Jerusalem: A City of Conflict and Reverence

Jerusalem, a city steeped in history and religion, has been a focal point of conflict and reverence for millennia. It is considered a holy city by three major Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Historical Significance and Religious Importance:

With a history dating back over 4,000 years, Jerusalem has witnessed the rise and fall of countless empires. Its religious significance stems from its association with key figures and events in the Abrahamic faiths.

• Judaism: The Western Wall, a remnant of the Second Temple, is considered the holiest site in Judaism. Jews worldwide face the Western Wall during their prayers.
• Christianity: Jerusalem is believed to be the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a significant Christian pilgrimage site.
• Islam: The Dome of the Rock, located on the Temple Mount, is considered the third holiest site in Islam after Mecca and Medina. Muslims believe it was the site of Prophet Muhammad's ascension to heaven.

A Contested City:

Despite its shared religious significance, Jerusalem has been a constant source of conflict throughout history. It has been besieged, conquered, and divided countless times.

• Zionism and Jewish Nationalism: In the 19th century, the Zionist movement emerged, advocating for a Jewish homeland in Palestine. This led to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948.
• Palestinian Nationalism: Palestinians, many of whom were displaced during the creation of Israel, have fought for their own state and the right to return to their homeland. The conflict between Israelis and Palestinians continues to this day.

A City of Hope and Division:

Jerusalem's complex history and enduring religious significance make it a symbol of both hope and division. While it remains a source of contention, it also serves as a place of pilgrimage and spiritual inspiration for millions of people worldwide.

A Tale of Acceptance and Serendipity

In a quaint village nestled amidst lush fields, lived a farmer renowned for his wisdom and a magnificent stallion. The horse was his pride and joy, and many offered him a fortune for it, but he refused, finding solace in the animal's companionship.

One day, the horse mysteriously vanished. The villagers mourned his loss, believing it was a sign of bad luck. But the farmer, with a serene smile, replied, "Fate is a mystery, my friends. We cannot predict its twists and turns."

The Indian Perspective on Wealth and Values

The Role of Family in Indian Society

The Indian family is a cornerstone of society, with a strong emphasis on familial bonds and obligations. Wealthy individuals are often expected to prioritize their families' needs above their own. This could involve providing financial support, ensuring the education and well-being of family members, and maintaining strong emotional connections.

A Tale of Arrogance and Enlightenment

Kalidasa, a renowned scholar and poet, was known throughout the land for his vast knowledge. His words were like nectar, quenching the thirst of those seeking wisdom. However, beneath his brilliance lay a hidden flaw: arrogance.

One day, while travelling through a dense forest, Kalidasa became lost. The scorching sun beat down on him, and his throat was parched. Just when he thought he couldn't endure any longer, he stumbled upon a humble hut. An elderly woman, with weathered hands and a kind smile, lived there.

Ethical Dilemmas in Humanitarian Aid

The concept of humanitarian aid, while seemingly straightforward, is fraught with complex ethical dilemmas. As the world grapples with an increasing number of crises, it's imperative to examine the ethical considerations that underpin humanitarian interventions.

The Ethical Imperative

The moral obligation to assist those in need is a cornerstone of humanitarianism. However, the question of how to provide aid effectively and ethically is a constant challenge. Factors such as political instability, cultural differences, and resource constraints often complicate decision-making.

A Grand Journey Through Time: A Review of Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari

Credit: The second book my friend Ashok gifted me during my Nepal trip is already piquing my curiosity. Ashok has impeccable taste in books, so I couldn't wait to see what hidden gem he's introduced me to this time! 

 

About Yuval Noah Harari: He is a best-selling author known for his popular science books like Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind and Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow. He is also a historian, military historian, and public intellectual, currently serving as a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Harari's writing explores the big questions of human existence - examining free will, consciousness, intelligence, and the impact of technology on our future. Beyond the intriguing subject matter, the fact that Yuval Noah Harari is an Israeli author piqued my curiosity even further. I haven't encountered much Israeli literature, and I'm always interested in exploring new perspectives and voices from different cultures.

Democracy in Action: How Social Media Empowers Everyday People

Did you know that a recent study found social media activism has increased voter turnout by 20% among young adults? Today, democracy thrives not just on voting, but on ongoing citizen participation. Social media has emerged as a powerful tool, bridging the gap and empowering everyday people to hold leaders accountable and spark movements for positive change.

Kenyans Take a Stand

This month, Kenyans weren't just scrolling through social media – they were using it to organize and voice their disapproval against proposed tax hikes. Thousands, primarily young people, took to the streets, fueled by social media campaigns and online discussions. Their bold action, documented through live streams and shared hashtags, forced the government to listen. The result? The removal of some of the most contested taxes from the bill. Still, the protest is ongoing and getting serious.

Sri Lanka Demands Change

Remember the massive protests in Sri Lanka in 2022? Social media wasn't just a platform for outrage – it was a space for organizing peaceful demonstrations and raising awareness about the country's economic crisis. Through online forums and messaging apps, Sri Lankans united their voices, demanding change. Their unwavering resolve, amplified by social media, ultimately led to the president's resignation and a chance for a new beginning.

The Power is in Your Hands

These are just a few examples of how ordinary people can make a difference. Social media platforms like TikTok, GenZee, WhatsApp, and Facebook allow for rapid mobilization and awareness campaigns. But the real power lies with you.

Remember, common people/citizen's voice matters. By actively participating online and holding leaders accountable, people are trying to create an equitable society. 

#WorldRefugeeDay

On roads of dust, with hearts that ache,
They walk, a burden for their sake.
No home to hold, no land to till,
Refugees, with weary will.

War's cruel hand has torn them loose,
From memories bathed in childhood's truce.
Aching feet on foreign ground,
A future lost, a hope unwound.

Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman: A Deep Dive with a Touch of Eastern Wisdom

A heartfelt thank you to my friend Ashok for gifting this thought-provoking book, "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman, to my daughters. The timing couldn't have been more perfect. Fresh off a pilgrimage trip to Nepal, where I was deeply immersed in the richness of Hindu philosophy, I dove into this exploration of our two thinking systems with a newfound perspective.

Nepal: A Family Pilgrimage to Muktinath and Beyond

For fifteen years, Nepal had beckoned me back. During the earthquake response, I visited Mankamna Devi and Pashupatinath temples, and a powerful feeling arose - a desire to return with my family. After nearly a decade, that dream became reality.

Big thanks to Yeti Holidays for organizing an amazing trip to Nepal! 🇳🇵 They did a fantastic job considering all ages in our family - my mom, the kids, and us. The logistics were flawless, communication was clear and regular, and their staff were incredibly polite and knowledgeable. They truly made our trip unforgettable. Would highly recommend them to anyone planning a trip to Nepal! #YetiHolidays #TravelAgent #Nepal #GreatService

This past May, I embarked on a journey with my mother, wife, and children. We were also drawn to Muktinath temple, a holy site nestled in the Annapurna Conservation Area and revered by pilgrims worldwide. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Muktinath is one of Hinduism's eight sacred Dhams and holds significance for Buddhists as well. The chance to experience this spiritual center amidst the majestic Himalayas was irresistible.

Jonathan Livingston Seagull: A Timeless Tale of Soaring High

“Look with your understanding, find out what you already know, and you’ll see the way to fly.”

“‘The only true law is that which leads to freedom,’ Jonathan said. ‘There is no other.’”

Remember those childhood reads that felt like more than just stories? Books that sparked your imagination and left a lasting impression? This was the book my father encouraged me to read during childhood. According to my father, this book can be read from any page and still serves the purpose. For me, Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach was one such book. Revisited recently, it offered a surprising depth that resonated even stronger than in my younger years.

Grains of Sand

Dust-laden boots on foreign ground, 

Where broken homes and hope are found. 

A canvas tent, my temporary hold, 

Witness to stories yet untold.

I see the faces, etched with pain, 

Yet hold a strength that won't be chained. 

A child's thin arm, a mother's tear, 

A weight upon my heart to bear.

The Development Dance: A Humanitarian Aid Worker's Perspective

As a humanitarian aid worker, I'm constantly seeking out resources to understand the bigger picture of development. That's why Haley J. Swedlund's "The Development Dance" caught my eye at the New Delhi airport. The book offered a refreshing perspective on the challenges that often cause well-meaning foreign aid projects to falter.

Swedlund dives into the concept of "aid churn," the constant shift in funding mechanisms from project-based to budget support to cash transfers. This resonates deeply with my experiences in Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Syria and South Sudan. For instance, a recent water well project funded through a humanitarian grant prioritized speed over long-term sustainability. The chosen location wasn't ideal for the aquifer, and the community lacked the maintenance skills necessary to keep the well functional long-term. This aligns perfectly with Swedlund's analysis of how donor priorities can clash with actual community needs, leading to wasted resources.

Humanity Endures: A Story of Kindness

A gentleman waited at the railway station, his shoes in need of a polish. A young shoeshiner approached him, offering his services. The man, touched by the boy's humble appearance, extended his shoes. The boy started the work, but unlike his colleagues, he lacked the usual vigor.

"Why the sluggish work?" the man inquired, "Polish them quickly!"

The boy remained silent. Just then, another shoeshiner appeared, abruptly replacing the first and polishing the shoes with brisk efficiency. The first boy stood mutely to the side. The second boy, having finished, asked, "Who should I give the money to?"

A Review of "The Covenant of Water" by Abraham Verghese

Abraham Verghese's "The Covenant of Water" initially captivated me with its evocative title. Intrigued, I delved deeper and discovered the author's background as a physician with a writer's soul. His TED Talks, filled with passionate insights about the human connection in healthcare, further fueled my desire to explore his work. "The Covenant of Water" promised a saga set in Kerala, India, a place already brimming with exotic imagery in my mind.

The book delivered on that promise in spades. Verghese's prose is nothing short of masterful. He paints a vivid picture of life in Kerala, a land where water is both a life-giver and a constant threat. From the tranquil canals to the raging monsoons, the ever-present water becomes a character itself, mirroring the moods and fortunes of the multi-generational family at the center of the story.

The story follows the struggles and triumphs of this family across the 20th century, expertly weaving in real-world events like India's independence struggle and the evolution of healthcare. This historical context adds depth and allows Verghese to explore the impact of broader social transformations on individual lives.

Gambling on Development: A Humanitarian's Perspective with Reservations

Stefan Dercon's "Gambling on Development" offers a thought-provoking exploration of development, particularly the concept of "development bargains" struck by elites. As a humanitarian aid worker, I found the book valuable in highlighting the importance of long-term growth strategies and effective state function. However, my experience working in some of the world's most challenging environments compels me to offer some additional perspectives.

The Power of a Bargain, The Plight of the Bystanders

Dercon's examples of successful development, like Ethiopia's infrastructure improvements, resonate with my own observations. When a "development bargain" leads to stability and investment, it creates a ripple effect. Farmers have better access to markets, healthcare reaches more communities, and overall well-being improves. This is where well-directed aid can truly amplify these positive changes.

However, the book's focus on national politics often overlooks the human cost of these bargains. The "people on the ground" – the very ones development aims to uplift – are largely absent. I've seen countless communities bypassed by these top-down agreements, their needs and voices unheard. Dercon could have explored how these bargains can be made more inclusive, ensuring benefits reach the most marginalized.

Kabir: A Weaver of Divine Wisdom

 Kabir, the renowned saint and mystic, spent his life weaving cloth in the marketplace, never venturing far from his humble abode. He famously proclaimed that the divine would manifest right here, in the midst of everyday life. There was no need to renounce anything, for renunciation cannot be a prerequisite for attainment. Renunciation could be of ego, of ornaments, but never of the soul's beauty.

If a common weaver like Kabir could attain supreme enlightenment while pursuing his craft, why couldn't others? Kabir's message is one of hope, a beacon illuminating the path to fulfillment.

Wandering and Wisdom

Living a life like a nomad, a gypsy so free, 

Barefoot on the road, with the world yet to see. 

Open eyes take in wonders, new faces each day, 

But the truest adventure lies deep within, they say.

"We see our eyes with our own eyes," wisdom takes hold, 

Not just landscapes changing, but stories untold. 

The mind, ever curious, gathers and gleans, 

But the heart's gentle whispers reveal what it means.

A Review of "It's What I Do" by Lynsey Addario

Lynsey Addario is an American, Photo-Journalist and Author. She photographed for Time Magazine, The New York Times, and National Geographic.

Lynsey Addario's memoir, "It's What I Do," is not simply a war photographer's chronicle; it's a raw and necessary exploration of the human cost of conflict, especially for women.  As an aid worker who has traversed war zones from Afghanistan to Sri Lanka, Addario's unflinching portrayal resonated deeply with my own experiences.

The book opens with a powerful image – a young Afghan woman forced to wear a burqa under Taliban rule. This single image speaks volumes, capturing the crushing loss of freedom for women under such oppressive regimes.  Addario's strength lies in going beyond mere documentation.  She infuses her work with a personal touch, allowing the reader to connect with the human stories behind the conflict.

A Document of Emotions

A youthful curiosity flickered within Devang as his mother embarked on a pilgrimage to the temple. "Papa," he began, his voice laced with innocence, "a question has taken root in my mind. Jitumama visited recently, intent on selling Nanaji's house. You and Mummy, with a curious alacrity, signed the papers he presented, forgoing any inquiries."

Marital Life and Family through the Lens of Dharma

The bonds of Dharma, both social and familial, seem to be loosening their hold. Just yesterday, a couple known for their laughter and marital bliss seemed distant, one on each side of their flat's balcony.

Their life together, once a testament to a growing bond, now casts a shadow of doubt. Perhaps yesterday marked a shift in their karma, a consequence of past actions. Whatever the reason, their current state reflects the fragility of our attachments in this impermanent world.

A Glimpse of Hope

The relentless rain subsides,
A sigh of relief from the earth.
A lone butterfly emerges,
Wings like stained glass,
a vibrant splash,
Hope takes flight on the gentle breeze.

अनवरत बारिश कम हो गई है,
धरती से राहत की सांस.
एक अकेली तितली उभरती है,
रंगीन शीशे जैसे पंख,
एक जीवंत फुहार,
आशाएं मंद हवा में उड़ान भरती हैं।

A Grueling But Necessary Look: Book Review of Falling Night

Phil Clarke's "Falling Night" isn't for the faint of heart. It's a brutal plunge into the African Civil War, a world I know all too well. The fictional Kugombwala could easily be any number of war-torn countries I've worked in. The sights, sounds, and smells - Clarke captures them all with a horrifying accuracy.

Alan Swales, the protagonist, is a bit of an everyman. He's bored, unfulfilled, and seeks adventure in aid work. His journey is a cautionary tale for anyone with romanticized notions of the job. This is a world of violence, corruption, and moral ambiguity, a far cry from the brochure photos.

The book shines in its portrayal of the complexities of aid work. Clarke exposes the murky underbelly of some NGOs, where self-interest can overshadow the needs of the people we're supposed to be helping. It's a truth some might find uncomfortable, but it's a conversation we need to have.

A promise of brighter days, waiting for you.

When shadows of loneliness creep in at night, 

And the silence feels heavy, devoid of all light, 

May love, like a warm hearth, fill the empty space, 

Bringing laughter and comfort, a gentle embrace.

When tears cloud your vision, blurring the way, 

And sadness like rain seems to linger all day, 

May a ray of sunshine pierce through the gloom, 

Bringing joy like a blossom, dispelling the tomb.

The Uncomfortable Truth: A Review of "The Humanitarian Exit Dilemma"

"The Humanitarian Exit Dilemma" by Chin Ruamps dives headfirst into a question that haunts many of us in the field: what happens when good intentions go bad? Ruamps dissects the "Humanitarian Exit Dilemma" – the agonizing decision of whether to stay put and offer aid or withdraw and potentially leave people worse off.

The book challenges the traditional focus on outcomes, the number of people having access to safe water, fed or vaccinated. Ruamps argues that this narrow view misses the ethical complexities. Her concept of a "Non-Consequentialist Approach" resonates with my own experience. In many challenging contexts (e.g. recently in Gaza) we talk about the "No regret approach". Saving lives is paramount, but so is building trust, honouring our commitments, and avoiding actions that unintentionally worsen the situation.