When We Give, We Receive

THE PURPOSE OF HUMAN LIFE 

Once, a group of fifty people was attending a seminar. In the middle of the session, the speaker suddenly stopped and began handing each participant a balloon. He asked everyone to write their name on their balloon using a marker.

All the balloons were then collected and placed in another room. The participants were invited into that room and asked to find the balloon with their own name within five minutes.

As soon as the timer began, chaos broke out. People rushed about, bumping into one another, pushing, and frantically searching through the pile of balloons. By the end of five minutes, not a single person had managed to find their own balloon.

Then the speaker smiled and gave a new instruction. “Now,” he said, “pick up any balloon and hand it to the person whose name is written on it.”

Within just two minutes, everyone was holding their own balloon.

The speaker then explained, “This is exactly what happens in our lives. Everyone is desperately searching for their own happiness, often in confusion and competition. But true happiness is found when we help others find theirs. When we focus on bringing joy to others, our own happiness naturally returns to us.”

He paused and concluded, “This is the true purpose of human life.”

Lessons Wrapped in Wisdom

BITTER WORDS FROM ELDERS 

Sometimes, the most painful words from elders are the ones that stay with us the longest. They sting, yet they carry truth — truth that guides, humbles, and protects us in the long run. Here are some timeless lessons spoken with sharp honesty and deep wisdom.

1️⃣ Nobody respects a rag until their shoes are dirty.

So stay in your corner. Don’t beg people to see your worth.

When the time comes, no one will need to be told — they’ll come looking for you.

✨ Your value does not decrease just because others fail to see it.

2️⃣ Don’t be too available.

Sometimes, “long time no see” is better than “here comes that annoying person again.”

Value your presence. Let people miss you.

🌿 Distance can deepen respect.

3️⃣ Control your anger — it’s only one letter away from danger.

Silence has never started a war, but anger often has.

🔥 Peace isn’t weakness; it’s power under control.

4️⃣ Don’t show everyone your wounds.

Not everyone carries a bandage;

some carry salt and vinegar to make it hurt even more.

🕊️ Choose your listeners wisely — not everyone deserves your truth.

5️⃣ Never plant thorns on someone’s path.

Your children might walk that same road barefoot one day.

🌾 What you sow today, your family may reap tomorrow.

6️⃣ Never let anyone recruit you into their hatred.

Don’t hate a person who has done you no harm.

Bitterness borrowed is bitterness owned.

🌙 Carry peace in your heart — it lightens every journey.

7️⃣ Don’t compare your life to others.

There’s no competition between the sun and the moon — they shine when it’s their time.

☀️ Patience is knowing that your time will come too.

8️⃣ Don’t speak too soon.

What looks like a curse today may be a blessing in disguise tomorrow.

🌧️ Life unfolds its meaning slowly — let it reveal itself.

9️⃣ Don’t expect loyalty from those who gossip with you.

If they can speak ill of others in your presence, they’ll speak ill of you in your absence.

⚖️ Character is revealed in silence, not in stories.

🔟 Never forget your roots.

The fruit that forgets its tree soon rots.

🌳 Stay humble, no matter how high you grow.

In the end, bitter words from elders are like medicine — unpleasant to taste, but healing in effect.

Listen closely, reflect deeply, and let these truths shape you into someone wiser, calmer, and kinder than yesterday.

The Messenger of Peace and Equality

GURU NANAK 

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, was one of the greatest spiritual teachers in Indian history. His life and teachings continue to inspire millions of people around the world with their timeless message of love, equality, and devotion to God.

🌼 Early Life

Guru Nanak was born in 1469 in Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib (in present-day Pakistan). His father, Mehta Kalu, was a village accountant, and his mother, Mata Tripta, was a kind and pious woman. From a very young age, Nanak showed deep spiritual insight and compassion. He preferred prayer, reflection, and helping others to worldly pleasures.

🌈 Divine Realisation

At the age of thirty, Guru Nanak had a divine experience while meditating in the Bein River. When he reappeared after three days, he declared, “There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim; there is only one God.”

This profound message revealed his belief that all humans are equal before God and that true religion unites people through love, not division.

🌍 His Travels and Teachings

Guru Nanak travelled across India and beyond—to Tibet, Arabia, Sri Lanka, and Persia—spreading the message of truth, compassion, and oneness of God. These journeys are known as Udasis.

He taught three main principles for a good life:

● Naam Japna – remembering God’s name,

● Kirat Karni – earning an honest living, and

● Vand Chakna – sharing with others.

He opposed caste discrimination, blind rituals, and superstitions, and emphasised simplicity, service, and humility.

🕊️ Establishment of Sikhism

Guru Nanak laid the foundation of Sikhism, a faith based on devotion to God and service to humanity. He established Kartarpur, a community where everyone lived and worked together in equality and harmony, regardless of caste or status.

🌺 Legacy

Guru Nanak Dev Ji left this world in 1539, but his divine message continues to guide humanity through the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs. His followers celebrate his birth anniversary with great devotion as Guru Nanak Jayanti or Prakash Parv.

✨ Prakash Parv: Celebrating the Light of the Guru

Prakash Parv, also called Prakash Utsav, literally means “Festival of Light.” It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and symbolises the spreading of the light of wisdom and truth that he brought into the world.

On this sacred day, Gurdwaras are beautifully decorated and illuminated. The Guru Granth Sahib is recited continuously in a 48-hour reading called Akhand Path, and devotees join in Kirtan (devotional singing), Langar (community meals), and Nagar Kirtan (religious processions). These activities remind everyone of Guru Nanak’s teachings—to remember God, work honestly, and serve others selflessly.

🌞 Message to Humanity

Guru Nanak’s message is eternal and universal:

“There is but one God. His name is Truth. He is the Creator, without fear and without hate.”

Through faith, love, and righteous living, he showed the path to inner peace and harmony for all.

From Player to Professional

🎮 THE JOURNEY TO BECOMING AN ESPORTS ATHLETE 

Is it possible to become an Athlete by playing Computer Games?

“Can you really become an athlete just by playing computer games?”

This question might sound strange, but the answer is yes — through esports, or electronic sports!

Once seen as a hobby, computer gaming has evolved into a global sporting phenomenon. Today, esports tournaments fill stadiums, attract millions of viewers online, and even offer prize pools worth millions of dollars.

⚡ What Is Esports?

Esports stands for electronic sports. It refers to organised, competitive gaming where players — called cyberathletes, gamers, or esports athletes — compete either individually or in teams.

Matches can be one-on-one or between teams of 2, 3, 4, or 5 players. Each game has its own rules and objectives, and the team that earns the most points or defeats all opponents wins the tournament.

🧠 Skills Needed for Esports

Esports requires much more than just playing for fun. Top players develop abilities such as:

● Quick thinking and decision-making

● Strategic planning and teamwork

● Excellent hand-eye coordination

● Strong focus and mental endurance

Just like footballers wear cleats or swimmers need goggles, esports players use special gaming mice, keyboards, and monitors designed for precision and speed.

🚀 How to Become an Esports Athlete

Most professional esports players begin their journey in their teenage years — often around 16 or 17 — though some start earlier. If you dream of becoming one, here’s the pathway:

1. Choose Your Game

Pick a game you’re passionate about and research its competitive scene. Examples include League of Legends, Valorant, PUBG Mobile, FIFA, or Fortnite.

2. Train Regularly

Professional players practise for 6 to 10 hours daily, combining gameplay with tactical study, physical exercise, and mental preparation.

3. Join a Team or Club

Teamwork is crucial. Playing with others helps improve communication and strategy. Join online tournaments or local esports clubs to gain experience.

4. Maintain Physical and Mental Health

Long gaming hours can cause eye strain or posture issues. Professional players follow balanced diets, do stretching exercises, and limit screen time.

5. Participate in Tournaments

Start with small competitions and move on to larger leagues. Winning gives recognition, ranking points, and sometimes sponsorship opportunities.

6. Stay Consistent and Patient

Success in esports, like in any sport, takes time, discipline, and continuous learning.

🕹️ Popular Esports Game Categories

Esports titles must meet the SCAR factors — Skill, Community, Accessibility, and Reward.

Here are five major genres of esports games:

MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) – Teams of five battle to destroy the opponent’s base. (Example: League of Legends, Dota 2)

FPS (First-Person Shooter) – Players aim and shoot from their character’s viewpoint. Reflexes are vital. (Example: Counter-Strike, Valorant)

Battle Royale – Dozens compete on one map until only one player or team survives. (Example: Fortnite, PUBG)

Fighter Games – One-on-one combat using chosen characters and moves. (Example: Tekken, Street Fighter)

Sports Simulation Games – Virtual versions of real sports such as football or basketball. (Example: FIFA, NBA 2K)

🩺 Health and Lifestyle Balance

While gaming enhances reflexes and coordination, too much screen time can cause eye strain, back pain, or sleep problems. Esports coaches ensure players follow:

● Proper posture and ergonomic setups

● Regular exercise and stretching

● Sufficient rest and hydration

● Balanced nutrition

Maintaining good health keeps performance high and prevents burnout.

🌐 Beyond Playing: Careers in Esports

Esports isn’t only about competing. Many professionals also work as:

● Game streamers or commentators on platforms like YouTube or Twitch

● Coaches and analysts for teams

● Event organisers and content creators

● Game designers and developers

The industry is expanding fast, creating opportunities across technology, media, and entertainment.

🏆 A Growing Global Sport

Esports is now recognised as a legitimate sport in many countries.

Large tournaments like The International (Dota 2) or League of Legends World Championship attract global audiences of millions. Some universities even offer esports scholarships!

However, like any sport, it demands discipline, balance, and education. Only a small percentage of players reach the top, so young gamers should also focus on academics and healthy lifestyles.

💡 Did You Know?

🎮 The first recorded esports tournament was held in 1972 at Stanford University for the game Spacewar!.

💰 The largest prize pool in esports history was over $40 million for Dota 2: The International 2021.

🌍 The global esports audience crossed 500 million viewers in recent years!

🌟 Conclusion

Yes, it’s truly possible to become an athlete by playing computer games — but not without hard work and commitment.

Esports athletes train their minds and reflexes just like traditional athletes train their bodies. With the right mindset, balance, and guidance, gaming can turn from a hobby into a professional sporting career.

So, if you love gaming — play smart, stay healthy, and aim for excellence. Who knows? You might be the next world esports champion!

⚠️ WORDS OF CAUTION FOR STUDENTS ABOUT ESPORTS 

1. Maintain a Balance:

Playing for long hours can affect studies, health, and social life. Always balance gaming time with schoolwork, physical activity, and rest.

2. Avoid Addiction:

Esports can be engaging, but excessive gaming may lead to addiction, anxiety, or poor academic performance. Set clear time limits for gameplay.

3. Health Concerns:

Sitting for long periods can cause eye strain, poor posture, and fatigue. Take regular breaks, stretch, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

4. Online Safety:

Be careful while interacting online. Avoid sharing personal information, and report any bullying or toxic behavior immediately.

5. Financial Risks:

Not all esports careers are guaranteed or profitable. Don’t spend money on gaming equipment or tournaments without proper planning or parental guidance.

6. Education Comes First:

A solid education is important even if you dream of a career in esports. Many professional players continue studies in fields like game design, management, or IT.

7. Mental Well-being:

High competition and pressure can lead to stress. Always prioritise mental health and take breaks when needed.

8. Choose the Right Path:

If you truly wish to pursue esports, learn about the industry—its structure, required skills, and career options such as coaching, commentary, or event management.

Beyond the boundary

🏏 A CAREER AS A CRICKET UMPIRE 

Cricket is more than just a game—it’s a passion shared by millions around the world. While players, coaches, and commentators often receive the spotlight, one group of professionals plays a crucial but often less celebrated role in ensuring fair play: the cricket umpires. A career as a cricket umpire can be both challenging and rewarding for those who have a deep love and understanding of the game.

👨‍⚖️ Who is a Cricket Umpire?

A cricket umpire is an official who makes decisions on the field to ensure that the game is played according to the laws and spirit of cricket. From judging whether a batsman is out to keeping track of overs, runs, and boundaries, an umpire is the authority on the ground. Their presence ensures discipline, fairness, and respect for the rules.

⚙️ Responsibilities of an Umpire

The duties of an umpire go far beyond raising a finger for an “out” decision. Some of the main responsibilities include:

● Making on-field decisions related to wickets, runs, and overs.

● Maintaining discipline and sportsmanship among players.

● Monitoring pitch and weather conditions.

● Communicating with scorers and the third umpire during matches.

● Keeping track of playing time and intervals.

🎓 Educational Qualifications and Training

While there is no fixed educational qualification required to become an umpire, having a strong understanding of cricket laws and good communication skills is essential. Many national cricket boards, such as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), conduct certification courses and examinations for aspiring umpires.

Steps generally include:

1. Enrolling in a local cricket association and gaining match experience.

2. Passing written and practical exams conducted by the state or national board.

3. Officiating in local and domestic matches to gain experience.

4. Advancing to higher levels, such as first-class, IPL, or international matches, based on performance.

🏆 Skills Required

A successful umpire must possess:

● Excellent knowledge of cricket laws and updates.

● Sharp observation and decision-making ability.

● Confidence and composure under pressure.

● Physical fitness and concentration for long hours. 

● Integrity, impartiality, and strong communication skills.

💼 Career Opportunities

A cricket umpire can start at local and club-level tournaments and gradually move up to state, national, and international levels. With experience, umpires may also become match referees, cricket administrators, or trainers for future umpires.

💰 Salary and Recognition

Umpires are paid depending on the level of matches they officiate. Local-level umpires earn modest fees, while international umpires receive lucrative match fees, allowances, and travel benefits. Prominent umpires like Simon Taufel, Aleem Dar, and Nitin Menon have earned worldwide respect for their accuracy and fairness.

💡 Did You Know?

● The first recorded cricket umpire appeared in the year 1721!

● Nitin Menon is the youngest Indian umpire to be included in the ICC Elite Panel.

● Umpires use hand signals for every decision to communicate clearly with players and scorers.

● Srinivasaraghavan Venkataraghavan — Former Indian cricketer and international umpire; awarded the Padma Shri in 2003. 

🌟 Conclusion

A career as a cricket umpire is ideal for those who are passionate about the game but prefer to contribute from behind the scenes. It requires patience, precision, and a strong sense of fairness. Though the job demands hard work and continuous learning, it offers immense satisfaction to those who love being part of the game’s heartbeat — ensuring cricket is played in the right spirit.

The lesson of the wise king

NOBODY CAN SEE YOU 

Once upon a time, there was a wise and just king who ruled over a vast kingdom. He had only one son, the prince, whom he loved dearly. The king, however, knew that love alone could not make his son a good ruler. He wanted the young prince to become wise, humble, and capable before inheriting the throne.

One night, the king called his son to his chamber. The prince was surprised to see his father awake at such an hour. With a serious expression, the king said, “From this moment onward, you are no longer a prince. You will not inherit my throne. Take off your royal clothes and ornaments.”

The prince was stunned. Before he could speak, the king ordered his guards to remove the prince’s royal attire and dress him in old, torn clothes. Then he commanded, “Take him in a chariot to the outskirts of the kingdom. Leave him there and do not allow him to return.”

The order was obeyed.

The prince, confused and heartbroken, found himself alone in a strange city where no one knew him. His royal life was gone in an instant. The people who saw his tattered clothes assumed he was a beggar. Some gave him scraps of food; others dropped a few coins in his bowl. With no other choice, the prince began to live as a beggar.

Days turned into months, and months into years. Over time, he forgot that he had ever been a prince. Begging became his routine, and the proud, confident prince was now a humble man who lived on the charity of others.

One scorching afternoon, as he begged on the roadside, a royal chariot stopped in front of him. The beggar cried louder, hoping someone would take pity on him. To his surprise, a man stepped down from the chariot and walked directly toward him.

“Your father, the king, is very old and on his deathbed,” said the man. “He wishes to see you and make you his successor.”

At that moment, something changed within the beggar. The years of humiliation and hardship seemed to melt away. His posture straightened, his eyes regained their spark, and his voice carried the confidence of royalty once more. Though his clothes were still torn, he no longer looked like a beggar—he looked like a prince.

The same people who had once ignored him now bowed respectfully and offered help. But the prince paid no attention. He stepped into the chariot with dignity and asked to be taken to the palace. On the way, he stopped to bathe and dress in fine clothes, shoes, and ornaments.

When he finally stood before his father, he bowed deeply and said, “Father, why did you send me away so suddenly all those years ago? And why have you called me back now?”

The old king smiled faintly and said, “My father did the same to me. I wanted you to learn a truth that cannot be taught by words. A prince or a beggar—these are merely roles the world gives you. They can change in an instant. But what you truly are lies deep within you. It is something only you can see. No one else can see it.”

The prince bowed his head, understanding at last the lesson his father had hidden within his cruelty—a lesson about identity, strength, and the true self that remains unshaken by the changing faces of fortune.

The girl who stood up for education

MALALA YOUSAFZAI 

Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani activist for female education who became the youngest person ever to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Her powerful voice and extraordinary courage in the face of extremist violence have made her a global symbol of human rights and the importance of girls’ education.

👧 Early life and activism in Swat Valley

Born on July 12, 1997, in Mingora, Swat Valley, Pakistan, Malala grew up inspired by her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, a teacher and passionate advocate for education who ran a local girls’ school. From a young age, she developed a deep love for learning and a belief that education was every child’s right.

When the Taliban began taking control of the Swat Valley around 2007, they imposed harsh restrictions, including a ban on girls attending school. At just 11 years old, Malala began speaking out against these injustices.

Blogging Anonymously: In early 2009, Malala began writing an anonymous blog for BBC Urdu under the pseudonym “Gul Makai.” In her writings, she described life under Taliban rule and her determination to continue her studies despite the threats.

Public Advocacy: As her confidence grew, Malala’s identity became known, and she, along with her father, began openly campaigning for the right to education. Her bravery earned her a nomination for the International Children’s Peace Prize (2011) and Pakistan’s first National Youth Peace Prize.

💥 The attack and global outcry

Malala’s fearless activism made her a target. On October 9, 2012, while returning home from school, a Taliban gunman boarded her school bus and shot her in the head. She was critically wounded.

The attack triggered a worldwide wave of outrage and support. After receiving initial treatment in Pakistan, Malala was airlifted to Birmingham, England, where she underwent multiple surgeries and an extended recovery. Despite the trauma, she refused to be silenced and instead chose to turn her pain into power.

🏆 International recognition and continuing the fight

The failed assassination attempt only amplified her voice.

Autobiography: In 2013, she released her inspiring autobiography, “I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban,” which became an international bestseller.

Malala Fund: The same year, Malala and her father founded the Malala Fund, a non-profit organisation working to ensure 12 years of free, safe, quality education for every girl around the world.

Malala Day: On her 16th birthday—July 12, 2013—Malala addressed the United Nations, delivering her now-famous words:

“One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.”

The UN later declared this day “Malala Day” in her honour.

🕊️ The Nobel Peace Prize

In October 2014, at the age of 17, Malala Yousafzai was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with Indian child rights activist Kailash Satyarthi, “for their struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education.”

This recognition made her the youngest Nobel laureate in history.

🎓 Life after the Prize

Malala continued to pursue her own education while championing the cause of others. She graduated from the University of Oxford in 2020, earning a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE).

Through the Malala Fund, she continues to empower girls and support education initiatives in countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and India. Her work inspires countless people to believe that even one voice, when guided by truth and courage, can change the world.

💡 Did You Know?

● Malala’s birthday, July 12, is celebrated worldwide as Malala Day.

● Her autobiography I Am Malala has been translated into over 40 languages.

● The Malala Fund actively supports girls’ education programs across several continents.

🌍 A Lasting Legacy

Malala Yousafzai’s life is a shining example of resilience, bravery, and hope. She stood up for education when it was forbidden, risked her life for her beliefs, and continues to inspire millions. Her story reminds us that education is not just a privilege—it is a fundamental human right that has the power to transform societies and shape a better future for all.