Of clearing clutter in relationships and friendships.

 A few days ago, AOL coolage,  which is really popular with Indian colleges and universities, came over to my home and interviewed me.
Do watch the interview. (It is 7 minutes and 24 seconds long)  It's got footage of my home, my son and even my garden cat which sneaks in, when my dog isn't around :) I quite liked how Coolage has put it all together.
Here is the link: (Do watch and come back and  leave me a comment after you do)

http://videos.coolage.in/coolage/a-chat-with-the-best-selling-author-preeti-shenoy-518120723

Today's post is going to be on friendship. A little while back, I was chatting with a good friend of mine. She told me that she was going to cut out a certain person from her life, because she felt taken for granted, far too many times. My friend was there for her , through a bad time and had only been supportive. Yesterday, she made a very rude remark, about my friend, in front of all the office colleagues. Even though my friend told her that she was hurt, this person did not bother to apologise. My friend had given her far too many chances and one of her resolutions this year, was to not let anyone treat her badly. So she walked away, closed the chapter and moved on. My friend is glad that she sticks by it and it has improved her life dramatically.

I nodded in agreement because I knew exactly what she was talking about. I too have had my share of 'I-will-call-you-only-when-something-good-happens-to-me-I-don't much-care-about-what-happens-you'  kind of friends. Over a period of time, I have realised these kinds of friends aren't worth my time. I would rather spend it with the ones who are genuine and who care.

Mostly, when something fantastic happens to you, you can judge by the reactions of the people you share the news with, what they really feel about it. It is hard to fake happiness and enthusiasm. It is also hard to mask plain old jealousy.

Many a time, we make excuses for our friends.."Oh--maybe she was pre-occupied.. Oh maybe, he was too busy and will get back." Ask yourself, what the pattern has been in your friendship. Is this always the case? Do they get back when they said they will? Or do they get so caught up in their world that they forget all about you? Do they call only to talk about their successes, their problems? Or are they there to give you a patient ear? What is your gut feel? Are you happy about the way you are treated?

If you are, cherish the friendship, nurture it.

But if there is even a seed of doubt in your mind, rethink.

It is only when we clear clutter that positive energy flows--be it in your home, in your relationships or your life.

Focus only on that which makes you feel good, energised and positive about yourself.
Let go of the others. (It may be painful at first as nobody likes chnage, especially if the change shakes you out of your comfort zone)

Once you do this, you will be making place for more meaningful relationships.
 
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