Christmas is Coming!

I was reminded today of how quickly the year rolls by. Even though according to my google home page, it's 81 degrees in Bangalore, a mild 57 in New York, and a positively balmy 64 in Leeds (all the cultural capitals of the globe are listed on my page...) it's Christmas time on the L.L.Bean website! As I peel off another layer in the Bangalore humidity, I was reminded by email that 'holiday season' is just around the corner, and invited to do some shopping on their website. As yet, there is no branch in Bangalore, so I will have to be content with online shopping for my inlaws and friends in the States. Folk, look out, some pink shearling slippers may be winging their way to you - soon! For my part, please send more mosquito repellant, sunscreen, and J.Crew vests!

Rangoli

I was so happy when I came home last night - I found that our maid Satya had done 'Rangoli' on our threshold! No, it's not something I could fire her for, it actually traditional Indian floor art! The term rangoli is derived from words rang (colour) and aavalli ('coloured creepers' or 'row of colours'). It was traditionally done for special occasions, but now it's an expression of warm hospitality, so it's common to have a design on your doorstep. One important point is that the entire pattern must be an unbroken line, with no gaps to be left anywhere for evil spirits to enter, so it's not that easy to do! It also has a religious significance, enhancing the beauty of the surroundings and spreading joy and happiness all around. There are many different Rangoli designs, such as trees and flowers, geometric patterns, and animals. It's beautiful!

Happy Teachers' Day!

Today is Teachers' Day in India. Not that I am a qualified teacher, but I am doing my bit to help the English skills of some of the students at Oasis India. Three members of my immediate family are 'real' teachers - Tom's Mom, youngest sister Megan, and brother-in-law Jim - I wish them well and hats off to them. It is not an easy job! Here is a little background on the day in India, and why it is celebrated today. I do think though that the person writing this should have paid a little more attention in class as 'mold' is not something I think I want done to me or my children!

Teachers mold the lives that they influence. Lessons learned from teachers remain with their students throughout life. Teachers that break down barriers and reach into the souls of the students that they are responsible for do not get the recognition or gratitude they have earned. Many teachers are exhausted from their workload and responsibilities. They have their own families, financial and life stresses that challenge them along with everyone else. We should always respect our teachers. Teachers need encouragement and support from the community to feel that their devotion to students is appreciated.

In India 5th September is celebrated as Teachers' day. 5th September is the birthday of a great teacher Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan. When Dr. Radhakrishnan became the president of India in 1962, some of his students and friends approached him and requested him to allow them to celebrate 5th September, his "birthday". In reply, Dr, Radhakrishnan said, "instead of celebrating my birthday separately, it would be my proud privilege if September 5 is observed as Teachers' day". The request showed Dr.Radhakrishnan's love for the teaching profession. From then onwards, the day has been observed as Teachers' Day in India.