Blast from the past

A space to share your feedback. Over to you.

Best Letter
BLAST FROM THE PAST
Last week's story on letter-writing, Putting Pen to Paper (July 17), literally brought tears to my eyes.
I admit, I haven't picked up a pen to scribble down so much as a 'Dear' or  'Love' in a while now, but the story reminded me of how much I used to love penning down thoughts to my beloved grandfather.
My late maternal grandfather has played a large role in shaping my life. I am proud to say that I learnt the art of letter-writing from him.
Long before the digital age, there was a time when I corresponded via letters with my 'Dadu' (maternal gradndad). As a kid, I used to look forward to receiving a letter from him every month (I have been living in the UAE for almost 20 years now). He addressed me using a special nickname, and wrote about everything (in the most beautiful handwriting I have seen to date!), from how the pet cats at his place were doing, to how my idol, Padma Shri Shah Rukh Khan, wasn't a good actor. I used to love arguing back in my squirmy handwriting (this was back when I was 12-year-old!).
Even my birthday cards from him always had a special message. Maybe that's why I still feel like cards  and letters are still worth making and giving.
He kept all the letters and cards that he received from his grandchildren in a file, while I kept stacking all his letters and cards in a special box.
Undoubtedly, that box is my most prized possession to date and I can never part with it. On my lowest days, I open that treasured box and it never fails to bring a smile to my face.
So, thank you for this feature. It made my day!
Congratulations on your winning entry, D Ganguli! We'll be in touch soon.

FASHION FORWARD

When it comes to fashion, change is the only constant. It is not easy to feel the pulse of the average retail consumer, and even harder to predict future trends in the industry. But designer Lamya Abedin (July 17) manages to do it in style!
Lamya has constantly been scaling new heights, as seen by her latest accomplishments, such as collaborating with National Geographic and being included in the coffee table book Emirati Women Achievers. Moreover, she has revolutionised the abaya fashion scene. Long gone are the days where abayas were only black in colour. Today, abayas can be found in just about any colour, pattern and material. This is a niche market and an area in the fashion industry that has immense potential for creativity and diverse designs in the years to come.
As the article states, abayas are a style statement, but they are also a part of one's identity. Lamya is definitely an inspiration for all young designers who have an eye for fashion.
After all, she has proved that women can look elegant and stylish while also respecting their culture and traditions.
Krishnan Vaidyanathan, via email
MIND GAMES
The article It's all in the mind (July 17), penned by Oksana Tashakova, highlights the importance of having the right mindset - and came at the right time of the year. With the festive season of Eid now upon us, there is no better time for people to analyse their way of thinking, and developing a more spiritual mindset - one of generosity, forgiveness and sacrifice.
As Oksana mentioned in the article, it is our mindset that influences the way we see our accomplishments and setbacks. If one does not have the right mental approach, even if he or she were to find themselves in paradise, it wouldn't be long before they started wondering, "Yes, it's perfect, but."
I believe when knowledge is reflected through the prism of our personality, it becomes our philosophy. However, when the knowledge does not fall in line with our personality, it is termed 'wisdom'. We have to find a way to acquire this wisdom and make it part of our philosophy. And, for that, a flexible mindset is a must. We all have our own philosophies. But, as Oksana puts it, the question remains, 'Do we have the right mindset to garner wisdom?'
Shivani Ramachandran, via email
SUMMER-TIME EATS
Kari Heron was right in saying that the temperature is reaching all new heights (When Hunger Strikes, July 17). Back in Britain, my home country, summer is the perfect season to invite all your near and dear ones over. In fact, in most places around the world, summer is celebrated as the perfect time to let loose. Alas, with the sweltering heat of Dubai, this is nearly impossible, and I was losing hope of having fun in the coming months. Which is exactly why I was delighted to read Kari Heron's tips on how to have a summer shindig. Not only are the tips realistic, they seem downright simple (even a klutz like myself will have a hard time messing up!). I can't wait to try them out.
Anita Lawrence, via email