It’s my mother’s birthday, yesterday. The highlight of her last year’s birthday was getting groceries delivered through Bigbasket in the middle of an unannounced nationwide lockdown and this year it had to be getting the first dose of COVID vaccine. We are living in a strange and extraordinary situation. Don’t want to complain a lot, but eternally grateful for the fact that I am with my parents during these testing times.

I would be completely dishonest if I say that it wasn’t any different. I didn’t have time to recollect my thoughts because, like many of you, we were also trying to make peace with everything that is happening in our broken world. Also, pretending to be normal, while grieving for those who were struggling or lost their loved ones

Also, wanted to share some thoughts for anyone who is struggling to cope up.

1.If things are bad, do reach out to others for help. Don’t suffer in silence. We become more forgiving during crises.

2. The loss of you will change you as a person and also, the fabric of this world.

3. Stick around to see things get better. Because they will. You have to be patient.

4. It’s okay to be scared or vulnerable. But, know that you’re loved.

5. As cliche as it may sound, but you’re not alone. Even the world is not making sense right now. Cut yourself some slack.

6. No effort is big or small. As insignificant as it may look, but every information you share or every post you create makes a difference like ripples expanding across the water when an object is dropped into it. Don’t hold yourself back, if you are in the right mental space to deal with it.

7. Please stay safe and indoors as much as possible. Our health care system has totally collapsed. Prioritize your health, take some time out for yourself, step back if you’re overwhelmed. Most importantly have an open mind.

8. Don’t worry about being productive. You just have to survive. :)