The Window That Waited

 

Manaswi was six when she learned that “See you soon” doesn’t always come true.

Her elder sister, Riya, would sling her school bag, pinch Manaswi’s cheeks, and say, “Be good. I’ll bring you something.” Manaswi would stand at the doorway of their small flat, waving until Riya disappeared down the stairs.

That evening, the house felt wrong—too quiet, too many footsteps in the corridor. Neighbours gathered. Her mother’s phone kept ringing and ringing. Then her father came in with a face Manaswi had never seen before—blank, cracked, frightened.

There had been a road accident. Riya died before she reached the hospital.

No one sat Manaswi down and explained it clearly. The adults were busy with rituals, relatives, paperwork, and their own shock. When Manaswi asked, “When is Riya coming back?” people said, “Don’t talk like that,” or “God took her,” or they just cried. Manaswi stopped asking.

Instead, she started watching.

Every day after school, she’d stand near the window with her chin on the grill, scanning the lane for a familiar braid and that quick, confident walk. Her body stayed ready like if she watched hard enough, she could undo what happened.

Manaswi grew up, but the “watching” didn’t leave. In college and later in relationships, if someone didn’t reply, her chest tightened. If a partner said, “I need space,” her mind jumped to one thought: They’re gone. She would text again, over-explain, apologise, cling trying to prevent another sudden loss.

In therapy, she finally named it: not “neediness,” but a frightened protector built by grief. She learned to say, “This fear is old. I’m safe right now.” Slowly, she practised waiting, asking directly, and letting people return without chasing them.

Moral 1: When children aren’t given clear truths, they create scary stories to survive.
Moral 2: Anxiety often begins as love trying to prevent loss.
Moral 3: Healing means updating old alarms—so you can trust the present.

From Comparison to Contribution: Ravi’s Revolution

 

Ravi, 28, a junior accountant, sat across from me and spoke quietly. 

“I’m lazy. Everyone else is ahead.” 

His eyes showed embarrassment, a pain made worse by years of comparing himself to others. As the middle of three brothers, Ravi felt overshadowed by his oldest sibling, a doctor praised at every family event. The youngest was always called “the baby” and never blamed for anything.

Growing up in his family, Ravi learned to stay invisible to avoid being compared. One memory still bothered him: as a child, he stood on a stool to reach a jar on a high shelf. The jar slipped and broke. “See? You can’t handle big things.” Those words stuck with him. After that, Ravi became careful, worked quietly, and avoided attention. He stayed away from meetings, felt uncomfortable with praise, and at night, replayed his mistakes in his mind, as if he was being judged.

In therapy, we slowly explored Ravi’s belief that kept him safe: “If I never risk, I can never be humiliated.” This rule protected him, but it also limited him. We noticed how every feeling of inferiority made him put up defences like perfectionism, checking his work over and over, and avoiding presentations at the last minute. Change would take time, so we planned small, brave steps. Each week, Ravi would try one “imperfect action” and do something kind for a colleague, not to get approval, but just to connect.

👉 first step was small but seismic: he volunteered to train a new hire for just twenty minutes. His hands trembled as he spoke, but afterwards, the trainee’s warm gratitude left him stunned and for the first time in years, Ravi felt his chest loosen, as if a weight had shifted.

Emboldened, he applied for a team-lead role, rehearsing a simple script: 

“I’m learning; I can still contribute.” 

When he wasn’t chosen, he braced himself for collapse but it didn’t come. Instead, his disappointment felt bearable, edged with pride. Over the next months, Ravi’s sense of worth slowly migrated, away from the harsh scale of comparison, toward the quiet satisfaction of being useful.

Moral: 

When your private goal is only to avoid shame, life becomes small and silent. But if you choose to contribute rather than aim for perfection, you become braver, and new opportunities appear.

Tubman's Fearless Freedom in Action

Harriet Tubman faced terrible cruelty, but she turned her experiences of slavery into a story of strength and courage. Born into slavery in 1822 on the Brodess plantation in Maryland, she endured both physical and emotional suffering from a young age. As a child, Harriet witnessed her mother’s desperate fight to keep their family together, even as she resisted the forced sale of her children. 

👉The threat of family separation and 

👉 The daily burden of harsh labour made her early life extraordinarily painful, but her spirit stayed strong. 

Tubman’s life is more than a story of survival; it shows true psychological resilience.

👉 When she was 13, Tubman suffered a serious head injury that caused her pain and seizures for the rest of her life. 

Even with these challenges, she stayed strong. Psychologists today recognise that ongoing hardship, like chronic physical pain, can actually lead to post-traumatic growth where adversity sparks new meaning and direction in life. Each hardship made her more determined and strengthened her sense of purpose, turning her suffering into the drive to help others.

After escaping slavery, Tubman did not just seek freedom for herself. She returned many times to help others escape through the Underground Railroad, risking her life each time. She acted out of a strong sense of self-worth and saw herself as someone meant to help others gain freedom. This belief gave her the courage to face danger without fear.

Tubman’s strong belief in herself helped her succeed even in the most difficult situations. Guided by the North Star’s glow, she tracked constellations across the night sky, felt her way through tangled forests, and listened for the distant rustle of marsh grass to steer her group away from danger. She slipped past those who tried to catch her and led many people to safety. Each journey showed her confidence in her own abilities.

HER life shows that true strength does not mean never feeling afraid, but having the courage to face fear. With resilience, self-esteem, and belief in ourselves, we can overcome challenges. 

Her story reminds us that we all have the power to stand up, keep going, and do what is right, even when it is hard. Her boldness and vision did not end with her work on the Underground Railroad; during the Civil War, she became the first woman to lead an armed military operation in the United States. Guiding Union troops in the Combahee River Raid, she helped free more than 700 enslaved people in a single night. Tubman’s legacy lives on whenever acts of courage and leadership inspire change, showing us that the impact of one determined person can spark freedom and justice for many.

Carpenter's Gratitude: A Journey from Want to Abundance

In a peaceful village surrounded by gentle hills, Kavi was a humble carpenter who lived with quiet purpose and strong relationships. People admired his skill and kindness, and he deeply valued his family and community. Still, even with his home, loved ones, and steady spirit, Kavi sometimes focused on what he did not have. He often remembered a winter from his childhood when his family's pantry was empty, and his mother skipped meals so her children could eat. That sense of not having enough stayed with him, making him wish for more security and comfort, even though he had plenty now.

As Thanksgiving approached, Kavi felt inspired by a lesson from DPMP: 

"Gratitude is not just a feeling but a way of life."

 Wanting to change his perspective, he decided to practice gratitude every day. Each morning, he stepped onto the cool stone floor before sunrise, breathing in the fresh air mixed with dew and wood dust. He listened to doves cooing outside and felt wood shavings under his feet as he opened his workshop. 

With each breath, Kavi quietly thanked the universe 

👉 for his health, 

👉 his loved ones, and the 

👉 simple things that made life meaningful. 

These small daily habits slowly filled him with a deep sense of appreciation.

As time passed, Kavi's outlook improved. One day, a wealthy merchant came into his workshop and rudely demanded a grand door for his mansion. The merchant's attitude hurt Kavi, but he reminded himself that difficult moments can help us grow. Rather than getting angry, he focused on his work and made the door with extra care.

When the merchant finally saw the finished door, his pride turned to surprise and humility. Later, the village came together for Kavi's simple Thanksgiving meal, sharing food and genuine gratitude. By giving and appreciating others, Kavi learned that real wealth comes from love and kindness, which can change lives and bring people together, one grateful heart at a time.

The Journey of Suma and the Mountain

From her earliest memories, Suma carried a quiet, insistent question in her heart: Was she truly enough? Each story she heard of those who reached the summit stirred both longing and doubt within her. Could conquering the mountain finally prove her worth to herself?

Suma had always dreamed of conquering the highest peak in the region. It was not just about the view from the top, though that was a part of it. She had grown up hearing tales of people who had reached the summit, of how they felt invincible, alive, and accomplished. Every year, Suma set out to climb the mountain, but every year, something forced her to stop halfway. One year, a sudden hailstorm rolled in and blasted her with icy winds that left her shivering and drenched, forcing her to turn back. Another year, an old ankle injury flared up so badly that she could barely limp back down the trail. Each defeat left her with a fresh layer of doubt and frustration. She always told herself that next time, next year, she would make it to the top.

This year, however, she decided to take a different approach. Rather than focusing solely on the destination, she chose to embrace the journey. She woke up each morning and paused to breathe in the crisp mountain air, noticing how it carried the faint scent of pine and fresh earth. As she walked, the chill of dawn nipped gently at her cheeks, and she let her gloved fingers graze the cool, mossy bark of a leaning birch. She began to listen really listen to the sounds around her. The distant chirping of birds trilled above the steady rhythm of her heartbeat. Dew-damp leaves brushed her boots, and with each step, she felt the gritty texture of gravel giving way beneath her soles. She learned to appreciate the strength in each step, the struggle that came with the climb, and the beauty of each moment.

Day by day, Suma’s body grew stronger and her mind steadier. The top was still a goal, but it no longer consumed her thoughts. Still, just as the last stretch of trail curled upward toward the summit, an old familiar doubt crept in. What if she slipped again, or proved herself not strong enough, even after everything? Suma paused and felt the weight of her own uncertainty. For a moment, she wondered if her new mindset was just wishful thinking. Then, with a shaky breath, she remembered the small victories along the path: every step survived, every moment noticed, every morning she chose to begin again. Gathering her courage, she pressed on, not with perfect confidence but with a quiet determination to continue.

When she finally reached the summit, it was not the view that took her breath away. It was the realization that she had enjoyed every moment of the climb, every hardship and every small win along the way.

Moral:

If we are mindful of the journey, the destination will take care of itself. Suma had learned that the process of becoming stronger, mentally and physically, was as valuable as the summit itself.

To bring this lesson into your own life, try the "pause, breathe, notice" habit wherever you are on your climb. Take a moment to stop, draw a deep breath, and quietly notice what is around you and within you. With this small daily practice, you can turn each step of your journey into something meaningful and rewarding.

Tom's Anger Challenge

Tom was a 13-year-old boy who often felt angry over little things. One morning, his mom asked him to clean his messy room. Tom’s face turned red with frustration. He hated cleaning and didn’t want to do it. In a burst of anger, he shouted at his mom, “I don’t care! Leave me alone!” His mom looked at him, calm and patient. She softly said, “Anger will only make you feel worse, Tom. It’s okay to be upset, but try not to hurt anyone with your words.”

That night, Tom thought about what his mom said. The next day, the same thing happened. His mom asked him to clean his room again. But this time, Tom took a deep breath. Instead of yelling, he calmly said, “I don’t want to clean now, but I will do it after I finish my homework.” His mom smiled and agreed. Tom felt proud of himself.

A few days later, his younger sister borrowed his favourite game without asking. Tom felt his anger building up. But he remembered his mom’s words. He took a deep breath and said, “Please ask me next time before taking my things.” To his surprise, his sister apologised and promised to ask in the future.

Moral:

1. Anger can make you feel worse, but staying calm helps you feel in control.

2. Talking kindly helps fix problems and keeps relationships strong.

Sara's Journey of Respect and Self-Worth in Marriage

Sara had always believed in the power of respect and understanding in her marriage with Khan. But recently, she felt something changing. During their conversations, Khan often interrupted her, preventing her from finishing her thoughts. It wasn't just frustrating - it HURTS. 

She felt invisible, as if her voice didn't matter.

One evening, as Khan interrupted her again, something inside Sara shifted. Instead of getting angry, she remembered a piece of advice she had read:

"Let me finish." 

Calmly, she said those words, hoping Khan would realise the weight behind them. But when didn'tn’t, Sara made a choice. She continued speaking, ignoring his interruptions, determined to hold onto her worth.

Later, she sat down with Khan and shared how his actions had been affecting her. She spoke from the heart, saying, "When you interrupt me, it makes me feel like my word doesn't matter." Khan, realising the impact of his behaviour, apologised sincerely. He promised to be more mindful.

The moral of Sara's story is simple: 

Your voice matters. 

In a relationship, it's crucial to stand up for yourself, not out of anger, but out of self-respect. Sometimes, all it takes is one calm moment to change the course of things. Respectful communication isn't just about talking,it's about 

👉 listening, 

👉 valuing, and 

👉 honouring each other's words. 

And when you do, relationships grow stronger.

The Brave Voice in Ram’s Heart

Nina lived with her parents and her big brother, Ram. Ram was usually cheerful until the day their neighbour, Uncle Venkat, visited with Nina’s father. Everyone laughed in the living room, but Ram’s smile disappeared. His chest felt tight. Quietly, he slipped away to his room, wishing someone would notice.

The next morning, Nina’s father became unwell. To help, Uncle Venkat offered to take the kids to school for a few days. Nina’s mother agreed, relieved.

But Ram’s fear grew louder inside him.

“Mama,” he whispered, fingers twisting his shirt, “I don’t want to go with Uncle Venkat.”

His mother frowned kindly. “Why, Ram?”

Ram swallowed hard. “My stomach feels… bad. Like something isn’t safe.”

His mother paused. She looked at Ram’s eyesworried, watery, honest. She pulled him close. Thank you for informing me. I am listening.

That afternoon, Nina came home, smiling, holding an ice cream wrapper. Then she said something small that felt big: “Uncle Venkat told me to keep a secret… or no treats.”

Ram froze. Nina’s mother’s heart thumped. She knelt to Nina’s level. “Sweetheart, secrets about bodies are never okay. You can always tell me.”

That evening, both parents sat with Nina and Ram. They spoke gently:

“Your body belongs to you. Private parts are private. If anyone asks you to hide something, touches you, or makes you feel scared - " say " NO, move away, and tell a trusted adult. Even if they promise treats. Even if they say you’ll get in trouble.”

Ram finally let his tears fall - relief, not fear.

And Nina hugged him tight. “Thank you, Ram,” she said.

Because one brave voice can keep a whole family safe.

The Strength of a Smile

In the quiet village nestled beneath the towering mountains, where sunlight was a rare guest, lived Mala, a young woman whose smile was a quiet testament to her resilience. 

Orphaned at a tender age, she bore the weight of caring for her ailing grandmother. Her life was a battle, marked by sleepless nights, endless toil, and the relentless worry over the future.

But Mala had one secret 

-her smile. 

It wasn’t just a gesture; it was her shield, her refuge in times of adversity. Villagers often asked how she could stay positive amid such hardship. She would reply with a serene gaze, 

“Happiness isn’t found in the absence of struggle, but in choosing to smile through it.”

One winter, a merciless storm ravaged the village. Homes were destroyed, crops buried in the snow, and Mala’s own cottage lay in ruins. Yet, as the village crumbled around her, Mala didn’t falter. With unwavering resolve, she gathered the villagers, offering what little she had left. “Together, we will rebuild, T.E.A.M = TOGETHER EVERYONE ACHIEVE MORE” she said, her words as warm as the fire that flickered in their hearts. “Happiness comes not in avoiding the storm, but in embracing it with each other.”

Inspired by her strength, the villagers came together to rebuild their homes from the ashes. They learned that true happiness doesn’t lie in escaping pain, but in the courage to smile despite it. Mala’s smile became the village’s quiet strength, a reminder that in the face of life’s storms, we have the power to choose our response.

The lesson? 

Happiness isn’t a life free of challenges it’s the strength to smile through them.

Whispers from the Upper Room Door

 

Ajay, a 30-year-old from Reddipalle village, had battled alcohol addiction for years. His life had become a vicious cycle of drinking to escape stress and personal struggles. A lingering pain from his father's sudden death when Ajay was a teenager haunted him; the loss left an unresolved void in his heart. Every morning, he'd vow to stop, but the lure of alcohol kept pulling him back. His health deteriorated, relationships soured, and his once-promising career was in ruins.

The turning point came when his mother confronted him with tears, urging him to seek help. Reluctantly, Ajay joined a local support group, where he learned about addiction's hold on the brain - realised that his cravings were linked to deep-seated emotional triggers and the release of dopamine, the 'feel-good' hormone. Research has shown that addictive substances can increase dopamine levels up to ten times more than natural rewards, illustrating the power these substances have on the brain's reward system. This insight helped Ajay understand why his cravings felt so overwhelming.

Ajay's recovery wasn't instantaneous. It was a journey of small, practical steps. He began tracking his cravings and substance use, identifying triggers like 

👉stress at work or social gatherings. 

👉 Instead of drinking, he replaced his habits with healthier activities like morning walks, yoga, and spending time with family. On those early morning walks, the crisp pre-dawn air filled his lungs, invigorating his body and mind. 

👉 During yoga, he learned to listen to his breath, finding solace in the steady rhythm. He learned to cope with cravings using techniques like 

👉 deep breathing and journaling. 

Late at night, the scratch of his pen against paper provided a comforting routine, 

👉 capturing his thoughts and struggles as he wrote.

The support of his family and friends was critical. There was a moment when Ajay, feeling overwhelmed by the journey ahead, admitted to a close friend his fear of failure and the shame he felt for the pain he had caused his loved ones. It was a difficult admission, but in doing so, Ajay felt a burden lift as his friend, showing understanding and empathy, assured him that vulnerability was a sign of strength. This encouragement reinforced Ajay's resolve to avoid social situations where alcohol was present and to seek professional help to manage withdrawal symptoms. Over time, Ajay celebrated small victories; each sober day was a testament to his strength.

Practical Tips for Recovery:

1. Track Triggers and Cravings: Identifying patterns can help you anticipate and manage urges. For instance, Ajay kept a small notebook with him at all times, where he logged his cravings, such as the strong urge to drink every day at 3 p.m. after lunch. This helped him notice the pattern and prepare coping strategies for those critical moments.
2. Develop Healthy Habits: Replace addictive behaviours with activities that promote well-being, such as exercise or hobbies.
3. Build a Support System: Surround yourself with positive, understanding people.
4. Set Small Goals: Focus on one day at a time and celebrate each milestone.

Ajay's story proves that recovery, though challenging, is possible with persistence and proper support.

Murty’s Journey to True Happiness

Murty, a wage labourer in a small village, had little but an abundance of love. A father of three daughters, he worked tirelessly each day, his hands worn from hard labor. But despite the struggle, Murty was content. He understood that happiness isn’t found in wealth or external circumstances, but in the heart.

Every morning, he greeted the day with a quiet smile, knowing that true joy came from the love of his family and the peace of his simple life. He didn’t wait for others to make him happy; he created his own joy by focusing on the little things in life. 

👉His daughters’ laughter,

👉 the warmth of his wife’s touch, 

👉 The beauty of the sunrise - all these moments were more than enough.

Through hardship, Murty learned the power of responsibility for his own happiness. He didn’t expect others to fulfil him; he discovered peace within himself. He understood that happiness isn’t something that can be bought or given, but something we build from within, with love, self-awareness, and gratitude.

Moral 1: Happiness is a choice. It’s not about waiting for life to be perfect, but finding joy in what we have.

Moral 2: True happiness comes from within. By taking responsibility for our emotions, we can create lasting joy.

Moral 3: Value the simple things. It’s the little moments, the love we share, and the peace we create that truly bring happiness.

Murty’s life is a powerful reminder: only you can create your own happiness.