strategy

When the Road Ahead is Found Behind

Why the courage to retrace can redefine progress

It was one of those carefree summer holidays. My cousin and I would rent bicycles after breakfast and set out with no map, no plan, only a promise to return before sunset. The forests of Dakshina Kannada welcomed us with winding mud roads, small wooden bridges, and the quiet thrill of discovery. He would pick a turn, and I would follow, confident that in any direction a relative’s house awaited us with food and rest.

6

Gentle Push

Change stands knocking at my door,
A whispered truth I’ve heard before.
Yet feet are rooted, hands held tight,
Clutching comfort, fearing flight.

I know the path, the steps are clear,
But doubt still lingers, wrapped in fear.
What if I stumble? What if I break?
What if this leap is a mistake?

Then softly, gently, truth replies,
“The stars don’t shine in stagnant skies.
Let go, lean in, embrace the sway—
The winds of growth will find their way.”

So I exhale, release the past,
And take the step, my heart beats fast.
For change is not the end of me,
But all I’m meant to rise and be.
3

Gentle Push

Change stands knocking at my door,
A whispered truth I’ve heard before.
Yet feet are rooted, hands held tight,
Clutching comfort, fearing flight.

I know the path, the steps are clear,
But doubt still lingers, wrapped in fear.
What if I stumble? What if I break?
What if this leap is a mistake?

Then softly, gently, truth replies,
“The stars don’t shine in stagnant skies.
Let go, lean in, embrace the sway—
The winds of growth will find their way.”

So I exhale, release the past,
And take the step, my heart beats fast.
For change is not the end of me,
But all I’m meant to rise and be.
1