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?’
Reflect and Act
#roksanatales
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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
It’s special to be special The stars whispered your name before you were born …
You walk like thunder under a sky unsure of rain Your eyes flicker, sunlight through fast-moving clouds
The world watches They name your storms, chart your brightness Forget the stillness in your quiet seas
Your laughter bursts like spring rivers Then vanishes into frozen fields
You are not broken You are a rare sky with weather only some learn to love …
#roksanatales
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Have you ever spent time with someone who has bipolar disorder? What was it like to be around them during their depressive episodes or manic phases? Did you notice anything in particular about how they acted or how it made you feel?
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:
Smile, my friend. No matter what
#roksanatales
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What if this one small smile is the first light breaking through? You never know. So Smile always, my dear! No matter what!
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
#roksanatales
Little Mermaid in Maldives, 17 April, 2025
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 …
Why is love so sweet? Maybe love is sweet because it doesn’t ask to be explained It shows up in the smallest gestures A glance held a little longer A smile that stays even after you’ve looked away …
When I write ‘I♥️’ I’m not writing a word I’m pointing toward you … Toward the way your presence softens the edges of my day … Toward the way love makes ordinary moments glow … You are what I mean Without needing to say anything more …
#roksanatales
After quite a while, I’ve written something that resembles a love poem, if it can be called that
The words came to me unexpectedly. I suddenly thought, ‘Why is love so sweet?’ And just like that, the rest flowed through me as if it had been waiting all along
On a different note, I’ve recently been watching the Netflix series When Life Gives You Tangerines’ and maybe, in its quiet moments and tender storytelling, it’s been softening something in me, opening a space where words like these could return
Funny question! Have you seen this Netflix series, ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines?’
‘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
#roksanatales
Rahmah/ arabic/ Mercy – reflects Divine compassion and the spiritual core of your reflection
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 …
A tale from a psychologically challenged soul
#roksanatales
Cherry blossoms in Ravenscourt Park, London
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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
#roksanatales
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
#roksanatales
Susurro/ spanish Whisper,’ symbolizing silent suffering and unspoken emotions
There once was a verse, soft and free Whispered wild like the wind through a tree ‘I’m the poem,’ I say … ‘Not the poet today …. For the words are the ones shaping me.’
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
Simply believe in respect for all
#roksanatales
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
Creating ‘Mindful Moments’ may seem easy, but no, my dear, it’s not. The human heart is intricate and complex. You cannot just dive into someone’s heart and make it open to you effortlessly.
However, at Jian Bird Creates – ‘Mindful Drawing Moments’ program, it’s a completely different experience. Every session becomes a deeply enriching and humbling journey for me. I see light reflected in every participant’s journey. They share stories from their lives, sometimes sensitive and difficult, yet they find the courage to open up and unwind in a safe, supportive space. This vulnerability not only deepens the connection between us but also creates an environment of mutual healing and growth.
I’m profoundly grateful to my participants for giving me these beautiful moments to cherish for a long time.
Jian Bird Creates- ‘Mindful Drawing Moments’ Theme of the Day for the program: Small Habits/Steps at a Time
Theme of the session was ‘Small Habits/Steps at a Time,’ which beautifully aligns with patterned artwork. Just as habits are formed by repeating small actions, participants created mesmerizing artworks by repeating simple patterns like dots and circles, infusing their unique touch. The results were truly stunning.
The underlying inspiration of this journey was Kaizen, the Japanese concept of continuous improvement. It emphasizes making small, consistent changes to bring about meaningful progress in life.
Reflections and Realizations:
Our participants shared their proudest achievements, goals, and heartfelt inspirations. They opened up about their aspirations for life, such as, self-love, better sleep, improving health, striving for balance, and living a non-judgemental and more disciplined life. Listening to their reflections reminded me of the beauty and power of setting intentional goals.
We realized that no matter how much we achieve, it’s all in vain without inner peace. Here, we focus on fully enjoying the process of taking every small step toward our goals. With a grateful and satisfied mind, it becomes easier to embrace the essence of life and simply “Just be, just be!”
Closing Thoughts
Be mindful of the small things in life, appreciate them, and take small steps. Each small action brings us closer to our true selves, fostering growth and gratitude within
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
How often do you let go of the extra? The clutter of thoughts, things and plans … Do you feel lighter when there’s less to carry Or does the quiet frighten you? Sometimes, life only speaks when it’s simple …
I’ve left my heart over there Alive in the mountain’s embrace Where silence speaks louder than words ….
#roksanatales
Saudade/ portuguese (n.) a profound emotional state of longing or nostalgia, often for something or someone absent, with a mix of melancholy and beauty
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Have you ever experienced a deep longing or nostalgia for a place?
For me, it’s Kashmir. You probably already know this, don’t you?
Sometimes I feel a crave for you Like I need to talk to you just right now Like I need to see you just right now Like I need to hold your hand just right now
Like I need to feel your heartbeat near mine Like I need to hear you say my name softly Like I need to lose myself in your gaze Like I need to sit with you in comfortable silence Just right now …
Sometimes I feel a crave for you Like I need to share the small joys of my day Like I need to tell you all the words left unsaid Like I need your presence to make everything feel whole Like I need your warmth to melt away the cold …
Like I need to know you’re always close Like I need to believe in the magic of us Like I need you, endlessly and without reason Because with you, everything feels just right …
Roksana Tales 