My Internet Friend

The Internet has become a fascinating tool.

I remember many years ago when I first received my desktop computer. I was so excited by it that I stayed online for hours every day just exploring its usage for the first time. I could really find anything that came into my mind, just by typing in a keyword and seeing hundreds or maybe thousands of search results pop up. Today, it is still a very useful means and has helped tremendously since very few products come with physical instruction manuals.

Aside from that,  one of the big advantages has been creating a pathway of socialization through the computer.  I have met so many interesting people over the years, some business associates when I was working, and others who transitioned into “acquaintances” and even "friends.”  An amazing journey especially with all the thoughtful notes locally and elsewhere sent to myself and family, as I was recovering from my illness.

The most interesting part of all of this to me is how connected we have all become. It is so great being able to speak to someone on here, either verbally through an application like Skype, or even through Facebook Messenger. Everything is instant! The beauty of it is that it does not matter where that person lives, you can even see each other using a webcam and most often you can chat for free.

Let me just give you one example of my recent connection through the Internet:

I was on my Facebook account and I saw a photograph that was posted by a gentleman named Arvind K. Pandey. We had corresponded with each other over the Internet and he lives in Prayag, Uttar Pradesh, India. We have exchanged messages with each other and have shared articles and other posts that we have found to be of interest or inspiration.  

Arvind is both a lawyer, practicing at Allahabad High Court, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, and a freelancer whose works have found place in many major publications across the globe. He also runs a blog: www.indowaves.wordpress.com which showcases his work.

So what does this all mean? Well, my sister, Marilyn was coming to visit me, so it started when I saw this photograph of him on Facebook and the message attached.

 

Here's what was written about him and the young lady standing with him:

"Rekha Pandey, eldest among my sisters, tying Rakhi on my wrist this Raksha Bandhan...

This Hindu festival is dedicated to the personal bond between brother and sister. A sacred thread gets tied on the wrist of brother by the sister to ensure his well beingness! Brother, in lieu of that, ensures her protection!"

I responded with:

"Amazing. My sister is coming to visit me soon and I read this terrific story."

Here was his reply sent back to me:

"Glad that the post struck a chord with you! This festival which is aimed at strengthening bond between brother and sister is usually celebrated in the month of August! Is there a similar tradition amongst other religions? I can't say."

It was amazing to me that we were sharing a similar bond,  at a time when we were both celebrating our sibling connection, regardless of being miles apart!  I was not aware of this special festival either until now, so I am sure many will find this information interesting. 

I hope you enjoyed this blog posting and if you have a sibling that is near or far, make sure to get in touch in some way. After all, it is never too late to reach out and say hello.