Stones hold a fascination for me, always have, even as a child. Small pebbles scattered along a river bed, large rocks clinging to a mountain side, stone carvings, or even a simple wall. Where do they come from? my childish mind often wondered as I rotated a silky pebble between the palms of my hands, letting the warmth of a thousand sunny rays seep into my skin. 

In this group of photos, the first is my collection of stones - love them and keep them by me, always. The second is of a church in Barbados. Its majestic architecture just blew me away when I visited that beautiful island in 2019.  We visited Rome the same year and found this gem right in the n the middle of the city.

Not being able to travel during this time of pandemic has been the hardest to bear but I am convinced better days are ahead, just not knocking at the door right now.
In the meantime, what can we do?

I am trying to live in the moment by paying attention to everything around me and also within. And, there are days I simply sift through my memories of the places I have been to. This I find an extremely worthwhile pastime for not only does it afford unending pleasure; it also provides inspiration to carry on.

As always, you are in my prayers. Stay safe and keep well. Remember, even a stone has a story to tell. All you need do is let your imagination run.

#pandemicdiary2020 #findingpeace #amwriting #lifeisfilledwithsurprises #staysafekeepwell #stones #gardensandmentalhealth #positivity 

Gardens I visited or passed by during my travels

Flowers, trees, gardens – all of creation. They are what make life worthwhile, especially, during this time of social distancing.  We are gradually coming out of isolation; yet, that sense of uncertainty, of confusion underpinning the early days of the pandemic although showing signs of easing with each succeeding day, still by and large serve to determine our actions now.

Flowers have stood the test of time and mishap over the centuries. And, by their very existence provide a sense of security, of mental well-being even when the earth trembles or the air groans under the weight of yet another disaster.

Whether growing wild, creeping up a crumbling wall, blossoming in orderly fashion in a well-tended garden, offered in prayer or displayed in a florist’s window, flowers fulfill their duty without question. They keep nature’s ecosystem alive and well.

So, my friends, today I want to take you on a virtual tour of gardens I visited or passed by during my travels around the world. Some had flowers and although small they drew me, like a bee is drawn towards the nectar filled center, and I clicked away happily.

As always, you are in my prayers. Stay safe and keep well. Smile when you come upon flowers. Even a single bud radiates positive energy. Let creation restore your spirit – whether in the form of a garden or found growing by the wayside, they are all good.

Purabi Sinha Das

#pandemicdiary2020 #findingpeace #amwriting #lifeisfilledwithsurprises #staysafekeepwell #flowerspositiveenergy #gardensandmentalhealth