Being cherished

Ashwin Goyal

Jan 2, 2024

As soon as I was born, I was universally cherished, a tiny beacon of new life, hope, and possibility. Every gaze that fell upon me, from the doctors to strangers peeking into my crib, was filled with wonder and kindness. I was celebrated for simply being.

But as I grew up, I remained cherished only to those who already loved me. To the world at large, I was seen through the lens of my affiliations. My life, once universally adored, could now be admired, questioned, or even despised, based on factors beyond my control.

Could the world ever see me with the same unconditional regard and tenderness that was reserved for me as a newborn? Was it possible to value me for my intrinsic worth rather than the labels I acquired over time?

Fulfilling resolutions

It's a strange feeling, looking at these scribbled ambitions – lose weight, learn a new language, travel more. Funny, he didn't do any of that. Yet, there's no sting of failure, no bitter taste of unmet goals. You see, this year unfolded in ways he

Being strong

He was a strongman, an unyielding force. His strategies were bold, leading teams through high-stakes decisions. His firm voice settled disputes with a single statement. His charisma lit up rooms, his assertiveness turning conversations in his favor. But then, his beloved had to be taken to the hospital, and he