In school, I was a backbencher, finding comfort in those rear seats. Little did I know that sometimes life throws you to the front. One day, the teacher asked me to speak in front of the class, and then as part of an elocution exercise, I was made to recite the poem "Casabianca" - "The boy stood on the burning deck."
As I grew up, the meaning of that poem dawned on me more profoundly. The image of me standing vulnerably in front of all - burned itself into my consciousness, instilling a quiet confidence to later speak before brilliant students in classes in college and then in the college auditorium.
But life can throw you off balance in so many ways, and you can lose that hard-earned confidence. At such times, the important part is to remember what you know, NOT what you don't. Sometimes the world can make you feel that way, unsure and adrift.
The burning deck confidence and the assurance gained from speaking in my college, combined with journalism training, has helped me complete over 1,200 live video show episodes, reaching and connecting with thousands of incredible guests and people worldwide. It has even crafted a new career path for me at a stage when possibilities seemed scarce.
Despite never traveling outside India, technology now enables me to converse with remarkable individuals across borders - PhDs, Harvard and MIT-educated minds, small business owners, and consultants striving to make a difference for others and themselves.
What's the point of this story for you? Nothing much, really. Just a reminder that a burning deck situation can sometimes be the biggest moment that catapults you towards something that will sustain you when you need it most.
If you'd like me to speak at your organization or share stories that may not be as grand as those of my guests, but could still make a difference, just drop me a line! There might be a spark worth igniting together.
Happy Holi wishes to each one of you!
Take care
Ajay
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