Random hits on the keyboard

Motivation is temporary, discipline will get me to where I want to be. I am enjoying running. I run to run. I have no aim; I have no benchmarks. I just run - listening podcast. I run around my neighbourhood and after 7-8 km I feel tired but I feel good.  Today, I was about to make excuses. I was about to prioritise my office work and college deadline. I had to prepare breakfast for my son to go to school. He has the morning classes and football in the afternoon. I said to myself, "I will have a shorter distance at a higher speed". So, I only ran 6 km but the speed was 6.1m/km. This is one of my fastest. SHOW UP! when I feel like not doing it. I wear my gear and walk. And I continue. I try to avoid motivational speakers and self-help books. It makes us 'feel' good and increases dopamine. I hate this guy because he is damn right. We all know what we need to do. We all do - but

Reva was excited and was waiting for this very day when she would be a bride - (sort of). It was a two-day ceremony, but it took weeks to prepare for this day. Reva along with the other 40 brides attended Ihi puza. It is a symbolic marriage with Subarna Kumar, an avatar of lord Vishnu.  The vibes and the environment were exciting. All the kids were happy to be a bridge to the god. We were also happy to attend the celebration. Reva got offerings from her Ninis and many other visitors. The celebration and the story behind it, the process and ritual, the participation and the transfer of culture to the next generation - this is what makes us Newar.  At one point, I felt real - and thought of a day when Reva would get married for real. I felt sad. And I saw Reva's smile... and I smiled with her.

  It was not a long drive as the highway is a proper highway. The drive along the seaside makes the trip refreshing all the time. The highway is also a 'catwalk' of the best cars in the world. We took a break for lunch on the way, near Batroun town. A nice local restaurant just next to the sea, and it has the best seafoods.  Tripoli is another historic city as are many of the cities across the country. Tripoli is more lively and seems dense population and poor neighbourhoods compared to Beirut. The city has to offer the sight of innumerable heritage and historic monuments.  The city is full of old Mercedes Benz. The city has life. The city is without artificial makeover. It is what it is. There are no coverups. The city also had been to a painful conflict recently in 2014. - the marks of the war are visible across the town. The city has its own issues but the city is overall beautiful, next to the sea, full of local cuisine and Baklaawa and many more. I stayed in a histor...

Exploring the essence of great food is indeed a subjective and personal journey. And the mystery behind a great food can be reasoned with a long list. I can confidently say that Lebanese food is exotic and piquant in its taste. In the last few days, it is proven to be true. Lebanese cuisine carries a distinct taste which often leaves an indelible mark on those who indulge in its flavours. Today, I took another opportunity to visit a new Lebanese restaurant for the Friday lunch, wishing to taste something new. I am not a food taster nor a food critic influencer, but I believe food is a gateway to understanding culture, society, and history.  I am too bad at elaborating on the taste, but the more I travel around, I gradually start to realise food is not only food. It tells a lot about the place. The warm welcome from the Lebanese-looking staff, with their beautiful eyes and welcoming smiles, adds a touch of hospitality that enhances the overall experience. As the food started to be s...

I see the sea, the endless horizon, The infinity on the next end, and the exotic food on another. :) Meeting Nepalis here, in Beirut, was nice - I can speak Nepali and talk about Dal Bhat and hills and corruption in Nepal. But in the end, what matters is the celebration, good company and of course the view of sea. What a start of the year.. The variety of food - how could I resist myself? I forgot my calorie count and enjoyed it. One of the waiters, Mohammad, served us like "Royals". He became my brother, who got "lost" at a train station when we were kids. Very Bollywood. We asked for a glass of wine, and he served a bottle, I asked for his recommendation of food, and he brought a whole plate of the best Lebanese taste. Having a brother is a privilege. I have invited him to Nepal, and he will come when he finishes his graduation.  2024 here I come but wait.... Neil Tyson said, "Not that anybody’s asked, but New Year's Day on the Gregorian Calendar is a cos...