My Random Essays

Published in Boston Globe. Here is the link. http://www.boston.co m/news/local/article s/2006/11/30/communi ty_disorientation/ SUBURBAN DIARY Community disorientation By Meenal Pandya  |   November 30, 2006 For the last four years, I had dreaded the day when my youngest would leave the nest. I knew how much it would hurt not to have any child at home in my children-centric life of the last 20 years. I knew that I would miss them immensely, but I also knew that it came with the territory of being a parent. So when my youngest finally left the nest, I was somewhat prepared. But what surprised me was how much I missed the connection with the community around me. I had no idea to what degree my suburban life had revolved around my children's school and activities. But in retrospect, I should have known and expected this all along. When we moved into this house on a semi quiet street in a nice, tree-lined Wellesley neighborhood about 20 years ago, we did not kn...

If owning a home is  an American dream, why do we live most of it outside? Life happens. Just not at home anymore. Home, once an integral part of all the family activities, celebrations, reunions, and even major milestones such as birth and death is now more or less reduced to a place to sleep at night and a place to keep all of our belongings. Significant events of our lives seems to have moved out of our homes and into commercial buildings. Ironically just as our homes, by any measure, are getting bigger and our families are getting smaller, we seem to be sucking life out of our homes. Last week, our neighbors had a small party outside which went on till mid-night. We heard a lot of happy voices and as much as I enjoyed that happiness being spread around the neighborhood, I was concerned that some neighbor might complain that the neighborhood peace was disturbed. That reminded me how much I miss not having all the celebrations around me right where I live. ...

"Narayan, Narayan," said Narad as he entered the heavenly palace of Vishnu, perched on a serene sea resort. It was a beautiful day. The sun shone brightly, and a fragrant breeze carried a divine calmness through the air. Vishnu reclined gracefully on the Sheshnaag, while Laxmiji sat near his feet, exuding her usual serenity. "Narayan, Narayan," Narad repeated, his voice tinged with urgency. Vishnu smiled warmly at the sight of Narad and gestured for him to sit. He could see from Narad’s expression that something was troubling him. Knowing Narad well, Vishnu guessed it must be a matter concerning humanity—a recurring theme in their discussions. Over the ages, Narad had often arrived bearing news of earthly struggles. Yet, this time, Narad appeared even more worried—perhaps even confused. Vishnu waited patiently. He exchanged a knowing glance with Laxmiji, who rose gracefully to fetch fruits and sweets for their guest. After partaking of the divine hospitality, ...