Congratulations to all the graduating students! It is a moment of immense pride to see each one of you emerge as successful engineers, ready to contribute to society and the world at large. As we embark on new journeys, it’s essential to acknowledge and express gratitude to those who have shaped us: our teachers, parents, and well-wishers who have stood by us, propelling us to where we are today.
However, the road to self-improvement doesn’t end here. Identifying our strengths and weaknesses is an ongoing journey that helps us grow personally and professionally. I confess, one of my shortcomings has been maintaining relationships over time. We may all struggle with this, but the soul of any relationship should be authenticity and genuineness. To illustrate this, I wish to share two personal anecdotes.
Years ago, while striving to forge a relationship with an Indian multinational automotive manufacturing company, I initially faced hurdles. The breakthrough came when I encountered someone kind enough to introduce me to his senior – a batchmate of mine. Although we had lost touch over the years, our reconnection was effortless and joyful. This relationship not only bridged a gap professionally but also rekindled an old friendship.
The second story involves my daughter’s opportunity to intern at a school in Singapore. As a parent, I was filled with apprehensions due to the unfamiliarity of the environment. It was at this juncture that I serendipitously met an elderly couple at the airport. They recognized me and informed me that their son, a VIT alumnus, was now the content head at a leading OTT network in Singapore. I had lost touch with him over the years. The very next day, he called me, inviting me for lunch. This encounter reassured me, and I felt relieved knowing my daughter had someone reliable to lean on in a foreign land.
These instances underline an overlooked yet paramount aspect of our lives: relationships. The relationships we cultivate and nurture can often be our lifelines, acting as bridges during challenging times. The power of relationships is not limited to personal life alone; it extends to our professional sphere, where it can open doors to opportunities and collaborations.
We must remember not to undermine relationships. Instead, embrace them and invest time and effort in maintaining these bonds. Applaud and support each other in your endeavours. The synergy of these relationships can make your journey more fulfilling and rewarding.
In conclusion, let’s carry forward the spirit of gratitude and the ethos of maintaining relationships as we step into the next chapter of our lives. Let’s celebrate not just individual success, but the power of collective growth through the ties that bind us. Cherish and nurture these relationships as you would your career, because they hold the power to transform not just your professional life but your personal one as well.
