Words My Grandfather Left Me: 10 Pearls of Wisdom

While some people leave behind houses, heirlooms, or photographs, my grandfather left me his words.

He never wrote them down or hung them on a wall. He just spoke quietly, now and then. I was lucky to share a close bond with my maternal grandfather and to grow up around him. I didn’t always understand what he said, but I jotted his words down whenever I could, planning to revisit them later. Looking back now, I see how valuable they are.

These ten lines are his, first spoken in Telugu, our mother tongue. I have tried my best to choose the right words to translate them. Hope they resonate with you in some manner.

If you can handle something, do not complain.

When playing a game of chess, do not let a third person interfere. It doesn't matter if that person is a world champion.

Read books. Refrain from judging one by its cover. You never know when that knowledge will come of use to you.

Write down your thoughts. You will either be amused at your naivety or impressed by your wisdom later.

You are the King/Queen when you go on a stage. Remember this. Forget everything else.

Be honest with yourself, and others. You'll sleep peacefully.

Silence is the only sound you need during introspection.

Respect time. Be punctual. It doesn't matter if you are five or fifteen minutes early, but avoid being late.

When silence can mend things, do not blabber. Where words are needed, do not remain silent. But use them well.

Before delusions in a relationship grow like a tree, cut them at their roots. Lose an argument, not the loved one.

He is gone now. But his words will always remain with me, guiding my life in unimaginable and unpredictable ways. And always, at the right time.