Spiritual revival

Are you holding a grudge? About?

I do not hold a grudge since the Divine ,who guides my spiritual journey, has taught me the value of forgiveness and letting go of grudges. I hold no grudges towards anyone, even if I received offenses because I believe it’s essential for a better, more fulfilling life.

Through forgiveness, I free myself from negativity and open my heart to compassion and growth. I cherish my relationships and hope to support friends and family on this journey.

Share a story about the furthest you’ve ever traveled from home.

In 1980, I embarked on a transformative journey that took me to the opposite side of the globe, specifically to the Indian Institute of Management in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. My purpose was to delve into a research project aimed at understanding how research was both financed and executed within the world’s foremost management schools. This immersive experience not only broadened my horizons but also offered me valuable insights into the contrasting values held by researchers in various parts of the world.

What struck me most profoundly was the stark disparity in the motivations driving these dedicated individuals. When I inquired about their motivations, their responses were enlightening. Many of them expressed a deep-seated commitment to research topics that resonated personally with them, prioritizing personal gratification over international prestige. Others revealed their unwavering dedication to their homeland, India, even when it meant forgoing potentially higher salaries in the Western world.

These diverse perspectives left me in a state of profound shock. Despite our similar educational backgrounds and professional experiences, our core values and motivations diverged significantly. It was a poignant reminder of the multifaceted nature of research and the deeply ingrained cultural and personal factors that influence the choices researchers make. This eye-opening experience at the Indian Institute of Management in Ahmedabad underscored the richness and complexity of the global academic landscape, leaving an indelible mark on my understanding of the world of research and academia.

What does your ideal home look like?

My ideal home is situated in a serene and low crime neighborhood, providing a strong sense of security and peace of mind. It offers the convenience of being close to essential services like supermarkets, pharmacies, and shopping malls, making daily errands effortless. The friendly community adds a welcoming touch, fostering a sense of belonging. Moreover, the modern conveniences within the home ensure a comfortable lifestyle, while the breathtaking water view adds a touch of tranquility and natural beauty to the overall living experience.

What brings a tear of joy to your eye?

What brings a tear of joy to my life are the numerous blessings bestowed upon me by the Divine. The sheer gift of being alive and in good health fills me with immense gratitude. The love and support I receive from my beloved wife and children are treasures that touch my heart deeply. Additionally, witnessing young individuals appreciating and benefiting from my teachings is a source of profound fulfillment that often brings tears of joy to my eyes. Each of these aspects reminds me of the beauty and richness that life holds, evoking a profound sense of happiness that is truly moving.

Why do you blog?

I blog because I’m driven by the desire to pass on the wealth of knowledge and experience I’ve accumulated over years of dedicated studying and teaching. My ultimate goal is to connect with younger generations and make a meaningful, positive impact on their lives by offering insights, guidance, and valuable lessons through my writing. By sharing my journey and expertise, I hope to inspire and empower them to navigate their own paths with confidence and purpose.

Interview someone — a friend, another blogger, your mother, the mailman — and write a post based on their responses.

How are you feeling right now?

I’m experiencing a deep sense of sadness when reflecting on the widespread suffering caused by the devastating impacts of climate change (hurricanes, floods and fires), the alarming prevalence of gun violence, and the ongoing horrors of war. It’s disheartening to witness the collective pain that stems from these issues. What particularly weighs on me is the realization that these problems are, in great part, the result of our own actions as humans. Our departure from a path of righteousness, set by the Divine, has played a significant role in leading us to this state of disgrace and anguish. It’s a reminder of the importance of reevaluating our choices and priorities, and working together to forge a better future that upholds the values of compassion, harmony, and responsible stewardship of our planet.

What daily habit do you do that improves your quality of life?

Praying to the Divine in the morning is the habit that helps me set a positive tone for the day by providing a sense of purpose, gratitude, and calmness. It allows me to start the day with mindfulness and reflection, potentially reducing stress and promoting a more optimistic outlook. Consistent morning prayers has created a routine that adds structure to my life, contributing to a greater sense of stability and well-being over time.

What was the last thing you searched for online? Why were you looking for it?

I asked Chat GPT: Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?

This was the answer:

The question of why God allows suffering and terrible things to happen to good people is a complex and philosophical one. In the Bible, there isn’t a single definitive answer to this question. Different passages and perspectives within the Bible offer various explanations, such as the concept of free will, the testing of faith, spiritual growth through adversity, and the existence of a fallen world due to sin.

What TV shows did you watch as a kid?

When I was a kid in Bolivia, television was unavailable, so we would often go to the movies to watch American westerns and some not-so-great science fiction films. Much of my leisure time was spent reading an Argentine sports magazine called “El Gráfico.” This was how I kept myself informed about my favorite football teams: Real Madrid in Spain and Boca Juniors in Argentina.

In addition to sports, I delved into my grandfather’s collection of the Spanish version of The Reader’s Digest. I was particularly drawn to anything related to World War II. Interestingly, by the age of nine, I had already started exploring my father’s collection of books, which included all of Salgari’s pirate tales and the works of Jules Verne. Among them, my first and most cherished novel was “The Mysterious Island.”

Life was a lot of fun even without access to television.