As Jagadish mentioned, this is the fourth time we are celebrating this wonderful day together. I can scarcely believe that we have been together that long. Four years is indeed a long time, and even longer considering all the distance we have to transcend. I don’t honestly know though if Valentine’s is as special as manufacturers of cards etc make it out to be. On the other hand though, I would’nt say no to a romantic card, wonderful bunch of roses and some delicious chocolate! (Although, come to think of it, I did tear the very first V-day card I got into shreds and tossed it into the trash-It was a pretty long time ago and I think I thought it ridiculous at that age). What I love most about this day though is how it puts everyone into a better mood. The world would be such a better place if people just loved each other a little bit more.

This year, this day is special for a lot of reasons, but especially so because Jagadish gave me a very special gift indeed (so special it’s a secret ). Okay, not really a secret. Most everyone knows about it, really. Anyway, I don’t know how and when he thought of it, but it was thoughtful, romantic, sweet, and as perfect as it gets and I first want to thank him for his thoughtfulness and caring, and the love behind the gift; so thank you Jagadish for… everything you do!

Today was also, incidentally, my turn to present my data in a more formal & organized manner at lab meeting. It was extremely gratifying to see my PI excited about my work. If he’s excited, I’m doubly excited! My plans for taking my qualifying exam this summer are slowly but surely solidifying. It was a most satisfactory day in lab, although I did not do a single experiment. I didnt even lift a pipette, to be completely honest Hey, it’s Valentine’s–I’m allowed some slack!

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Hmm. All this though reminds me of the days when I was applying for various PhD programs. It was Jagadish who persistently encouraged me to keep on applying. In fact, the deadline for the PhD program that I am in right now was up when I chanced upon it on the web. He insisted I pursue it–call up the Program Director and talk to him, he said. That might have been the most significant incident that turned my career around. The PD first brushed me away gently, but as I told him about me and how interested I was, got interested, encouraged me to apply, later interviewed me when he came down to San Jose, called me back for an interview at San Diego, and a few days later, I was elated beyond imagination upon hearing I made the cut. I am still thankful to him for this…but this is just one of many, many things he has done and continues to do.

I hope everyone finds the love of their lives, and is able to make them their companion and partner for life. I really think you must experience true love to know how amazing it can be…even when life sucks, even when you constantly fight, even when nothing seems to go right… Love truly makes life beautiful. Happy Valentine’s Day everybody!

PS: That movie that Jagadish mentioned–really is worth a watch

Related posts:

1. My Meandering Muse
2. Valentine’s Day: #5
3. My very own Rhett Butler