How I started writing…

I shared this little story with my kiddos this morning, so I thought I’ll take a moment to pen it down for you as well!!

I was not good in Math or Science! Organic Chemistry was a nightmare and Math brought tears!! 😭 There was nothing in me that liked those subjects. Since most of our Indian education is based on either of these two subjects, quite evidently I was an average student in school. This caused me to have a very low opinion/ low self esteem about myself. Somehow, I managed to get 77% in my 10th grade and thala moolgify (get ride of it forever) Math and Science. 💃🏻

Then, my Mom changed my school. I took Computer Science, Economics, and Commerce. Boy!! Dream come true!! There were actually subjects on Earth that I could enjoy!! I loveddd Economics so much that I later on went to do a Masters in Economics. That’s a story for another time. But I wanted to share with you a story that pretty much propelled me into doing what I do today!

How I started writing…

Ever since my 11th grade, I enjoyed writing. My school principal Mrs Ranjani Matthews, a God-send, identified my love for languages and my flair for writing. I don’t say this to boast, but sincerely I am deeply grateful for her encouragement in my life especially that young in my life.

Our school principal handled the subject “English” for us. Every time she came into the class, she would pick a student to read the text for the day. Most days she picked me. And I just loved reading. This slowly but surely started boosting my confidence.

I was like Gideon, hiding in the threshing floor believing I was capable of nothing. There had to be a God-voice moment to raise up the warrior in me. Not a warrior with a sword or a shield… but Yes… a much more powerful weapon. “The Pen”.

During one of the exams, I still remember it vividly like it was yesterday…( things that makes an impact in your heart stays strong in your memory forever… doesn’t it) the topic of the essay was about “how various art forms can break down barriers of race and culture in the world today”. This was way back in 1999. I remember writing from my heart. That’s all that I remember.

All of us were eagerly waiting for the graded papers during the next English class. Sure enough, our principal walked in with the papers. She sat down and was silent for about a minute or two. Then she called me to the front and told the class…. “Children, I want all of you to read Varna’s essay. It is fantastic. Simply outstanding.”

I’m not exaggerating one bit. That was the first time anyone had appreciated me for anything at all!!! And the impact of which lasts till today.

I STILL WRITE!!✍️

For my Savior!!

It just takes 15 seconds to plant a kind word… but it’s mind blowing that how the 15 seconds can leave you completely changed forever!!! Never stop appreciating. Always be an encouraging voice to your family and friends. Our children need it… your friends need it… your parents need it… this world needs it!!

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up,” 1 Thess 5:11

Flowers from our garden! We did not plant the seeds…. maybe the previous homeowners did. But we are still enjoying its beauty!!! The impact of YOUR kind word will last far past your lifetime!!