that Mother's Bond

One of my all-time favorite pictures of my Mom with me as it embodies that sacred relationship between a mother and daughter perfectly.

Let’s fast forward a few years … Shortly after my wedding, my marriage started to spiral down the toilet. My heart and mind were at war. I was in a deep depression for one and a half year. So many thoughts and emotions running through my mind – why am I not happy, what changed, why do I feel like I’m in prison, can I live like this for the rest of my life, is death better than living like this, what will my family think, what will the Indian society think, how will society treat my family if I pursue a divorce, what happened to the happily ever after and am I a failure?

Infinite questions and never-ending thoughts.

I questioned and judged my emotions. I didn’t know why I was alive and what purpose, if any, my existence was serving. I reduced my contact with friends and family. I bottled up all my emotions and let them stir within me. I never shared or confided in anyone. I did not want to talk to anyone and desperately wanted to hide. I was numb and devoid of any emotions by this point.

When the fateful events of September 11th happened, I remember thinking – I wish I was on that plane; at least someone else would be here with their loved ones.

I was lost – present only in body. And dead woman walking.

Then, one day, it was time to call Mom. She lives 8,441 miles away from me. I had not spoken with her in weeks. I pulled myself together and pep talked myself into putting on a happy voice while I fool and convince her that life is grand. It could not be any better.

Ring, ring. Mother picks up. After a few niceties, she asked me how my husband was doing. I replied, “He’s doing really well. He got a promotion and ……” She stopped me mid-sentence and said, “You know [pause]. I’m your mother. You can tell me anything.”

She knew! I could not put on a façade anymore. My game was up. To this day, I can still hear her saying those words to me. I had been longing for those words of rescue like the deserts need the rain. I cried intensely and finally shared what was in my heart. She asked me if I wanted to part ways. I said yes. And the rest was history.

Mom’s words told me that she cares deeply about my well-being and happiness. And that I have her blessings in whatever decision I make, even if it’s against the norms of our Indian culture and what society deems to be acceptable. She certainly surprised me. I’m so proud of her and look up to her for that. Hence, my favorite picture.

To this day, I am still baffled and amazed at my Mom. She was miles away on the other side of the world. She had no information, no visual and no clues. But she didn’t need any of that. A mother just knows! It’s that special bond and connection that no words can explain. My Mom gave birth to me so I could “live” my life not just once, but twice.

So here’s a heartfelt shout out to all the mothers around the world and those that are with their kiddos in spirit. You, as mothers, are very special beings. Selfless, patient, loving and supportive beyond measure. Happy Mother’s Day!

Published: May 11, 2014

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Twizted Myrtle is sustained by readers like you. As a solo creator, crafting each piece demands significant time, money and resources. Your ongoing support, big or small, makes a real difference. If the content here enriches your life in any way, please consider becoming an ally as a sustaining patron.

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From Global Roots to Unearthed Truths

Asha was born in India, raised in Oman, and lived in London before settling in the U.S. Her multi-continent, multi-cultural, global experience was a clear predecessor that fed her insatiable curiosity – and the inspiration for her defining Twizted voice.

As a rare breed, she’s truly mastered the art of metamorphosis in body, mind and soul. In her first adult incarnation she graduated Magna Cum Laude from ASU and pursued a vibrant career in the hospitality industry. Then, she grew new wings. Ever intrepid and intrigued by the unknown, she launched and helped grow a thriving e-Commerce technology company with her business partner, proving herself as an entrepreneur and demonstrating both the skills and resolve required of a woman intent on succeeding in a male-dominated industry.

In 2014, she boldly stepped into uncharted territories again, starting a new venture, Twizted Myrtle, in pursuit of her undeniable thirst to confront and create consequential social change. Few understood why she would leave behind a burgeoning e-Commerce business that served marquee clients like Amazon, Samsonite, Viacom, Pokémon, Red Bull, Taylor Swift and other household names – all during the pinnacle of a successful career.

The impetus for leaving the traditional business world for a less conventional path was intensely personal; a deafening voice and inimitable force inside her told Asha that she needed to contribute to the world in a very personal and life-changing way. Asha found herself in the throes of depression and new depths of loneliness. She was acutely aware her “success” was empty. Like many, she had lost her soul in the daily grind of chasing unhappiness.

Ironically, during this time, her depression revealed spiritual clarity; it connected her to the struggles of others who face the same suffocating walls of relenting darkness. Photography became a sacred respite that unleashed a strident voice; like a caged tiger set free, she could never again return to the confined existence dictated by society.

Twizted Myrtle became the multi-pronged platform to confront social issues that we’ve been plagued with for centuries. To break free from these vicious circles, she challenges what we accept, without question, as “wisdom,” and our conventional way of thinking through artistic means – provocative writings, thought-jarring podcasts and captivating photography.

Bringing a refreshing curiosity with the unique empathy of a true global citizen, she speaks with an open mind and unfiltered honesty on a host of issues where most would fear to tread. Her work compels us to see and think differently to help unlock our mindsets from self-imposed limitations. In doing so, she seeks to help people break free from the invisible chains that enslave us as oblivious prisoners.