That’s what most people would say. But most of them doesn’t know how from struggles to strength, I grew my life. I wasn’t the bright student excelling in academics or the classroom star. But life, with its unexpected twists, taught me resilience and self-discovery, transforming even the most unlikely beginnings.
“If you had known me as a child, you wouldn’t have expected much. Janaki? Not good at studies.”
Reading became my constant companion after the loss of my brother and my own health struggles. When the world faced the collective trauma of COVID-19, I was waging a deeply personal battle—cancer. The diagnosis shook me, but it also gave me perspective. Cancer was not just a fight against a disease; it was a confrontation with my fears, insecurities, and limitations. It stripped me of illusions and taught me the value of life, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit.
During those challenging times, reading became my anchor. Books offered me solace, whisking me away to distant worlds and filling my mind with stories that reminded me of hope, courage, and renewal. They weren’t just an escape; they were a mirror, reflecting the possibilities of transformation even in the face of despair.
Reflecting on my younger years, I see a flawed but evolving version of myself. I lied, cheated, and betrayed trust. Life, however, has a way of teaching us the hard way. The consequences of my actions arrived sooner than expected, forcing me to confront my mistakes. Shedding those flaws wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. This period of introspection and growth was a turning point—a process of unlearning and relearning that shaped me into who I am today.
Arts was my first love, but English?
That felt like an uncharted territory. When I enrolled in an English program, I met a mentor who believed in me even when I doubted myself. Her guidance wasn’t just academic; it was transformative. She saw potential in me that I hadn’t yet recognized. From undergraduate studies to my M.Phil dissertation, her faith carried me through, and I owe much of my journey to her unwavering support.
Teaching has been another cornerstone of my life. I began tutoring in 9th standard, and what started as a way to help others quickly became a passion. Teaching taught me patience, empathy, and the joy of shared learning. Every student I taught brought unique challenges that expanded my perspective and deepened my understanding of the world.
Writing, however, has been my most personal journey. It became my mirror, helping me unravel my emotions and thoughts. Many of my works remain unpublished, but they are deeply personal—a reflection of my growth, struggles, and dreams. Writing is not just a skill for me; it’s a lifeline, a confidant, and a way to connect with myself and others.
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This blog and my YouTube channel are extensions of that journey. They are spaces where I share my reflections, inviting you to walk alongside me as I explore life’s complexities. Your comments and feedback remind me that this journey is not just mine but ours. Together, we can find strength in shared experiences and inspiration in each other’s stories.
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