The word “Turn” when used as a verb can mean 29 different things. When used as a noun it can mean a further 17 things. Mostly we use this word as a transitive verb that means to move to face in a different direction or toward a particular location, or move something so that it does this.
It is still etched very clearly in my memory when Dr. Pasupathy was behind the mike trying to keep the audience comfortable while the guest of honor, Yuhi Sethu was running late to the Toast Master’s Annual Debate. He said “Our Chief Guest Yuhi just took a U turn and he should be here any moment”. This comment was so natural and spontaneous in the given circumstance that the crowd broke out into a laughter fit and kept their calm till the guest arrived and arrive he did in his pajamas.
Since then the strange turn of events in my life turned my stomach and made me wonder if I could, ever be turned to a butterfly to, fly free from all troubles and turn a new leaf. When it was my turn to turn the tide around, I froze and panicked. I could not even turn a corner not to mention my inability to turn a profit. I turned pessimist. It was time I turned to few trusted people who have always given me direction.
This was when I remembered my grandfather. A very efficient businessman, who kept his records clean, paid his taxes, earned the goodwill of his employees, respect in the society and depended only on his ability. Despite the success of his ventures he was still the simple man who insisted on doing his own chores. He was a man with a strong will and clear vision. When all went against his wishes he still persisted and trusted. Patience and hard work paid off. If there was one word that could be used to relate to him then it was Ethics. He was always right.
Someone once told me that to be an entrepreneur one needs to have balls of steel. At last I guess I have figured out my mantra to success is to keep it short and simple.
Sometimes my thoughts turn to the past. Today my grandfather would have turned 100 (had he missed a cardiac arrest 17 years ago); there were some celebrations with the family coming together and having a good time and a fantastic feast. In these parts of the world celebrating the birth anniversary of someone who has been dead for a while is not very uncommon, especially a public figure. Since granddad was a very simple man it was very funny to see our huge families unite and find an excuse to celebrate. Probably all the pomp and the shameless public display of wealth would have made him “Turn in his Grave” (Btw, we did not leave that option open for him since 1991).You have inspired me to be an entrepreneur and taught us all to live life in a simple and successful way Gramps, may your soul rest in peace. It will soon be my turn……….
