Today, while walking to the office with my dad, we discussed how life in India is relaxed because we have people to assist with daily tasks such as ironing clothes, washing dishes, and cleaning the house. This conversation got me thinking. Building relationships is easy, but maintaining them requires continuous effort. It’s akin to tending to a plant. We can acquire a plant, but it will wither away if we neglect to water and care for it regularly. Just like plants require nurturing in different seasons, relationships demand care regardless of time or challenges. If a plant fails to bear fruit or maintain good health, would you still keep it if it necessitates extra effort every day? If you desire a relationship to endure, you must take care of it.

Over time, I have observed how my parents, and especially my grandparents, nurture their relationships not just with extended family and friends but with the all the people who have helped us become who we are. I have always aspired to reach that same level someday. However, I have also come to realize that although maintaining relationships with people is important, it is equally important to build relationship with the other aspects in life which molds to become who we are.

In life, we encounter various relationships, not only with people but also with things. For instance, an archer develops a strong bond with their bow, relying on it for accuracy and success. The archer practices extensively, building trust in the bow’s performance. Through practice and understanding, the archer and their bow work together seamlessly. If the archer consistently misses their shots, what do you think they would do with the bow? These relationships are crucial for achieving success.

Our relationship with work is also significant. We dedicate a substantial part of our lives to work. It is more than just earning money; it’s about finding purpose, fulfillment, and personal growth. What if we work diligently but go unrecognized? Suppose our colleagues receive all the awards. Would we continue working with the same passion? A positive work relationship entails finding satisfaction, meaning, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Nurturing this relationship requires dedication and aligning our professional aspirations with our values.

Our relationship with our surroundings is equally vital. Our connection with the environment and the spaces we inhabit affects our well-being. What if we start noticing that it is the plants’ fault because we are allergic to them or the dust? A harmonious relationship with our surroundings brings comfort and a sense of belonging. Whether we are enjoying a beautiful landscape or feeling at ease in a cozy room, our environment impacts our emotions and overall happiness.

So, while I enjoy the love everyone here in India gives by taking extra care of us from the dry cleaners to the electrician. I sometimes wonder, what would happen if I was staying here all the time. And what if the cleaner fails to show up for work or the cook adds too much salt? How would I react to such situations? Would I take the time to understand what might have caused the cleaner’s absence that day or what thoughts could be going through the cook’s mind that led them to add salt twice?

This is the growth I still need to undergo and I know that it will only happen when I actively listen to other regardless of how old they are or who they are. Listening is the first step to building amazing relationships and I am greatly appreciative our relationship that we have built and would not ever want for that relationship to go away. So as always thanks for helping me bring my life into focus.