Every day, I travel a familiar path through this part of East London, from Snaresbrook’s Hermon Hill Road toward Goodmayes, often by bus. Before the journey begins, I wait quietly near the Wanstead station, where the city unfolds like the first lines of a beloved poem. I watch people drift in and out of the morning, some rushing, others strolling, each absorbed in their own little universe. The rhythm of their movements, the fragments of conversation, the laughter, even the silence, they all stir something in me.
I take pictures as a ghost photographer, quietly capturing moments that might otherwise vanish. There’s a delicate poetry in the shifting light and long shadows, in the reflections on bus windows, in the way sunlight falls across the pavement or lingers on a shop sign. Sometimes, a smell from a bakery or coffee shop floats in the air and feels like comfort. The shops along the Wanstead path are as alive as the people, restaurants bustling with breakfast prep, a florist arranging colors into bouquets, a gallery with its newest display catching the eye of a passing child. Everything is vivid, but not loud.
And yet, amid all the brightness, I sometimes notice someone who seems distant, or heavy with thought. There’s a pause in my chest when I see them. Loneliness wears many faces, and it appears even here, in this lively, fragrant, light-drenched place. I wish, in those moments, that no one ever had to feel alone. But I understand that they do. We all do. Everyone needs someone, at every stage of life.
This stretch between Snaresbrook and Goodmayes, through Wanstead, past the little park on one side and the tapestry of shops on the other has become more than a route. It’s a quiet collection of fleeting stories, of the poetry that lives in passing moments
I am simply here, watching, witnessing, and sometimes framing the world with a silent lens, hoping to hold onto the feeling that makes someone want to read a line twice ….
In the most vulnerable moment As I painted these magnolias I felt the quiet plea for understanding ….
Breathing peace, calm and mindfulness Into each gentle stroke, I imagined a mind in turmoil Needing patience more than correction …
That’s a healing feeling To meet another’s struggle with still hands and an open heart As if cradling a flower that blooms differently, but no less beautifully …
As I painted the magnolia in watercolor in midst of the most vulnerable part of my life, I felt it to my core and each petal reminded me of how delicate and unique every person is, specially those living with mental challenges.
This artwork and poem are a reminder to approach others with patience, gentleness, and empathy, just as we would care for a blooming flower
Can we learn to hold each other with that same tenderness?
Also, what is the true meaning for empathy to you? What actions can we take for being a true empathetic human being?
If healing means honoring each small win with love, then yes, I’m all in.
Life lately has felt like a handful of mismatched puzzle pieces, confusion, mistakes, fatigue, sudden changes, and that quiet weight of uncertainty. The Edinburgh trip, though planned in a hurry, reminded me that not all plans bring peace. Sometimes, even with good intentions, things get messy, emotionally, physically, logistically. It was far from perfect. And yet we pulled it off. Safely. Together.
Somewhere on the train ride back to London, while everything inside me felt scrambled, I painted tulips. Just small strokes. Just a quiet orchestra of colour, blooming gently across paper. This little painting feels like a symbol now, not of the trip itself, but of surviving the chaos around it. Of still choosing to make something tender while in motion.
Healing, I’m learning, isn’t about always getting it right. It’s about showing up for myself anyway, in illness, in confusion, in exhaustion. It’s about pausing to notice the small things: a safe return, a single flower, a quiet breath. That’s where the love lives. In small, steady steps forward
What is ‘NORMAL,’ really? The idea often feels like a moving target, shaped by culture, context, and conformity. When we pause to question it, we see that ‘normal’ doesn’t truly exist as a fixed standard. Instead, it’s a narrow box that fails to hold the complexity of human experience.
Each of us carries a different rhythm, a unique way of seeing, feeling, and interacting with the world. This diversity is not an exception to normalcy, it is normal. Whether our minds move fast or slow, whether we speak loudly or quietly, whether we process emotions deeply or more logically, WE ARE ALL DIFFERENTLY NORMAL
Conditions like autism, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and many others are often framed as ‘disorders,’ yet they are also variations of the human brain, different operating systems, not faulty ones
These ways of BEING deserve understanding, not stigma. They bring creativity, insight, resilience, and new ways of thinking into a world that needs all kinds of minds.
When we judge people based on whether they fit into a narrow mold, we all lose something. We overlook talents, silence voices, and create shame where there could be celebration
It’s time to broaden our idea of what it means to be human, and honour every variation within that spectrum.
So, let us remember: there’s no single blueprint for being OKAY, for being WHOLE, or for being RIGHT.
There is no such thing as ‘normal’ that fits us all, but there is a powerful, inclusive normalcy in our differences. And that’s something worth embracing
What would change if we stopped asking, ‘What’s wrong with you?’ and started asking, ‘What’s your way of being in the world?’
This reflection is shared in honour of Mental Health Awareness Month (May), a time to challenge stigma, open up honest conversations, and recognize that mental health is health. Celebrating the beautifully varied ways we all experience the world reminds us that difference is not disorder, and understanding is the first step to acceptance.
Let’s make space for every mind, every story, every voice
Edinburgh, Scotland (2nd of May, 2025)
Ubuntu- a Nguni Bantu term from Southern Africa meaning ‘I am because we are.’
It reflects interconnectedness, shared humanity, and the idea that everyone’s way of being contributes to the whole
You might say it’s easy for me to say this But let me put on your shoes and step into your struggles your pain your heartaches your betrayals your despair and your losses
Even then, with all of it held in my heart, I’ll still say this:
Allow yourself to be as messy as you need. It doesn’t matter as much as you think, it doesn’t define you. What others or even you see as chaos doesn’t take away from your worth or who you truly are
And in this moment, an idea arrives gently, like a tide: Jian Bird Creates’s next Mindful Drawing Moments will be inspired by the Greek word Meraki, a beautiful reminder to create with soul, with love, and with heart, even when it’s messy
Unlearn the need to be perfect Learn to embrace imperfection
I’m in the Maldives right now, and I never imagined I could fall so deeply in love with the blue, aquamarine shades of the ocean
This corner of the Indian Ocean is casting a strange kind of magic within me, washing away the noise, softening my thoughts, and filling me with a calm I didn’t know I needed
Sometimes, all it takes is water, sky, and silence to remember who we are beneath it
If you love the ocean, don’t miss the Maldives, its turquoise beauty will stay in your heart forever …
‘যার যার গল্প, তার তার কাছে তীব্র সত্য!’ ‘Each person’s story is an intense truth to them.’
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how often we compare struggles and pain, as if one person’s suffering is somehow more valid than another’s. But the more I look around, the more I realize: every soul carries something heavy
What breaks one heart might barely shake another, not because one person is weaker, but because we all come from different stories. Different pasts. Different support systems. And that’s why empathy matters so deeply
Society often teaches us to appear strong, to move on quickly, to say things like, ‘At least it’s not worse,’ or ‘Others have it harder.’ But those words, even when meant kindly, can shut someone down. They create distance, when what we really need is connection
Empathy isn’t about fixing. It’s about feeling with. It’s about sitting beside someone and saying, ‘I may not fully understand, but I’m here with you.’
Empathy is not just emotional intelligence; it’s a spiritual practice, a way of mirroring Divine compassion in a world that often rushes past quiet suffering
In my faith, His mercy, ‘Rahmah’ is infinite. He sees every hidden struggle, every silent tear. Only God truly knows the weight of our burdens. Only He sees the full picture of our hearts. And He calls on us to reflect that mercy in how we treat one another
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, ‘None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.’
So maybe today, let’s stop comparing struggles and pain. Let’s choose softness, gentleness, and grace. Let’s lean in. Let’s pray for one another. And above all, let’s be kind. Let’s remember, we are never truly alone. Our Lord is always with us.
LA HAWLA WA LA QUWWATA ILLA BILLAH There is no strength and no power except through God
Sometimes, I find myself simply observing those who seem ‘normal’, the way they speak, the words they choose to describe their experiences, how they react, or how they present their abilities with such careful confidence. Their ease in communication fascinates me, as if they instinctively know how to navigate social expectations.
At times, being among them makes me feel out of place, as if I exist on a different wavelength. Yet, I take myself lightly, even when they joke at my expense. I do not mind, because their amusement does not define me. In fact, I feel a strange sense of joy when they fail to understand me, because, deep down, that’s exactly what I prefer.
Those of us who are born different, who experience the world through a mind that society struggles to categorize, are often labeled with terms and diagnoses. But these labels do not define us. We are nature’s unique creation, wired to perceive life in ways they cannot grasp. And perhaps, they do not need to understand us.
Only a few people ever truly see us for who we are, and that is the rarest gift. The most powerful truth is that we are the ones who teach them how to understand us. It is not luck that allows them to connect with us, it is our choice to let them in. And for that, they are truly fortunate …
Étranger/ french Meaning is ‘Stranger’. It reflects the sense of being apart from the norm, of existing on a different wavelength, and not being fully understood by society
If everyone approaches their work with grace and sees their path as a masterpiece in progress, each action becomes meaningful, turning life into a beautiful creation
Be a mindful rebel, challenge the ordinary with awareness, embrace creativity with intention, and walk your path with purpose
Be in the journey, for the destination is not the priority. Every step, every moment, and every experience shape the masterpiece of your life
So there is no sorrow if you travel alone, your journey is yours to embrace. Walk with courage, let solitude be your strength, and trust that every path you take is leading you exactly where you need to be
Satori/ (悟り) a Japanese word meaning ‘awakening’ or ‘enlightenment,’ capturing the essence of mindful rebellion, purposeful journeying, and embracing one’s unique path with grace.
Gratitude has the power to transform everything, even in challenges, setbacks, and uncertainty, there is always something to appreciate. When you shift your focus to what you do have, you open the door to more abundance, joy, and inner peace.
As Melody Beattie said, ‘Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.’
As long as God allows you to wake up each day, it means He has a purpose for you. Your life is not without meaning, even if you face struggles or feel lost. Every new day is an opportunity to grow, seek His mercy, and fulfill the purpose He has set for you.
God’s plan is greater than what we can see or understand. He tests us, but He also provides guidance and strength. When you feel overwhelmed, remember that He is always near. His mercy is vast, and His doors are always open to those who turn to Him.
Never lose hope, no matter how difficult life becomes
God’s wisdom is beyond our understanding, and every hardship carries a lesson or a hidden blessing
Keep trusting Him, keep praying, and keep moving forward. Your journey is not over, He still has beautiful things planned for you
“We work hard to ease our worries about life, by earning money, building a family, and looking after our health. Yet, we still don’t feel at peace.
At some point, we start to wonder, ‘What is life really about?’ and begin focusing on its true nature. ‘What do I need to obtain in order to live a life filled with peace of mind.’ “ – Budhdha Theory of Happiness
Peace of mind does not come from self-love alone. While self-love is important, true peace comes from a balance of many things
Gratitude, forgiveness, understanding, letting go of negativity, and accepting life as it is all help. Mindfulness, prayer, or meditation can also bring calm. Kindness to others and meaningful connections add to inner peace
The best way to gain peace of mind is to live with gratitude, patience, and trust in the journey of life.
Those who perceive life in rigid extremes of black and white fail to recognize the subtle shades of grey that lie in between, the complexities, nuances, and depth that shape reality. And yet, they claim to be lovers of nature, forgetting that nature itself thrives in gradients, transitions, and balance
True wisdom lies in embracing the in-between, the moments of uncertainty, the contradictions, and the unexplored perspectives
Just as the sky does not shift abruptly from day to night but fades gently through twilight, life, too, is a spectrum of experiences
To truly appreciate nature is to understand that beauty exists not just in clarity, but also in the soft, uncertain edges of change
A soft heart carries its pain in silence, absorbing the weight of unspoken emotions. It feels deeply, loves unconditionally, and endures quietly, often without anyone noticing. But even the gentlest heart deserves kindness, from others and from itself.
Strength lies not in hiding pain, but in allowing oneself to heal
It may seem to others that you’re in a phase of soul-searching, but they won’t realize, you’ve already found your soul. This journey has been profoundly beautiful and transformative, yet difficult for others to comprehend. You may try to share, but understand that some people struggle to express themselves, and everyone sees the world through their own lens
As Rumi once said, ‘The soul has been given its own ears to hear things the mind does not understand’, you know there is no right or wrong in differing perspectives, only different spaces, energies, or levels of understanding. Don’t risk having your truth entirely misunderstood, for in sharing, its quiet beauty might be stripped away. Instead, you smile, let them hold onto their thoughts, and walk away
This journey is yours alone. Perspectives may differ, but while no one is perfect, each person is uniquely their own
Vedānā/ pali/sanskrit Vedānā refers to a deep, intuitive feeling or sensation—beyond words, beyond logic
Also, does anyone have another title suggestion for this musing?
Also, lately, I’ve been hooked on the soulful song “Na Tum Samjhe” by Sajjad Ali. It has a gentle, melancholic tune with soothing melodies and heartfelt lyrics that capture unspoken emotions beautifully
How do significant life events or the passage of time influence your perspective on life?
My travels, art, and mindfulness events shape how I see life. For me, each moment becomes a chance for growth and connection
With time, I’ve learned to set boundaries, practice self-compassion, and find balance. Every experience, whether joyful or challenging, deepens my understanding, making me more present, resilient, and appreciative of the journey …
Over the years, I’ve learned that there’s no such thing as failure, only learning and growth. Every experience, whether it goes as planned or not, teaches us something valuable. Challenges shape us, mistakes refine us, and every setback is a step toward wisdom
For a long long time, we’ve dreamed of embarking on this journey together, and then, there amidst the majestic Himalayan range, we were finally living that dream. Alhamdulillah. It’s a deeply humbling experience that makes us feel connected to the universe itself. Truly, when you desire something with all your heart, the entire universe conspires to help you find that joy. So here it is! I want to tell the story of Two Friends’ Magical trip to Nepal
But first tell me, how can one person be so much organized? And how does she care so much for her loved ones? My bestie, Jamia, is just like that, thoughtful, meticulous, and always looking out for others
Whenever she takes me out somewhere, it becomes a big task for her because she has to look after me. She’s always reminding me, “Shima, did you drink water? You’ll get dehydrated! Why are you doing that now? Go to sleep. Oh, you’re so forgetful. How will this work!? No, no, we’re not spending a penny on this task. Now drink water. Why do you keep taking pictures all the time? Let’s stand still for a moment, just the two of us. Listen, finish this task first so I can do the final bit. Okay, here, drink some water and eat this orange” and the list is long ….
I mean, I travel a lot too, and when I’m alone, I take care of myself. But when I’m with my loved ones, I somehow become more careless, forgetful, and carefree. All my disorganized habits come out, and they naturally take over the responsibilities for me. And I happily embrace both their care and their scolding. They guide me and make my journey easier
That’s what Jamia does
I still remember so clearly, years ago, I was wandering alone in the school corridor, searching for my class but hesitating to enter any room. Then, with her radiant smile and bright, flowing hair, Jamia stepped out of a classroom, took my hand, and led me inside. As a child, I was incredibly introverted, struggling to connect with people, while Jamia was the exact opposite, effortlessly friendly with everyone. Yet, despite our differences, I found myself always following her, and she, with her warmth, never let go of my hand. She held it in Grade 1, and even after all these years, she still does
For years, we talked about celebrating our friendship with a trip, just the two of us, traveling somewhere new. Finally, we chose majestic Nepal, drawn by its serene mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Little did I know, this trip would not only mark our first adventure together but also coincide with a milestone in my artistic journey, my first-ever regional exhibition. It felt as if the universe had aligned everything perfectly. Traveling to Nepal with her, sharing these unforgettable days, made them some of the happiest of my life. I cherish my exhibition experience even more because she was there with me. I don’t know how the Almighty was so generous to us, but we felt humbled, enriched, and deeply grateful, as if we had already lived a lifetime together
From the moment we arrived, Nepal welcomed us with open arms. We explored vibrant Kathmandu and picturesque Nagarkot, weaving through the wonders of majestic Chandragiri Hills, the sacred Maheswari Temple, the spiritual Pashupatinath Temple, the enchanting Garden of Dreams, the historic streets of Bhaktapur, the peaceful Shanti Danda, the breathtaking Buddha Peace Nagarkot Suspension Bridge, the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, and the awe-inspiring Swayambhunath Temple. Shopping in bustling Thamel was an adventure in itself, filled with laughter and endless discoveries. Despite losing our way a few times, we wandered excitedly, knowing that getting lost was part of the fun
Our stay at Kathmandu Guest House for five days was an experience in itself. Nestled in the heart of Thamel, it had the perfect mix of charm, history, and tranquility. Jamia loved it from the very first moment, its peaceful courtyards, vintage decor, and the warm hospitality instantly made her feel at home. She would often say, “Let’s stay here forever!” And I could see why, our mornings started with quiet breakfasts, and our evenings ended with conversations under the soft glow of lanterns. It felt like a world within a world, a little sanctuary amidst the city’s energy
Our stay at charming Club Himalaya was equally unforgettable. We welcomed the sunrise from our balcony, its golden glow painting the sky, just as we had witnessed the surreal sunset the night before. It felt as if the entire majestic Himalayas were embracing us
I must share a beautiful story of an antique kettle. Jamia saw a beautiful antique kettle at the souvenir shop at the Club Himalaya hotel, and she bought it, and I had my eye on it too. So I was asking for another one. Unfortunately, there was only one piece, and Jamia felt genuinely sorry that I couldn’t have it. Determined to make it right, she promised that she would search for another similar kettle somewhere in Kathmandu
On our way back from Nagarkot, wherever she went, she kept looking for that kettle. Finally, luck was on our side, she found it in one of the antique shops near Boudha Stupa. She was beyond happy, almost as if she had accomplished a personal mission. Though I ended up buying a smaller version because the larger one had a slight defect, her joy was in knowing that she had found me the same kettle she had taken from Club Himalaya
And that’s the beauty of true friendship, it’s the satisfaction of a friend who selflessly thinks of you, even in the smallest things. Isn’t it?
However, no trip is complete without a few amusing mishaps! On our very first day, everything seemed to be going hilariously wrong, Jamia’s struggles at immigration, my painting almost being left at the boarding area, my dramatic lassi spill at Dechenling Garden Restaurant, and our accidental detour to Babar Mahal, which turned into an unexpected delight. At Babar Mahal, I found myself feeling slightly uneasy at the sight of the regal statues and portraits. And there was Jamia, calm and amused, watching me with that knowing smile!
Despite her love for exploring, Jamia wasn’t particularly drawn to temples, so we kept our visits to Pashupatinath and Bhaktapur brief. Even so, she was patient, giving me time to take in their beauty. But when it came to the Nagarkot Suspension Bridge, it was an entirely different story, there, we both found pure exhilaration, experiencing the thrill of crossing together
Thamel’s lively streets became our playground. Jamia quickly mastered the routes, while I struggled to navigate. What amazed me most was her shopping, she wasn’t buying for herself but for everyone else. “And what about you?” I asked. She just smiled. But together, we did buy one special thing, a Sarangi, a traditional musical instrument. One day, we’ll play it together
Taking a trip to the mountains with someone is my love language
And then, there was the most magical moment of all, seeing Mount Everest. From the plane, we caught a distant glimpse when the captain announced its presence. But nothing compared to the awe of witnessing it from Chandragiri Hills. And again, on our way to Nagarkot, the sky was so clear that we saw Everest’s peak shining in the distance. We hadn’t expected it, yet there it was, a dream fulfilled in the most unexpected, beautiful way
This trip gave us countless memories, some planned, many surprises, all unforgettable. It was more than just a journey; it was a celebration of friendship, of the moments that shape us, of the peace and joy that come from being with someone who truly understands you
I always say, I don’t just seek inspiration; I create it, with all my heart and soul, wherever I am. This journey, with Jamia beside me, became one of the most inspiring moments of my life. And for that, I know, we have to plan another trip together! I’ve already decided, and now she knows too
“A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.”
This is what our friendship means to me. Jamia was there when I hesitated to step into a classroom years ago, and she’s still here, holding my hand through life’s adventures. No matter where we go, no matter what we do, she always stays. And that, to me, is the truest kind of friendship
As lifelong ‘friends forever’ we don’t believe in matching outfits; we believe in matching thoughts, aspirations, dreams, understanding, and mutual respect.
Sharing some beautiful glimpses of our ‘Two Friends’ Magical Nepal Trip’
Enjoy, and bless us with prayers for good health and a great spirit to create many more trips like this. Ameen
This is one of my favorite Nepalese folk songs, Jhim Jhimaune Aankha. I’ve been listening to it on loop! Its melody and lyrics evoke deep emotions, making it a truly beautiful piece. “The blinking eyes have tangled my heart”
Also let me know which places or pictures you’ve liked from all of these!
Thank you
My happiest days with my dearest Jamia in Nepal. Some glimpses from this magical trip … Nepal, until we meet again
The art of being average in everything allows you to explore various areas of life without the pressure to excel. Being average doesn’t mean lacking ambition; it means finding joy in trying and learning. It teaches humility, patience, and the beauty of imperfection
By letting go of the need to stand out, you discover freedom in just being yourself. It’s a quiet reminder that life is about experiences, not perfection, and every step has its own value
Simply put it is liberating. It is embracing balance and simplicity of life
Whenever even a small negative thought about someone crosses your mind, consciously and immediately shift your focus to something positive about them. Send that uplifting energy out into the universe
In doing so, you’ll nurture an inner positive transformation that benefits not only yourself but also those around you
Sometimes life feels like it has no deeper meaning, just a series of ordinary days. Yet, in those moments, the dazzling sunlight dancing through the trees reminds us that even the simplest moments can shine with dazzling beauty …
Ahh! This desire to escape from the noise and pressure of the world into a serene, untouched space where we rediscover our true self and experience a deep sense of freedom …
Intriguing, right? This idea of finding peace and clarity away from it all?
Roksana Tales 