We’ve all heard it—be the best parent you can be.

The one who provides, protects, plans. The one with the answers, the sacrifices. But somewhere along the way, in trying to be the best, did we forget what our children really need?

Let’s get this straight: your child doesn’t need the “best parent” with a trophy to prove it. They need a safe parent. A present parent. A human one.

We’re a generation trying to raise kids while healing from our own childhoods. A generation filled with unhealed wounds, trauma, and memories we rarely talk about. That’s why parenting has become such a loaded, sensitive topic. People joke about “new-age parenting,” roll their eyes at “gentle parenting,” or mock those trying to set emotional boundaries, but deep down, it’s coming from a place of wanting better. Of not wanting to repeat the same mistakes.

Be someone your child can come to—without hesitation, without fear, without overthinking how you might react. Being a parent isn’t just about getting them into the best school, paying their fees, buying them the best clothes, planning fancy trips, etc. Those are mere checkboxes. What matters more—what truly lasts—is the emotional support you give, the comfort you offer, and the safe space you create at home.

Don’t try to one-up other parents by comparing your sacrifices or playing the “at least I’m not like them” card. You’re not in competition. You’re raising a human being—a smaller version of yourself—who’s watching your every move to learn how to handle life. The world out there is already brutal; your child doesn’t need you to be another source of fear.

Having Kids to Fix Marriages? Let’s Talk.

In India especially, conflict in a marriage is often “resolved” by having a child—as a suggestion from well-meaning but misguided relatives. Just like how some parents hand a crying kid a phone to keep them quiet, families hand over this “solution” in the hopes that it’ll silence deeper issues. But what no one talks about is the burden that child grows up with.

So what about the child?

Ask yourself—did you ever sit down and talk it out? Discuss how you’ll parent this child? What kind of values you’ll pass down? What behaviors are off-limits in front of them? How will you resolve conflicts when they arise, not just with your partner, but also with your kid?

You don’t just bring a baby into the world as a distraction from your own issues. A child is not a pause button. Not a fresh start. They’re a living, breathing individual who will grow up shaped by the very environment you give them. You can’t expect magic to happen just because there’s now a kid in the picture. If anything, that child will silently carry the weight of the unresolved conflicts you never dealt with.

"You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first.”
— Audrey Lorde

These are the children who require therapy when they grow up. Because they don’t know what to do with their emotions, or whom to confide in. These are the ones who desperately try to find people outside the home to talk to—just anybody who seems kind—and we know even that sometimes doesn’t end well.

Read Rise like a phoenix: A story of burnout, anxiety & resilience.

Your child looks up to YOU. You can’t expect them to be mature from day one. It is your job to teach them, guide them, and show them the way—not the school’s, not the society’s. It starts at home. It starts with you.

The bare minimum is for you to Listen.

Not to retaliate. Not to defend. Not to correct. But to understand. Children aren’t trying to argue with you; they’re trying to express themselves. All they have is their innocence, their curiosity. And if every word they say leads to a scolding or a fight, you’re not teaching discipline, you’re instilling fear.

That fear creeps into every corner of their life. It conditions them to expect rejection and blame, even at home. Even from you. So much so that, god forbid, when something horrible happens to them, they might just stay silent… because “what if you get angry?” “What if you blame them?”

Children Mirror What They See

There’s a saying—girls don’t want to become like their mothers, boys want to become like their fathers. And I can’t stress enough how true this statement is. Mothers want their daughters to grow up strong, independent, and financially free because they’ve seen what it’s like to live in a world where men dominate. The last thing these daughters need is to see that same behaviour in their own homes, in their own father, brothers or uncles.

Read Your Guide to ‘Why Are Women So Complicated?’

No matter what you’ve done “for the family,” if you’re not there emotionally, the case rests right there. You don’t parent from ego. You don’t build fear. The world already has enough of that.

Don’t Build a Home They Want to Escape

Don’t create a home that your child is constantly trying to escape from. Don’t offer help like it’s a burden. Don’t make love conditional.

If they’re getting bad grades in school, you don’t go tell the teachers to remove them from extracurriculars. You sit with them. You try to understand where the gap is. You talk. You support. You listen. Assuming everything on your own doesn’t help.

What do you make of a child who is restricted from joining extracurriculars, is always the teacher’s pet, a first bencher, a good-to-average grader, doesn’t go out with friends, isn’t allowed on (unmonitored) trips, only wears what you approve of, always says no because that’s what they were conditioned to do? They grow up anxious. People pleasers. Easily Manipulated. Isolated. Unable to trust their own decisions. They say no to the world and even to themselves. Are they any good, for their own selves? Do you see an outlet? I hope you answer in negative.

Can you just… let them be?

Because in the end, it’s not your intentions, your sacrifices, or your status that shape your child’s life—it’s your behavior. If you can’t manage your own emotions, how can their first safe space, their home, ever feel whole?

Your child doesn’t care how much you earn or how many gifts you buy. They care about how safe they feel when they see you. About whether they can talk to you without judgment or not.

What you’ve gone through isn’t their fault but what you choose to pass down is indeed your responsibility.

So no, it’s not about being a perfect parent, the “best parent.” It’s about choosing to be a different one. The one who listens & believes in them. The one who holds space, not the one they dream of running away from.

I understand that everybody is trying to do their best, and that’s perfectly okay. It’s not like you learnt it too. Therefore, the idea is not to be the best—but to just be. No matter what level of parenting you’re in, even if your kids are already grown up, try inculcating the things mentioned above and see the results. It’s important—because however much one says or tells themselves to forgive, unhealed trauma is a reality. It stays. And one day, it may explode—and that won’t be the best way forward.

And truly, that’s not hard. That’s just being human with a thought. And you out of all, can do that for your child.

Dear Men, This Is how Half of the World sees you!

Reflecting on notions and the differences, the answer is yes, women are actually complex. But before you dismiss this as another “women and their hormones” argument, hear me out. Women are complex because we need to be. Life as a woman is full of experiences that demand heightened awareness and vigilance. This heightened sense of awareness, this complexity is something we inherit, passed down from one generation to the next. It’s not something we constantly talk about, but it’s there, quietly influencing the way we live, how we behave, and even how we dress. From childhood, we are taught to be cautious—be careful when walking alone, watch out for strangers, and make sure you’re not out too late.

I come from a place where interactions with men were limited. Growing up in a protective environment, I always felt safe within the confines of my home. But let me tell you, there comes a day in every woman’s life when she realizes that safety isn’t guaranteed, no matter how familiar or close to home she is. It could be something as small as a shadow lurking behind you, or something much worse, something I don’t need to spell out. What doesn’t make news could be a tailor misappropriately touching you while taking measurements, or a shop employee who won’t avert his gaze while you’re changing. These things are not isolated incidents—they are part of the shared experience many women have. The human mind left humanity long back. And so every now and then, we hear stories that become lessons, and we call them cases.

It’s easy to dismiss women’s concerns as “overthinking.” But the reality is, against the backdrop of overthinking—we analyze everything, every situation, from every angle, because we need to. When you’ve been conditioned to see the potential dangers, you begin to think about the “what-ifs,” the pros and cons, the outcomes, the possibilities, and how to protect yourself. It’s not paranoia—it’s self-preservation. 

And it’s heartbreaking because this pattern of behaviour isn’t exclusive to humans; it’s a pattern I’ve seen in animals too. When cows run away from the chasing bulls, or when female dogs are sexually assaulted by multiple male dogs, I can’t help but notice that the behaviour is the same. The cruelty, the objectification—it’s not just a human issue; it’s a larger, deeply ingrained problem. But this isn’t the subject matter for this post.

“Get me food!”

What’s worse is that it all starts at home. It’s in the way jokes are made about women: “Ye toh paraayi hai”, “Sasural mein aise kaam karogi”, “Roti banani hogi na”. These aren’t just casual remarks; they are seeds planted in young minds, teaching them that a woman’s value lies in her ability to serve, to cook, and to maintain the household. Just in one sentence, mostly a causal fun sake remark, one is made an outsider, and everything they’ve been doing for their ‘home’ is reduced with ‘the home’ not being theirs, with all their ability outside the house- overlooked.

The point I’m making is not that there’s anything wrong with doing household chores, no. But reducing a woman’s identity to just those tasks is a form of disrespect. People often make these jokes without understanding the reality. Women are expected to cook because they know or say have been taught, how to do it. Most men don’t even know how to cook beyond Maggi or tea. It’s not that men can’t learn—but it’s a conscious decision not to, which leads to a lack of respect for women’s efforts. My father (who knows how to cook, yes) believes that one should know the howabouts of everything, regardless of pursuing the activity in the future, and that makes sense but only if it is implemented in unison. But it’s the underestimation, the jokes, and the disregard that is utterly disappointing.

I’ve seen firsthand how small actions can make a big difference. A friend once told me how his mother had set designated days and roles for house chores, and it was his turn to wash the dishes. How subtly powerful! Such activities instil a sense of equality from a young age. It taught him respect—not just for women, but for the effort that goes into maintaining a household. Women’s need to prove themselves arises from the fact that they’ve been reduced, underestimated, and exploited for so long. It’s not just about being “overly complex” or “needing to prove a point”; it’s about recognizing that we’ve had to fight for our space, for our freedom, and for basic respect.

“Men know how men are!”

When they say, “Men know how men are,” there’s a certain truth to it, men know what level men can go. The society as a whole is not as civilized as it likes to think it is. The constant requirement of having a male companion when going around is another stark reminder of how unsafe the world can feel. Even on familiar roads, an ordinary walk can turn into an anxiety-inducing experience. Just last week, I went for a walk alone early evening when a man on a motorcycle pulled up next to me and offered me a lift. I refused of course and he went his way, but the fright in that moment was to the extent that I took a U-turn straight home. One other time, I was returning home on foot on an active road again, and a bike with three young men pulled beside and asked if I needed a lift. Out of reflex, I nodded my head in negative and they laughed with action showing that there wasn’t even space to accommodate me and went their way. I felt terrible, stupid, and dumb. Of course, it was a joke to them, but if I still remember this instance with dread after so many years, it wasn’t funny to me for sure.

They say "Think of yourself blessed if you don't understand why people do unkind things." Who's gonna tell them the amount of impact those unkind things, and the idea of 'not understanding' them have? 

Everything that I tell you is just the surface level, for I can’t even muster myself to share the rest. It’s sad that for every action posed by another, your mind blames you- it is your stupidity, your dumbness. It’s you. The fear I tell you is not just based on isolated experiences; it’s a culmination of years of living in a world where women often feel unsafe, vulnerable, and under threat because men chose to have “fun”. And yet, this isn’t a conversation we have openly enough. It’s a burden we carry, silently, constantly telling each other to have the courage to either speak up or just avoid.

“Be His Peace of Mind”

I’ve heard so many times that a woman “must be his peace of mind.” You see, it’s difficult to be at peace when your mind is constantly on high alert. If you truly want to be someone’s peace, be there for her. Ask any woman in your life whom you love if she’s ever felt unsafe, exploited, or fearful. I’m sure she will have stories to share—stories that are rarely spoken of, because they carry too much weight. But please know they need to be heard. It’s not about proving a point—it’s about understanding the reality that women live with every day. And I guarantee that when you listen, without trying to critically assess, you’ll be humbled seeing how aggravated the situation is.

Indian cinema has long glorified toxic relationships, subtly shaping societal norms. Maybe because Shahrukh set an unrealistic benchmark for even actors to portray characters on screen, haha. In contrast, the rising popularity of K-Dramas, especially among women stems from their portrayal of respect and consent—qualities often absent in real life (one may call me out for generalization here). It’s because, in those shows, respect and consent are not just ideals; they are practised. The men in those dramas are safe spaces, places where women don’t feel threatened or objectified. But, sadly, those types of men are few and far between in real life, particularly in places where authority and control are often confused with respect.

When a woman fears you, that’s not respect. Respect isn’t about control or making her obey your every word. It’s about creating a safe space where she feels valued and heard.

“Not all men!”

Not all men are like this, of course. But when any man passes by too closely, or when a vehicle slows down next to a woman, the fear is real. And in those moments, the question isn’t “not all men,” but simply, “a man.” In that split second, the weight of past experiences, of being conditioned to expect harm, takes over. This is the reality women live with. So, the next time you say she’s overthinking, remember: that’s her response mechanism, and it is not irrational.

And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that men who are raised with respect for women, especially by elder sisters, tend to treat women better. For they’ve been taught by the women, who raised them, the importance of compassion and empathy out of other things. That’s the kind of man the world needs. It starts with respect at home. And if we can raise our sons to understand this, to share the responsibility of the household, to respect boundaries, and to listen without critical judgements, we’ll build a generation that not only cherishes women but actively works to make the world a safer, kinder place for them.

What you can do

Women’s lives are often marked by silent battles—of fear, of survival, of proving their worth. This is also about not trivialising the lives of women, lives which are traumatising in themselves. If you’ve read till here, and want to know the solution to this, please know it isn’t some grand gesture or sweeping reforms. It is self-reflection.

Ask yourself how you treat the women in your life. Make amends if you think is required. The idea is not to change the world all at once, for there’s always a problem to a solution. The idea is you make a life better, one at a time. And that will make all the difference.

I remember when I was in my early teens, a poem of mine got published in the newspaper. An uncle, a school principal by profession, visited us and was made to read it. He said it was a mature thought—not what he’d expect from a kid my age. My dad even asked if I actually wrote it. And yes, I did. The point of bringing this up is that some people surpass their age group in certain ways; and that maturity isn’t just about age. This is where I relate to young Sheldon—minus the extreme knowledge base, of course, haha.

There’s this cycle of disappointment: people disappoint you, and you disappoint yourself. So, we focus on learning and gathering knowledge instead. The grind sometimes shapes you into a corporate-ready person, even in personal interests. I’ve seen that with myself. Handling professional interactions, and managing teams—that all comes naturally. But when your hobbies and interests line up too well with corporate values, it feels more like a personal loss than a win. Like, I can’t stand meetings or calls without an agenda.

Part of the problem is understanding too much. You see things clearly—often too clearly. It’s like having a premonition for every letdown, but it still stings when it happens. You know expectations lead to disappointments. So, maybe you avoid calling people out because you understand why things happen, and why people act the way they do. It’s the cost of “knowing.” And where does that leave you with your own frustration? Social media is full of posts telling you to relax, and not to take life so seriously. But for some, that switch doesn’t exist. Taking things seriously isn’t a choice; it’s just who they are.

Maybe this is what it means to be a bit “mature for your age.” But does that help—really?

Once, an interviewer asked me what my non-negotiables were. After some thought, I answered, “Communication and trust.” Only later did I realize those are my life standards- my basics, not just work standards. I can’t stand communication deficits; they irk me so much. And like my dad says, “You become what you hate”—so here I am, a difficult communicator myself. I watched an interview recently where someone said, “You build trust not by offering it, but by asking for it.” And I thought, what if you can’t even ask for help without feeling it’s a burden? How can you count on people, then?

So the idea is to sit in your cocoon, your righteousness, believing in your karma, trying to do everything on your own, and hoping maybe someday somebody courageous enough would show up to break it. This indeed comes with a caveat though, a fright, that while doing so, they don’t break you along. Or maybe one day who knows, it’d be you?

Dad says, do not despise anything in life, for it’s that paradox which will come back to you. And it does. Whatever in an individual I’ve ever despised, I’ve become that this while.

This year practically taught me how nobody is your own but your family, that you pave the way for your own self, that having a skill or an interest apart from being ‘industry-ready’ is so important an outlet, that you should be your priority, and that you attract fine people on your way up to the top. That it’s always about the ‘basics’ which matter. Adulthood is not about switching your emotions off when it gets too much to take in (Ref. The Vampire Diaries) but standing in front to face the situation while mustering all the courage it demands. You can’t be reduced by an ugly development. And so I refuse to yield to insignificance.

No matter the depth of connection you share(d) with somebody, how they made you feel is what would make them eternal. You'd still remember if not their words or their laughter, the kindness & the goodness they have shown towards you.

I am surrounded by inspiring individuals, who have purpose, resolutions, a heart to dream, the willpower, and the courage to work for them. I have been involved in events that have brought me immense growth- personally & professionally. I have been humbled by the endeavors & decisions we have signed up for, a few of which are now going to change our lives forever. Every event and every new development teaches you something, and it is indeed about learning to live till your last breath. What I have for you to keep close is faith in yourself, more than your destiny. Destiny will take you wherever you keep your faith.

So this new year is not about crying on the spilled milk, it is about moving on- beyond setbacks, shattered expectations, and fractured relationships. It’s about cherishing your existence, acknowledging the steps taken, setting boundaries and ardently forging ahead toward your purpose. The best way to go about this is taking the airplane route- First help thyself, then the world spectrum. It is about choosing to rise!

Be there for people, but not on the condition of your own neglect. Read more, learn more, explore more. Get fascinated more. Cry more, and then stand up more. Appreciate yourself & whatever you have in life more & remember, you don’t need social acceptance for patting your own back. Be proud of what the process makes of you.

People think life’s about avoiding getting knocked down. It’s not. It’s about learning to get back up.

Mark Manson

I am so thankful for the patience I’ve been handled with, the space I’ve been bestowed, and the wisdom I’ve been embedded with.

To hope and serenity!

–

Adding a few good posts I found on social media for you to ponder upon, maybe?

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Cover image courtesy: NASA’s Eyes

I’ve lived a life governed by discipline, righteousness, sincerity, and dedication treating my schooling and graduation more as responsibilities than some chapters primarily supposed to be about fun. Going against the norm where parents force their kids to go the school or the university, looking at my habits, my family urged me to take breaks, but I never wavered, as if addicted. I was felicitated with multiple full attendance awards, citations, and positions all my school life, which tells me I must be in the good books of the teachers. Adding on to reasons of me being a social butterfly yet, amidst being everywhere and known by many, the irony was stark—I had many faces around me but no real friendships for the longest time.

If you’re everywhere, you’re actually nowhere.

Rumi

An extroverted soul, I thrived in leadership roles, eager to sow seeds of positivity wherever I trod. Being a firm believer that expectations always lead to disappointments, my guiding principle was simple: do good without expecting reciprocation, and, leave a place better than you’ve found it. And I tell you I’ve always loved it. University life saw me pouring my heart and soul into various roles, dedicating time, energy, and ideas to make that difference. But in chasing enjoyment and contributing endlessly, I lost sight of my core purpose, my core self.

A good doesn’t remain good forever, a good isn’t always good for all. A good for one can be an absolute evil for the other. It’s all about perception.

Amish Tripathi in Shiva Trilogy

Despite giving my all out there, I failed to notice the depletion of my energy and that what I was exerting, was just the reserve. I was part of high-stature events back-to-back, not that I was not enjoying but all while neglecting the signals my body and mind were sending—signals of fatigue and strain.

The tipping point probably arrived when my efforts were not reciprocated in the form of acknowledgement, appreciation, or say, basic support. When all was taken care of, and when I was finally done, I realized inside a volcano was about to erupt- a massive burnout. Anxiety became my constant companion, draining my vitality, triggering social anxiety, and eroding my once vibrant spirit. I spiralled into a state where sleep was my sole refuge, and my health, studies, and creativity suffered gravely. The chirpy social butterfly now sought solace in seclusion, desperate to shield herself from the deepening roots of anxiety, from the constant reminders of not playing her best version.

Despite strides toward healing, I couldn’t return to myself, for I still was held captive by the aftermath of exhaustion. The weight of unmet expectations suffocated me, leading to a breaking point. I couldn’t be myself; I wasn’t myself. The pressure became unbearable, and I broke under its weight.

Phoenix is referred to a bird in greek mythology, which has the power to regenerate or reborn from its ashes after dying. From this I learnt that when you go down and you think it is the end, that is when you start rising. You can't go lower than the lowest, for the only option left is upwards! Also reiterated in the movie Jab We Met. 

My journey led me to the depths, where vulnerability and extremes intertwined. It led to me being in positions I hated all my life- to be helpless, unresponsive, to not work, and to be useless. It was only after almost a year that within that darkness, a glitter of hope emerged—a beacon guiding me toward understanding and self-compassion.

When the bare minimum feels like a task to you, when your basics start taking a toll upon you, I think that’s when you need to completely pause & reflect. So when you speak about the stark transformation in my very basics, that’s because I am drained, and this includes the expectations I’ve carried on my shoulder throughout. Recognizing the toll of overburdening oneself and external pressures is a pivotal step. It was here that I started realizing the importance of prioritizing self-care and seeking support during times of distress. My family and friends have been that support and I couldn’t be more grateful about it.

To all the bright souls out there, the champions of kindness and positivity, I implore you—save yourselves from yourselves. The world doesn’t hold the responsibility of saving you; that task is yours alone. I believed in others more than I believed in myself, and yes, that’s been part of the problem. Believe in your potential, cherish your efforts, and prioritize your well-being above all else. The journey toward self-betterment begins with self-care, appreciation, and a commitment to your own upliftment.

You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them. Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud. Do not complain. Make every effort to change things you do not like. If you cannot make a change, change the way you have been thinking. You might find a new solution.

Maya Angelou in Letter to My Daughter

Embrace the journey back to your true self, knowing that it’s okay to take things at your own pace. Please remember that you are your own responsibility and if you do not take care of yourself before marching towards a better tomorrow for the world, probably you’d be good for none. A good friend told me & I repeat— the sun marks the end of the day, it’ll guide you.

अब तो ग्लानि होने लगी थी कि क्या इंसान नहीं मैं? क्या लोगों को खोने का एहसास नहीं मुझे? क्या अपनी, अपने चाहने वालों की जान की चिंता नहीं मुझे? फिर ये क्या था जो इस कठिन, विचित्र संकट की घड़ी में भी लोगों की बातें, तकलीफ़ें सुन, क़रीब दिखावे की सहानुभूति दिखाने पर मुझे विवश कर रहा था? इतनी निर्दयी तो नहीं कि फ़र्क़ ना पड़े किसी की जान जाने का… मन टटोलने के बाद शायद सुराग मिले कि असल में इस शांति के घनघोर सन्नाटे का स्रोत है क्या…

मेरी अपनी विचारों की माला। जहां प्रश्न अभी भी ये उठता था कि लोगों के मरने का दुख होना चाहिए भी या नहीं, क्योंकि एक तरफ़ प्रकृति के भला होने का हवाला है और दूसरी तरफ़ किसी अपने के चले जाने का ग़म लिपित ख़ौफ़ सताता है। दूसरा शायद ये, की जो आता है उसे जाना तो पड़ता ही है, भले नाम कोई भी दे दें?

फिर शायद ये कि मुझे क्या होना है? रह लेंगे घर में, मंगवा लेंगे सैनिटाइज़र, पी लेंगे गरम पानी, बरत लेंगे थोड़ी और सावधानी। क्योंकि उन गरीब मज़दूरों के परिवार का हिस्सा नहीं मैं, असहाय बच्चों के दर दर भटकने का कारण थोड़ी मैं… किसी के घर चूल्हा ना जल पाना मेरे हाथों में कहाँ? ना मुझे ऐसे जीना पड़ रहा है, ना ही मर जाने का ऐसे ख़ौफ़ सता रहा है।

मेरा आख़िरी सिद्धांत बात करता है इस बारे में कि क्या पता ये एक सज़ा ही हो? धरती को इतना अमूल्य कष्ट देने का परिणाम स्वरूप खट्टा फल ही भोग रहे हो हम? और वैसे भी इतना कुछ माँगा भी तो नहीं है इसने? बस अपने घर में रहने का आदेश सुनाया है। कहा है मानो, बच सकते हो तो बचा लो अपनी जान, कर दिया इतना एहसान।

इसे अब हम धरती का क्रोध समझें, या फिर एक निर्माणाधीन अवकाश, जो हो रहा है वो बस हो रहा है। देखने के सिवा कोई चारा भी तो नहीं दिया है। शायद ज़रूरत है ऐसे निर्माणाधीन अवकाश की, क्योंकि धरती के रसों को लगभग चूस ही तो लिया है हमने। बिना रहम स्वार्थी हो, एक क्षण ना दिया सोचने, की क्या इतना भर झेलने के काबिल भी है ये धरती… और थोप दिया 7.7 अरब लोगों को।

शायद तुम सही हो धरती, क्योंकि सिखाया ये भी है मनुष्य ने मनुष्य को, की अगर हक़ माँगने से ना मिले तो छीन लेना आवश्यक होता है। आशा यही है कि आने वाले समय में फिर से माताओं की तरह तुम्हारे महत्व को भी शून्य समान ना आंका जाये। जीवन तुम्हारे साथ है, ना तुम्हारे बाद, ना तुम्हारे बिना।

मित्राणी धन धान्यानी, प्रजानाम सम्मतानिव।
जननी जन्म भूमिश्च, स्वर्गादपी गरियसी।।

“Perhaps the Earth can teach us when everything seems dead and later proves to be alive. Now I’ll count up to twelve and you keep quiet and I will go.”

Extreme changes in climate, from unexpected rain in March to sharp drops in temperature, warm summers, and longer, heavier rainfall, stir a growing fear — will humanity and the Earth survive this? The question of whether humans are to blame has been debated for some time.

Yuval Noah Harari in his book Sapiens, talked about how ancient humans altered the balance of nature. Wherever they went, extinctions followed—giant sloths, mammoths, moas, wiped out because of human greed and carelessness. He called us “ecological serial killers.” That phrase sticks with me because, in a way, it feels like history repeating itself.

The evidence is circumstantial, but it’s hard to imagine that Sapiens, just by coincidence, arrived in Australia at the precise point that all these animals were dropping dead of the chills. There have been more examples that may prove the guilt of sapiens, being the reason for the mass extinction of different species at a different level. For instance, The megafauna of NZ which survived all weathers but suffered devastatingly after the first humans set foot on the island or the mammoth, which suddenly disappeared to extinction about 4,000 years ago, just when the first humans reached the island. Homo sapiens held the record among all organisms for driving the most plant and animal species to their extinction. We have the dubious distinction of being the deadliest species in the annals of biology.

Today, the signs are everywhere. Insects—those tiny creatures most of us barely notice—are vanishing at an alarming rate. Their disappearance could disrupt entire ecosystems, threatening the very foundation of life. Scientists warn that one-third of plant and animal species could be extinct by 2070 if we don’t change our ways.

And yet, we act like we have all the time in the world.

In India, the effects are already being felt. During the lockdown, Delhi’s AQI, which usually ranges from 500-600 in winter, dropped to as low as 50. Residents of Jalandhar in Punjab saw the Dhauladhar mountain range for the first time in 30 years, a sight made possible by reduced industrial activity and fewer vehicles. India ranks 14th on the Global Climate Risk Index, yet it pays a disproportionate price for the developed world’s excesses. Human-induced climate change is disrupting rainfall patterns and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, leaving many to wonder if the coronavirus pandemic, with its temporary environmental reprieve, was a blessing in disguise.

As the Earth heals, the question arises: should we expect more “lockdowns” as part of Earth-healing programs? While no one knows for certain, it’s time to recognize the consequences of human actions on the planet. Saving Earth is far more urgent than finding new planets to inhabit. The planet is at a tipping point, and while money and technology may offer short-term relief, they won’t safeguard future generations. It’s not about sympathy for animals; it’s about responsibility. We’ve stripped ecosystems, and now we must protect what’s left.

The COVID-19 crisis was exacerbated by world leaders denying its potential impacts, just as they deny the impacts of climate change. If we don’t act now, the next crisis could very well be climate-related. Recovery is possible only if we first acknowledge the problem.

Wimbledon reportedly paid $2 million annually for pandemic insurance over the past 17 years. As a result, when the 2020 event was canceled, it received $141 million from the policy. A tennis tournament was certainly better prepared for a pandemic than the world’s governments. While many global powers focus on wielding destructive force, they fall flat when faced with a crisis like COVID-19. This highlights the need for smarter policies and more thoughtful preparation—because true power lies not in destruction, but in ensuring survival and resilience.

When I was in high school, I remember writing a poem about sparrows—their dwindling numbers, the rarity of their sight. It was later published in a national daily. At that time, I had no idea that my observation was linked to something much larger. Little did I know, it was a glimpse into the effects of climate change.

The world has witnessed rare environmental recoveries, like the healing of the ozone layer, proving that collective global action can reverse environmental damage. The idea is to change our relationship with nature.

The lockdown and its aftermath made me reflect on what we can do, individually. The takeaway is simple—

Slow down. Take time to understand. Don’t exploit what you don’t have a right to. Dedicate a day or two, every few weeks, to the Earth— work from home occasionally. Engage in activities that bring you joy, something productive, yet harmless to the planet. Participate in goodwill programs, and teach your family what truly matters. Rest, and pledge to avoid products that harm nature, even if temporarily. Work and money are important, but what good are they if the Earth doesn’t survive only? Embrace nature, feel its rhythm, and nurture it with respect.

Remember, we are the stewards of this Earth, and if we don’t protect it, who will?

As Severne Suzuki once said, “If you don’t have the time to fix it, please don’t break it.”

The sands of time have rendered fear. The Earth no longer sings a song of grandeur but instead echoes in sorrow. The next time you look at it, don’t be shocked — it’s no longer wondrous. Lend it peace; it’s tired.

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Read more anecdotes related to earth &/ COVID-19, below.