Author: akashah

A recent trip to the grocery store made me realize how much Southern culture remains a part of my life. It also got me thinking more about various Southern idioms and their meanings, contexts, and the nuances of their usage. From Southern manners and expressions of surprise, to busyness, and critique, it seems there is […]

79 years old. This number has me reflecting on all the poignant and humorous milestones of my life, from the excitement of turning 21 and 30 to the unique celebrations and realizations at 40, 50, and 60. I kind of love that my search for new adventures and thrills is unwavering despite the passage of […]

I have a deep-seated aversion to casseroles. I also have disdain for dishes like Shepherd’s pie, chicken pot pie, and tuna casserole ( but not macaroni and cheese). Childhood experiences with fish sticks and chicken pot pie may explain my selective eating habits and early rebellion against imposed food rules. I generally prefer individual, unadorned […]

Why do I write about myself? These days, documenting my thoughts and experiences has become a part of who I am. From the self-exploration it enables to the pure joy of the written word, writing has introduced me to a deeper understanding of myself and serves as a powerful outlet for my innermost feelings and […]

It’s amazing how quickly I can shift from gratitude to judgment. And how easy it is to judge others’ behavior (especially while driving). I know this has negative effects on my well-being and I am grateful to have a wonderful coach who encourages me to show compassion towards myself and others and reminds me of […]

Gratitude has had an undeniable and positive influence in my life. It was especially evident during this heartwarming Christmas spent with my adopted family. From unexpected happy moments to deep, engaging conversations, both happiness and gratefulness have enriched my life. This episode captures the essence of feeling loved, giving back, and savoring the magic of […]

Once again, I am confronted with the inevitability of change in life. Some people welcome change and some resist it, but either way change still happens. My father had his unique coping strategies and I have my own adaptive methods (like using tongs for toast and enlisting help for household tasks), this episode illustrates the […]

I wanted to share a spiritual piece for Christmas this year, but instead, I have found myself deeply moved by Dan Vasc, a heavy metal singer. His rendition of ‘Amazing Grace’ has captivated me with his strong voice, striking appearance, and an incredible performance. Despite my initial desire for a more traditional spiritual experience, I […]

Who am I? As I get older, and especially at the end of the year, I look back and reflect on the concept of identity and the winding journey that has been my life. From pondering who I was at 16 to who I’ve become, and the experiences and wisdom I’ve gained over the years, […]

Practicing presence has brought me to a deeper appreciation of life’s simple yet beautiful moments. From observing a stunning rainbow after days of rain, to engaging in heartfelt conversations, sharing moments with pets, and being moved by art and nature, I explore the essence of being present. These reflections highlight the transformative power of truly […]