“Connections Beyond Time: The Power of Relationships in Life and the Unknown”
Today is the birthday of my dear husband Rajnish and for me this day brings forth a whole range of emotions. Mainly a deep sense of gratitude for the 18 years I got to spend with him and also a sense of wonder on how he continues to live on in my life.
Even though he left this physical world 23 years ago, I continue to feel his presence every moment, guiding me in subtle ways that I can’t always explain but always trust.
As I think about Rajnish’s lasting impact, I realize how much I’ve learned from both his presence and his absence. These lessons have deeply shaped my life, and today, I want to share them with you.
The Ripple Effect of One Person
Isn’t it strange how the appearance of just one person can create a ripple effect, connecting us to so many others and leaving an imprint that transcends time.
Through Rajnish, my life blossomed in ways I never imagined. I think back to the relationships that formed through him — my beautiful daughters, my in-laws, his nieces and nephews, and now, even their extended families. It’s like a chain of connection, one person linking to another, expanding into a family tree that continues to grow with every new branch. And today, through my daughters’ marriages, I’ve gained even more family — sons-in-law, and the greatest joy of all, my grandchildren Nirvair and Anav. Each of these connections has brought unique colors to my life’s canvas, teaching me, challenging me, and helping me grow.
And isn’t that true for all of us? When someone enters your life, they don’t come alone. They bring stories, relationships, histories, and futures that shape us, that connect us to more than we ever imagined. Some of these people you instantly connect with, while others you may struggle to relate to. But they are all part of the larger tapestry of life, each playing a role in your journey.
In moments of quiet reflection, I often feel as if Rajnish is telling me, “I am our kids’ past, and you are their future.” These words echo deeply within me, reminding me of the importance of the role I play in shaping our family’s future. His influence lives on through me, through every connection we build together.
The Communication with the Unknown
This brings me to something I hold close to my heart: the power of communication with the unknown. While we often communicate with those around us — the people we can see, touch, and hear — there’s an even deeper communication that happens with those who have passed on or remain present in our hearts. Rajnish may not be here physically, but I still feel him in everything I do. Sometimes, in moments of doubt or uncertainty, I sense his quiet guidance, nudging me in the right direction, helping me to take control of my life.
And then there’s the communication with the unknown inside of us. That inner voice, the one that speaks in moments of stillness, is where true wisdom resides.
It’s where the heart speaks its truth, and often, it’s the most powerful form of communication we’ll ever have. We might not see this as clearly when we’re busy with life’s chaos, but when we take a moment to pause and listen, it becomes undeniable.
The Role of Relationships in Our Spiritual Growth
The relationships we hold in our lives aren’t just connections; they are teachers. Rajnish, my daughters, my sons-in-law, my grandchildren, my business partner Sai — each of them has contributed to my spiritual journey in ways I could never have anticipated. Through them, I have learned patience, resilience, love, forgiveness, and understanding. They have pushed me to grow, challenged me to reflect, and ultimately, led me to where I am today: a life designer and therapist. Each of these relationships has helped me access the “unknown” within myself, the deeper parts of my soul that needed to be awakened.
When I look at my life now, I see that the people who have come into my world have been part of my therapy, my healing. They have been my guides, even when I didn’t realize it, helping me understand life’s mysteries and pushing me toward my spiritual path. I never planned to be a therapist, but it seems life had its own plan, and it used these relationships to show me the way.
Understanding Value — When Someone is Here and When They’re Gone
How often do we truly appreciate the value of someone when they are alive? And how often do we realize their true worth only after they’re gone? Today, I sit here, 23 years after Rajnish’s passing, and I feel his presence more than ever. It’s in the little things — the way I handle difficult situations, the way I communicate with others, and the way I feel guided in moments of uncertainty. His absence has taught me the importance of presence — the value of appreciating those who are with us right now, in this moment.
And in every step I take, I hear Rajneesh’s words guiding me: “You are their future.” With these words, I move forward with love, gratitude, and purpose.
So, I ask you, dear readers: Do we truly see the value of people in our lives while they are with us? Or do we only realize their significance once they are no longer here? It’s a question worth pondering because understanding someone’s value while they are alive allows us to live more fully, more deeply, with more gratitude.
Engage and Reflect:
How have your relationships influenced your path? Do you feel the presence of those who are no longer physically with you?
I invite you to share your experiences and reflections on how the known and the unknown have shaped your journey.
Lots of love
Vandana Raj
Life Designer
Be the creator of your own destiny.
