Who are the biggest influences in your life?
I do not prefer the heater in the car unless the cold is extremely unbearable. What I do prefer while driving with a friend is making a stop for a cup of tea or coffee. I think winters are a great season for having good discussions since the mind is not exhausted from the extreme heat of the summers.
On this particular day, at the book launch, a quote was mentioned from an eminent personality from a religious background and later on the drive back home, a discussion was struck between me and my friend. The personality was a disciple of someone, but did a great deal more in his life than his teacher, creating an impact in the world. Although the late teacher has many ardent followers even today, what the late disciple did is more widely regarded and his words have echoed into the future, in the minds of people across generations.
So basically, the influence of one person had spread and multiplied to great folds to the point that it stretched across the globe in the form of positive inspiration.
We have all been influenced or are still being influenced by the thoughts or actions of another. There are those with their share of doubts about whether the influence diminishes originality and rather places a kind of restriction in another’s way of life, but I won’t ponder much into that.
I would be honest, I had great influences and I had a great life, no not because of some realisation of wealth and fame dream but because it allowed me to understand my life better and have clarity over many things.
No, I did not dive into history or look at those considered the pillars of the presently breathing world. I began from home, my grandparents, parents, then the outside friends, neighbours, classmates, coworkers, a special mention to teachers and professors who I wish taught more from beyond the syllabus.
No matter who it is, everyone has something to teach. A lesson from their worst actions, an inspiration or hope from their best ones. I think it is best to be influenced by those whom you know more than an article, book, interview or video clip. You know how they have truly lived and how they have truly been.
Written by Anuran Chatterji
Early Morning Memories 
One response to “A Life Forged”
This is a beautifully reflective piece—quiet, thoughtful, and deeply human. I love how you weave everyday moments like winter drives, shared tea, and conversation into a larger meditation on influence and legacy. Your emphasis on learning first from those closest to us—family, teachers, friends—feels especially grounded and sincere. It reminds us that influence isn’t always loud or famous; often it’s lived, observed, and felt over time. A gentle, honest reflection that stays with the reader long after finishing.
LikeLike