love, but naturally I have my days.

In the past, my idea of love has been very...childish. As much as I do enjoy being in love, in the past I feel like it has sucked out a lot from me. Most of my foolish mistakes were simply because I was in love with men who knew I loved them immensely. Clearly those men were not ones who would last a lifetime but I think personally I feel blessed that I made the decision to let them go and I think them for leaving me in some cases. Love, in my opinion, can only be handled by mature adults. I think I may just be saying this because I've grown up so much more in the past year. Finally, I have understood the importance of honesty, space and self-respect in a relationship. Those traits build the foundation from which you can pile on heaps, dollops and layers of love. Love nowadays is so "filmy." Everyone wants to dance in the snow, get wet in the rain, be showered with presents. But no one wants to be loved. I may have matured a lot lately, but when it comes to love, I still believe that if you are with someone who cares, loves and understands you, the superficial material "things" mean nothing. I've never cared for fancy cars or big diamonds. Instead, bring on the popcorn and a movie! I'm more than happy with that.

However, since I am alone this V-Day of 2009, I've decided that I will wish for love and peace all over the world. This year more than any other, we need love to help us get through the tough recession and constant terror in the world. I hope my message of love fills the air so people who are fighting can drop their weapons and learn to love instead of hate. Where is the time to hate, when there is so little time to love?

Photo Credit: http://4krsna.wordpress.com/