AUTOBIOGRAPHY (Page 39....)

NOT THE ENDING, JOURNEY STILL CONTINUES……

This is my space carved out for my grief to find its voice. It takes immense courage to confront sorrow and to seek solace in the act of writing. 

The proverb rings true – there is a profound power in giving form to the intangible weight of grief, in allowing the ink to carry the burden.

This isn't just about recording events; it's about an emotional excavation, a heartfelt endeavor to understand, to process, and perhaps, in time, to find a path toward healing.

Each word penned is a step in that journey, a tangible piece of the puzzle of my experience. Allowing myself this space, this outlet, is to define the contours of my sorrow.

I trust in the process of writing as a gentle companion, guiding me toward a greater sense of emotional clarity and peace. 

Thank you for being here and being a part of my life journey, 

“ A View From My Balcony”.

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AUTOBIOGRAPHY (Pages 37 & 38)

MY NIECE

MINAL ACHARYA

Dearest Pinky, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your consistent love and support. You've always been such a wonderful listener, and your advice has always been truly worthy.

You stood by us during some of the most crucial times in our lives, and for that, we are eternally grateful. It brings us such joy to see the incredible, successful woman you've become. We send all our love and blessings to you and your children, and please know, we'll always be here for you, no matter what. And Thank you again.

MY DAUGHTER

SHRUTI SHAH

My dearest, most precious daughter, where do I even begin? Thank you for simply being you. Not for a single moment, have I wished you to be anything less than the incredible person you are. From the very first moment you graced our lives, you have been a pure, timeless source of happiness. We have leaned on your strength in so many ways, and I can honestly say, my heart swells with pride knowing I've learned so much good, so many positive values, just by watching you.

Your humble spirit speaks volumes without uttering a single word, and your quiet, magnetic presence is truly a force to be reckoned with. You have blossomed, beautifully integrating the best of both worlds, carrying within you the treasured principles and values of your grandfather.

My heart's deepest wish for you, my dear, is that you live a life that overflows with everything you deserve. May you soar to breathtaking heights in your career, reaching for every star that calls to you. Thank you, for being our most beloved daughter. You are loved beyond measure.

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MY SON

KARAN SHAH

My dearest son, you've always been our unique and wonderful "dark horse.” You've unfolded in your own perfect time, a powerful reflection of your inner fortitude. No one could ever rush you, and that's always been a part of your inherent strength, those powerful traits that make you who you are. You are a true man, in every sense of the word, and we love you deeply for the solid, dependable person you are.

How can I ever forget the times you were my rock, especially when I was physically struggling? Your willingness to drop everything to pick up groceries, the monumental effort you put into every time we relocated – they simply wouldn't have happened without you. And the times you have helped with the household chores and those soothing foot massages...

These memories will always be cherished in my heart.

Thank you, my son, for gently guiding me towards a healthier path, for your encouragement with workouts and mindful eating. And those wonderful hours spent together, watching all those fantastic shows – those moments mean the world to me. Thank you for motivating me to pursue my hobbies and passions.

More than anything, thank you for being my son. You are a gift, a treasure. We bless you with all the success and good fortune life has to offer, knowing that you will navigate it with that same strength and beautiful heart of yours. We love you, more than words can say.

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AUTOBIOGRAPHY (Pages 35 & 36)

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

MY PARENTS ESPECIALLY MY MOTHER

(LATE LAXMIKANT PAREKH) 

GUNWANTI PAREKH

I want to take a moment to acknowledge my parents, with a special focus on my Mother. Thank you for bringing me into this world. Your tireless support has been my life long pillar of motivation. Mom, the dedication and effort you poured into raising me, from my earliest years to the present, woman that I am today are etched in my memory.

I hope to honor that by being there for you and help you any which I can for years to come. 

MY INLAWS 

(LATE CHHABILDAS SHAH)

PUSHPA SHAH

 Papa, how deeply we miss you. Our hearts ache knowing you're not here with us. Our life feels incomplete, because you're not here to share it with us.

Thank you for the values and principles you instilled in our daughter. Your blessing shaped her into the remarkable person she is today. And to you, Mummy, thank you for your constant smile and for giving us the wings to chase our dreams.

We hope to honor your love and take care of you through the coming years.

MY LIFE PARTNER

MRUGESH SHAH

My dearest husband, thank you for seeing beyond my flaws – for putting up with someone who was, frankly, spoilt, arrogant, and rude.

Your stable and sturdy nature has been the anchor that changed me. Even your silence held a powerful weight, making me confront myself. And your undeterred quest for a better life has inspired me to stand alongside you in all your endeavors.

Through every struggle and every battle we've faced, I can honestly say I wouldn't trade this happiness for anything. 

Thank you for accepting me for who I am today and for allowing me the space to evolve and grow over time.

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MY SISTERS IN LAW

HEMA DHRUV,DIPTI BUCH,BHAVNA PARIKH,MONA SHAH & PURVI SHAH.

Thank you for your boundless love and standing by us through our life journey. 

Thank you, from the very depths of our being, for your fierce and loving support. It made all the difference, and we are eternally grateful knowing we can always count on all of you and hoping to be here as well for you.

MY SISTER AND MY BROTHER IN LAW

MALINI SHETH

KAMLESH SHETH

My dearest sister, even with oceans between us, your love and care has never wavered. I vividly remember those difficult times when my illness was at its worst, and how you both lovingly looked after me.

Each visit was a treasure, filled with thoughtful gifts – those tailored tunics, the comforting taste of Indian snacks and spices – all given so freely.

And Kamlesh bhai, you've always been our steadfast support in challenging times. Thank you both for being such an integral and vital part of our family.

MY YOUNG BROTHER AND MY SISTER IN LAW

DIVYESH PAREKH

PURVI PAREKH

If it weren't for you, my journey wouldn't have even begun without your incredible act of kindness. You were the very first to send the car, filled with everything we needed – the mattress, utensils, groceries – to create our first home.

You've been there for us financially, emotionally, and through every single struggle life has thrown our way. The fact that we still connect every single day speaks volumes. Thank you. How could I ever forget the one who has made every trip to Boston so incredibly special with her amazing culinary skills and the thoughtful gifts you always shower upon my family.

 Thank you both, from the bottom of our hearts. We eagerly look forward to the day we can reciprocate that same love and support for your family.

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AUTOBIOGRAPHY (Pages 33 & 34)

PRESENT REFLECTION

It's 2025, and our nest feels a little emptier now that our son has moved out. We're finding contentment in this new chapter, yet the absence of our children lingers in our hearts.

Our path ahead remains unwritten, a story waiting to unfold. We are living, yes, but there's a certain longing, a missing piece. What that is, only time will reveal.

So I wait eagerly for my life to unfold so I can capture each moment turn it into a memory and journal it.

Until then, we embrace the unknown with open arms.

CREATIVE PURSUITS

MUSICAL VIDEOS OF FAMILY VACATIONS

 I began weaving our cherished family vacation pictures and videos into short, musical stories. Each new creation became an opportunity to refine my craft, to make the next video even more captivating. In this way, our precious memories are not just static images, but vibrant moments brought to life with the perfect soundtrack.

YOUTUBE CHANNEL

 I launched my own YouTube channel, eager to share my culinary explorations. My first attempts at filming and sharing my cooking were admittedly a bit clumsy, filled with stumbles and learning curves. But with each video I created, I found my footing, my confidence grew, and the quality steadily improved, transforming each post into a more polished and engaging experience.

BLOG

Driven by a surge of inspiring thoughts, I've also created a blog – a space dedicated to empowering women and offering pathways towards a more fulfilling life.

I've come to believe that so much of our journey hinges on making the right choices at pivotal moments. My own experiences, with all their twists and turns, have gifted me a wellspring of wisdom that I now feel compelled to share.

Through this blog, I can explore a multitude of topics, offering insights and gentle guidance, hoping to illuminate possibilities and encourage positive change.

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MUSIC PLAYLISTS

My deepest affection has always belonged to music. It has been a constant companion, a source of solace in difficult times and an amplifier of joy in moments of triumph. Knowing that there's a melody for every phase of life's journey, I've carefully curated an online playlist, a collection of beloved songs that I wanted to share with anyone who appreciates the power of a truly great tune.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

With each trip and visit to various restaurants and stores, I've begun writing reviews. Drawing upon my past experiences, my instincts and keen judgment allow me to offer insightful perspectives. As someone who is inherently self-critical and holds everything to a high standard, I ensure that every detail is thoroughly examined and accurately assessed, for every traveler who reads it to guide them to make better choices.

CONCLUSION –:”BUT NOT THE END”

This " Present" is not just a moment; it's the vibrant beginning of my next act, fueled by a newfound passion that lights my days. This is where I stand now, grounded in a purpose and creativity, but I know this is just the trailer – a glimpse of the richness yet to unveil.

The complete story of my life is still in motion and I step forward with anticipation, ready to write each new chapter with enthusiasm intention, courage, and a belief in this heartfelt story that still continues to be written. My journey is still incomplete and the climax is undoubtedly yet to come.

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AUTOBIOGRAPHY (Pages 31 & 32)

 ROUTINE AND FAMILY BONDING

We both worked in different jobs. My son was living with us, finishing college. We bonded well and made the most of our time together. We worked out and watched various shows and movies. Life was a pleasant routine as the years went by.

We actually felt we were living and breathing each day. We did have a few misc. problems, but thankfully, they were resolved. It was a blessing. I went back to being a travel agent and worked with a renowned India-based travel agent.

I worked part-time and also managed my travel agent career. Both my husband and son helped me with house chores. Life was so much fun. Traveling frequently was a part of our lives. We were making up for everything that we missed out on in the past. Both kids were very supportive of all family and life decisions.   

Our jobs brought a gentle rhythm to our days, a welcome change from the steady pace of the past.

With our son living at home, finishing college, our bond deepened, and we cherished the simple joy of shared moments. Workouts, movie nights, and comfortable routines became the fabric of our days. Even the minor problems of household issues were resolved without stress, and it felt  like little blessings along the way. 

For me, returning to my passion as a travel agent, restored my sense of purpose. Balancing part-time work with my own travel career felt fulfilling, especially with the loving support of my husband and son, who readily shared the household tasks.

Life had become genuinely enjoyable, punctuated by the thrill of frequent travels. It felt like we were finally reclaiming the joys that had been deprived for so long.

Our children's continued support in all our family and life decisions was extremely helpful.

Here are a few examples of Buddha's quotes 

“ How you treat people is their Karma and how you react is your Karma”

“Nothing happens by chance by Fate, You create your own fate by your actions”

“Every morning we are born again, what we do today is what matters most”

” This shows how our actions and thoughts shape our future.

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CREATIVE PURSUITS 

My cherished career in tourism, a source of so much joy and connection, came to an unexpected pause with the arrival of COVID-19. Later, I found part-time work and took on some management responsibilities, but in 2022, I finally bid farewell to the world of work.

My husband was thriving, and my son, with such loving thoughtfulness, suggested I take a break. 

It turned out to be the most insightful decision I ever made. Embracing his advice, I found myself drawn to the heart of our home.

It's almost comical, the irony of it – for so long, our home, this haven we created, was merely a launchpad and a place to rest.

Now, I'm completely living in its realm. I can idle out on our porch, enjoy the gentle sway of the swing, let my mind relax in the melodies of the music, stroll through our neighborhood and share smiles and stories with my friends. And those wonderful shows and movies that once sat patiently on a list are now enjoyed, watched till the end.

This abundance of time has become a fertile ground for long-dormant passions to bloom. A wellspring of creativity has opened within me, generating new ideas and perspectives. My lifelong love for literature and the wisdom held within philosophical quotes has found a new outlet.

I've embarked on a journey into the world of writing, a literal birthing of a "new me," allowing my voice to finally find its expression.

This isn't just about having more time; it's about truly seeing, truly feeling, and embracing the fullness of life within and around me.

The kitchen became my new canvas, where I poured my energy into creating exceptional recipes, for my husband and son, who so appreciated diverse flavors.

It was an adjustment, this shift from being financially productive since the age of fifteen into a different rhythm of life. It took time to settle into this new role, but as the months unfolded, a new phase emerged: the opportunity for cherished family adventures.

We embarked on incredible journeys together, creating memories in Budapest, Vienna, London, the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska, the cozy charm of Gatlinburg, the beauty of Connecticut, and so many other treasured places.

These travels became a ritual to the richness and joy that this new season of life had brought.

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AUTOBIOGRAPHY (Pages 29 & 30)

 A NEW CHAPTER: SELLING THE BUSINESS AND RECOVERY

For a few years, the pattern of our lives remained largely the same, a shared journey through both calm waters and turbulent storms.

When I speak of "our" life, it's because we were truly partners in this ongoing battle.

To disregard my husband's presence, his relentless support, would erase the fundamental truth that it was together, hand in hand, we weathered the most difficult times. His strength intertwined with mine, and it was in that unbreakable bond that we found  valor not just to survive, but to keep moving forward.

Our story is an attestation to the power of shared burdens and the timeless legacy of love in the face of adversity.

The persistent ache in my right leg, a limp that time seemed unwilling to ease, remained  constant for nearly four years. Burdened by the everyday weight of financial and store troubles, we made the difficult decision to sell our business. A shared hope flickered within us – the belief that we could find work, provide for ourselves, and finally escape the crushing daily stress. It took what felt like an eternity, but fate finally smiled upon us, and we found a buyer. 

A stroke of luck led us to a charming home in a lovely Kissimmee neighborhood. We were finally relieved to enjoy our freedom we hadn't felt in years, we embarked on a road trip, visiting our daughter and soaking in the beauty of the east coast. Laughter and genuine smiles returned to our faces.

Then came the journey to India, a pilgrimage of hope for my ailing knee. The surgery was a success, a profound turning point. Finally, after so long, I could stand tall, walk with ease and grace that I had almost forgotten. It was more than just a physical healing; it was the lifting of a long-held burden, a step into a brighter, more upright future.

Quoting Buddha Quotes 

• The most powerful thing you can do right now is to be Patient while things are unfolding for you.

• The root of suffering is Attachment.

This certainly holds true in our lives once we let go we found peace and happiness.

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LIFE MINUS STRESS

Yet another new chapter unfolded as we both found steady employment, a lifeline providing enough income to breathe a little easier.

The unshakeable cycle of early mornings and late-night worries was history. Gone were the hurried trips to the bank and the strain of hauling heavy boxes. We rediscovered the precious gift of time – time for ourselves, time for our children.

While the desire for greater financial security remained, a quiet confidence grew, a belief that with time, it would come.

We began to nourish ourselves again, with better food and restful sleep. Laughter and connection returned as we ventured out socially, truly living in the present. Road trips and cruises became joyful escapes, and even without abundant wealth, the absence of stress free life felt like riches.

It's impossible to recount this journey without acknowledging the continuous love and support of our family. To my dear in-laws, my incredible mother, our sisters in law, my steadfast brother, and my caring niece – your presence during our darkest hours was a beacon of hope.

Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for standing by us.

 Life felt good again, happiness infused our days. And my leg, finally free from pain after the replacement, allowed me to gradually reclaim my active life with every confident step. The years that followed brought even more joy, as we ventured out to explore the world, creating cherished memories with each  international trip and domestic trip.

It's remarkable, isn't it? How the tireless demands of our daily lives can draw such a narrow focus, like blinders on a hardworking horse, preventing us from truly seeing the beauty and wonder that surrounds us. We become so driven by the mission at hand that the subtle nuances of existence fade into the background.

But now, with a shift in pace, it's as if my eyes have opened wide. I'm noticing the intricate details both within the familiar walls of our home and in the world outside, and it feels profoundly real. This awakening serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder: never let the constant race of work and life steal the present moment.

Carve out that precious "me time," a sanctimonious self refuge to simply feel, to breathe, to find stillness. It's not just about rejuvenation; it's about allowing space for new perspectives to blossom, for our minds to open to unexpected paths and possibilities.

In those quiet moments, life reveals itself in ways we never imagined. It will help free your inner spirit in unimaginable ways.

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