This website is dedicated to my dad in India, who is eagerly waiting for it's launch. Whenever I have a dream, he is the one who nurtures, supports and encourages me to pursue it. I hope it will bring joy to him and all the people who visit this website.

When I slow down, he would be the one asking me what's up with that goal, or have you made any progress on the idea you talked about? I cannot emphasize enough how important this small question is. This small act has an enormous power to give you a huge push when you begin to doubt your own abilities.
I am forever grateful for his unwavering support.

Today, on his special day, I want to launch this website and also highlight his four(4) qualities that have made my life so wonderful.

1) Emphasis on quality education

In contrast to many Indian households where girls are discouraged from studying, or studying more makes them more unlikely to find a "groom", he has always encouraged me and my sister to pursue quality education. He has ensured that we have access to the best resources and schools and has done everything he can to support our academic ambitions. He supported me in getting my Bachelor's degree and Master's degree, all funded by him. Money was the last thing he wanted me to worry about when I was chasing my dreams. Since he had no interest in material things, he would save and use his money as effectively as possible. They never had the feeling of missing out on fancy homes and luxurious purchases. They have been content and satisfied with what they have.

2) Away from Religion, into Spirituality

He believed in all gods from all over the world including Jesus Christ, prophet Muhammad or even Prophet Abraham. While growing up, we were taught prayers from all the relegions. He believes that religion leads to wars and fights or just indifferences.

He welcomed Spirituality and deep dived into meditation that encompasses all the religions. In my opinion, meditation is the best gift a parent can give to their children. Especially with the changing world right now posing a variety of challenges, including those related to mental health.

Meditation is something that has helped me overcome my darkest times in life when I was surrounded by dark thoughts and very wrong ideas. Even to this day, meditation helps me to provide clarity of thought and allows me to calm down amidst the hustle bustle of everyday life. Additionally, it helps me to connect with my inner self, to introspect, and to analyze my shortcomings.

3) Adapting his mind to change

Like many households in India at that time, you only had two options for your career, of either being an engineer or a doctor. However, I wanted to pursue a career in architecture. I have somehow been the black sheep of the family who did not follow the traditional paths seen within a society.

I still remember the day I told my dad that I wanted to pursue architecture. I will admit that I was a little scared though. I took him aside in our apartment and said, "I am not interested in engineering." He had this expression of utter shock, and he asked worriedly and with anger, "what will you do then?"

Slowly I whispered, "I want to pursue architecture".

Him - What?

Me, a bit more stern this time - “Architecture dad “.

Him - “You won't go into Architecture. Engineering it is.”

I very sternly responded - "Alright, If I become an engineer, I will be a terrible engineer because that’s not my calling. And it will be a waste of my time to spend on four (4) years of a Bachelor's degree."

I don’t remember what he responded to that. However, I think he said nothing and walked away. After a few days, he came to me and said, "Fill out the forms for your architecture exams, and let me know what books you need to pass them". He diligently tried to find someone in his circle who was doing something similar and came across a colleague whose son was studying architecture. Later on, he connected me to him and took me to his home for guidance. That's the kind of support and encouragement I'm talking about. This to me is the true meaning of Empowering someone who just saw a dream.

I understand that it is challenging to break your mind from the conventional norms that one generation has been accustomed to all their life. I believe it is wise to adapt to the ever-changing world around us and be receptive to new ideas. To do so does not mean abandoning your principles, but rather being open to new possibilities.

His walking away may have been an expression of taking a pause, stepping back, researching and educating himself about this new thing, and coming back to adapt to the change.

4) Retired and learning

Definitely a continuous learner, he has begun learning vocal music and a traditional Indian instrument called the harmonium. He is so dedicated to his practices and classes. Music is his passion that drives through his veins. I can assure you, that even if you could not understand his language, you would be able to sense excitement in his voice when he talks about it. Could there be a better example to follow?

And also happy birthday dad :)

Which of your dad's qualities do you admire? Feel free to share in the comments section below.