CIRCLE OF TRUST AND COMPASSION!




The ritual is pretty much the same every Saturday morning. Find a quiet space after chasing off strangers who wish to occupy the few tables, place the breakfast orders for the Upma, Idli, Vadas and medium/strong coffees and extra Sambar and then for the next 45 -60 minutes simply connect. And so it has been for over four years.

Am not sure how it began, but the quest for a safe and open space to have meaningful conversations was clearly the early impetus. At first, I had questions that I could finally discuss… but over time, the questions fell away. Something else emerged.  Just a circle of comfort. A haven for the rare mixture of authenticity and vulnerability…

A family member asked if we discuss politics and current events (the popular epitome of intelligence).  NEVER! Occasionally, the conversation may include a few minutes about movies etc. But more often than not it is about how best we can manage the monkey that is our mind.

This morning session on the last day this year, epitomized all the wonderful reasons for the regular ‘Satsang’ (association with like minded folks). I presented a particular challenge I was facing and shared some introspection. These were held tenderly and then suggestions were made – some tenderly and some “get your shit together Sanjay.” Yup, Authenticity + Vulnerability = Growth.


How does this resonate with you? Also curious to learn how you actively surround yourself with something similar. Look forward to your comments!

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