Peaceful mind = peaceful life!

🌈 1349 – Sunday, 11 May 2025 08:00

London

This morning, the sun is shining brightly. The air feels fresh, and the sunlight is pouring through the big window before me, lighting up half my desk. Birds fly past now and then – looks like they’re busy with their morning routines too, not working exactly, but getting on with their day.

I sent a good morning message to a few elderly friends—Ms. Sandra, my friend’s mum; Michael, an old friend I haven’t seen in years but still keep in touch with; and Peter, a former manager who’s stayed in my life as a kind and caring friend. Michael sent me a photo yesterday – he looked very dapper in a cream suit, cream trousers, white shirt, and cream hat, dressed up for the sunny day. I had just replied, “So, so, so beautiful. Nice to see you, happy chappy, out and about.” I looked at the photo again this morning and at first thought he was dancing, but then I noticed – he was just sitting cross-legged at a table, smiling, holding a spoon. Still, it brought joy.

I remembered a time I called Peter late one night. It was my first day at a new job, and I already knew it wasn’t for me. I asked him for advice on how to make the workplace a bit more relaxed, or if I even wanted to bother doing that. He said, “If you feel strongly it’s not right for you, trust that. Follow your heart. Things will work out.” I took that to heart. I politely thanked the people at the job, told them I was leaving, put on my jacket, and walked out into the night. It felt right.

Now, sitting here and writing, I realise this is what success looks like to me – having the time and space to process my thoughts, express myself, and reflect. If it inspires you to slow down and do something mindful, too, I truly hope you take the time soon. There’s nothing more important than going within.

You can start with something simple, like saying: “This morning, I send my love, blessings, and gratitude to all humans, animals, and every vibrating being in the universe. God bless you all. Be healthy, happy, and wealthy. I’m sorry, please forgive me, I love you, thank you.” Or simply close your eyes for two minutes and focus on the space between your eyebrows.

Woke up early today at 6:30 AM, reflecting on how the weekend slipped by without much intention. Just app after app – time wasted. A friend once called them “demon apps,” and honestly, he’s right. I’ve decided to stay off social media for the next three months. I pray for the strength to stick to that promise. Time is precious. Don’t let scrolling steal your energy – especially in your youth, when you should be building and growing.

It’s 8:39 now. What’s one thing I can do right now that’ll bring me closer to my goal?

First thought, I’ll finish writing this. Then update the website. Then read a chapter from the economics book on my desk, complete a Python lesson, pray, cook something good, eat well, talk to my parents, and go for a run before sunset. That’s the plan – and I’ll try to follow it with focus.

You go and do something nice, also okay? Wishing you the best day of your life – I hope you get to laugh, eat something delicious, and be with people you love.

Around the world today:

• Russia is still invading Ukraine. But for the first time since the war began, they’ve offered direct talks on May 15.

• Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated recently, but the US has proposed a two-month truce.

• Ireland’s police force is using AI to analyse bodycam footage, focusing on object detection rather than facial recognition to protect privacy. ( The Times AI advancement)

Three things I’m grateful for today:

• My parents, brother, and sister
• This beautiful, bright, warm sunshine
• Waking up with a sense of accountability for my time

And one question to end with: What would it take – for both you and me – to complete all our tasks today, and do them really well?

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Have a great day.

— Ash Khaleem