The greatest gift you have with you
is the adventure of your life.
But…have you found out what its really about?
The making of “The Urban Monk diaries: The adventure begins“
One day, an old parchment landed at my doorstep, with this adventure written on it.
Mmmm…No. That’s not how it happened. (sigh!)
It was much more intriguing and much more fun :) because several people had a hand in the making of “The Urban Monk diaries”; ordinary people, like you and me, who played a key part in this adventure reaching the world.
So, what better way to describe the making of a book than call out the people and events that left their imprint on it directly! Here we go.
– Chitha: for being a great friend, philosopher, guide. We hardly meet these days, but I can’t thank him enough, for performing the role of a Guru in my life 10 years ago (leading one from darkness (Gu) to light(Ru)). Thanks for everything. Boy, I’d love to see him embarrassed, reading this. But its payback for the grueling sessions he put poor me through :-). And to all the teachers who followed soon after, visible and invisible, modern and ancient, young and old – thank you for continuing my learning. You all know who you are.
– Shobi: Two years ago, at a hill resort in the outskirts of Bangalore, during an after-dinner conversation with friends, she questioned how the ancient secret of enlightenment was relevant to city dwellers in this day and age. As a response, I started this blog- an adventure, a treasure hunt that starts in the heart of the city. Thanks, friend, for the challenge; After 10 years of keeping my mouth shut, I started running amok in the world at large :-)
– ‘Joe contoveros’ and ‘Lotus in the dust’: the first two visitors on the blog. I was very nervous when I saw them, wondering why anyone other than me would read my posts :-) I hope to meet them someday. If not for their visit, the blog might have been Dead on Arrival. Soon, many other real-life adventurers joined the blog and left their unique imprint on it – Shruti, Elegant Chic, Dolly, Buns, Sheena, Seeker, Varkha, Sunita, Vidya, Marcela, Dee, Surbhi, Meenakshi, Johny, Rajni, Spidermonkey, Danny, Shoonyata, Xena, Suvarna, Joy, Upasna, Sammey, Atheeva, my brother, Rakesh, Amy, Krishna, Yarosh, Neha, Mayank , Siva, RainForest, Anu, Sowmya, Ravi, Condetia, Asmita, Shakti, Rinchen, Laks, TiredSoul, Nidhi, San, Deepthi, Patrick, Dhana, Tasleem, Khristine, Namrata, Alka, Jayson, Shyam, Remya, Nishant, Rishi, Priyanka, Talbott, Sudha, Vamsi, Nuzi, Margee, Shikha, Megha, Rajiv, Seema, Jyoti, Rajesh, and Mili.I know there are many others too – but hey, its kinda tough to say “Hi” when both of us decide to be anonymous :-p Perhaps, someday, during the next few months, I’ll get you all together in a room; and watch the fun :-p
– Helena Ackley: Turning 86 this year, she’s probably the oldest reader of the blog. She posted several sweet comments to wish me well and encouraged me to continue this work in my life. Thanks Ma’am. Enjoy your youth.
– A young colleague in office – for asking me “Who has time to read your blog? My attention span is 10 seconds, max.” Ah. Of course. Good point. I had to figure out a way for her. That inspired me to start the “Reflections” series on the Facebook page. Each Reflection is only 2-5 lines max. I think that hit the mark, for she began following them. But now, she feels there’s something amiss. “Yeah, each Reflection takes only 10 seconds to read, but its stuck in my head all week”. Pssst…don’t tell her that that’s the whole idea ;-). Thanks to her, the Reflections series is today enjoyed by a whole generation of school kids, teens, college students – and the young at heart- the world over.
– To readers who may not have liked what I wrote, but chose to leave quietly, rather than flaming me. I have received just 1 mildly sarcastic comment on this public site in all of two years. Thanks for your compassion :-)
– There were just two occasions in the past few years, when, in the midst of life events, I lost the will to continue this blog; On both those occasions, I sat defeated, head in my hands, feeling overwhelmed by the task I had taken on; I was ready to write my last post, saying “I quit”. And on both occasions, a whack on the head appeared out of nowhere; in the form of e-mails, describing what a difference the blog was making to a reader’s life. That shook me up. I wiped my eyes clear, picked up my bag and continued walking :-) Thank you. My best posts followed soon after.
– Gelusil: I was puzzled by a comment that ‘Shoonyata’ left one day for one of my posts. He wanted to know if it was my idea to write such a post that would give people heartburn and then provide them with Gelusil as an antidote. While I was scratching my forehead trying to figure him out, he clarified that there was a Gelusil advt displayed on the blog, at the time he was reading the post; Duh! Anyway..after a few minutes ROFL, I checked it out; and there it was. After some digging around, I found that I had to actually pay WordPress every month to make them stop showing advts. on a blog. I decided on your behalf that you are not on this blog for discount pharmacy shopping :-). And so I paid WordPress to stop showing ads to my readers. That’s why you don’t see adverts any longer, to distract you while you are immersed in a post on the site or reading it on your mobile. Thanks to Gelusil :-)
– Readers who respect my work: Yeah. Now I have placed my trust in the world by sharing all my content even before I publish them. Readers who respect my work, understand this and resist the temptation to “copy and paste” their favorite Reflections and Blog posts. You use the “Share” button to share what you like with your friends. If you are a reader who respects my work and shares it this way, I thank you wholeheartedly. You returned my faith in you. As for the others, don’t worry. I wont curse you :-) I just assume you have done it innocently :-) Worst case, I’ll be in jail because someone publishes the Reflections and Urban monk diaries before I do…and they arrest me for copying their content…Lol!!!
– Simar and Lipsa: two adventurers, hooked on the blog, organized the first ever UM meetup – in Delhi. The hall was packed with friends, new and old, curious to learn about ‘The Way of the Urban Monk’. It was my first public event as a blogger. They all called the event “My beautiful Saturday evening”. And it was; By the time we forcefully bade goodbyes to one another, it was late night. Thanks guys :-) You can now testify in court that I am a real human being and not a blogging robot.
– My uncles: I had always assumed that the adventure would only be read online. But I realized it was not so, when it came to my two aging and ailing Uncles. Whenever I visited them in person, they listened, bedridden, in rapt attention to deeper messages (from the guy they once raised as a young brat). But once I left, they could not keep up with the blog online, as they were not Net-savvy. It was then I realized that a book would make it a lot easier for many people. Though I started to act on it, it is my regret that both my uncles passed away recently – before I had the privilege of giving them a copy of this book. Rest in peace. I am sure many others will benefit on your behalf.
– My Book Editor Sarah Cypher (yeah, cool name huh?) and Book Designer Kristin, from the United States, who taught me a thing or two about producing a great book. I had initially assumed it would be a 2-day job :-) But it took two incredibly smart women, working hard – over 8 months – to create a masterpiece: with full-color pages, stunning images and well-organized and edited chapters. Even I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the book when they were finally done with it. It looks so much more beautiful and easier to read than the blog. Phew! I am grateful they were on my side.
– The researchers at the National Bureau of Economic Research and Harvard University, who kindly allowed me to use their graphs in my post “A Wall Street Walk”. The only thing they wanted in return, was a complementary copy of the book, after having read the blog and liking it :-). Also Gary Zukav, who sent a personal note to allow references to his famous book in the post “Head-banging party”.Thanks guys. I enjoy your work too :-).
– Ganapathy (Bud): My friend of over 10 years. More like the younger brother I never had. True to his namesake god in Indian lore, he removed all the obstacles that stood in the way of bringing this book to the world. The blog became a catalyst for his own personal treasure hunt – across the length and breadth of India, after his stint at Harvard; His own life became transformed by his adventure. For your unwavering faith all these years, thanks Bud.
– The team at iTransform: an exciting Startup company focused on Real-World Transformation journeys – decided to publish this book themselves. They loved the content so much that they refused to release it till they had a picture-perfect book that would truly make global readers go “Wow”. Another close friend, (Captain) Ram, an authority on most subjects, from Paper GSM to Sulfur-crested cockatoos, went over the book specs with 3 magnifying glasses. At one point, I was like “Trust me guys, they will go Wow! I have seen everyone’s passion go into this work. It shows. Now, please, for heavens sake, ship it!!!” But No. They gagged me; locked me up in a room and continued to perfect the specs; even more! Grrr! Anyway, know that anyone who expects this to be ‘just another book’, is insulting all of you :-p
– And (DRUMROLL!!!) All the die-hard adventurers, seekers, friends and facebook “fans” who were overjoyed by news of the book launch: I am honored that the book has so many of you caring for, wishing for and praying for its success– so wholeheartedly- even before its release. That, to me, matters as success, much more than any celebrity endorsement or book review on the back cover. Thanks to you, the bookstore shopper will be picking up an already successful book :-)
Do wish the “fat boy” good luck as he steps out of the blog into the big wide world; and I hope to see you someday, in a train/bus/plane holding your copy of the book, while the stranger next to you is staring curiously at the cover.
In time, your insights from the book will become your best friend – even as you work, party, wait in traffic jams, sit mournfully mulling over your latest heartbreak, reach home in a nasty mood or take a sabbatical to discover meaning in your life. The book will speak to you in an honest, caring, naughty and understanding voice. As your life situations change, the book will grow with you, revealing new answers to your questions. LIVE your adventure – creating NEW possibilities ALL THE TIME for yourself and the world.
###
Oh, btw, I know I haven’t introduced myself.
What I write about is so relevant that it makes who I am irrelevant;
..though curiously, the most visited page on the blog is still the “About Me” page. But there is nothing there; and wont be. This whole adventure is about YOU. Why on earth should I take credit for your hard-earned Aha! moments :-)
I am happy to just be @UM in your adventure.
Every adventurer has a favorite getaway. Mine is a small town, a few hours drive from Bangalore, India. I visit the place often, chill out in the resort, stroll the streets and soak in the energy of the place. Some of the posts in this book were written during my visits there.
Every year, the town gets jam-packed during the annual festival day of “lighting the beacon” on top of the hill, with the flame being seen for miles around. Through the ages, it has symbolized the light of enlightenment and Truth.
On the evening of 8th of December 2011, I was at my home in Bangalore, watching the Live TV coverage as the flame was being lit on top of the mountain. The phone rang. It was Bud, camped at the Printers’ office, telling me excitedly that the first print run of “The Urban Monk diaries” books had just begun and would be shipped out in 3 days.
Nice timing. I hope the light from the flame spreads far and wide to reach seekers in many cities :-)
As I close, I sincerely wish that the book touches all lives for the better and that every page leaves you feeling refreshed, renewed and rejuvenated.
Take care and my best wishes to you always,
UM…where are you gone…no posts in recent times
Hi vaibhav..nice to be missed :) i’m just hibernating in summer. Taking a break after the book launch. Be back soon.
Hi UM,waiting eagerly for the rains……and go through your upcoming posts.
Thanks Alka :) best wishes to you and your wonderful family, as always.
The first post I read was the Sunrise on Mt Fuji and the first thing that came to my mind was Carlos Casteneda – u could be his web ver 2.0 :) may got to read more if i have to change my impression abt u. Will keep u posted.
or rather a Inspired version or Hybrid Ver 2.0 of Carlos Casteneda – (Celestine Series) James Redfield?? and Paulo Coelo – very interesting writing tho. :)
Thanks for dropping by, suppu. I am definitely not in the league of the writers you mention; not even close :-) I just have an adventure to share with all of you. Enjoy!
Congrats … wishing you all the best
Thanks Prasanna, for dropping by; and for your wishes. Enjoy the adventure :)
Came over from Elegant Chic’s blog to here, Congratulation to you on the publishing of the book ..
All the best in future for more books tooo :)
Hi Bikram :) thanks for dropping by. and for your wishes.Good luck.
Did you update this page or did I miss reading the part you mentioned me in? I have no idea… and how in the world did I leave an imprint? Care to enlighten the curious me? ;)
So, how’s your book doing?
P.S.: Sorry I haven’t grabbed the book yet, but planning to do it soon.
EC : that’s ok. Be curious :-p
and yeah, your name was there on the Book Launch page from the beginning…maybe you saw it when you were ready.
Don’t worry about the book. Once written, twice shy :)
take care
@UM
:D
The Adventure Begins,finally the copy is in my hands.Thank you so much for the personal note and good wishes.Thank you again for giving the world a companion.Wish you many more and give the world your best.
Regards.
Cant wait to read it! Your always so intriguing. :)
dear monk, glad u r coming out with a book. would like to reach out for it off & on from my bookshelf and retrace my steps over a particular part of the journey that I am reminded of.
Hey UM,
Thats a nice piece you have put together here…gives a kinda personal touch to this entire book writing episode. Wishing you all teh very best with the release and as i suggested earlier, try to get a pen with a microchip which can make your signature…beleive me, you are gonna be signing a lot of books in the days to come…LOvE…KK
WoW!!! My name is also there
I dont remember while I was on google how did I come to ur page, but when I was here, and even today when I have other thing to do, I need to force myself to go back to what I am supposed to do for this moment & specially this week
which surely doesn’t include reading blog/….
but…
my love to Helena Ackley too…
Lovely, UM :) !! Suuuperb work really…. I just am a grrrr8 fan of ur quotes :) !! Excellent !!
Overwhelmed :) thanks and bestestestest wishes from meeeee :) :) :)
The book will be an addiction to the world… You are a savior… sigh!
I heart the cover, btw ;) perfecto!:)
where is my book ??
Hi seeker..6-9 working days from the date you ordered :-) Its the first print run of the book, so hang in there. The first set of books just got printed..Case laminate happening Monday. will follow up with the publishers for you if you wish! Take care. Here’s a hint. Just for you..expect a surprise :)
Pleasure is all mine :)
I am so happy on the success and look forward to hear much more from Urban Monk :)
Good Luck! :)
oye i am in tagged too!! :) thank youuuuu!! :)
and thanks for the explanation on keeping your identity to yourself – it makes perfect sense. now that i think about it myself, its good that you didn’t reveal who you are. my aha!s can be truly mine now :)
so, a big THANK YOU for having the wisdom to do that.
as you said yourself, Now I am happy for all the wishes that came true.
Now I am thankful that not all my wishes came true. :)
I’ve always come back to this blog when i’ve felt dejected, depressed, emotionless, bored, low on energy, and every time.. no kidding.. every single time, this blog has lived up to its reputation of filling me with loads of Aha!
Thank you.
Tonz of love and luck to the first book!
Bless you!
Dear UM.
Hi ! I may fail to describe in words, the Aha* moment, I have the evening I received this information, ” The Urban Monk Diaries” ———-in my hand. I really want to treasure it just the way , it remained exhilerating for me when I joined Fb two years back and when I realized this Power of Words – through Your Treasure Hunting Posts. But, this is my heartiest wish and desire , that You- Boy , are a True Treasure of this entire Journey. May the Auspiciousness tread Your way . God bless You and all.
Regards,
Sunita Chauhan
P.s:-
Can’t wait to hold this Precious Treasure in my hands. Will share an incident after its successful Journey.
:)
Thanks for your blessings for the book, Sunita. May it be your best friend..Do post later, your story and experiences…@UM
Thank you.
beautiful :) We were, are and will always be a part of the journey… because it isnt exclusively yours anymore. Its ours.
All the best :)
Varkha: With that line, you made my whole page irrelevant :) thanks dear. I remember fondly, your SMS on getting answers to “The holiday quiz” post. Will see you at a book launch soon. Take care and good luck with the capoeira.
This is awesome!!!
Congratulations UM!!! :D
Wishing you every success in the world! :)
Sweet of you, EC. Thanks for your wishes.
It ‘l b a real enlightenment.. Waiting for the copy. Best wishes !
Thanks Ruil. I am sure you will enjoy it :-) Let me know after you get the book in your hands.
The cover is so vibrant. The book is going to add colour to millions.All the best.Waiting eagerly to hold the copy in my hands.
Hi Alka, Thanks for your generous compliments. Its my honor that the book reaches you.Thanks for following the blog all these months. I am sure the book will make you go “Wow”. Wishing you all the best, always.
How old is the youngest reader monk?
Oh! dunno..the youngest who wrote to me is in 8th grade.
I am sure this book would do well UM… I like the cover.. Very cool… All the very Best.. Hope this books reaches millions of soul and they all learn to cherish it..
Thanks for your wishes, Dhana :-)
Kuddos! All the best for the book launch and for many more to come ! :)
Wish you all the success in your adventure
Thanks Surbhi..Thoroughly enjoyed writing the blog; the book is a perfect dessert :-) am sure you will enjoy it too.