Differences

Since I came to Canada I have been often asked “What do you think are the differences between India and Canada?” Apart from the obvious difference in weather- both severe in there in their own way there are some other differences that I can talk about.

The first thing is food. Believe me, people in Canada cannot imagine how spicy Indian food can be. (Well, one teaspoon of this curry can kill two people, but that's not enough spice). And, the food must be full of oil and any other stuff which can kill you slow but for sure. On the other hand, Canadian food is moderately flavored to sweet, yes, maple syrup sweet.

The second thing is how people interact with each other. I feel weird being in a Bus or Train in Canada when no stranger starts chatting. In India, uncle and aunties (Oh yes! Everybody is related to you by blood) will start sharing their life problems. If you are lucky and not in a relationship, then they would want to know all your credentials – education, family background and job etc. I never understood why Indians are so obsessed with marriage.

The third thing is diversity. People in Canada have a hard time understanding a slightly different accent of the same language. Do not ask me how many  languages you have to deal with when you are in India. Any given guy will understand half a dozen languages without any training and it is not surprising. Also, the dressing is diverse. People wear all kinds of clothing and any kind of attire is not really completely unexpected; potentially, nothing is weird.

But, why am I talking about the differences? I think, this is human nature to point the differences not the similarities. The truth is, every person is different in some way irrespective of nationality or race, and all human beings are similar in some way irrespective of nationality or race. We want to differentiate ourselves to boost our sense of identity, but we are all equal in our pursuit of happiness.

An introduction

How can we define a person? Probably the biggest challenge for any thinking individual. For me, it is my work and my personal values. Today, I will share three different incidents of my life that will help you know my personal value and me a little better.

I was born 3 months earlier than I was supposed to. The family doctor predicted that I would not survive. But, I did. I did not walk till I was 2. My family was concerned that I would never walk. But, I did. Later, this story shaped my value that I will survive any situation, however grave that seems at that point. This helped me not to give excuses why I cannot do something.

In the year 2010, I went to visit my childhood teacher. After the visit, I was on my way to the train station. Halfway to the station, I saw something strange. An elderly lady was lying beside the road. I was curious. Her hands were cold and pulse was weak. So, I carried her to the nearby hospital. After 4-5 hours of struggle, she survived. The doctors found that somebody poisoned her. This incident impacted me a lot. Let me tell you, there is no greater feeling than saving a life. If we can understand how we impact a human being positively in whatever we do then the work becomes much easier and involving.

Third and last one incidence is this period that I am going through. I was a successful professional.  But I wanted to experience more. So I came to Canada for MBA and I was confident that finding a job would not be difficult. But, I was wrong.  So, what should I do? Blame everybody for my situation. Blame the stars...No, the learning is successes are rare incidences after long and persistent effort. I am finding out my weaknesses one by one and taking steps to fill the gaps.

So, wrapping up, I will define a person by her work and values and my personal values are not to give up, making a positive impact on peoples' lives is the most important factor of our jobs and keep myself developing irrespective of success or failure. I hope this will help the readers to understan me and relate to my future posts.