New at Serene Reflection: Explore The Archives

With over 170 offerings at last count, this blog now has a host of practices, clearings, essays and poems that can serve inner work. As per their individual needs, I regularly recommend specific, relevant articles for self-study and practice to my clients. However, I was wondering how to make this reservoir more accessible and useful …

Really Short Stories: ‘The River Sings. Listen.’

Verdant green forests, craggy white mountains, gurgling rivers and roaring seas.  Who would not be tempted to explore these?  He set out with empty hands and a heart filled with wonder at what lay before him. Every step a sacred communion.  Every breath in - one of joy.  Every breath out - a reverent sigh. …

Really Short Stories: A Clean Sweep

She swept her garden clean, wiping the sweat off her brow. It was hard work, maintaining this place.  Rising before daylight, diligently raking fallen leaves from the ground. When she was done, the courtyard was a pristine clean. Visitors would pause, untold, at the doorway.  Hesitant to drag in mud with their shoes.  One quick …

Really Short Stories: “How Can I Help You Today?”

"How can I help you Madam?" he asked politely. "I want a new SIM card. Here is my PAN card." "I also require a completed application form and address proof Madam." "What?! Why didn't you tell me earlier?  Here, take a copy of my driving license!" "We cannot accept this as proof of address!  Government …

Against the Grain

If your kindness has left you feeling foolish, any generosity has been taken advantage of, or your vulnerability has been used against you, you may wonder what you are doing in this world. You may suspect 'others' are right in their assessment of your 'impractical', 'out-of-touch with reality', 'naive' and 'gullible' nature. Worse of all, …

Really Short Stories: Answered Prayers

“I always knew it.  This has confirmed what I have felt all along.  My son is special.  He is here for a reason.  God will not let him leave his work incomplete.”  The elegantly dressed lady epitomized poise and courage. I listened in silence.  There is little one can say in such a situation.  Her …

Really Short Stories: Saving Grace

“But he has completed his work!” Pacing around with her cellphone stuck to her ear, Shalini was exhausted.  She weakly concluded the call. “There is nothing more I can say.  Your conscience will speak up some day.  God help you to live with your self.” Neha rushed up to hug her.  Mother and daughter quietly …

Really Short Stories: Time for Change?

He began, “I am terribly upset.  My boss is impossible.  It is time.  I must change jobs.” She softly asked, “Do you really want to change?” Taking the question as disapproval, he justified himself, “I do the best I can, but it’s never good enough.  I feel I should quit.” Her silence was discomfiting.  Dropping …

Really Short Stories: Haunting Memories

Entering the house, she looked at the blank wall and exclaimed in frustration, ‘Its still not here!’ Her roommate ambled out in a deliberate show of patience and replied, ‘The courier promised it by tonight.’ ‘I have been waiting so long!  I should have bought that painting three years back.  It has haunted me since …