The Joy of small things

 The last few days of 2021 are here. End of another year, filled with ups and downs, struggles and achievements or maybe just another bland year. But getting through another year in the pandemic is a big achievement in itself. Why don't we look at the small things in life, savour them and bid farewell to it on a beautiful note!

While focusing on deadlines and targets, we have forgotten to live for today. Life doesn't have to be a boring rut. With the right doses of joy, fun and laughter, it can be enjoyed every day. The simplest way to bring back this zest for living is by finding joy in the smallest things. 

Travelling in the high altitude regions of Sikkim where the air freezes one's nose and oxygen drops drastically, one only looks for warmth. Stopping at a roadside cafe to just sit around the blazing furnace, to bring back the blood onto one's pale cold face is the most understated feeling of joy and gratitude. The snug butter tea and a hot plate of Maggi fills one's heart with happiness, love and comfort.  At that moment nothing else matters other than oneself, the snowcapped mountains, icy air and the inner warmth.

Getting drenched in Goa's monsoon, rushing through the wet streets just to grab a piece of freshly baked bebinca is a joy in itself. Enjoying each delectable bite while having a heartwarming conversation about the history of Panjim with the owners of the bakery, makes an average day worthwhile. 

One feels an instant return to childhood while hopping onto the toy train in Darjeeling. Breathing in all the warm steam, boarding the train and waiting in anticipation for the journey to begin, it all feels as if one has been transported to the late 1800s. When the whistle blows and the train starts to move swiftly through the vastly crowded streets, one cannot help but feel butterflies in their stomach. This childlike feeling of joy stays with you and yearns for more.

Apart from travelling, there are many ways to experience this feeling of joy. The times of the pandemic have made it hard to travel carefree and to meet our loved ones. But the small things in life can light up your mood and boost your happiness.

A little plant by your desk can fill your heart with love, cheer and exuberance. Be it the breath of fresh air or the spurt of life in front of you or seeing green growth in a pile of grey digital work brings in a sense of balance. Take a break to paint, create something out of clay, knit a warm scarf, play your favourite instrument, relive childhood days by reading a comic book or just explore culinary talent!

In the spirit of Christmas, let us celebrate the last few days of this year royally, by focusing on ourselves. 

Let the mind relax, the heart heal and feel the bliss!

Let us bid adieu,

To another year,

We grew from the black and blue,

And fought against our fear.

Strong as we are on the exterior,

It is time to heal,

It is time to grow and look interior,

These last few days are for us to kneel,

To excel

And to rise Stronger!