When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure !

 

What we have once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us ~ Helen Keller

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Amma (Parvathy Pakaravoor), on Oct 23rd, at the age of 74 (to be 74 on Dec 28). She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, who touched the lives of all who knew her with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. Amma was more than just a mother-in-law; she was a true friend and confidante. She welcomed me into the family with open arms and a warm heart, always offering support and guidance. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel loved and valued, and her home was always open to friends and family. I will always cherish the memories of our long talks at every meet, her infectious smile, and her wise advice. She was a passionate gardener, and her organic vegetables in the garden were a testament to her love of life. Amma will be deeply missed by her children and their partners, grandchildren and all those who have met her in this life. Her memory will forever be a source of inspiration and comfort. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find solace in knowing that she lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.

~ Dawn

Centennial Celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi: A Journey Towards Peace and Harmony

 Attending the two-day event commemorating the Centennial celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi was a truly profound and enriching experience. Being surrounded by such esteemed individuals like Shri Tushar Gandhi, Dr. Cyriac Thomas, and others, all united in their admiration for Gandhi's legacy, created an atmosphere charged with reverence and inspiration.

Listening to Shri Tushar Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi's great-grandson, speak about his ancestor's philosophy and its continued relevance in today's world was incredibly captivating. His insights provided a deeper understanding of Gandhi's principles of nonviolence and truth, and their potential to bring about positive change.

The diverse perspectives shared by the other speakers, including Dr. Cyriac Thomas, Dr. M.C. Dileepkumar, Smt. Teesta Setalvad, Dr. M.P. Mathai, Shri M.N. Karassery, Rev. Dr. Vincent Variath, Shri Tenzin Tsundue, and Dr. Alexander Jacob, further enriched the experience. Each speaker brought their unique expertise and experiences to the table, sparking engaging debates and thought-provoking discussions.

The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the screening of the documentary "Who killed Gandhi?" by Anand Ramayya. The film's exploration of the events leading up to Gandhi's assassination and its aftermath was both moving and informative. The subsequent Q&A session with Shri Tushar Gandhi provided valuable context and insights, shedding light on the complexities surrounding this tragic event.

Throughout the two days, the overarching theme was the pursuit of peace and harmony, not just in India but across the globe. The speakers emphasized the importance of Gandhi's teachings in addressing contemporary challenges such as violence, intolerance, and social injustice.

Words cannot fully capture the profound impact of the event. The collective energy of the speakers and attendees, united in their commitment to Gandhi's ideals, created a palpable sense of hope and possibility. It was a privilege to be present in that environment, to witness the power of ideas to inspire and transform.

~ Dawn

India Emerge Victorious in a Thrilling T20 World Cup Final!

 

The cricketing world witnessed a nail-biting encounter on June 29th, 2024, as India and South Africa clashed in the finals of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. This highly anticipated match lived up to all the hype, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the very last delivery. I am still grasping it and hence the delay on this blog post.

India Bat First, Kohli Shines ! Opting to bat first, India got off to a shaky start, losing three wickets within the powerplay. However, the experienced Virat Kohli stepped up to the challenge, playing a match-winning knock of 76 runs off just 59 balls. His innings, laced with four sixes and a four, helped India post a respectable total of 176 on the board. Axar Patel also chipped in with a valuable 47, providing crucial support to Kohli in the middle overs.

South Africa Fight Back, But Fall Short ! Chasing a target of 177, South Africa started aggressively. However, the Indian bowling attack, led by the ever-dependable Jasprit Bumrah and the skillful Hardik Pandya, pulled things back for the Men in Blue. Both bowlers picked up three wickets each, restricting the Proteas' chase. David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen played some big shots for South Africa, but ultimately fell short by a mere 7 runs.

India Clinch Second T20 World Cup Title !!! This thrilling victory marked India's second T20 World Cup title, ending their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy. Virat Kohli was deservedly adjudged the Player of the Match for his magnificent batting display, while Jasprit Bumrah received the Player of the Tournament award for his consistent bowling performances throughout the competition.

A Match for the Ages indeed!!!

The India-South Africa T20 World Cup final will be remembered for its high-octane action, dramatic twists and turns, and individual brilliance. It was a true testament to the enduring spirit of the sport and the immense talent possessed by both teams.

What a game changer last minute catch and everything changed. Indians around the world still celebrating this win. They are the champions!!!!

Curtain Closes on Legends: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja Retire from T20Is.

The Indian cricket team witnessed a bittersweet moment following their historic T20 World Cup victory in June 2024. While the nation celebrated the win, three stalwarts, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, announced their retirement from T20 International cricket.

Rohit Sharma: The Hitman Sails Off - Rohit Sharma, the elegant right-handed batsman, stepped down as the highest run-scorer in T20I history with a staggering 4231 runs. His phenomenal captaincy record, including leading India to the 2024 World Cup triumph, cemented his place as one of the game's greatest T20 captains. Sharma's aggressive batting style, with a knack for hitting big sixes, earned him the well-deserved nickname "Hitman."

Virat Kohli: The King Departs the Short Format ! Virat Kohli, another batting maestro, also decided to hang his boots in T20Is. Having been the leading run-scorer alongside Sharma for a long time, Kohli finished with a close 4188 runs. Known for his fierce determination and exceptional chassmanship, Kohli was a pillar of the Indian batting lineup. His fighting spirit and ability to chase down targets will be sorely missed in the shortest format

Jadeja: The All-Round Jewel Bows Out ! Joining the elite company of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, the ever-reliable all-rounder, also announced his retirement from T20Is. Jadeja, known for his exceptional fielding skills, left-arm spin bowling, and powerful batting down the order, was a true asset in the shortest format. He provided crucial balance to the Indian team, contributing significantly with both bat and ball.

A New Era for Indian T20 Cricket

The retirements of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja mark a significant shift in Indian T20 cricket. The team now faces the challenge of finding replacements for these batting and bowling stalwarts. However, with a strong pool of young talent, India is well-positioned to adapt and continue its dominance in the T20 arena.

~ Dawn

India Marches On to the Finals

 

The stage was set in Guyana for a high-octane clash between arch-rivals India and England in the second semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024. The match lived up to the hype, with India emerging victorious by a convincing 68 runs.

England captain Jos Buttler won the toss and opted to field first. Despite early jitters, India managed to post a competitive total of 171/7 on the board. Credit goes to some crucial contributions – a solid partnership between openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, and finishing flourish from all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel.

Chasing 172 for victory proved a bridge too far for England. Their batting lineup struggled against India's potent bowling attack. Spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav shared six wickets between them, while Jasprit Bumrah chipped in with two crucial scalps. England were bundled out for a meager 103 in just 16.4 overs.

Axar Patel's all-round performance was instrumental in India's win. With the bat, he contributed valuable runs lower down the order. His bowling figures of 3/17 were equally impressive, derailing England's chase early on.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had contrasting performances in the T20 World Cup semi-final against England.

The Indian captain led from the front with a crucial knock. He played a mature innings of 57 runs off 39 balls, providing stability and impetus to the Indian batting on a tricky pitch. This knock was a significant contribution to India's strong total.

Unfortunately, Kohli's struggles with form continued in this match. He was dismissed for a mere 9 runs by Reece Topley, failing to capitalize on the opportunity to contribute significantly.

This win secures India's place in the finals, where they will face South Africa on June 29th in Barbados. The team remains undefeated throughout the tournament, showcasing exceptional form. Can they continue their winning streak and clinch the coveted T20 World Cup title? Only time will tell!

The T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa promises to be a thrilling encounter. 

Both India and South Africa boast explosive batting lineups. Openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul for India, and Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma for South Africa, will be crucial. Keep an eye out for big-hitting middle-order players like Suryakumar Yadav and David Miller.

The match will likely see a fascinating battle between spin and pace bowling. India's wrist spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, will aim to exploit any weaknesses in the South African batting. South Africa, on the other hand, will rely on their pace attack, led by the experienced Kagiso Rabada and the express pace of Anrich Nortje. The final will be held in Barbados, which is considered a more batting-friendly pitch compared to the one used in the semi-final. This could give South Africa a slight home advantage.

India remains undefeated throughout the tournament, displaying exceptional form and high team morale. Can they maintain their winning streak and lift the trophy?

The final promises to be a close contest, and the team that adapts better to the conditions and executes their plans more effectively will emerge victorious. It's definitely a match not to be missed.

~ Dawn

A Nail-Biter Ends in India's Favor: A Review of the US vs. India T20 World Cup Match

 

The much-anticipated clash between the cricketing giants India and the rising US squad at the T20 World Cup lived up to the hype, offering a thrilling display of grit and determination.

The US team, riding high after their upset win over Pakistan, surprised many by putting up a decent fight. Losing their star batsman early for a golden duck put them on the back foot, but they recovered well, reaching a respectable total of 110 runs. Credit goes to their bowlers for keeping the Indian openers, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, in check.

India's bowling attack, led by the impressive Arshdeep Singh with his four-wicket haul, proved too strong for the US batsmen. They exploited the conditions well, restricting the US to a relatively low score.

While India secured the win, their batting performance was a cause for concern. The continued struggles of star openers Kohli and Sharma raised questions about their form. However, the middle-order stepped up, with Suryakumar Yadav's gritty half-century guiding them home.

Despite the loss, the US team can take heart from their performance. They displayed great spirit and determination, pushing a much stronger Indian side all the way. This match serves as a testament to the growing strength of American cricket.

Overall, this T20 encounter was a close contest that showcased the development of US cricket and highlighted the depth of the Indian team's batting order.

~ Dawn

A Nail-Biter Ends: India Clinches Victory Over Pakistan in T20 World Cup Clash

 

The much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup did not disappoint, delivering a thrilling encounter that went down to the wire. Played at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on June 9th, 2024, the match saw India emerge victorious by a narrow margin of six runs.

Electing to bat first, India struggled on a tricky wicket. Despite a valiant 42 runs from Rishabh Pant, the team could only manage a total of 119 runs in their 19 overs. Pakistan's pace attack, led by Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, who picked up three wickets each, shone brightly, restricting the Indian batsmen.

Chasing a modest target, Pakistan seemed in control initially. Mohammad Rizwan provided stability at the top, but his dismissal against Jasprit Bumrah triggered a collapse. The Indian bowlers, with Bumrah at the forefront, applied immense pressure, stifling the Pakistani run flow.

Jasprit Bumrah was the hero for India, bowling a match-winning spell in the 19th over. He conceded only 14 runs and picked up a crucial wicket, leaving Pakistan needing 12 runs from the final two overs with just three wickets remaining. The tension was palpable as Arshdeep Singh bowled a tight final over, securing victory for India by six runs.

This win propels India to the top of Group A in the T20 World Cup. Pakistan, on the other hand, finds themselves in a precarious position, needing to win their remaining matches to qualify for the Super Eights stage.

The India-Pakistan encounter was a classic display of cricketing passion and drama. It showcased exceptional bowling performances and the resilience of both teams. The win will undoubtedly boost India's confidence as they move forward in the tournament, while Pakistan will be determined to bounce back in their upcoming matches.

I wish all the best wishes to the players!

~ Dawn

Upset Alert! USA Stuns Pakistan in a T20 World Cup Thriller

 

The cricket world witnessed a historic upset on Thursday, June 6th, 2024, as the USA defeated cricketing powerhouse Pakistan in a nail-biting T20 World Cup encounter. This match, played near Dallas, Texas, will be remembered for its drama and a tense super over finish.

Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, won the toss and elected to bat first. However, their batting, which has been shaky in recent T20 matches, faltered again. A disciplined bowling attack from the USA, with Saurabh Netravalkar taking a crucial wicket early on, restricted Pakistan to a modest total of 159 for 7 wickets.

In reply, the USA looked set for a comfortable chase thanks to a solid partnership between skipper Monank Patel (50 runs) and Andries Gous (35 runs). However, Pakistan clawed their way back into the match with some quick wickets in the middle overs. The USA eventually reached 159 for 3 wickets, forcing the game into a super over.

The super over was a tense affair. The USA set Pakistan a target of 19 runs. Pakistan's chase fell short as they could only manage 13 runs, handing the USA a famous victory.

This win is a massive moment for American cricket. It's the first time the USA has qualified for the T20 World Cup, and this victory over a cricketing giant like Pakistan will do wonders for the sport's growth in the United States. The win also puts the USA on top of Group A in the tournament.

For Pakistan, this loss is a major setback. They face arch-rivals India next, and their batting needs to find form quickly if they want to progress in the tournament.

~Dawn

Turbo: Revving Up for a Fun Ride, But Watch Out for Bumps

 

Turbo, the latest Malayalam film starring Mammootty, promises a high-octane action experience. Here's a breakdown to help you decide if it's your cup of chai:

The movie shines in its action sequences, particularly the car chase scene lauded for its choreography and execution. Mammootty delivers a strong performance, balancing humor and action. Fans will appreciate the well-done stunts and the film's energetic vibe.

The plot, according to critics, is predictable and the script struggles to find its footing between humor, drama, and action. Some characters, like the villain, lack depth, and emotional moments fall flat.

Overall, Turbo is a fun watch for fans of action entertainers, especially those who enjoy Mammootty's screen presence. However, if you're looking for a deep story or well-developed characters, you might be left wanting.

If you're looking for a popcorn flick with impressive action sequences and Mammootty's charm, Turbo might just take you for a thrilling ride. But if you crave a more intricate story, you might want to consider waiting for a different film.

One thing I must say that Mammootty's dedication to the role is incredible! Performing those stunts at his age deserves a standing ovation. Even young actors might be intimidated by that level of commitment.

~Dawn

The Teen Brain: A Revealing Look at Adolescence

 I had the opportunity to attend the screening and discussion of a short film "The Teen Brain".

The Teen Brain," a 10-minute documentary directed by Tiffany Shlain, packs a punch in its concise exploration of adolescence. Produced by actress Goldie Hawn's MindUP program, the film aims to debunk stereotypes and shed light on the fascinating science behind teenage behavior.

The documentary opens by emphasizing the incredible transformation taking place in the brains of teenagers. It highlights their heightened emotional intelligence and capacity for learning, framing these qualities as strengths rather than weaknesses. Experts featured in the film counter the trope of teenagers as reckless by explaining their natural tendency towards risk-taking as a crucial part of development

"The Teen Brain" doesn't shy away from the challenges teens face. It acknowledges the struggles with impulse control and decision-making that can stem from an underdeveloped prefrontal cortex. However, the film empowers teens with practical tools for navigating this period. Getting enough sleep, taking breaks from technology, and developing self-regulation techniques are all presented as ways teens can take charge of their well-being.

Here's what makes "The Teen Brain" a success:

• Science-Backed Insights: The film relies on expert opinions and research to deliver credible information.
• Positive Framing: It emphasizes the unique strengths and capabilities of the teenage brain.
• Actionable Tips: Teenagers and parents are offered practical strategies for coping with the complexities of adolescence.

While the film's brevity is a strength, some viewers might wish for a deeper exploration of certain topics. Additionally, the focus on individual strategies doesn't delve into the broader societal factors that can impact teenage mental health.

Overall, "The Teen Brain" is a valuable resource for teenagers, parents, and educators. It provides a clear and informative look at the adolescent brain, fostering understanding and offering valuable tools for navigating this transformative period.

~ Dawn

A Laugh Riot with Room for Improvement

Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil: A Laugh Riot with Room for Improvement

Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil is a fun-filled Malayalam film that delivers a lighthearted and entertaining experience.  The story centers around the wedding of Vinu (Basil Joseph) and Anjaly (Anaswara Rajan), but the real focus is on the unique bond between Vinu and Anjaly's brother, Anand (Prithviraj Sukumaran).

The film shines thanks to the strong performances by its leads. Prithviraj and Basil Joseph have fantastic on-screen chemistry, bouncing off each other with hilarious exchanges and energetic performances. Deepu Pradeep's script is packed with humor, with witty dialogue and situations that will have you chuckling throughout. The supporting cast also adds to the comedic charm, particularly Yogi Babu with his signature brand of humor.

While the film excels in the comedy department, it does have some weaknesses. The plot itself is fairly predictable, and the second half relies more on clichés than fresh ideas.  However, the strong performances and consistent humor manage to keep the movie engaging despite the familiar territory.

Overall, Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil is a breezy and enjoyable film perfect for a lighthearted watch.  If you're looking for a good laugh and appreciate strong comedic performances, this movie is definitely worth checking out. Just don't expect a groundbreaking story. #PrithvirajSukumaran 

~Dawn

Aadujeevitham -The Goats Life

 

Aadujeevitham: A Review with Breathtaking Scenery and Mixed Emotions

The much-anticipated Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life) finally graced my screen at Shantiniketan Mall, in Bangalore. Despite not reading the book, the hype surrounding the making-of videos, interviews, and even controversies had me curious.

The movie kicked off with a phenomenal soundscape by Resul Pookutty. The wind whistling through the sand was simply captivating. Sunil KS's cinematography deserves a standing ovation. He captured the beauty of the desert in a way that showcased nature's inherent music. And of course, A.R. Rahman's music never disappoints. It's a guaranteed mood-setter.

While I applaud KR Gokul-Hakim's acting, I found him more believable and raw compared to Prithviraj, the lead actor playing Najeeb. This might explain why I didn't feel particularly emotional throughout the film, except for specific scenes.

Hakim's hallucinations were particularly powerful. His expressions conveyed the true toll of being trapped in such a desolate environment. Prithviraj's performance, while decent compared to his usual work, felt a bit forced, especially during the scene where he undresses to change clothes. The effort he put into losing weight for the role was evident, but it felt unnecessary for a single scene.

Jimmy Jean-Louis playing the character Ibrahim Khadiri, who aids Najeeb and Hakim in their escape, resonated deeply. His role as a facilitator trying to help them find freedom was relatable. Amla Paul as Najeeb's wife, Sainu, delivered a brilliant and natural performance in every scene.

Akef Najem, portraying the kind Arab man who rescues Najeeb from the desert and takes him to the airport, was a delightful surprise. He was a perfect choice for the role, and the scene where he drops Najeeb off, with Najeeb expressing heartfelt gratitude, brought a tear to my eye. Robin Das, the Hindi worker who takes care of the goats before Najeeb, was another standout. His portrayal was believable and his acting spot-on.

However, the movie fell short in capturing the essence of "The Goat Life" – the core relationship between Najeeb and the goats. The story revolves around how Najeeb develops a bond with these animals and considers them family. Unfortunately, this crucial aspect wasn't explored deeply enough. This felt like a major oversight by Blessy, the screenwriter and director.

The escape sequence felt dragged out, and the ending, with Najeeb reaching the Malabar hotel, seemed rushed. Blessy could have tightened the pacing here and given the conclusion more weight.

While the film might resonate more with Keralites due to the story of a Malayalee man seeking work in the Gulf countries, a situation many can relate to, the overall experience left me wanting more.

With a score of 3 out of 5, Aadujeevitham boasts breathtaking visuals and strong performances by supporting actors. However, the lack of focus on the central theme and a rushed ending prevent it from reaching its full potential.

However, the hauntingly beautiful "Periyone" song by A.R. Rahman lingers in my mind even now. You can listen to it here and hear what the maestro himself has to say about it. 

~Dawn

A Tapestry of lives in Varanasi

 

A wave of gratitude washed over me today. A movie poster, a review by Danish Husain, and a surge of curiosity – it all led me down a path to a wonderful surprise! The opportunity to watch this film filled me with joy.

Set in the vibrant city of Varanasi, the movie captures the essence of life in India, a country I hold dear as my own. The story, masterfully crafted by Ritesh Sharma and his team, is a testament to the beautiful tapestry of Indian society. In this city, Hindus and Muslims coexist peacefully, their lives interwoven.

Enter Shahdab, a Muslim weaver, and Rani, a dancer. Though from different backgrounds, they lead fulfilling lives. But fate takes a turn, and their paths intertwine. The movie transcends their individual stories, offering a glimpse into a world where harmony prevails.

For those familiar with the works of Kabir, a 15th-century mystic poet who promoted religious tolerance, the film resonates deeply. It portrays an India where weavers, often Muslim, created exquisite sarees adorned by Hindu women. Religion becomes irrelevant in the face of shared humanity and artistic expression.

The storytelling is captivating, leaving room for both interpretation and emotional connection. It carries a powerful message – a message of love over hate, a message that transcends borders. This is a film the world needs to see.

A heartfelt thank you to Ritesh Sharma and his team for presenting a story that is both authentic and inspiring. Here's to their continued success and to the movie's impact on audiences worldwide.

~Dawn

#TheBrittleThread #Jhinibinichadariya #varanasi #secularliving #moviereview #RiteshSharma

We are all different. Don’t judge, understand instead!!!

This year, right from its inception, has unfolded with a profound sense of intrigue. My surroundings are bustling with noteworthy events – tech companies initiating layoffs, a palpable reluctance among individuals to return to the office leading to protests, the ongoing Israel-Palestinian conflict, and the heart-wrenching atrocities, particularly the senseless killing of innocent children. These occurrences compel me to reflect on the state of humanity. It seems as though despite the passage of time, our species has not evolved much from the days when small nations engaged in destructive wars, questioning what fundamental changes have truly taken place.

We appear to be creatures losing touch with our dignity and humanity with each passing day. It's disheartening to note that animals, often overlooked, exhibit a kindness that we, as a society, seem to disregard. In the face of these challenges, I strongly feel that this year should be a turning point where we assertively declare 'STOP' to what needs to be halted. We must find the courage to say 'No' when we sense that enough is enough.

As we navigate through life, gaining new perspectives, we realize that our existence revolves around the people in our circle – family, friends, colleagues, and teammates. It's imperative that we express love and support to one another, sharing happiness, peace, and a compassionate ear. My personal journey in people management has reinforced the significance of personalization in business, emphasizing the need for a personal touch within the team.

I recall a valuable lesson from my childhood – my father's advice to hold onto good people rather than wealth, as money is transient, but genuine individuals endure. Embracing this wisdom, I am gratified to witness its fruition in my life.

Love for our neighbors, people, and teams forms the foundation for a harmonious existence. By embodying the qualities of empathy and understanding, we can create positive change. In my role, I find fulfillment in allowing others to lead, as true leadership lies in empowering those around us. It's a gratifying journey of learning and growth.

Let us be the advocates for the voiceless, elevating our concerns to a global understanding. If we, as humans, do not stand up for what is right, then who will? The key to overall well-being lies in spreading happiness, and as we move forward, let's make a sincere promise to be authentic and cultivate love among ourselves.

"Compassion required only one thing...To step outside ourselves long enough to embrace another."

~ Dawn

Happy New Year 2024

And here we are, stepping into the realm of 2024!

I don't subscribe to the tradition of crafting New Year's resolutions. If there's something I need to tackle, it's best addressed in the moment, irrespective of the year. Our goals shouldn't be contingent on a calendar flip.

Life is brimming with dreams and ambitions, requiring meticulous planning and strategic steps to navigate the path toward both minor milestones and grand objectives.

Personally, my life's aspiration centers on fostering a serene existence for myself and others. While injustices persist around us, I believe in striving for a life that is fair and reasonable for all—a basic human right.

We find ourselves on this Earth without any say or expectation. It's only natural to yearn for a tranquil and fundamental existence that brings joy to all.

Though it might seem like a utopian notion, achieving this is plausible if we eliminate one thing: the pursuit of power. 

The relentless race for power often leaves those without it vulnerable. From the microcosm of poverty to the macrocosm of nations like Palestine, the consequences are deeply poignant.

My sole wish for the coming year is simple: peace. May tranquility grace everyone's lives, allowing individuals to toil for their sustenance while coexisting peacefully.

I harbor no specific resolutions for the new year, but I aim to strike a harmonious balance between work and life, easing the stress that often blurs the distinction between the two.

In the months ahead, I aspire to enrich my life with more travel, music, and continuous learning—whether it's mastering an instrument, understanding a process, or acquiring a new skill.

I hope each of you carries expectations for yourselves and for the year unfolding.

Wishing you a joyous, healthy, and serene New Year in 2024!

~ Dawn