Line of Thought

silver milestone..

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 15:51:00 +0000

My 50th post!!!Thankyou very much :)(takes a bow :D).
Oh and full points to everyone who noticed :P hmph

For the sake of my literacy:)

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 21:47:00 +0000

The book is a laudable effort by Randy Pausch.Soulful,moving and fairly inspiring.It failed to have the expected effect on me probably because I have read Tuesdays with Morrie earlier and was familiar with the nuances of this kind of a plot.So Randy is a professor at a university,diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer,3 small children and a wife.With six months, till the cancer cells obliterate his immunity.He therefore tries to maximize the memories he can leave behind for his children in the form of video-tapes,photographs and his book.Emotional insurance as he impressively described it. What he meant by that is a record encompassing their time spent together,life lessons and things he would have liked to teach and discuss with them.The book also highlights the importance of hope and strength.

Maximum City is a powerful description of Amchi Mumbai, by Suketu Mehta.As a former mumbaikar I can relate to so many of the various comparisons,messages and statements he is driving home, in his fabulous narrative non-fiction.He combines the zeal of an investigative reporter and an inquisitiveness of a voyeur ,giving us insightful glimpses of this dynamic metropolis. The book is filled with measured wit,outrage and opinion of the writer and his love-affair with the city ,which is revolting,repugnant yet incredible at the same time.
In other news,I am starting Shantaram.That's gonna last me a lifetime by the looks of its thickness and my erudition speed.Especially since I keep getting distracted with Vogue and Cosmopolitan :P

Healthy hydration :)

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 20:46:00 +0000

I have recently joined the organic bandwagon.I try to incorporate the principle in as many food and food products as feasible ,based on their existence,availability and pricing.The husband and I have upped our intake of fruit and vegetable portions,pulses,non-fat or low-fat dairy products, antioxidant rich fruit juices, whole grain ,fiber rich bread/tortillas to name a few.And exercising of course - for that dose of endorphins,serotonins whilst balancing unfavorable sodium,lactic acid and LDL levels.After all,you are what you eat and I count myself a firm believer of that adagial concept.

I have never been a fan of aerated drinks.Which is a shame of sorts,since the US encourages every individual to drink mega sized gallons, accompanied with liberalized cost,wide availability and unhealthy incentives such as unlimited refill and size upgrade.So what does a person interested in healthier alternatives do ,to fight the propaganda of Coke and competitors..? I opt for the range of functional fruit juices and enhanced waters available,slowly gaining popularity, in the interest of fighting the obesity epidemic.

Fuze Slenderize is one such product.Low sugar,low calorie,enriched with nutrients.Its available in flavors such as strawberry melon,dragonfruit lime etc.My favourite is tangerine grapefruit and it totals all of 10 calories for the 240 ml serving size.It contains Chromium(an essential micronutrient helps in energy metabolism)),Vitamin C,L-carnitine( a protein enhancing performance and muscsle activity) and SuperCitrimax(a patented appetite suppressant extracted from a south Asian fruit Garcenia cambogia;helps curb appetite and relieve hunger pangs))
Similarly your regular icetea can be replaced with Fuze Black&Green Tea fortified with vitamins and natural tea antioxidants with the antioxidant capacity of 3 servings of brocolli!They contain polyphenols(potent antioxidants with varied benefits such as anti-carcinogenic properties), Vitamins C,E and B complex.They have the right amount of refreshing quality and sweetness to curb the sugar cravings apart from delivering health benefits.
There is no replacement for normal water when thirsty,but if you are in the mood for tasteful hydration then Vitaminwater fits the bill.Manufactured by Glaceau,they offer over ten different types of the same for targeted hydration.I tried the multi-V and tranquilo and found them to my liking.Consisting of over 5 vitamins,calcium,folic acid and minerals such as magnesium and zinc,its quite a beverage.

So long then,drink responsibly and hydrate responsibly.And wait for my next post on yogurts.Prost!:)

Deep sea fishing in the Mexican Gulf :)

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:17:00 +0000

Last weekend was fun-filled, interspersed with unforgettable and exhilarating activities.The husband and I went Deep sea fishing with some friends, off the Gulf of Mexico.We departed from the Keesler Air Force base,Biloxi Mississippi after banana-nut and blueberry muffins.Strong coffee of course,given that the reporting time to board the Keesler Dolphin was 6 30 am!

I have always been a sea and ocean person. I reveled on the ship deck ,under the sun with the perfect breeze showering me with salty spray.The skies were enthralling, with cumulo-nimbus formations hinting at thunderstorms. And as luck would have it,we ran into a school of dolphins :)We anchored at one of the off-shore oil rigs known to be a hot-bed of fish activity, after our three hour long venture into the Mexican waters.

I caught a baby hammer head shark,which we let back into the sea.Talk about beginner's luck:P They are smooth and oily to touch in one direction and coarse,sand-papery in the other.The strength they possess is astonishing and one whack of the fin can cut and injure a person rather severely.The husband did me proud by catching several impressive snappers,red fish and the like.He is evolving into a seasoned fisherman almost,living up to the southern country life-style, me thinks :)

Our companions and friends on the boat caught heaps of other fish including speckled trout,groupers and oh..a 7.5 feet long Tiger shark! It was a spectacle to watch the elderly gentleman put up a fight for 2 hours to reel in this massive cartilaginous beast.Ministering heavy blows with a base-ball bat on the shark's head, gutting, cleaning and filling its hollow sack with ice.. was indeed a sight to behold.I do not support animal cruelty,so animal activists hold the phone before you sentence me! All I am guilty of is going deep sea fishing and witnessing routine procedures of handling big catches.

The next day we took a trip to the beachside towns of Gulfshores and Orange beach in Alabama.My weakness for white sands and blue-green clear waters is known :) To the husband's intense amusement,I went into a childish frenzy ,as all I could see were wide white expanses of white sand and jade-green ,clear waters.The Mexican Gulf was calling out to me and I spent a few good hours letting the waves wash over me.We then went to Florida Point,a scenic gem tucked away from the main beaches.The waters here were tranquil and free from waves, ranging dramatically from peacock-green to cobalt. Tanned and tired, we hit the Beau Rivage Casino in Biloxi that evening,enjoying Japanese sake at one of its famed Asian restaurants.Followed by a mean Margarita.And a sizzling brownie a la mode :D

Attaching bait(read pieces of squid,shrimp,cut fish-heads :-x) to the heavy metal reels is not one of my most favorite chore,though I support fishing as a recreational sport:P It was a highly eventful weekend laced with adventure,excitement and camaraderie:)I loved every moment of it.

southern skies...

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 20:46:00 +0000

first the road signs,
complicated graphics

the way ahead
rolling hills,sweeping lakes..

the rev of boat engines
a hum behind behind my ear..

yellow daisies,peeping haciendas
concentric circles on green

pink and golden skies
a glimpse of a sunset

willows frame the road,
swinging tall,overarching

an open road,a full tank
southern skies for company

solitude.

night sky and memories

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 17:50:00 +0000

tunneling through
a full night moonsky
a star spangled canvas
a glimpse of
streaking shooting stars

life goes forth
at the speed of light
an induced hope
of a tangible tomorrow
of realizing dreams.

a smile,a memory
coming a full circle.

And then some...

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 20:52:00 +0000

I have been away for a while now.Really busy, getting married and everything:).Yeah,you heard that right!!!Anyways,I am back and here to stay.The last two months have been a whirlwind of things and events.Interspersed with puja marathons,cultural obligations,wedding shopping,irrelevant fussing by relatives,getting dolled up in traditional Marathi avatars and the like.I have been on the move baby.Shuttling between three cities while having all the time in the world for the dear husband :D. I would probably have to devote a post for every single day to capture the details right.But I am not going to do that.That's right and you all can breathe easy :)An awe-filled applause to the parents for the effortless execution of their daughters marriage in a short time,considering the traveling involved ,back and forth.So glad granny was around,given her precarious health,enjoying herself and smiling through the whole episode.As for the husband,he is an absolute sweetheart.No complaints there,yet..:D.I also moved to the US of A and loving it so far.The world is really flat out here and buildings maxed out with two storeys.
In other news my blog realigned itself and I had nothing to do with it.I had been trying, constantly fiddling with the html codes and browser settings to no avail.Joy from simple things..which puts the smirk back on my face..:)

humour and life in "quotes"

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 15:29:00 +0000

I had just read a rather thought provoking Calvin and Hobbes strip.It was one of those slightly overcast days,and I was reflecting over things in no particular order.For no particular reason.Just trying to make sense of unrelated facts. Of no particular significance.So the strip went something like this..

Calvin: Isn't it strange that evolution would give us a sense of humour? When you think about it,its weird that we have a physiological response to Absurdity.We Laugh at it,We Like it,We think its Funny.Don't you think its odd that we Appreciate Absurdity..? Why would we develop that way?How does it benefit us?

Hobbes: I suppose if we couldn't laugh at things that Don't make much sense,we couldn't React to a lot of Life.

Calvin: (After a pause) I don't know if that's funny or really scary...

And then I thought how comedy and life are intertwined.Whether advocated by some profound theologian or the instances one sees in real life. These two quotes by Gilda Radner about life and laughter I came across, are highly pertinent.The second one may be something out of a stand up comedians bible,but doesn't each one have the ability to spread and share a few laughs..

Now I've learned that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it. Delicious ambiguity.
Comedy is very controlling - you are making people laugh. It is there in the phrase 'making people laugh.' You feel completely in control when you hear a wave of laughter coming back at you that you have caused.

I remembered a conversation with a dear bum chum which took place several years ago, in the middle of Kodaikanal lake.Our discussion focusing on life, perceptions, dreams,fears.And the importance to look at the lighter side of all things.
“Humor is perhaps a sense of intellectual perspective: an awareness that some things are really important, others not; and that the two kinds are most oddly jumbled in everyday affairs.”Christopher Morley.

So I resumed dwelling over the events and happenings taking place around me.Points to be noted, realizations. Of deterrent and hopeful wisps of memories and musings.Patience and pragmatism.Dealing with situations either which way they turn out.Cheerful resignation of events beyond ones control without adopting a fatalistic attitude.
“All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on" according to Havelock Ellis makes much sense.
While not trying to propagate any armchair philosophy,this quote from her gtalk status surfaced..“But what is happiness except the simple harmony between a man and the life he leads?” Albert Camus.

74 islands Out of The Blue

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 11:14:00 +0000

Off the Queensland coast, along Eastern Australia is one of the world's most spectacular aquatic playgrounds.The Whitsundays. A group of 74 tropical islands scattered amongst the pristine turquoise waters of the coral sea.They originated from the coral of the Great Barrier Reef, as it broke off in storms over a period of million years.It solidified as white deposits, when the coral died and piled up as small mounds under the waves. The islands became bigger and the coral was crushed by the wind and waves ,turning into some of the purest white sand.Also contributing to the genesis of the Whitehaven beach.Deserving of every award and accolade. Staking its rightful place on the worlds top ten/best beaches lists.A place like no other.

At the northern end of Whitehaven Beach is Hill Inlet, a stunning inlet where the tide shifts the sand and water, to create a mind-boggling fusion of beige,blue and white.It a gorgeous spread,taken in best via an aerial view or a boat ride as permissibly close by navigation.

Whitehaven beach is found along the largest of the Whitsunday islands, a result of coral erosion of sand.The sand is minute, micro-grains of quartz and has been assayed at 99.89% pure.This is well above the minimum requirement for glass-making and suitable for the finest glass meant for optical lenses and binoculars!! Its chaste composition is what contributes to its properties to resist heat at 2 pm, under the influence of extreme UV and the merciless Australian summer sun.

Feeling the powder-fine sand beneath my feet and lounging in warm aquamarine waters, as this 3D postcard stretched on in front of and around me-is forever etched in my memory.Combination of incredulity and laziness.An unforgettable sensation.I spent the entire day covered in sunscreen,hat and dark glasses.With a bit of kayaking, swimming and attempted wind sailing.Apart from lying around in the cute beach tents and sipping coconut rum spritzers:D

Six km's of unblemished white sand lapped by the crystal clear waters.One can never have enough of 'doing absolutely nothing':). Each one of us have several dreams..I would equate experiencing this natural masterpiece to realizing one of mine!Pure beach lovers heaven :)

nation of potheads

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:23:00 +0000

Talking about aversions and principles, I am against drugs of any and every kind. I do not support their usage based on peer pressure or novelty. Though an ardent abettor of experimentation, I have a subzero tolerance towards the excuse of trying these vile dependency-inducing substances .Be it just once, for the first time or for the heck of it. It is one of that weird, personal bete noire.

Speaking of which, some twenty-four years ago, the Dutch government embarked upon an innovative trial, a tolerant "soft drug" policy, differing broadly from that of its European neighbours. The new drug legislation differentiated drugs such as heroin, cocaine and LSD, which were viewed as presenting "an unacceptable risk," from the "softer," less dangerous cannabis products.(source:http://www.parl.gc.ca/37/1/parlbus/commbus/senate/Com-e/ille-e/library-e/dolin1-e.htm)

This has caused friction between the Netherlands and other countries about the policy for cannabis, most notably with France and Germany. As of 2004, Belgium seems to be moving toward the Dutch model and a few local German legislators are calling for experiments based on the Dutch model. Switzerland has had long and heated parliamentary debates about whether to follow the Dutch model, most recently deciding against it in 2004.

Possession of 30 grams of marijuana or hashish (supposedly enough to satisfy the average user's needs for several weeks) was decriminalized. The Dutch government went ahead to permit sale of marijuana and hashish in licensed coffee shops, with certain restrictions. I am no expert and I am sure the assessors had their reasons. However, how can one exercise regulatory control over a subject controlled by his/her dependence of an addictive chemical compound. The dependence of which causes wars, robbery, gun-shots, vandalism, looting when withdrawal symptoms set in. While some may hail the highly progressive outlook of tackling the problem, I fail to understand this blatant endorsement by the government.Of course there are consequences of the legalization of the so-called risk-free drugs, whose repercussions today are wide-ranging.

Firstly, THC (delta-nine-tetrahydrocannabinol), the component that provides the high was 3-5 % in traditionally grown cannabis. Nederwiet, the now-popular Dutch-grown cannabis, is far more potent, with a THC that can rise to up to 20 percent, providing a quicker, more enduring high. Greater quantities of the elevated-level THC cannabis is required to get a high as smokers developed a tolerance to the high THC-level joints. THC, which does not dissolve in water, is absorbed by human fatty tissues and remains there longer than either nicotine or alcohol. Thus, the THC effects remain with the heavy user far longer than they realize, causing a decline in short-term memory, and diminished ability to learn and decreased motor skills.

Secondly, twenty odd years ago, the Netherlands was comparatively free of international drug-trafficking criminals. Today, Holland has become an illegal drug producing and distributing giant, a devastating threat not only to the Netherlands but across Europe.(source: wiki).

In the Netherlands, the national drug policy has officially four major objectives:
• To prevent drug use and to treat and rehabilitate drug users.
• To reduce harm to users.
• To diminish public nuisance by drug users (the disturbance of public order and safety in the neighborhood).
• To combat the production and trafficking of drugs.

In all fairness to quote statistics, 9.7% of young adults (aged 15-24) consume soft drugs once a month in the Netherlands , comparable to the level in Italy (10.9%) and Germany (9.9%) and less than in the UK (15.8%) and Spain (16.4%). Dutch rates of drug use are lower than U.S. rates in every category apart from drug related deaths.
(source http://www.drugpolicy.org/global/drugpolicyby/westerneurop/thenetherlan/)

Most countries take the point of view that drugs are detrimental to society and must therefore be outlawed, even when such policies fail to eliminate drug use. Significant numbers of policymakers in the Netherlands believe that, if a problem has proved to be unsolvable, it is better to try controlling it instead of continuing to enforce laws with mixed results. What they probably don’t take into consideration is that the monitoring is intended for humans, the worst offenders of any pragmatic policy. Another factor is that as a small nation with high literacy, income and government aid, these liberal laws may work to varying degrees.But can one ever imagine implementing the same in other countries?

I am no preacher. There is enough knowledge and information at our fingertips. Reason and comprehension abilities if we can spare a few minutes to mull things over. Legislative liberalization , policy modification , reverse psychology or rampant availability cannot affect or dramatically alter the basic response of the human body to the chemical reactions induced by potent substances. One can choose to learn a lesson from A Requiem for a Dream. Or relive it.

unfazed

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 10:16:00 +0000

virtual reality
anticipated unreality

conceptual shards
like crushed starlight
piercing through hazy dreams
cosmic dust
sprinkled across
a blank canvas

unfazed still,
i begin ,a slow stroll
across the universe

ocassional must-haves

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:48:00 +0000

I realized I haven't really written anything fun and frivolous for a long time..:D On that note..I thought I would ramble and simultaneously review girl stuff and make-up!So coming to my new favorite body-mist,blush,mineral foundations and things such..:P

Victoria's Secret VerySexy body mist is dreamy..The scent is typically oriental- floral with musk,soft woods and white amber notes!!Light,airy and perfectly pleasant!The bottle doesnt look too bad either.

Blush,for the uninitiated goes on cheeks and defines the cheekbones and face shape with the right sweeps and strokes.There are a million brands.Types include powder blush/cream blush/bronzer blush/liquid tints to name a few.I came across this one particular brand ,courtesy of a friend in the US, whose packaging caught my attention.It is bold and tongue-in-cheek at the same time. But I do think it has highly creative nomenclature and brilliant advertising :P!"Orgasm" blush by NARS will give your cheeks just the right kind of glow :P The matter-of-fact aptness of the brand combined with that hint of initial shock is probably what keeps the sales going and the product an absolute fav with the ladies!:D

Bath and Body Works Wild Honeysuckle Cream bodywash,enriched with milk and oat proteins to soften, smooth and condition skin. Its creamy lather leaves you feeling silky-smooth and beautifully fragrant.So they all claim..But all in all a worthwhile indulgence.

Bare Escuentials Mineral makeup.Made with pure, crushed minerals from the earth, bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation-Medium beige,looks like a powder, feels like a cream and buffs on like silk, giving skin a natural luminosity. Free of preservatives, talc, oil, waxes, fragrances, and other chemicals that can irritate skin and cause breakouts, its ideal for all skin types. Cant wait to get my hands on this one!!!

And finally,I got gifted the new Antonio Banderas Blue Seduction for women.I would rate it reasonably high in my perfume choice.It was bergamot and violet leaves all the way.Aquatic freshness.Reminds me of citrus orchards and essential oils.
Thats all for now on the shallow and self indulgent worldly-desires :P I like the good life as much as the next person or the Queen or Paris Hilton, call it what you like :D

verse in motion

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 10:32:00 +0000

Its all coming down
Down like the raindrops
Not enough time

The music doesn’t stop
It goes on
And on

Just a tune
evoking nostalgia
deep rooted emotions
majestic in rhythm

love and sadness
leaps of faith
rankling uncertainty
question marks

a euphony
Resonating familiarity
A spectacularly haunting melody.

Catching up..

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:36:00 +0000

A quick catch up with an old acquaintance prompted me to write this post.We were discussing about life,how things have changed,mistakes,choices,if we would have done things differently.About just not giving a damn.Distorted perceptions.Memories of people all around being short.She declared she was living life on autopilot. That is a first..I wondered why she worded it that way.Whatever happenend to seizing the day,living it up,taking responsibility for all of one's behaviour.Isnt it all about we being the masters of our own fate.A friend once told me,if one is miserable,its their own fault.It is upto every person to actively amend or ameliorate their happiness or sadness.I tend to agree with the view.However circumstances sometimes stand in the way of our amending or improvising situations and happiness.Besides that, each one is probably capable of influencing thier overall contentment and maximising satisfaction and peace in their lives.So living life on autopiltot. Doesnt it essentially mean going with the flow,dealing with everything dealt out and not really having any sort of control on destined events..Its true that without the lows one cannot value and appreciate the highs.A life without expectation is no life at all.But with expectation, there is disappointment.I wonder if she is right after all...

Quick thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:32:00 +0000

I came across a compliment regarding one of my posts ,from a stranger.The other day a colleague at work who I am hardly acquainted with gave me some flattering comments regarding another.Which makes me think about my blog,in a different light.Sure,on one hand its about expressing my ideas or random musings.It's also about documenting some experiences which I wouldn't want to forget.And hell,its my space which gives me absolute liberty to opine,write and let the world know what I think.As long as I am not infringing any copyrights ,be it pictures or quotes.

Secretly it thrills me to no end to see comments,insights and criticism regarding any post of course :)In any which form communicated to me.It propels me to write more, imparts a purpose and an urge to improve quality.Oh and recently I received requests.The fact that someone would like to hear my account on things gives me a great kick!Shameless gloating indeed :P But it also makes me nervous regarding expectations from the same.

I am confident and passionate about every single word I enter..I love writing..I look at it as a creative pursuit...Above all, time well spent. In an attempt to make the posts diverse ,interesting and genuine -I cant but help give a part of me away. On the other hand,I think about how much of me is out here, open for scrutiny and interpretation.There's a possibility that some posts reveal too much and my personality is exposed to considerable judgment. Should some of the material not be here?Should I be filtering out details,events?

So why do I write what I write?Who wants to hear my take on things anyway?People's time is precious and patience scant.Is it because they are too kind to point out otherwise? Perhaps to humor me? Well..I don't have all the answers..:P As a persistent blogger,I sincerely value all the encouragement and duly note the appreciation from all concerned.Thank god for small mercies :))

Unfathomable reverie

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:17:00 +0000

I am not an avid fan of The Matrix trilogy.Honestly,I dint really understand either of the movies.However,I was forced to take note of some of the dialogues with reluctant fascination. I felt it conveys and interprets love,life,karma in a vague yet powerful way.Maybe I am imagining some intellectual allure in these lines.It made me stop and ponder.It made me think.And think some more.

There is so much in this world that I do not understand. See that machine? It has something to do with recycling our water supply. I have absolutely no idea how it works. But I do understand the reason for it to work. I have absolutely no idea how you are able to do some of the things you do, but I believe there's a reason for that as well. I only hope we understand that reason before it's too late.

Reason.I think there is always a need to define.Categorize.Analyze.Find answers.The right ones.Understanding follows.Then there is acceptance without which there can be no healing or repair.There has to be reason to counteract chaos, reason to explain change, reason to fathom and conclude.

Trinity:You always told me to stay off the freeway.
Morpheus: Yes, that's true.
Trinity: You said it was suicide.
Morpheus: Then let us hope that I was wrong.

Every one of us is capable of the acts of right and wrong,at every second of our lives.I believe in the duality of a person's character.It could go either way.Whether or not the dark side dominates,is ones choice.May one always choose the right above wrong,though the latter is just so much easier at times :P

Trinity. I know you can hear me. I'm never letting go. I can't. I just love you too damn much.

Love makes the world go around.Be it conditional,unconditional or unrequited.
I can be all cynical, I can say its overrated. I may wonder 'what is it that people actually feel?!', I might even think that it is total bullshit.But,there can be no life without love.Love, in its myriad arresting forms,kinds,types.It influences us at every turn,bend,fork.In spite of the pain,life experiences and wisdom, there exists an undying,hopeful romantic inside me which keeps screaming at me.It asks me to believe.It asks for vested faith.

But, as you well know, appearances can be deceiving, which brings me back to the reason why we're here. We're not here because we're free. We're here because we're not free. There is no escaping reason; no denying purpose. Because as we both know, without purpose, we would not exist.
It is purpose that created us.
Purpose that connects us.
Purpose that pulls us.
That guides us.
That drives us.
It is purpose that defines us.
Purpose that binds us.
I think we are responsible for every single action,reaction and choice that we make in our lives.It is ultimately defined by purpose.And it is purpose that we need at any stage, to come a full circle, from genesis to death.It is purpose that will lead to karma.Cause and effect.

On that note, I'll leave you with my abstract musings.Its been a long day.

Ambrosial heaven

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:12:00 +0000

What Kind of Drink Are You?

You are a Fine Glass of Wine. You are sophisticated and refined, but also complicated and hard to deal with. Not everyone loves you, but those who do swear that you're the coolest thing since sliced bread. One of these days the people that matter will understand you. Until then, you will be sitting on your throne as the distinguished product that not everyone has the taste to appreciate.

Find Your Character @ BrainFall.com

I don't necessarily agree with the above result :P however, I did venture out on a wine tasting jaunt while in New South Wales.We took the tourist route through scenic mountains and via parts of the historic convict trail ,into the Wine Country at the town of Wollombi.Then there were the vineyards ,stretching across horizons,row after row of neatly planted grapevines. Embarking on a winery tour of sorts we wound our way through the vine lined hills.The Hunter Valley is one of the oldest wine producing regions of Australia,a famous supplier of the Semillion and Shiraz worldwide.

Red varieties included Shiraz, Pinot Noir & Merlot fermented in open vats followed by age maturation in a mix of French & American oak.White wines consisted of Verdelho, Semillon and American oak matured Chardonnay.Our primary site of visit was the Lindemans Estate,though we made passing stops at the Tyrrell and Wyndham Estate.

While the area is dominated with larger established winemakers, one of the unique qualities of the Hunter Valley is the number of boutique wineries hidden among the grape vines.The vineyards are a labor of love and handed down over generations. Wine making and maturation processes are closely guarded secrets,while neighbors fiercely compete for the innumerable medals and recognitions at contests and trade shows.

Our time was spent walking through the vineyards, hand-picking grapes, observing the on-site processing and maturation process.Getting into gigantic vats and stamping on ripe grapes is fulfilling and fun at the same time.The smashing of fruit with juvenile abandon helps separate the skins as well :).

The most exciting part was the visit to the cellars followed by wine tasting.The right way to taste and evaluate wines is to swirl,smell,sip and spit!So one observes the colour,followed by smelling the liquid to detect significant aroma.This is followed by rolling it over the tongue so as to expose all the taste buds and nerve receptors to assess the faintest textures,notes and body of the wine.As a group of enthusiastic amateurs, we were spared the terminal stage of the process of the four "s" ; )

I am fascinated by the colours of wine,especially the red.It ranges from a rich burgundy to a chocolate-crimson.The whites range from pale gold to gleaming topaz.I am certain my olfactory sense picked up faint tang and citrus hints.My palate of course picked up tastes on all levels.Ripe, rich and round, earth-scented,smoky black cherry and berry flavors, hinting deliciously at spices and on the smooth finish.That's my best shot with words.Ambrosial heaven.

Exhausted after the pleasant attack on all my senses,I felt like I could discern 'flavor'.And I must say I did very well..got myself a certificate and everything :D

confounded faith

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:01:00 +0000

Some believe what they hear
some believe what they are told
some believe all the schit!
and then there's the truth...
to think we had the answers
all of them, all encompassing
but it were the questions
that were wrong..
that elusive verity.
would it
step out of the shadow
emerge from twilight
and if it doesn't...
enable deductive reasoning
count on Verisimilitude.

Random Two Five

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 08:33:00 +0000

My 25 random things list..

1)I do not forgive and forget easily. I would never forget a favor and I would never forgive a crime or unpleasantness caused at a personal level. That does not construe holding grudges.

2)I love the color blue, especially navy, turquoise and aquamarine.

3)I love coffee and can have as many different kinds, flavors or cuppas on any given day, thank you very much. But I’d kill for the Vittoria Black Large like they make it at Café L’incontro, Swanston Street, Melbourne 3053!

4)I love the rain and the smell of the rain on earth. I love thunderstorms even though they freak me out. I like taking artistic, dark pictures of raging ,lightening streaks across inky skies.

5)I love my clothes .I love shopping for clothes. I love the feeling of finding that specific and perfect skirt, an earring or a pair of shoe which I know would look absolutely fabulous. Its almost an instinct. Its not so rare , but completely worth all the time/effort and money .My face splits into a grin when I see the reactions I anticipated ,mirrored on people’s faces!

6)I love my family and am fiercely protective of them. I don’t believe in unconditional love, but I would make an exception just this one time.

7)I hate it when people misspell or use excessive abbreviated forms of words in emails,chats or text messages. For example “dan” for “then”, “vat” for “what” and “s” for “yes” really annoys the life out of me.

8)I hate it when people deliberately misconstrue things and misrepresent facts. Also when people try to act dumb and pretend to not get the drift. Plain irritating.

9)I hardly ever forget names and faces. I also have a tendency to remember conversations pertaining to certain individuals ,which took place eons ago-be it chat , phone or in person.

10)Terrorism and politics- twin concepts which anger me.

11)I love traveling to and exploring new places. Countries. And cuisines. Throw in some adventure sport or culture specific specialties like flamenco or Spanish guitar and I am good to go baby!

12)I like writing. I love my blog and spend a lot of time and effort on it overall. It doesn’t have to be profound nor be filled with exceptionally good posts all the time. Yet I am compelled to write and hope I always will be…

13)Everyday I try to be less judgmental and less hypocritical.Sometimes I succeed but more often than not I fail.I am constantly trying to better the odds.

14)Though a follower of rational thought,I am secretly superstitious to some extent on an innate level.I believe in luck and signs and auspicious influences.

15)I believe every good turn deserves another .I also believe in setting things right and that what goes around comes around. I constantly try to amass karmic credit against negative debt!

16) Sad movies, happy endings, mushy Rom-Com's and senti chick flicks make me cry.I am not particularly proud of it..but that's just the way it is.I thoroughly enjoy watching them nevertheless :)

17)I cant sing.Period. I have 2 left feet when sober but can undo this awkward gawkiness in a flash after a delicious martini or two ; ) (not including learning/undertaking dance lessons of course).

18) I like massages.I like spas.I like discreet pampering.I adore being fussed over, especially when feeling sick :P Only mom gets full points on that one,so far.

19)I hate deception of any kind.I prefer to tell it like it is.I also prefer to hear it the same way from anyone else.Yes,and I am fully aware it may not always be pretty but honesty scores any day.

20) Acts of violence,unfairness and crimes against women anger and affect me to the point of depression.That's one area I would try to help and make a difference in, at any given point,be it financial aid or otherwise.

21)I have a sweet tooth..or more like a sweet jaw.I love desserts of any kind.And I wont say no to some Indian (read Bengali,Marathi etc) sweets as well, from time to time.

22) I love swimming and am a complete water person.It soothes me. No deep oceans or rough seas though.

23)I like cars and I like driving good cars on great roads.I do not mean city traffic and shifting between first and second gear, on roads filled with cycles,mad buses and cows.

24)I love Calvin and Hobbes.I love reading. I can spend hours on it be it a Cosmo,Dan brown or any other material with print on it.

25) I like being low profile.I like people who respect and let me keep a low profile.Behind the scenes-that's me . That does not mean I don't appreciate due acknowledgment :P!

Which is why, for all those of you who know me well you guessed it right-I would never put this up on FB instead of my own space:D

missed footing

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 09:51:00 +0000

I direct
a baffled glance
to the world at large

Flowing streams,
Slippery stones,
Waters edge,
Missed footing.

Caught unaware
Direction less
in the maze
I flounder

Imperative
To find the compass
Retrieve counterpoise
Escape the vicious cycle

Reclaim,
Decide,
Act,
Celebrate.

Amateur Car Junkie Revelations

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 18:34:00 +0000

A friend recently commented on my inclination to describe things and experiences and suggested if I could do the same for a car.I thought I would give that a shot,though I am no jalopy genius and probably wouldn't be able to address all the automotive jargon.So here goes,

Gleaming phantom black exterior.Reminiscent of strong Arabic stallions with glistening ebony coats.The Bang and Olufsen surround sound transcending the musical experience within.The low growl of the divine engine,almost a sexy drawl.Thundering down all terrains with speed and profound vitality.The front end and the gently curved roofs, drawn into lavish sweeping lines.The sleekly accentuated rear end almost flexing its muscles.Restrained sophistication, rearing to go.An almost immaculate compact appearance ,it sits expansive and low.Untamed,quiescent.

The aerodynamic styling : faultless and progressive.Minimizing central gravity and setting all things acceleration (latitudinal or longitudinal)on fire! The strategic central engine position working its magic for weight distribution.Delivering an outstanding power:weight ratio.Imparting stability and agility.Almost reigning in the latent brute.Three dimensional LED's,creatively placed .Akin to bright eyed xenon intelligence!Like a cougar.

The interiors, an ergonomic dream .Dark hued upholstery and supreme craftsmanship,inviting a caress.Fusing form and functionality,inciting deep seated envy.Aesthetics and focused essentials turning it into a driver centric pedestal, stimulating smugness and unadulterated pride. Offering unmatched comfort for both occupants.The savage charisma,almost overwhelming.Visible presence of exemplary engineering.A touch of haughtiness.Temptation on a thin leash.Sparking the need to have,to hold,to own.

Torque,chassis,drive train,equipment:a synergy of sovereign technology.Emphasized by finely attuned responsiveness to any driver input - at the speed of thought,rather than touch.Equivalent to obeying intuition over action.Accelerated heartbeat in sync with horsepower. Embodiment of automotive precision.Unrivaled elegance.

Optimum driving dynamics?! Hell yes!.There must be a god after all and he's in the details!

Applause.A standing ovation.The Audi R8 arrived. And conquered.
Achtung baby!

GOD OF SMALL THINGS

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:14:00 +0000

I walk in to the chamber. The air is comfortably cool and crisp.The temperature is just right.Subdued lighting and polished chrome upholstery.I walk up to the bar while mentally deciding on my choice. Heels clicking on invisible ebony marble.

I look up to see a disarming smile behind the mahogany counter.I am asked politely but with a definite hint of challenge to try his signature cocktail. I accept the sleek glass of martini. Clutching the sparkling crystal,I make my way through tables and entwined couples. I survey my plush confines,tipping the gleaming red and gold liquid lightly.

The cranberry explodes at the base of my throat. The chartreuse overwhelms my palate with its slightly acrid taste. The vodka diffuses a luxurious warmth which courses through my limbs.Tinkling chandelier above. A whiff of Dior.Sprinkled stardust on navy silk. Burgundy silver gleaming against my neck. Black diamonds at my ear lobes. Enclosed in great company.Relaxation seeping through. Echoes of soft laughter. Stripping away my troubles.I stop finding reasons to be happy.Analytical grey cells strolling to a pleasant halt.Whirls of elation.Spiralling contentment.The Doors playing especially for me, the remixed crescendo This is the end…

The bar tender sure knew what he was talking about.

shades of gray..

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:39:00 +0000

weary of the games,
hackneyed phrases of the multitudes
wishful contemplation
everything was black and white
shades of gray instead
Abound ubiquitous.

multiplying manifold
my futile introspection
perplexity undefined
Omnipresent.

I have realized
in infinite bemusement
there is nirvanic elation
Disencumbering

my elevated chagrin
rendered null and void
judgment and rationale
ascend prominent

it’s a sign,
i return to the drawing board
it is unremarkable, that I am perturbed
yet speak to me, not in tongues
Ad infinitum.

of enzo's and MC 12's

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 17:43:00 +0000

What Type of Car Would You Be?
	You are a Ferrari Enzo. You are quick, slick and ever-so-cool. Your ostentatious showiness may put some people off, but your friends know you're the real deal.
Find Your Character @ BrainFall.com

Well, I am not exactly disappointed with my quiz result, bored as I was to attempt it. I always thought I was more of an Audi or a Maserati,a bit more subdued but classy,slick and fast nevertheless.To me it stands for understated elegance and perfectionist technology, without being in-your-face :)The Enzo would get unwanted attention from all sides,gold-diggers,tax collectors and other unpleasant elements.It wouldn't align with my lifestyle or my inherent nature, irrespective of the money I had or the clout I could exercise.And I think the obvious bling is obnoxious.The Lamborghinis on the other hand are over-the-top sexy and way too low slung :).A tad too impeccable.I cannot perceive the common man driving it around.It would be a complication lest I craved anonymity and I would become a part of an exalted statistic.I can safely say I am more the behind the scene genius :P What I am really trying to say is..I prefer the R8 or the Quattroporte S(if not the MC 12) if anyone is taking note ; )

cognitively obsolete

noreply@blogger.com (Identiti) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:25:00 +0000

i am tired and spent
mentally strained as well
sick of the routine
a thing, too many
need my attention

yet relieve me
from this scrutiny
incessant maneuvering
a notch too high
a point too far
unrelenting

take me away
from the reigning chaos
so i figure out
a method to this madness
a semblance of peace

Guarantee me,
I would be rid of the nightmares
And my gratitude
Is yours.