The Déjà Vu of Scintillating Reciprocity
Gaurav Bhatia
| Veteran Leader | Director of Administration | Former Clinton Health Access Initiative Lead | Senior Consultant at NDMA & UNICEF | Academic Faculty at UGC, RRU, Chitkara, Amity
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." - Lao Tzu
Allow me to share a tale with my readers about the symphony of life; a simple story of the resonance of past encounters which unknowingly harmonize with the melodies of present connections, creating a narrative that spans generations and inspires the soul.
It was early 2006 when I had a unique opportunity as an army officer stationed in New Delhi at the Army Headquarters. In the resplendent ambience of the Jaipur Polo Ground, New Delhi where the echoes of history mingle with the spirited thunder of galloping steeds, a momentous encounter unfolded—a meeting of past and present, of tradition and aspiration. I had the privilege of introducing my daughter Arundhati, then just eight years old, to the legendary Maharani Gayatri Devi. It felt like a gesture of admiration and respect, akin to the passing of the torch from one generation to the next. As Arundhati stood in awe of Maharani's grace and elegance, I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride, knowing that this moment would leave an indelible mark on her young heart.
Little did I know that two decades later I would be writing about that fateful encounter, as destiny wove the threads of past introductions into the fabric of our present reality.
Fast forward to 2024, and the passage of time brought us to a new chapter in our shared journey. Having retired from the army in 2020, I now found myself on the cusp of a momentous occasion —Arundhati's convocation in the United States, where she is scheduled to graduate with a Masters degree in Public Affairs from the University of Texas in Dallas (UTD).
As we stood on the threshold of this milestone, destiny once again intervened.
In her pursuit of knowledge and experience, Arundhati had also served as a Constituent Services Aide in Texas State Senator Nathan Johnson office - a testament of sorts to her dedication to public service and her commitment to making a difference in the world.
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Today, on her last day as a Constituent Services Aide, Arundhati extended an invitation for us to meet Texas State Senator Nathan Johnson and his staff in the District Office in the refined environs of Merit Tower, Dallas. It felt like such a déjà vu emotionally charged moment, a gesture of reciprocity that filled me with gratitude and humility, a recognition of the role I possibly played in shaping her journey.
Life had come full circle.
From the introductions of yesteryear to the connections of today, the entire journey unfolded before my eyes with a sense of unique purpose and meaning.
As we stood before Texas State Senator Johnson, exchanging pleasantries and sharing in Arundhati's triumph, I was reminded of the words of Winston Churchill "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." In the dance of destiny, the roles we play as mentors and mentees intertwine, creating a legacy that transcends generations. And as we reflect on the arc of our shared narrative, we are reminded that the true meaning of life lies not in the accolades we receive, but in the seeds of influence we plant for future generations to harvest. Indeed, in the journey of mentorship, the roles often reverse, and the student becomes the teacher, completing the circle of influence.
I am sanguine that Arundhati's journey has been guided by the hands of fate and the bonds of mentorship. Through her, I witness the power of legacy, the enduring impact of guidance, and the reciprocity of influence. As I reflect on the echoes of past encounters and the promise of future horizons, I am reminded that our lives are but chapters in a larger narrative—a narrative shaped by the enduring bonds of mentorship, reciprocity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
I conclude with what Pema Ch?dr?n stated - "Life is a constant process of unfolding, of expansion, and of growth."
Independent Education Management Professional
6 个月The young lady has a well deserved Masters on her burgeoning cv which is so good. Her memories of public service doers extend from beauteous Gayatri Devi and her MGD girls schools to other public service for the deprived. They extend to an American politician which makes her degree current and happening. My view is that deja vu happens by design. The entry requirement is uncompromising hard work. Thereafter, luck, chance, destiny step in of which we understand little. In short, Dad and his pet made things happen. Deja Vu is an exercise in humility which is laudable. Those seeking greatness must worship on the alter of humility. The young lady must now reach for the sky in her sphere and in essential humanity.
Leadership|Strategic Thinking| Cyber Security|Program Management
6 个月As always, it was a lovely read Gaurav Bhatia bhaiya. Your life story & journey has been an inspiration & beacon to many, me included. Abhimanyu & Arundathi are indeed lucky. Congratulations on her convocation. Wishing her the best for a career in public affairs.
Managing Director at Self Employed
6 个月Congratulations to Arundati for her MASTER'S & proud parents to be present to bless her as she steps out in another world to explore & experience life.God be with U.GB unique two episodes in life expressed very thoughtfully.Enjoyable .
Assistant Commandant, CRPF
6 个月What a captivating narrative you've shared! It's inspiring to see how the seeds of influence planted years ago have blossomed into meaningful relationships and moments of reciprocity. Thank you for sharing such a touching and thought-provoking tale.
Managing functioning of two branches of Canam at A'bad,
6 个月True and as usual the writing style is unique! ????