Conversation with Two Teens

March 3, 2016

Dear Nipun,

I must say that I had the most unexpectedly moving conversation ever. It was like a blow of cold water right when I wasn’t looking. Karan has been a big fan of yours and only after meeting you did I truly understand his admiration for you.

I apologize for such a late response. I’ve been overwhelmed and engulfed by a lot of thoughts and emotions. Every time I have tried to frame a response I've trashed the email - words were doing no justice to the gratitude and humbleness I was feeling. I simply couldn’t encompass everything. So after a little push from Karan, I am set to do the best I can - I had to start at some point, and how better than by thanking you.

You see, my life was all mapped out, or so I thought. A few years ago I had spent a lot of time by myself thinking about what I really what to do all my life, and I had decided that I want to contribute to the humankind by studying the universe. I always thought this was the bigger picture of it all. What else could it be right, other than studying the universe itself?

Moreover, Math and Physics give me the rush. However, that bigger picture was obscured by a lot of selfish motives. These motives were mostly outcomes - be the smartest student, have the perfect student life, go to the best grad school, and get involved in a cutting edge research project. I had an image of myself of what I wanted to achieve.

And then I read the transcript of your first speech. About living in the moment, doing what really gives you the kick, not thinking of the outcome. I have read and heard this idea so many times. However, I think it was meeting you in person and then reading about what you think that is making me re-think everything harder. I’m summarizing everything you said and what I think so shabbily that I almost feel guilty.

I also read your article on Pancho. I got intrigued and eventually read an interview he had given to The Moon. That just blew me over, all over again.

It is not only all of these new perspectives, but also your thoughts on giftivism that has been making me think. I had never ever thought of service, giving and offering the way you described it. It takes immense courage to face one’s vulnerability of giving a part of oneself without thinking of the outcome, but I guess that is what also empowers and helps one to discover one self. I have never yet performed an act of kindness without looking for something in return. The acts I performed never inspired me to do more of them. Now, I understand why. I was looking for others approval, appreciation and gratitude. Whereas, they were meant for me to feel grateful.

I still have a lot to experience, re think, do and feel. Like you mention, it’s the inner inspiration, not external, that will fuel the fire.

I’m immensely grateful to you for everything you’ve shared and been, to both of us. I wish I could convey ALL that you’ve made me start thinking about.

Warm hug back to you :)
S*



On Wed, Mar 2, 2016 at 11:38 AM, Karan wrote:

Dear Nipun-bhai,

I have been smiling non stop since today afternoon. :))

I am really touched by the stories of Pancho. All these instances are heart-warming. I am in awe, how can someone react the way Pancho did in all these situations. Its extremely inspiring.

Also, your talk on the Spirit of Service is very unique and raises a sense of compassion in me. I am still wondering how you chose the path that you did, in middle of the internet boom and in the Silicon Valley. All your ideas and stories have moved me. Thank you very much for sharing them.



This image very well answers the question I had asked you about the connection between service and meditation. It is simple but extremely powerful.

Moved by you and these stories, today I did a small simple act of kindness - I gave a box of cookies to one of the cashiers in the food courts who greets everyone everyday with a wonderful smile; I felt like doing it many times before, but never did it. Finally today I feel so happy! :)

It is indeed that I can smell the oranges but cannot describe it.

I will also write my story of receiving kindness (that I shared with you) and post it on KindSpring soon.

Thank you Nipunbhai for showing me the way of life. :)

Warm Regards,
Karan


On Mon, Feb 29, 2016 at 9:38 PM, Nipun wrote:

Dear Karan (and S*),

What a joy to get some time together. :)

As we spoke, here's the article on Pancho:
https://www.dailygood.org/story/127/if-you-want-to-be-a-rebel-be-kind/

And here's the talk (when I was about your age :)) on my personal service journey:
https://www.dailygood.org/story/662/spirit-of-service-nipun-mehta/

If I can ever support any of your endeavors, let me know any time.

With hugs, now from a distance, :)

Nipun


On Mon, Feb 29, 2016 at 1:44 PM, Karan wrote:

Dear Nipunbhai,

Thank you very much for all the moments we spent together. I am extremely delighted that you came for TEDxPSU and I got this opportunity to meet you. All your inspiring stories and experiences really touched me. :)

A special thanks for today's pre-airport chat!! I am thrilled that we had it. I am sure S* enjoyed it too. Listening to you was really a transforming moment for me. I hope to do some kind acts and put these ideas to practice.

I hope you too had a pleasant stay and experience. Hope you have a safe and comfortable flight too.

Once again thanks a lot!! :)

Warm regards,
Karan