Balancing Act: A Tale of Life, Wisdom, and Common Sense
- Narendra Sethia
- Apr 17, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 16, 2024

Hello, dear readers! I am thrilled to share a glimpse into the vibrant life I’ve led over the past 90 years. Yes, you read that right – 90 years young! Many people ask me why I haven't retired yet, and the answer is simple: I am not yet tired. Also the 2 generations that came after me who continue to inspire and push me to remain active till date.
Staying Mentally Active
Every day, whether it's morning or night, I immerse myself in activities that challenge my mind. Chess, bridge, and Sudoku are my constant companions. There's something immensely satisfying about solving a tricky puzzle or outmaneuvering an opponent in a game of chess.
But it's not all about serious mental workouts. I also love to dance and practice Clap Therapy. Yes, you heard that right—I dance to bhajans and artis on TV and clap along to the rhythm. It keeps my spirit young and my body energized. In essence, I consider myself an old wine in a new bottle and, paradoxically, new wine in an old pot.
The Joy of Walking and Observing
Physically, I make it a point to visit the mall every day, both in the morning and evening. It's not just about the walk; it's about the experience. There’s no air or noise pollution, and the ambiance of music and lights is refreshing.
At the mall, I love to show magic tricks and ask riddles. From students to professionals, I have riddles and puzzles for all ages and mental levels. Here’s a quick one for you: What is the most uncommon thing in today’s generation? They may have more academic knowledge, but the answer is simple—common sense.
Sharing Knowledge Across Generations
My two generations have encouraged me to share my experiences and knowledge through this blog. Just like one lamp lighting another without losing its light, I aim to spread my wisdom for the benefit of others. I’ve seen three generations pass, each with its own set of challenges and changes.
My father’s wisdom has guided me throughout my life. He taught me the importance of balancing the materialistic and spiritual aspects of life. He once said, “Survival of the fittest era is coming. If you are not abreast of changing times, you will be out of the game.” This has helped me navigate the high-speed, metamorphic changes in our world.
Life's Lessons and Anecdotes
My father sent me to Kaivalyadham Yog Institute at the age of nine, which laid the foundation for my mental and physical well-being. This early exposure to Yog (I prefer this spelling) and oil massages has kept me in good health. At ten, I began my rational dialogue with God, pondering questions like, “Who am I?” and “What is God?”
I’ve had fascinating interactions throughout my life. Once, a foreigner asked me why we run after money while they pursue spirituality. I explained that we all seek what we lack—materialistic deficiency drives us towards money, and spiritual deficiency drives them towards religion. Another time, a foreigner questioned our practice of offering food to crows on the death anniversary of ancestors. The answer is profound and I am excited to share it with you in my next article.
Acts of Kindness and Balance
My life has been filled with acts of kindness. Whether helping a struggling cockroach or saving a dove from a kitten whileensuring the kitten was fed, I always strive to balance my actions.
The Importance of Lifelong Learning
Throughout my journey, I have continued to learn and grow. My father once took a loan to invest in my education, which he repaid quietly even after the lender’s death. His sacrifice and belief in education have been the cornerstone of my multifaceted life.
During his Europe tour in 1947, my father encountered a juggler who challenged the guests to ask personal questions. My father, knowing the juggler’s secret, humbly declined to expose him. This taught me the value of humility and the power of auto-suggestion, a tool that has greatly benefited me.
Final Thoughts
Dear readers, life is a beautiful journey filled with endless learning and opportunities to share our wisdom. Stay mentally active, observe the world around you, and always strive to balance the materialistic and spiritual aspects of your life. I hope my experiences inspire you to live life to the fullest, no matter your age. Stay tuned for more stories and wisdom in the next post. Until then, keep challenging your mind and nurturing your spirit!