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Oh, how the tables turn

Columns in WHND dated Nov 8 pwere eye-openers with regards to the need for companionship and the arrival of unwarranted guests

Oh, how the tables turn
Life's Like That and Last Word (Nov 8) were particularly eye-openers with regards to the need for companionship and the arrival of unwarranted guests.  I can relate to both the columns. I got my first taste of independence when I moved to college at 17. However, as my departure loomed closer, I noticed a shift in my parents' demeanour. Regardless, I did not let their sombre mood affect me. Before I knew it, I was in America and phone calls, letters and telegrams became the norm. I began to miss the smell, sights and sounds of home, and I ached for home-cooked meals and my family. Once when I was walking down a street, I smelt Indian food and tears streamed down my face as I remembered my mother's food. Noticing this, the restaurant owner comforted me and gave me a prepaid phone card to call my parents. The next time I saw my parents, I could not control my tears. As I write this, my son is short-listing universities and I already miss him. I know I will cry when I say goodbye, just as my parents did. Luckily, my cooking skills aren't up to the mark and so a longing for home cooked meals will not be the reason he cries when he sees me next.
 
Abode of benevolence
The cover story (Royal Rendezvous, Nov 8) says "When good does, people see and when great, people follow". HRH Princess Lamia bint Majid Al Saud's acts of philanthropy in the form of self-recognition showcases individuality. Her acts of benevolence are a mark of respect to humanity as she extends her kindness to the world. She has undoubtedly redefined feminism by applauding inequality.
Putting society before oneself, paves the way for a good individual for a great nation. Every act of philanthropy plays a vital role in education, employment and economy which becomes integral for a nation to become great. As a pioneer of several causes, she leads the way in creating a world where everyone lives as family. This is just the beginning for Saudi Arabia.
Arun Pratap Singh, by email
 
Women of the world 
One solid statement in Royal Rendezvous (Nov 8) that caught my attention was, "I don't believe men and women are equal," for all the positive reasons. The world has many perspectives on this topic, but women will always have a special place in the hierarchy. Don't tell me God created women so that they could be tossed around. Our abilities and prospects call for a better mankind. And they are everywhere, fuelling generations. HRH Princess Lamia bint Majid Al Saud is one among those great people who aspire to leave a mark and set an example for the future. Women are true warriors!
Sravya Nagalakunta, by email
 
*I never thought about the value of self-awareness until I made a couple of close friends. We can do unimaginable things with our inbuilt power but the real difficult task is finding our identity and purpose. Devoting time to yourself is the key to success. It is important that you know your inner self.
Life-long learners like HRH Princess Lamia bint Majid Al Saud (Royal Rendezvous, Nov 8) recognise the importance and joy of growth and improvement. By advocating programmes that empower young people through quality education and training opportunities, she is not afraid to speak her mind. Driven by the need to raise others up, she has become a champion for women's and children's rights. Let's all join hands and make changes so that the world becomes a better place for humanity.
Malika, by email