4 lines to rule them all

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Heres a visual representation of what your life looks like if you live above the statistical benchmark to the age of 80. Each square here represents one week at an average of 53 weeks per year To some this might seem morbid, but I find it fascinating, humbling. You see a box I see milestones; birth of a child. The passing of a loved one. Graduation. The first paycheck. Marriage. Happiness and sadness and everything in between all rolled into 4 lines connected together. I like to fill in each week as it passes, it serves the following purpose - acts as a reminder on how far I have to go, so I contemplate and reflect on mistakes to learn from them - helps in keeping my self aligned to my values and stick to my smaller seemingly mundane habits that will only benefit me in the long run (like staying active/ keeping relationships) - keeps me grounded on how much I do not know - a constant reminder on not to take small things too seriously as it will all eventually come to an end - lastl...
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To be Pakistani

The severe castigation - socially and morally, of individuals that have made mistakes early on in life, is a sad and unfortunate problem that plagues our South Asian community


Why am I saying this? : I've witnessed one of my mentors be subject to this throughout his entire life:


Amid one of our conversations about careers and family, while speaking about a pivotal moment in his personal life, he broke stride and fell silent. The sadness in his face clearly showed. I didn't push, as I was well aware of what was bothering him.


He was abandoned, cast aside, ridiculed and shamed for what would seem to most a trivial mistake.


Today, I reflect on how his life might have been, had the people around him been understanding and empathetic. Life is short, but it is at times long. Mistakes, if not forgiven have a tendency to trickle down and ruin generations


Today, I remind myself that empathy is a skill, one that can save a life. Put yourself in someone else's shoes, forgive that person you hold a grudge against or who has wronged you, it could be whats holding them back. 


#pakistani 

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