Here is to provocation!

I woke up generally provoked today morning, and I feel good about it. "I feel alive", if I may put it dramatically. It's been a long time since a senior colleague (at my new office) told me that she was, or at least could be, 'a badass' if someone called for it (in those words). I absolutely love that now, don't I? In my little head, it is akin to a show of strength, confidence, an unapologetic feminist bias, and a heart generally rooted in humanity, even compassion, all of that with a SERIOUS FOCUS ON WORK OUTPUT. In fact, I have a hunch that everything that meets the eye here could very well be a thought out strategy to ensure that the job gets done well... because ultimately, that is what matters most to thorough professionals.  

So after two days at the new office, where the work culture seems quite liberating... where everyone seems to study, struggle, work and grow-up together (by together I mostly mean simultaneously)... There is an emphasis on consistent engagement or dialogue with colleagues. I believe it is a great exercise because the energies of people in the same team get channelised in one direction eventually, making its output as effective as it could get. There seems to be an authenticity to it. It's like having bittersweet chocolate. And that's the favour I love best. It's real.

My colleagues come across as complex people, comfortable in their skin, nearly sure of their intention which is the highlight for me here, besides the approaching deadlines as has been quickly drilled into my head 😂. Most of the people, at least those that I have met, could have chosen alternative professions too, for instance, they could have become good teachers, motivational speakers, even counsellors... they are so good, each with a multiple skill-set. 

Have just been enjoying and appreciating the company I have found myself in in the past few days. If this is the honeymoon period, can only hope it lasts longer.

Anyway, dear diary (or blog), that's largely the vibe I got at the new office that I also wanted to register here because it probably means more to me than I can comprehend right now (too pressed for time).  Besides receiving a comforting vibe, I also got to eat good food here 😋. There was potluck on the first day so one was spoilt for choice. My favourite, however, was soya bean chilli and cake. 

In the end, all I can say is that the sweetness neutralised the chilli. 

🍻

Photo credit: Rupa Prasad

Reflections

It is amazing how I stopped sharing my journey here, for so many years altogether... Last time I wrote here was in August 2019, which is roughly around the same time as this year. Back then, I was researching topics under the broad rubric of public health for a media channel whose politics was progressive, even radical at times, and to that extent, liberating. The channel ran into a deep financial crisis and many people had to look for other options, including me.

Coming back to the hiatus, this break from the writing scene was not just at an academic level, it seems like the gap allowed me to get overwhelmed by a personal journey of health-seeking and soul searching about the important things of life. I have taken a good amount of time to reflect and now want to start this conversation here. 

Cheers to the possibilities!

:)