Life happens. As we navigate the storms and sunshine, we are often faced with choices between right and wrong. What principles and values do we choose to live our lives by? Here, values talk a little about themselves.  Hello! It’s us, your values, calling on you! A child is born, and she is raised. As she grows, we enter her life through the gentle yet firm voices she hears, the hands she holds, and the stories she is told. Stories about courage, honesty, resilience, and integrity. She is encouraged to live by us and to practise us. But we are not truly real until life tests us. To tell that comfortable lie or be plain honest, to cheat on the test and pass, or to simply bear the consequences of not studying enough. It is in these moments that we come alive…because in the end, it is not what you believe but what you practice that matters.    The little girl changes as she grows. Does she discard us or keep us close? Her actions and words will ...

  Plant   Hello there, my plant parent, It’s me, your green, well-behaved cutie, lighting up your day. I’m sure that you’re grateful that I never argue or pick a fight. I‘m just a quiet little fellow thriving on sunshine, your affection, water, and positive vibes. I fondly recall the day you decided that you needed a plant in your life, went out, bought me from a handcart, planted me in a pot, and assumed the role of plant parent. I’m aware that you were never a plant person and are a 'late  bloomer.' Though I wouldn’t call you a ‘green thumb,' you take care of me pretty well, and I’m grateful for that. Your gardening skills and knowledge may not be world-class, but you never shy away from learning, trying, and improving. You talk to me, try to water me regularly, make sure that I get the right amount of sunshine, feed me with homemade fertilisers, and generally try to make my life comfortable. I notice everything. I shall not dwell on the occasions when ...

  Tackling Adversity   “In the middle of every opportunity lies adversity.”                                                          Albert Einstein Adversity affects each of us. We may choose to wallow in self-pity, become angry, bitter, and frustrated, or we may decide to find the silver lining. In the challenge, we may see an opportunity to grow and become better versions of ourselves. Adversity comes to us in various forms, including our relationships, finances, health, and careers, among others. Adversity may bring out the best in us or the worst in us. We would be doing ourselves a favour by choosing to find the opportunities and possibilities for strength and growth rather than lamenti...