In our office building, in the common passageway on each floor, the significance of the number representing that floor is explained in detail. It makes for an interesting reading and is quite informative.
The book that I am currently reading is a complex book, where two stories, one relating to 13th Century and the other to 21st century are running as parallel tracks. In the 21st Century track, there’s an email exchange between the two protagonists. In her email, the female protagonist shares her feelings on having turned 40. She goes on to say, “ They say turning 40 is a defining moment, especially for women. 40 is new 30 and 60 is new 40. But for me 40 is 40 characterised by start of grey and wrinkles.” The male protagonist replies, “ 40 is the most beautiful age for both men and women. In mystic thought, 40 symbolises ascent from one level to a higher level and spiritual awakening. When we mourn, we mourn for 40 days. When a baby is born, it takes him 40 days to start life on earth. And when we are in love, we need to wait for 40 days to be sure of our feelings. The flood of Noah lasted 40 days and while the waters destroyed life, they also washed all impurity away and enabled human beings to make a fresh start. In Islamic mysticism, there are 40 degrees between man and god. Likewise, there are 4 basic stages of consciousness and 10 degrees in each, making 40 levels in total. Jesus went into wilderness for 40 days and nights. Muhammad was 40 years old when he received the call to become a prophet. Budha meditated under Linden tree for 40 days. Not to mention 40 rules of Shams.”
He adds further, “ You receive a new mission at 40, a new lease of life! You have reached a most auspicious number. Congratulations! And don’t worry about getting old. There are no wrinkles or grey hair strong enough to defy the power of 40!”
Readers must be wondering the context of all this. This is dedicated to a very special person who turns this special number that’s 40 on 7th November. She calls me Dada, though it’s she who’s worthy of all my respect and blessings!
While the readers can enjoy the blog and guess as to who this person could be, the protagonist will know that this blog is on her and for her!
Arvind Arya blog 
Beautifully written, as always, Dada. Thank you for all your love and blessings. If there’s one thing this pandemic has taught us all, it is to count one’s blessings, big and small and never take anything for granted, knowing that life is so uncertain. Truly grateful for having you and Boudi in my life, truly grateful for all your love and guidance and for always being there for me.
LikeLike
A special person deserves nothing ordinary but only special – like this very special man in your life- Rahul, very very special Chini and Chinu and special feelings of ordinary admirers like me and Boudi!
LikeLike