Category: Vasthu Tips

We live in an environment where shortcuts are celebrated and dishonesty is often dismissed as “being smart.” It is about time we pause and ask how much we compromise our values.

A recent conversation during an e-hailing ride reminded me how urgently we must return to principles that truly matter.

It was an ordinary ride from Petaling Jaya to Kuala Lumpur, the kind I’ve taken countless times.

The 65-year-old driver was friendly and eager to talk. He spoke about how he had just sold his three-year-old car with over 400,000 kilometres on the clock, but he got a good price for it, he said, smiling.

“How?” I asked, curious.

“I had the meter rolled back to 160,000 kilometres,” he said casually. “Who would buy it otherwise?”

He chuckled. I didn’t. I asked him, “But isn’t that cheating?”

He brushed it off. “Everyone does it. You’ve got to be smart these days to make money.”

That ride ended, but the discomfort it stirred lingered.

There was something deeply troubling in how easily he justified his actions. It wasn’t just what he did; it was his pride. It was as if deceiving someone was not only acceptable but admirable.

We’ve reached a point where integrity is often considered naive, and manipulation is necessary. But when did cheating become a badge of honour? When did bending the truth become the norm?

This isn’t just about one tampered odometer. It’s about a mindset becoming all too common, the belief that ethics can be compromised if there’s profit.

In another case, a friend shared an incident. He was pleased that a restaurant had mistakenly failed to charge him for one of the dishes he ordered.

He saw it as a “bonus”, a lucky break and felt no obligation to inform the cashier about the oversight.

In fact, he took pride in quietly walking away with what he saw as an unearned gain.

It’s moments like these, seemingly harmless choices, that truly test our honour.

The question is not whether we can get away with something, but whether we feel right.

Spirituality teaches us that righteous conduct is not about being watched, but about living in harmony with our conscience, even when no one is looking.

Cheating is not simply dishonest; it is a betrayal of trust, a distortion of truth, and a denial of our higher self.

Deceit may offer short-term gain in business, relationships, or daily interactions, but leaves behind a long trail of unseen damage.

At its core, cheating reflects fear – fear of loss, fear of inadequacy, fear of being left behind. But when we act from fear, we lose our moral footing.

We justify wrongdoing as “strategy” and bargaining as “necessity.” Once ignored, the integrity begins to fall silent, and that silence is dangerous.

Untruthful acts create ripples. They hurt not only those who are cheated, but also the one who cheats by feeding anxiety, weakening character, and eroding inner peace.

We become uneasy, even if the world doesn’t see it.

I want to cite a quote from the Dalai Lama: “A lack of transparency results in distrust and a deep sense of insecurity.”
His words are a powerful reminder that honesty and openness are not just moral ideals, but are important for building trust, whether in relationships, institutions, or society.

It signals that fraudulence poisons the soil from which trust grows, not only in society but also in our lives.

We are all accountable not just to others, but to ourselves.

Every time we justify a lie, no matter how small, we erode the moral compass that ought to guide our choices.

In karmic philosophy, harm inflicted on others, even indirectly, returns to us.

Selling a tampered car might lead to an accident, and the law of karma suggests we inherit the appropriate weight of these outcomes.

Let us remind ourselves and teach our children that honour is not outdated and that ethics are essential.

Let’s take the longer, tougher, and more honest path because in the end, it’s not the size of our earnings that defines us, but the uprightness with which we earn them.

And let us remember that wealth earned through honesty brings peace, while riches gained through trickery leave a path of unrest.

May we never be so blinded by profit that we lose sight of our values.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

 

 

Many of us communicate with ourselves consciously or unknowingly in our daily lives when we are confronted with all kinds of issues, positive or negative.

Some regard this intuitive contact as a conversation with our inner voice or strength, which guides us in our decision-making, particularly when we have nowhere else to turn.

All of us have this self-talk gift, and invoking it is vital to constantly being in touch with this talent for our well-being and that of others.

However, one needs to examine these signals because they are often known to be negative.

Some people have asked me how she can tap her inner strength to achieve happiness, prosperity, and peace of mind.

The recent challenges arising following the coronavirus crisis have left many people in disarray. Some don’t know what to do, how to handle issues, or where to seek answers.

The power of inner energy, which is within every individual, is that it can stimulate our consciousness and show an individual what is right and wrong.

According to great masters in theological studies, we have undiscovered treasures in our unconscious state, and if we can touch them, we can awaken this inner energy.

In the beginning, this voice may be weak, but the more we believe in it, the louder and stronger it will grow.

The connection can be realised through meditation, silence, exercising calmness, sweetness of speech or remaining in a relaxed state of mind.

This voice guides us to make the best life choices and experiences and helps us reason instead of impulsively.

One of the major obstacles to linking to our inner power is our subconscious mind, which opens more towards what we or others programme into it.

Frequently, our minds are fed or exposed to issues related to hatred, fear, jealousy, anger, hopelessness, distrust, revenge, and so on.

Often, we are not conscious of such influences, which may result in us accepting inaccurate, unhappy, negative, and unhelpful information.

I wish to share some knowledge I learnt during self-realisation studies under several experts in self-development in India. All of them say that we are born to be free, creative, and successful.

However, most people find themselves chained owing to external forces, which slowly emerge as their own regime, preventing them from being boundless.

So, how do we free ourselves from such a situation?

You first need to identify clearly what you wish to achieve.

Once you have determined the objective, you need to surround your aim with all the appropriate emotions and the positive belief that your objective is within reach.

Ultimately, you can achieve it only if you can remain positive that you can do it.

When doing this exercise, make sure you ward off or change negative thoughts into positive alternatives.

Also, state affirmations like “I am good at this,” “I can do it,” “I am strong,” or “I feel good doing this” to make your wish more effective.

Beliefs are vital because they are built on our life experiences, whether successful or unsuccessful.

Every belief, thought and feeling we experience creates a chemical and energetic response within our bodies.

Our strong beliefs and feelings create energy that draws to us whatever we focus on.

If an individual is preoccupied and lacks confidence in his or her ability to do a particular task, he or she may soon find it challenging to complete the task.

In short, the attention an individual focuses on can determine all results, negative or positive.

The fastest way to resolve this issue is to change what we do, which starts with changing our behaviour.

 

Transformation affirmation

Find a quiet spot, relax, close your eyes and communicate with the cosmic consciousness by reading or mentally saying the following affirmation:

“I hereby declare and affirm that all negative energies, negative thoughts, negative psychic energies, negative diseased energies, negative vibrations, negative entities, that touch any part of my aura at any given time, whether externally or internally, sent by anyone or everyone, whether consciously or unconsciously generated, be automatically transmuted into Light, Love and Harmony and immediately returned to their senders and creators.”

 

Open your palms facing upward and call for heavenly blessings, material gifts, and healing energies to always be allowed to enter your space.

Thank the unseen powers for your great blessings of Light, Love and Harmony.

This affirmation can be observed whenever an individual experiences challenges in his or her career, relationships, health, partnerships and peace of mind.

 

Dr T. Selva is the speaker and the author of the best-selling book Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Hallp Living. To get a copy, contact 109-2728464. He can be contacted at drtselvas@gmail.com, Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

 

 

 For decades, I have embarked on numerous journeys with a singular, unwavering purpose: to seek the essence of life’s meaning and to share my wisdom and discoveries.

These travels have taken me across the globe and deep within myself, revealing that the beauty of life lies in the freedom to explore, grow, and shape our unique paths.

I’ve come to realise that what truly matters is what resonates as meaningful and fulfilling to each individual soul.

Throughout my interfaith explorations—from candlelit cathedrals to Himalayan monasteries and grand temples—I’ve encountered a wide range of beliefs and traditions that offer thoughtful insights into life’s purpose.

Many spiritual and religious teachings point to a higher power or universal truth—whether serving a divine presence, striving for enlightenment, or aligning with a sacred plan.

These perspectives remind me that, while our paths may differ, the intent is a universal thread that binds us all.

As my journey continued, I received heartfelt messages from readers who shared their longing to embark on similar trips but have been unsuccessful.

Several individuals expressed that their financial circumstances were a barrier, hindering them from pursuing their spiritual aspirations.

It’s easy to assume that spiritual journeys—pilgrimages, retreats, or even moments of deep reflection—require significant financial means because we are influenced to believe that money is a prerequisite for this experience.

One reader wrote, “I’ll visit that holy place when I have enough money,” while another shared, “I’ll focus on my spiritual growth once I’m more financially stable—or maybe after I retire.” 

These sentiments are understandable but reveal a common misconception: the belief that spirituality is tied to affluence or external resources.

In reality, the divine path has little to do with money and everything to do with the sincerity of your seeking.

It’s not about where you go or what you spend—it’s about the intention behind your journey and the depth of your inner search.

Blissful moments can be found in the quiet of your own home, in the stillness of nature, or even amidst your daily routine. The pilgrimage begins within.

The godly not only resides in ancient, heavenly sites or faraway lands alone; it is present in every moment, breath, and every corner of our lives.

When you genuinely yearn for connection with the celestial, the universe responds in ways that transcend material limitations.

It opens doors, illuminates routes, and guides you toward the wisdom and satisfaction you seek—often in unexpected ways.

The teachings of the Buddha, as narrated by the Dalai Lama, significantly influenced my self-discovery journey.

What struck me most was how this wisdom transcended religion—it wasn’t about rituals but the way and purpose of life.

It offered clarity and calm during times of questioning. One powerful quote by the Dalai Lama has stayed with me and continues to guide me: “The ultimate source of happiness is not money and power, but warmth of heart. If we want a happier and more meaningful life, we should pay more attention to our inner values.”

This simple yet philosophical truth helped me shift my focus inward to values, compassion, and satisfaction, which are the actual markers of a fulfilled life.

Money can buy a plane ticket to a spiritual site or fund a retreat, but it cannot purchase the inner transformation that comes from honest and pious seeking.

The divine is not concerned with your bank account but with the genuineness of your heart.

Remember, when we spend money on a pilgrimage or for a holy purpose, it’s essential to shift our perspective: This is not an expense but a spiritual investment, and the return is unimaginable abundance.

Unlike material purchases, where returns are often immediate and tangible, the rewards of a religious journey are intangible, overwhelming, and multifaceted.

What you gain—inner peace, clarity, connection, and a deeper understanding of yourself and the universe—transcends monetary value.

This asset enriches not just your own life but also the lives of those around you.

The richness you receive may manifest as renewed purpose, heightened compassion, or a sense of unity with something greater than yourself.

These indefinable returns have the power to transform your outlook, your relationships, and your very way of being in the world.

The path is not always easy—I’ve faced my share of challenges and obstacles along the way. But through these experiences, I’ve learned to see them not as hurdles but as opportunities for growth.

Each hitch, each moment of difficulty, has been a chance to dig deeper, to grow stronger, and to uncover layers of myself I might never have discovered otherwise.

I’ve come to believe that God works through these trials, using them to strip away distractions, refine my intentions, and guide me closer to my true self.

What once seemed like setbacks often became the stepping stones to greater clarity, purpose, and alignment with what truly matters.

So, when you dedicate resources to a spiritual journey, remember that you are sowing seeds for a harvest that goes beyond the material.

You are empowering in the unseen, the eternal, and the infinite—and the dividends are immeasurable.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

Almost every week, headlines reveal the government recovering millions of ringgit earned through ill-gotten means.

Reading these troubling realities often makes us uneasy as we see how some people have amassed a fortune through unscrupulous means.

The pursuit of wealth, so frequently equated with success, can sometimes come at the cost of integrity and ethics.

We live in a society where affluence is often seen as the ultimate measure of achievement, and we rarely pause to question the methods used to attain it.

Designer clothes, huge bungalows and mansions, and flashy cars can create the illusion of a life well-lived. But what happens when these luxuries are built on a foundation of dishonesty?

For some, the hunt for opulence overshadows the ethical cost of accumulating prosperity illegally.

When you look beyond the glittering surface of deceitful luck, a stark truth emerges—an unrelenting fear of exposure, the looming threat of legal consequences, and a deep void where inner peace should reside.

History has shown that possessions acquired through corrupt means never bring lasting happiness.

The ongoing 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal is a stark reminder of this truth. A former prime minister’s once-glorious legacy is now reduced to disgrace, and his family faces severe legal and reputational consequences.

These recurring dishonours are a stark reminder that achievement built on corruption or exploitation is not a victory—it’s a betrayal of trust and a disservice to the collective good.

It’s time to redefine true victory, valuing the destination and the path we take to get there.

Across all traditions, spirituality offers reflective insights into the nature of riches and the importance of legitimacy.

The principle of “rightful living” is central to all religions. It urges individuals to earn their living in ways that do not harm others.

I am deeply grateful to my parents for instilling the values of truthful living from a young age. These values have become the cornerstone of my life and family.

My siblings and I grew up under their vigilant guidance, which was to support ourselves by choosing a career or livelihood that respected life. My late mother held a firm yet loving grip on us, ensuring we never strayed from the right path.

Buddhism teaches that attachment to material goods, mainly when acquired fraudulently, is a root cause of suffering.

I feel privileged to have studied the Secret of Happiness under the 14th Dalai Lama, who wisely said, “Wealth should be obtained honestly and used for the benefit of others. If acquired through dishonesty, it brings only misery and anxiety, not real happiness.”

Abundance obtained through immoral means may offer temporary comfort, but it can never fill the emptiness of spiritual poverty.

A life built on dishonesty lacks true peace, contentment, and lasting joy. Ultimately, a feat without uprightness is nothing more than a fantasy.

The Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita warns that money gained through unjust means carries the weight of sin, leading to adverse karmic consequences for the individual and the family.

It emphasises the Hindu principle of Dharma, which upholds righteous living and principled prosperity.

Many spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity, stress the concept of karma—the idea that every action has consequences.

Those who hurt others for personal gain will inevitably face retribution, whether in this life or the next. The outcomes of illicit wealth don’t end with the individual.

This karmic debt can manifest as financial ruin, health issues, or even the downfall of their heritage.

In many faiths, wealth is seen as a blessing from the divine, provided it is earned through sincere and honourable means.

When assets are acquired through corruption, it is believed to attract negative energies and divine displeasure.

Such individuals may find themselves increasingly isolated from divine grace, protection, and spiritual growth.

The results of riches earned illegally don’t end with the individual and will have ripple effects. Families and future generations often bear the brunt of these actions.

Children may inherit not just material wealth but also the karmic burdens of their ancestors. As their inheritance is built on sand rather than stone, they may struggle with moral dilemmas, financial instability, or a lack of purpose.

Although fraudulent money may bring temporary pleasures, it often results in long-term suffering—whether through guilt, broken relationships, or legal downfall.

Remember, guilt and shame can erode one’s peace of mind, while the trust of loved ones, once broken, is difficult to rebuild.

Actual possessions are not found in the lavishness of mansions or branded labels but in satisfaction, honourable living, and spiritual serenity.

Money earned through morality and hard work sustains our physical needs and enriches the soul.

Finally, the bequest we leave behind is not defined by the extravagance we accumulate but by the integrity of our actions and the love we share.

Only when we uphold respectable values in our search for success can we achieve a life of true prosperity and peace.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

People have feared or revered snakes since ancient times because they symbolise good and destruction.

It represents spirituality, commencement, redemption, devastation, and life and death in several civilisations.

In the Hindu tradition, people worshipped snakes from the early days because several folklore, beliefs, legends and scriptures are associated with serpents.

One of the most dreaded aspects is the snake curse, which is caused by the malefic influence of the celestial bodies Rahu (head of a dragon) and Kethu (tail of a dragon) on an individual’s astrological birth chart.

Those who have the Rahu or Kethu placed in the first house and the other in the seventh house will have such a jinx in their birth chart.

Another cause could be a person knowingly or unknowingly hurting a snake or ruining a snake pit.

According to seventh-generation astrologer Master Yuvaraj Sowma from Chennai, India, people with snake spells will have anxiety about snakes from young, disturbing dreams about snakes and fear of seeing the reptile.

He said those having such occurrences should see an astrologer and get an accurate analysis to determine the intensity of the Naga Dosha (snake curse).

One should not dismiss or be playful about the serpent whammy because it would distress them lifelong if the issue is not remedied.

It is not a question of belief but it is a fact of life if one understands the science and studies of celestial objects and phenomena in astronomy.

Among the characteristics of the snake curse on people having it in their horoscope are:

• Delayed marriage and marital life could face difficulties;
• The longevity of those who are close to them may be affected prematurely;
• They could suffer from some unexpected illnesses and skin diseases;
• Their grand plans may not achieve the desired financial and growth results.
• Married women may struggle in conceiving and experience miscarriages;
• Have trouble getting along with people and their friendship does not last;
• Sometimes, their presence and deceptive speech may hurt and cause grief to people unknowingly and
• They could be misunderstood as unreliable, untrustworthy and ungrateful, leading to unwelcome problems in their lives.

Master Yuvaraj said they should not be blamed for their attributes, but the curse is the root cause of the problems.

He said there was hope and affected individuals should not be worried because the issues can be pacified through rituals and prayer ceremonies.

“In Hindu scriptures, snakes are viewed as demigods, and if their spirit is found to reside in a person’s body, the spell should be removed respectfully through specific holy ceremonies, or it can be unforgiving and hostile.

“One method to appease the situation is for the affected person to donate a snake deity to a temple or build a temple with a snake shrine so devotees can worship.

“This will take away the snake’s attention on the person, thus freeing the individual,” he said.

Master Yuvaraj said the move would also provide grounding for the snake spirit, leaving the individual’s body in return.

“The snake curse should be understood and not feared because there is hope in changing the adverse situation and preventing suffering.

“We have successfully performed countless peace-making prayers for the snake deity and many people have experienced positive relief,” he said.

He added that those who did not perform the ritual would carry the snake curse cycle to the next generation, and this should be stopped, or the God of the Serpent would continue to be furious.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

A Talk on Astro Vasthu

16 MARCH 2024, SUNDAY 08:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Eye Gateway Communications
No 46-3, Jalan PJS 1/50,
Taman Petaling Utama, 46150 Petaling Jaya,
Selangor

For resister: 0122128275

Master Yuvraj Sowma
7TH GENERATION HEREDITARY VASTHU CONSULTANT & PUBLISHER OF VASTHU SASTRA GUIDE

 

Astro-Vasthu is a modern synthesis of two ancient disciplines, Astrology and Vasthu Sastra. Astrology deciphers the cosmic blueprint of an individual by analyzing the positions of planets and stars at the time of their birth. On the other hand, Traditional Vasthu Shastra is the ancient Indian science of architecture that primarily focuses on the architectural and environment aspects of a building. It emphasises the alignment of structures and objects within a space to optimize the flow of positive energy and minimize negative influences.
By combining the insights from Astrology with the
principles of Vasthu, individuals can create environments that are tailored to their unique astrological profiles. This alignment ensures that their living or working spaces support their personal growth, health, and prosperity. By analysing an individual’s birth chart, Astrologers and Vasthu Consultants can identify specific areas that require

attention. For example, if an individual’s birth chart indicates a need for enhanced creativity, Vastu principles can be applied to design a workspace that fosters innovation and inspiration.
JOIN NOW!
Astrology and Vasthu Shastra, when integrated, offer a holistic approach to enhancing one’s life through celestial guidance and environmental harmony.

 

Ear piercing, a practice experiencing a resurgence in today’s fashion-conscious world, is far more than a modern trend.

It is an ancient art that beautifully intertwines spirituality, culture, and science, offering a philosophical connection to the past while enriching the present.

In Hinduism, ear piercing transcends gender and age. It is a cherished tradition that combines aesthetic beauty with holistic well-being.

Rooted in sacred texts and cultural practices, it enhances physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual balance.

This week, I felt inspired to explore this topic after a family member expressed a desire to pierce his ears, influenced by Tamil movies and the iconic actors who proudly wear earrings on screen.

Ear piercing, whether embraced as a holy rite of passage or a personal style statement, remains a timeless tradition.

It’s more than just a fashion accessory—it’s a bridge to heritage and wellness.

According to renowned Vedic scholar and sociologist Dr Ramesh Shastry, ear piercing connects generations, grounding individuals in their cultural roots while fostering a sense of identity and well-being.

He explains that the ears are considered sacred, serving as gateways to wisdom and knowledge.

Piercing the ears activates acupuncture points that promote intellectual and spiritual growth, aligning with the principles of Ayurveda (the science of longevity) and yoga.

“Ear piercing should not be dismissed as superstitious,” Dr. Shastry emphasises. “Rather, it should be understood as a practice rooted in deeper awareness and intentionality, guiding those who follow it.”

Traditionally performed during childhood, ear piercing signifies a child’s entry into a life of learning and discipline.

For women, earrings symbolise femininity and prosperity, while men represent strength and wisdom.

Can men pierce their ears?
While there’s no strict rule, tradition often guides the practice.

Men typically pierce their right ear, which is linked to the Sun and is believed to help regulate emotions and improve decision-making.

Historically, warriors and kings pierced their ears to signify strength and valour.

Piercing the left ear, associated with the Moon, is less common but is sometimes linked to creativity and emotional expression.

In some communities, men pierce both ears, symbolising balance and harmony in life. Whether one ear or both, the act carries deep cultural and spiritual significance, blending tradition with personal expression.

Among its purposes, health and wellness benefits are:

• The earlobe is believed to be linked to the brain’s hemispheres. Piercing stimulates these points, potentially boosting immunity and overall health.
• Some traditions suggest ear piercing can improve eyesight by activating pressure points connected to the eyes.
• The earlobe is associated with the nerve, which helps regulate stress and anxiety levels.
• Ear piercing is thought to support healthy menstrual cycles and improve reproductive health in women.

• According to Ayurveda, the earlobes are linked to the brain’s energy channels, influencing intelligence, memory, and emotional stability. Piercing these points activates the third eye and crown chakras, heightening spiritual receptivity and overall well-being.

• In many Hindu families, it is a way to honour ancestors and preserve customs.

Ear piercing should be approached with respect and mindfulness rather than being treated as a casual or playful activity.

It is ideally performed on an auspicious day or as part of a religious ceremony, aligning it with positive energies and spiritual significance.

Gold or silver earrings are recommended, as these metals are believed to possess healing properties.

If ear piercing hasn’t crossed your mind before, now might be the perfect time to explore its deeper significance.

Whether you’re motivated by its spiritual benefits or fascinated by its cultural richness, ear piercing offers a meaningful way to connect with tradition while embracing the health benefits it is believed to bring.

It’s not just an adornment—it’s a celebration of heritage, wellness, and identity.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

Master Yuvaraj Sowma presenting talk on Vasthu Sastra.

For registration contact h/p :+6016 367 9817

The highlights of the talk is,

1. How is Vasthu connected to astrology?
2. Why do some people consistently experience poverty?
3. Why do some individuals acquire property only to later lose it?
4. Why do people live in properties with negative Vasthu influences?
5. Why do some people naturally live in Vasthu-friendly properties?

 

Recently, I found myself unexpectedly stranded in Da Nang, Vietnam, for an additional night. My flight, MH749, was moments away from taking off when it was abruptly grounded due to a technical fault.

As I sat in the airport lounge, surrounded by the intensity of fellow passengers, I couldn’t help but ask myself: Why now? Why me?

The Malaysia Airlines staff apologised profusely, but the collective disappointment was hard to ignore.

Several passengers missed connecting flights, experienced work schedule disruptions, and encountered many other complications.

Yet, as the hours stretched on, something shifted. What initially felt like a frustrating inconvenience began to transform into an unexpected opportunity – a chance to pause and reflect on the unpredictable rhythms of life.

The airline provided hotel accommodations, meals, and transportation to ease the discomfort. While these gestures couldn’t erase the trouble, they softened the blow and offered a moment of respite.

In that space of forced stillness, I reflected on the nature of setbacks and the hidden gifts they often carry.

What began as a disruption to my plans became a reminder that, while troublesome, life’s interruptions can also be invitations to slow down, breathe, and find meaning in the unexpected.

That extra night in Da Nang, though unplanned, turned out to be a lesson in resilience, patience, and the art of finding silver linings.

As I settled into the Novotel Hotel overlooking the Han River in Da Nang, I started conversations with fellow passengers, each with their own stories.

A manager seated next to me confessed his fear of flying and how he coped by focusing on the destinations rather than the journey.

A young traveller shared her dream of exploring Southeast Asia despite her family’s concerns about safety.

An elderly couple returning home after their wedding anniversary holiday spoke about how their love for travel had kept their marriage vibrant over the decades.

These exchanges were more than just passing small talk. They were windows into the lives of strangers, each carrying their hopes, fears, and dreams.

Amid our shared predicament, we found comfort in one another’s company. The flight cancellation, which had initially felt like a disturbance, became an unforeseen opportunity to connect on a deeply human level.

When I informed my friends about the flight termination, they responded unexpectedly philosophically. “Everything happens for a reason,” they reassured me.

At first, I brushed off their words as well-meaning cliches. But as I wandered Da Nang’s lantern-lit streets, sipped the addictive Vietnamese iced coffee, and watched the sunset over the Han River, I wondered: Do life’s setbacks carry deeper meanings, or do we assign meaning to them to make sense of the chaos?

Delays, cancellations, and disruptions are part and parcel of modern life. Whether it’s a missed flight, a sudden change of plans, or an unforeseen obstacle, these moments often feel like life’s way of throwing a jerk into our carefully laid plans.

But what if these interruptions are not just random occurrences? What if they are subtle reminders to slow down, reassess, and recalibrate?

In my case, the extra night in Da Nang forced me to pause. Instead of rushing home, I could immerse myself in the city’s charm, marvel at its spirit, and connect with its people.

Had my flight departed on time, I would have missed this unforeseen gift of time and space.

We seek meaning in everything around us to understand the world. When things go wrong, we often search for patterns or reasons to explain why they didn’t go as planned, sometimes resorting to blaming others or ourselves.

Some attribute these events to fate, karma, or divine intervention. I see them as opportunities for growth or redirection. However, the true meaning lies in how we respond to the event.

In Da Nang, I chose to embrace the moment. I spoke with friendly locals who shared stories about the city’s history and culture. I marvelled at the bounciness of the people who had rebuilt their lives after the devastation of the Vietnam War.

By the night’s end, I felt a deeper connection to a place and promised to revisit it soon.

Life’s delays often force us to confront our impatience and need for control.

We live in a world that values speed and efficiency, where every second counts and every delay feels like a personal injury.

But what if these interruptions are invitations to slow down and appreciate the present moment? What if they are reminders that life is not a race but a journey to savour?

As I boarded my rescheduled flight the following day, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for the unpredicted detour.

It had given me a chance to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with the world around me. Perhaps, as my newfound friend Timmy Gan from Kota Kinabalu – who sat beside me and shared stories and his contact details – suggested, there was a reason for the delay.

It is not some grand cosmic plan but a simple reminder to embrace life’s uncertainties with grace and curiosity.

Sometimes, the best moments come from the unplanned, the unexpected, and the tiresome.

The next time you find yourself stranded – whether in an airport, a traffic jam, or a detour – take a deep breath and look around.

You might discover that the delay was precisely what you needed.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra