Reflections on a Decade in Gujarat: Lessons Learned, Values Shaped, and the Path to Better Horizons.

 #725

On January 30, 1986, I arrived in Bharuch, Gujarat, to begin my career in environmental engineering—a field that would later grow into environment, health, and safety (EHS). The date remains vivid because it aligned with the Challenger space shuttle explosion, which unfolded while I was traveling from Bombay. Four decades have passed in what feels like a brief moment, encapsulating a formative phase of my life.

Arriving at 22, I carried the typical certainties of youth: a firm "my way or the highway" stance and an unshakeable belief in my own rightness. Gujarat gently but steadily challenged that rigidity. Daily interactions taught me the value of listening, adapting to circumstances, and embracing practicality over stubbornness. More enduringly, the environment reinforced foundational principles—trust, honesty, and integrity—which I internalized as non-negotiable elements of character.

The region's culture left a distinct impression. Food held a central place; people lived to eat, savoring an array of vegetarian dishes that were consistently excellent. As someone inclined toward rationalism with limited religious adherence—I observe in Tamil Nadu, that roughly 90% of people do not follow faith unquestioningly—I found the practices in Gujarat, intriguing: fasting traditions, the casual "Jai Shree Krishna" greeting echoing the Muslim "Insha Allah." The warmth and openness of the people stood out most. Trust came easily, friendships formed quickly, and I acquired conversational Gujarati within weeks, even without prior Hindi knowledge. Those years felt balanced and enriching.

The decade in Gujarat, from 1986 to 1996, included a key personal milestone: meeting Lalitha in Bharuch in 1990 and marrying her six months later in 1991. This chapter nurtured the gentler dimensions of my life, for which I continue to feel appreciation.

Yet, by the mid-1990s, reflection on long-term priorities prompted departure. While the people, lifestyle, cuisine, and work environment were genuinely positive, limitations in education and healthcare became evident. Personal encounters with healthcare shortcomings underscored the gaps. Conversations with friends and colleagues, despite their intellect, often revealed disparities in depth of knowledge compared to my own upbringing in modest Tamil Nadu cities like Karaikudi, Madurai, or Coimbatore. I recognized that Gujarat's strongest offerings fell short of what I had accessed growing up, and I did not want my children to face similar constraints.

Returning to Tamil Nadu felt culturally incompatible, so Bangalore emerged as the logical choice—a larger metropolitan area offering superior access to education, healthcare, and intellectual stimulation. The move in June 1996, aligned with a deliberate focus on these essentials, which I viewed as best provided in an urban setting of scale. The decision was not easy since it involved leaving a world class organisation- SANDOZ.

The decision yielded clear returns. My children thrived in Bangalore's educational ecosystem, completed their studies, and built careers that led them to San Francisco. Over the 30 years since leaving Gujarat, doubt has never arisen about the choice. Gujarat suited that era perfectly—providing career launch, personal growth, and family foundations—but certain core needs demanded relocation. The healthcare in Bangalore, helped me so much for my own health as well as for my parents, to whom I feel, Bangalore gave couple of years extra life due to world class healthcare.

In hindsight, the experience illustrates a principle of "horses for courses": different places serve different purposes at different times. Gujarat molded adaptability and instilled lasting values. Bangalore, in turn, opened doors to sustained opportunities. Writing these reflections from San Francisco today, the journey from Bharuch appears as a measured progression across 40 years of career and family life.

Karthik

30th January 2026 1815 Hrs PST.

Foster City. CA.

Family Adventures and Global Reflections: A 2026 Journey from Singapore to San Francisco

 #724

Hello, dear readers from around the world! As I sit here in the mild January sun of the Bay Area, reflecting on the past couple of weeks, I wanted to share some personal notes from my recent travels and family milestones. Life has a way of blending the mundane with the magical, and this trip has been no exception. From quirky time-zone tricks to heartfelt family moments and even a dash of global politics, there's plenty to unpack. I'll elaborate on my jotted thoughts, weaving in some additional insights and facts to give you a fuller picture. Let's dive in.

First off, my wife Lalitha and I touched down in San Francisco on Friday, January 16, 2026, after a flight from Singapore. What made this arrival particularly amusing was the time warp effect— I departed Singapore at 9:15 AM on Friday and landed in SFO at 7:45 AM the same day. It's like gaining a few hours back, a rare treat courtesy of crossing the International Date Line westward. This isn't my first rodeo; it's our fourth visit to the U.S. in recent years, but the novelty never fades. For those unfamiliar, flying eastbound often means "losing" a day, but going the other way can feel like time travel.

Speaking of airlines, we've sampled a few on these trans-Pacific hauls, and Singapore Airlines tops my list for sheer convenience. Their seamless check-in, efficient boarding, smooth transfers, quick security, and tasty in-flight meals (think satay skewers and laksa) make the 18+ hour journey bearable. I'd rank Emirates second for its luxurious touches like onboard showers in business class and a vast entertainment library. Qatar Airways comes in third—solid service, including Starlink for live stream, but their Doha hub can feel a bit chaotic during peak times. Air India lags behind in my experience, with less polished amenities, though I must give credit where due: their non-stop SFO to Bengaluru route is a game-changer at just 14-15 hours. Unfortunately, ongoing geopolitical tensions, including Pakistan's airspace restrictions for Indian flights (stemming from 2019 incidents and still in flux as of 2026), force detours that add time and nullify that edge. Fact check: According to aviation reports, these restrictions have cost airlines millions in fuel and delays over the years. If you're planning long-haul travel, always weigh direct flights against layover perks—sometimes the stopover city can turn into a mini-vacation!

Our entry through SFO immigration was a reminder that border experiences can vary wildly. Last time, Global Entry whisked us through in seconds—it's a trusted traveler program by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that uses kiosks for pre-approved, low-risk travelers, cutting wait times dramatically. This round, I sailed through the machine, but Lalitha was flagged for a secondary interview. The officer's antennas went up when we mentioned our six-month stay (a big jump from our previous short visits of 15-18 days). She grilled us on our U.S.-based children's statuses, our ties back home, and even demanded to see our return tickets for July 11. It's standard procedure to prevent overstays or potential immigration violations, especially with B-1/B-2 visas allowing up to six months. We explained we were here to support our daughter's high-risk pregnancy, and her demeanor softened instantly. Officers are indeed human; empathy can bridge the gap. A fun fact: SFO processes over 50 million passengers annually, and programs like Global Entry have reduced average wait times to under 5 minutes for enrollees. If you're a frequent international traveler, it's worth the $100 fee and background check—available to citizens of many countries, including India.

The highlight of our trip? Our daughter Radha welcomed a beautiful baby girl on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 11:20 AM at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City. It was a natural delivery led by the wonderful Dr. Libby Szeto, lasting about 12 hours in labor with a swift 40-minute push phase. I was braced for a C-section given the high-risk label, but nature surprised us all. As I've said about Radha for the past 25 years, she's like the old Monsanto company motto: under-promise and over-deliver. (Though, side note: Monsanto's rebranding to Bayer in 2018 shifted that narrative amid controversies over GMOs and herbicides—fascinating how corporate legacies evolve.) We've named the little one Lakshmi as our family Hindu name, symbolizing prosperity and grace, and Maithri Eshwar for her passport, blending "friendship" (Maithri) with her father's name. The naming ceremony is set for Wednesday, February 4, 2026—exactly five years after Radha's engagement to Eshwar on February 4, 2021. What a poetic full circle! Childbirth stats for context: In the U.S., about 60% of deliveries are vaginal, per CDC data, and hospitals like Sequoia emphasize patient-centered care with low intervention rates. We're over the moon, and this global audience might appreciate that in Hindu traditions, naming ceremonies (Namakarana) often involve blessings for health and wisdom. Can't wait to share photos (with privacy in mind, of course).

On a personal note, my health is thriving. A follow-up with Dr. Karthik Vasudevan on January 11 cleared me for travel after some medication tweaks—grateful for modern cardiology keeping my ticker in check. I've built a solid routine here, clocking 25,000 steps daily at nearby gems like Catamaran Park (with its serene lagoon views) and Leo Ryan Park (named after the congressman tragically killed in the Jonestown incident— a sobering historical tie). January weather in the Bay Area has been unseasonably warm, hovering around 15-20°C (59-68°F) with minimal chill, though rains can disrupt the flow. Pro tip: Walking apps like Strava or local park trackers make it fun. Fact: The WHO recommends 10,000 steps daily for adults, but hitting 25,000 boosts cardiovascular health exponentially, reducing risks by up to 30% per studies. Rain or shine, it's rejuvenating—nature's free therapy.

Finally, shifting to broader horizons, U.S. politics under President Trump in his second term is as fiery as ever. He's charging ahead on his Minnesota promises—perhaps referring to economic pledges or infrastructure, though details evolve daily. The press can criticize all they want, but Trump's unyielding style means he won't back down, courts, Senate, or House notwithstanding. I'm optimistic about his pick for Federal Reserve Chair, Kevin Warsh—a sharp economist with Fed experience who could aggressively pursue deregulation and growth agendas. Jerome Powell's tenure? A mixed bag, criticized for inflation handling post-COVID, but let's acknowledge his steady navigation through 2020s turbulence. In 2026, with global economies rebounding, Warsh's "hands-on" approach might prioritize cutting rates to fuel Trump's vision. A neutral fact: The Fed's independence is key, but chairs often align with administrations—think Greenspan under multiple presidents. Whatever your views, it's a reminder that leadership shapes destinies, from personal families to nations.

Wrapping up, this trip underscores life's unpredictability and joys. From airline adventures to newborn cuddles, it's all about connection. Thanks for reading—drop your thoughts in the comments. Until next time, stay well, global friends!

Take care, Stay Safe.

Karthik.

30th January 2026 1145am PST.

Phil Collins is 75 today. What a talent. Drummer, Singer, Lyrics...!!!

A Cherished Reunion: Old Friends, Timeless Guidance, and Authentic Flavors

 #723

Nainesh. (1/22/2026). 

Yesterday, January 22nd, I had the joy of reconnecting with a dear colleague and mentor, Nainesh Shah—affectionately known as ND—after nearly two decades. ND, who has called the USA home since 1996, was in the Bay Area on a business trip and graciously carved out four precious hours to drive from San Jose to Foster City to meet me and my family.

Our friendship traces back to 1990-91 at Unique Pharmaceuticals in Ankleshwar, Gujarat, and later to 2000-2002 at Pharmacia-Upjohn Monsanto (He moved to Pfizer when Monsanto Spun Pharmacia and I in to Monsanto Ag business). It was ND who, in 1991, steered my career when I faced a pivotal choice between offers from Reliance Petroleum and Sandoz. His wise counsel—prioritize career growth over immediate money / wealth creation—led me to Sandoz, shaping the path I've walked ever since. We last met in March 2007 in Redondo Beach, Los Angeles, during my Honeywell Global conference while he was based in San Diego.

Food was authentic Kannada stuff.

Time flew as we reminisced about old colleagues, life in America, and the journeys that brought us here. At home and later at the newly opened "Bengalur Ootery" on Edgewater Boulevard—a charming spot just two months old, run by Ms. Pallavi—we savored authentic Kannada cuisine. The flavors transported us back to our roots, and ND agreed it was truly tasty and comforting.

Despite Chicago's brutal -45°F (today 1/23) weather tempting him to reroute his flight home from San Jose Airport, ND chose connection over convenience. My wife Radha, Lalitha, and Eshwar joined in, with ND sharing valuable insights on raising a newborn drawn from his American experience.

ND with Radha, Eshwar.

Moments like these remind us how enduring friendships transcend time and distance. Thank you, ND, for the laughter, wisdom, and warmth. Here's to many more reunions.

Karthik

Foster City, CA 0640am PST.

Thirty-Five Years of Coral Strength and Jade Wisdom...

 #722

Today, January 18, 2026, marks our 35th wedding anniversary—a milestone as enduring and beautiful as the coral and jade that symbolize this special year. On this very day in 1991, as the world watched the start of Operation Desert Storm with bombs falling over Baghdad under President Bush Sr., Lalitha and I quietly entered into our wedlock. While that distant conflict ushered in decades of chaos and turmoil across the globe, our married life has been the very opposite: a steady, peaceful journey filled with mutual respect, growth, and deep joy.

Lalitha, you have been far more than my spouse. You are my closest friend, my wise guide, and the one who always sees the larger perspective in every challenge we face. We don't always agree on every small thing—as individuals, we each bring our own views—but you have an extraordinary ability to focus on the long-term good, gently steering us toward wiser paths. This has taught us both the grace of letting go, moving on from minor conflicts, and adapting together with love. Over the years, that quiet strength has been the true foundation of our harmony.

More than anything, I recognize that our strong bond owes so much to you. In moments when my own missteps or transgressions could have created lasting rifts, you chose understanding over anger. You approached every issue with common sense, a long-term view, and an unshakable belief that time would heal and change things—and it always did. Your patience, forgiveness, and wisdom turned potential storms into calm waters.

Your contributions extend far beyond our partnership. You have been the heart of our extended family, nurturing close ties with my parents, siblings, and relatives. You became the trusted go-to person for resolving issues, always with kindness and fairness. Our children's remarkable success—in education, common sense, and professional growth—is entirely thanks to your dedicated efforts and loving guidance. And now, as a wonderful mother-in-law and a doting grandmother, you continue to bring light and joy to our growing family.

In recent years, with our primary family responsibilities fulfilled, we've finally had precious time just for us. These moments have deepened our understanding of each other, allowing our love to blossom even more fully in this new chapter.

16/1/26, SINGAPORE- SAN FRANCISCO.

SHRAVAN, SANGEETHA, ESHWAR, RADHA OUR WONDERFUL CHILDREN.

SAMARTH KARTHIK, OUR PROMOTION TO GRANDPARENTS.

Lalitha, my dearest, I look forward to at least another 20 years—perhaps many more—by your side, cherishing every day, every laugh, and every quiet moment. Thank you for 35 years of unwavering love, strength, and grace. You are the calm in my storm, the wisdom in my world, and the greatest gift of my life.

Happy 35th Anniversary, my love. Here's to many more beautiful years together.

With all my heart, Karthik

Foster City, CA..... 17th January 2026, 1830 Hrs.

(We landed yesterday for our 6 months stay with Radha). Incidentally 17/1/2016 on eve of our 25th Wedding Anniversary, Radha qualified as a Charted Accountant. (Time flies).

Trump's Donroe Doctrine: Escaping the Quagmire and Redefining Global Power in 2026

 #721

Personal Update:- I am recovering well. Followup with Cardiologist on 12/1. 

As we kick off 2026, the world is witnessing a seismic shift in American foreign policy under President Donald Trump. In my view, Trump is not just navigating the messy legacies left by Bush, Obama, and Biden—he's bulldozing through them with a bold, unapologetic vision. But can he truly escape the quagmires that bogged down his predecessors? My guess is yes, and here's why, based on the early fireworks of his administration. I'll elaborate on the key moves, sprinkle in some counter-narratives for balance, and tie it back to what this means for audiences in India and around the globe. As a die-hard supporter of a strong America (while reserving the right to critique), I'm excited, but let's dive in with eyes wide open.

First, let's talk about the revival of the Monroe Doctrine—a 1823 policy that essentially declared the Western Hemisphere as America's backyard, warning European powers to keep out. Trump has dusted this off and supercharged it into what I'm calling the "Donroe Doctrine," a modern corollary aimed squarely at China and Russia. It's like President John F. Kennedy's Bay of Pigs fiasco in 1961, but with a twist: instead of fumbling against Soviet influence in Cuba, Trump is succeeding in warning off modern adversaries. The swift ousting of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela is a prime example. Without boots on the ground, U.S. forces used advanced jammers to neutralize Russian- and Chinese-supplied anti-aircraft systems, rendering them useless. This wasn't just a tactical win; it was a "shot across the bow" to the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and beyond: mind your own business in America's sphere.

For Indian readers, this has a pointed lesson. India's defense procurements often include Russian gear like S-400 systems. If American tech can so easily jam these, it raises questions about their reliability in a real conflict—say, along the Line of Actual Control with China. Trump’s move signals a return to raw power politics, echoing President Teddy Roosevelt's "big stick" diplomacy from the early 1900s. Roosevelt, FDR's cousin, believed might makes right, and America should police the world. Trump seems to agree, declaring the post-World War II order—forged by FDR, Churchill, and Stalin in 1945—dead and buried. No more endless multilateralism or UN hand-wringing; it's America first, unfiltered.

As someone who cheers for a resurgent U.S., I'm thrilled. Trump's approach mirrors Teddy's bravado and JFK's resolve, damn the torpedoes. He's avoided quagmires so far by relying on brute force and coordinated ops, steering clear of ground invasions in hot spots like Cuba, Iran, Ecuador, Mexico, Colombia, Greenland, or even Canada (though the order might shuffle). Congress, Democrats, the UN, and even the Supreme Court are scrambling to rein him in, but public support is surging. Polls show Americans voted for this restoration of image—tired of perceived weakness under Bush's Iraq debacle, Obama's cautious resets, and Biden's alliances that felt like entanglements. If Trump keeps delivering domestically, he's unstoppable.

Shifting gears to the home front, Trump's internal economic policies are firing on all cylinders, proving that his "America First" mantra isn't just rhetoric—it's delivering tangible wins. Take the cap on credit card interest rates at 10%: this bold move has slashed borrowing costs for millions of families, easing the debt burden that ballooned under previous administrations. No longer are consumers crippled by 20-30% rates; now, it's affordable credit that stimulates spending without the predatory traps. Early data shows consumer confidence spiking, with retail sales up 15% in the first quarter alone. Critics called it government overreach, fearing it would dry up credit markets, but banks have adapted, and lending hasn't slowed—proving Trump's bet on reining in Wall Street greed is paying off.

Then there's "Drill Baby Drill," Trump's aggressive push to unleash domestic energy production. By fast-tracking permits for oil and gas exploration, he's flooded the market with American crude, driving gas prices down to $1.99 / gallon, in many states— ( Yes California always 4$) a throwback to Reagan's boom times. This isn't just about cheap fuel; it's energy independence that insulates the U.S. from OPEC whims and geopolitical shocks. Inflation, once a Biden-era bogeyman, is now tamed at under 2%, with growth projections hitting 5%—unprecedented since the 1980s. For global audiences, including in energy-hungry India, this means stable oil prices worldwide, potentially lowering import costs for nations like ours. Counter-narrative? Environmentalists decry the carbon footprint, warning of climate quagmires ahead, but Trump's team counters with tech investments in cleaner drilling, balancing growth with green nods.

Housing reforms are another homerun: banning corporate investors from snapping up single-family homes has put the market back in the hands of everyday Americans. No more BlackRock or hedge funds outbidding families; prices in key markets like Atlanta and Phoenix have stabilized, with first-time buyer approvals up 25%. This policy tackles the affordability crisis head-on, turning the American Dream from myth to reality. Tied to this is the transgender ban in certain federal programs—framed as focusing resources on core economic priorities rather than divisive social experiments. Whether it's military readiness or sports equity, Trump argues it streamlines spending, saving billions that get redirected to infrastructure and jobs.

On the foreign economic front, Trump's "washing off" Ukraine aid to Europe is a masterstroke in fiscal discipline. By shifting the burden to NATO allies—echoing pre-1910 isolationism under Woodrow Wilson—he's saved U.S. taxpayers over $100 billion annually, with scant respect for European pleas. "Let them handle their backyard," he quips, freeing funds for domestic reinvestment. This Wilsonian disdain for entangling alliances has ruffled feathers in Brussels, but it's bolstered U.S. coffers, funding tax cuts that supercharge growth. Critics warn it weakens global security, potentially emboldening Russia and straining transatlantic trade, but so far, Europe's stepped up, and U.S. exports are booming.

Overall, these internal successes are the glue holding Trump's agenda together. Affordability is rebounding: prices are dropping, inflation is tamed, and gas is hitting $1.99 in spots, reminiscent of Reagan's era. Growth projections are eyeing 5%—unheard of since the Gipper's time. These tailwinds could solidify Republican majorities in midterms, despite the noise from left-wing media like The New York Times and Washington Post, or podcasters echoing their views. Paid protesters? We've seen tragedies, like the Minneapolis incident where a demonstrator lost her life blocking ICE operations. Was it a "useless cause," as some say? Harsh, but it highlights deepening divides. Why do blue states always see Trump's intent as malice—think George Floyd protests turned riots? It's a cultural chasm, but Trump's base argues it's about law and order.

That said, I'm open to counter-narratives, and there are plenty. Critics argue Trump's radical team—unyielding on principles, opposition be damned—has crossed a Rubicon. He's lost hardcore supporters from his first term, like Judge Andrew Napolitano and some podcast allies, who decry the overreach as authoritarian. Globally, this could backfire: alienating BRICS might accelerate de-dollarization or new alliances against the U.S. In India, while we benefit from a strong America countering China, Trump's isolationism might mean less U.S. support in Indo-Pacific flashpoints. Domestically, ignoring institutions risks eroding democracy—echoing warnings from historians about imperial presidencies. And what if quagmires creep in? A misstep in Iran or Mexico could drain resources, spiking inflation again. Even Tucker's America-first crowd might balk if it leads to endless conflicts. Megyn Kelly backs the toughness, but polls show fractures: urban voters fear division, while rural ones celebrate the reset.

Yet, I believe Trump can thread the needle. With eight more years of potential Republican rule (through 2032, and perhaps beyond via successors until 2041), these changes could normalize. Like the old Polish joke: once you're in tough times, you get used to it. People adapt—think how post-9/11 security became routine. For global audiences, this isn't just U.S. drama; it's a template. India, with its own assertive foreign policy under Modi, might draw parallels in standing firm against neighbors. But caution: unilateralism can isolate.

In sum, Trump is off to a bang, escaping the quagmire by rewriting rules. I don't agree with every move—his team’s radicalism worries me—but as a rational America-first advocate, he has my backing. Whether you're in Mysuru or Manhattan, this era demands vigilance: power shifts fast, and today's doctrine could be tomorrow's debate. What do you think—quagmire escaped, or just delayed?

Karthik

11/1/26 1300 Hrs. Bangalore.

My Health Update. (Angioplasty)...

 #720

I'm thrilled to share a positive update! On January 3, 2026, I underwent a successful angioplasty at Manipal Yeshwanthpur, where Dr. Karthik Vasudevan placed two stents (41mm total) and used a couple of medicine balloons to clear hidden blockages in my coronary arteries. The stress thallium had shown only minor damage thanks to natural collaterals, but the angiogram revealed the issue just in time—preventing a serious event.

I'm now back home after observation for 36 hrs, recovering smoothly and feeling stronger already. The team says everything went perfectly, like "God's hands" at work!

With new additional medication, light walking, heart-healthy diet changes, and rest, the outlook is excellent. I'm on track for steady improvement and fully expect to be fit for my planned SFO trip around January 15 (with Dr. Karthik's clearance, of course—most guidelines allow flying 1-2 weeks after uncomplicated stenting). The follow up appointment is planned for next week. I am thankful to all the Manipal, Yeswantpur team of doctors, support staff who took great care of me.

Your love and good wishes mean the world—thank you! Feeling grateful and optimistic for a healthier chapter ahead.

Karthik

5/1/26

PS: The Medical Insurance which I took last year came handy. The Niviabupa team was of great help, in working the process at every step with the hospital. The agent who sold the plan for us in 2024, Mr Theju coordinated everything and I am thankful to him.

My Reflections from the Nuclear Lab: A Sobering Dawn to 2026..

 #719

DJ Daniels, A 13 year old Brain Cancer Patient, nominated as Honorary member of Law agencies (FBI, ICE, Police.... More than 90 nominations so far!). 

As the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2025, ushering in the new year, I found myself carrying a weight of somber thoughts into 2026. Instead of festive cheers or resolutions scribbled on fresh pages, my mind lingered on a visit to a diagnostic lab earlier that day. It was part of my annual health checkup, but this year, it veered from the routine into the specialized realm of nuclear medicine. In Bangalore, such tests are rare—available only at two labs—highlighting how selective and advanced these procedures are. My own results came back satisfactory, a quiet relief. Yet, what I witnessed there stirred a profound contemplation, blending grief, gratitude, and philosophical inquiry.

The lab wasn't your everyday clinic for blood draws or basic scans. It specialized in tests that probe deeper, often signaling serious concerns with life-altering implications. As I waited, I observed a heartbreaking scene: children, from toddlers barely a year old to preteens around 12, lined up for these invasive procedures. Their small frames, clad in hospital gowns, seemed so fragile against the sterile backdrop of machines and monitors. Nearby, young adults in their 20s and 30s sat patiently, arms extended for cannulas to be inserted, ready for the injection of radioactive IV fluids. I underwent the same— a prick, a flush of unease, and hours of monitoring. But for me, in my 60s, it felt like a minor detour in a long journey. For them, it was a stark interruption.

The children's plight pierced me deepest. What fault could they possibly bear? Why them, at such tender ages? Why not in their 20s or 30s, when resilience might be stronger? If the diagnosis revealed adverse conditions—perhaps cancers or rare disorders—how would these innocents endure the pain, the treatments, the uncertainty? Science offers explanations: genetics, environmental toxins, random mutations. But religion? In the Indian spiritual tradition I grew up with, such suffering evokes the concept of Karma from the Bhagavad Gita. Lord Krishna teaches Arjuna that actions from past lives ripple into the present, shaping our experiences. Yet, gazing at those wide-eyed kids, I couldn't help but question the divine play—Lila, as it's called in Hindu philosophy. Is this the Almighty's game, a cosmic drama where souls learn through trials? I didn't curse the divine; instead, I felt a quiet upset, a plea for understanding in this veil of Maya, the illusion that masks deeper truths.

For the young adults, my sympathy was laced with different wonderings. Could some of this be self-inflicted? Lifestyles crammed with stress, poor habits—junk food, sedentary routines, or even substance abuse—might contribute for a few. The environment plays its villainous role too: polluted air in our bustling cities, contaminated water, or unchecked industrial toxins. Awareness lags, and ecosystems falter under human greed. Blaming the Almighty here felt misplaced; perhaps it's our collective Dharma—righteous duty—to foster healthier lives. The Upanishads remind us that the body is a temple, a vehicle for the soul's journey. Neglecting it invites imbalance, disrupting the harmony of Prana, the life force.

This encounter humbled me, amplifying my gratitude. Reaching my 60s without a major, life-threatening health scare feels like a profound blessing. In our 20s and 30s, my generation reveled in vitality—dancing through festivals, chasing careers, building families—largely unscathed. Now, reflecting back, I see it as the fruit of good Karma: deeds from this life or before, woven with blessings from elders, gurus, and the community. Indian philosophy emphasizes this interconnectedness—the law of cause and effect, where Punya (merit) from virtuous actions shields us. And the timeless axiom from the Hippocratic Oath echoes the Ahimsa of Jainism and Buddhism: "First, do no harm." It's a simple yet powerful mantra—to others, to the earth, to oneself. By avoiding evil, we cultivate a shield of positive energy, aligning with the universe's rhythm.

As I left the lab after my four-hour ordeal, my heart ached for those parents. The emotional agony they carried—etched in weary eyes and hushed whispers—was palpable. How do they summon the strength to fight? I pray that the same Almighty who scripted this suffering grants them resilience, resources, and unwavering faith. In the words of the Gita, "You have the right to perform your prescribed duty, but you are not entitled to the fruits of action." Perhaps their trial is a path to higher growth, a test of Bhakti (devotion) that forges unbreakable bonds.

Entering 2026, this experience reframes my resolutions. Not grand ambitions, but quiet commitments: to cherish health, practice mindfulness through Yoga or meditation, and extend compassion. In a world of uncertainties, let's count our blessings, sow good deeds, and trust in the eternal cycle. After all, as the Vedas teach, the soul is immortal; these bodies are but temporary vessels in the grand illusion. May we navigate with grace, and may those little warriors find healing in the divine's embrace.

Karthik

1/1/26 9am.