knanaya - An extra ordinary life

Dear Friends,

Warm queries often reach my inbox regarding health and wellness of my parents from students, they have taught years back at St. Thomas College, Ranny. “Vinod, how is Sir and Teacher? How are they doing? Convey our regards to them.” I realize in those moments and also at other times, the number of lives my parents have touched. I am their son the progeny of my parents. They had far fewer privileges than I did while growing up, they had fewer opportunities to traverse the world, and while their own lives exemplified the enduring values of guidance, tolerance and love. So many questions swell within me as I go through those affectionate mails from across the globe.

So it would be fair to say that I have been far more fortunate than my parents but it would be fair to ask, has my life been as fulfilling as theirs? To what extent has my work been a catalyst for change on the societies I have lived and worked? Has my life made a difference to those around me? These are questions that I have asked myself.

We are all uncertain about our impact on others. Many of us feel that our time of usefulness is over? You never know who may be appreciating you as a person or your work as teacher, doctor, electrician, plumber, engineer, police officer e.t.c. Ironically, I had not given any of this much thought until I started getting the above said mails.

Friends, but it is the dawning realization of to the greater understanding our humanity, our fragility and a greater appreciation of the great lives that so many of us lead and deem to be “normal” – when it pretty much is extra ordinary in its own respect relative to many other individuals around the world. ". Let us act as catalyst for change on the societies we live and work.

Thanks & Regards,
--
Vinod Kuriakose
http://vinodk.page.tl