10 years.
Five cities.
Two countries.
An undergrad degree.
One Masters degree.
A year of unemployment.
Four Europe trips.
Multiple heartbreaks.
Two jobs.
One blog.
A successful Tarot reading practice.
One published book.
One art channel.
One parent lost.
Could this past decade be any more eventful?
It was in the final year of the decade, that my life turned upside-down — in 2019, I suddenly lost my Ma — my Ma who meant everything to me. My Ma who is the reason for all I am today. And it is her that I would like to dedicate this post to.
As I close the decade and enter my 30s, I would like to thank my Mom for everything I have achieved and how far I’ve come in life. Wherever you are Ma, I hope this makes you proud.
Here are 5 things that I am most thankful for in the past decade and what I learnt from each one of them.
My Tarot practice
10 years back, around this time, I was a demure 20-year old putting up a Tarot stall at my college fest ‘Crossroads’ in SRCC, Delhi. Just an avocation at that time, I started at Rs. 10 per question. Little did I know how far this “hobby” of mine would go.
100% organically, without any paid marketing, my Tarot reader has reached far corners of the world and I now have a regular client base, globally. Thank you Ma, for buying me my first-ever deck of Tarot cards when I barely 13 and for always encouraging me to follow my bliss. Thank you for never discouraging me from pursuing my hobbies, unlike most parents.
To schedule a session with me, please visit my FB page: SoulSpeak Tarot
From my Tarot practice, I have learnt the value of perseverance and intent. It doesn’t matter how or where you start – if you keep at it and if your intentions are good, nothing can stop you from flourishing.
My travels
My first brush with travel was when I went to pursue MSc in Finance & Economics from the University of Warwick, UK. The one year I spent there, thousands of miles away from home moulded me in ways I can’t explain – I went on to become confident, bold, comfortable in my own skin.
Thank you Ma for sending me, first to Delhi and then to UK.
Thank you for putting my career and potential above your motherly instinct of having your youngest close to you.
I went on to explore many more countries, including a solo trip across Europe in mid-2019 – something my Ma was proudest of.
Through my travels, I learnt how to be truly independent and self-reliant. I learnt to appreciate the good things in life and be thankful for all I have.
My artwork
Always fond of sketching and drawing, I randomly started making doodles in 2016. Soon, orders for personalised doodles started flowing in from friends, acquaintances and colleagues.
My Ma, from whom I got my artistic genes, was supportive as always and would sometimes stare at my artwork for hours, and then buy me art kits. She must be swelling in pride to see her daughter do what she loved to do too: doodle.
Thank you Ma, for giving me the push to explore my creativity.
To place orders for personalised doodles or gifts, please visit my Instagram page:
SoulArt with Sonam
Through my artwork, I found peace. I learnt the true meaning of finding peace even amidst chaos.
“To give expression to your creativity is the biggest gift you can gift yourself.”
The lows – unemployment, grief, heartbreaks
If you think only good things happened to me this decade, you’re mistaken. I went through some very difficult times too.
Back in 2013, despite being an overachiever all my life, and despite having an education from among the world’s best universities, I was unable to land a job for almost a year.
Then, over the years, I had my heart broken in a million pieces.
And lastly, I grappled with the deepest kind of pain when I lost my Ma. To be woken up in a foreign country by a phone call from home, fly for 24 hours to see something you can never unsee and to do the last rites is something I wish no one ever has to go through.
From all of this, I learnt the hard fact that “life goes on” even though “sh*t happens”. All that matters is how you pick up the pieces and move on.
I learnt what true resilience looks like – I learnt to bounce back and face my fears.
Thank you Ma, for making me strong enough to handle all of it.
My writing
I started my blog in February 2016. What started as a diversion has slowly transformed into something that sets my soul on fire. The appreciation and encouragement I got from people has been overwhelming. And despite not being able to give much time to it in the last couple of years, my blog is being read in 151 countries globally – with a readership in the US equivalent to that in India. If this isn’t what successful blogging looks like, what is?
A couple of months after losing my mom, I asked myself this – what am I waiting for in life? That I was unable to launch my book while she was here is something I will never be able to accept completely. And so, I channelised my grief into something positive and wrote my debut book ‘From Stressed to Sorted’ which I self-published via Amazon KDP in December 2019 even as I juggled a full-time job in an investment bank.
A mix of fiction, non-fiction, practical hacks and doodles, the book has already helped many and the initial response has been truly overwhelming. Needless to say, the book is dedicated to my Ma.
Check out the reviews and pick a copy of my book (currently available at a massive discount!) here –
From Stressed to Sorted
From my journey as a blogger to author, I learnt that one can, indeed, manifest all you dream of. If something’s meant to be, it will.
I don’t know what the future holds for me. All I know is that I will always have her in my heart and the only way from here is upward.
One day, I will make Ma very proud.
Please tag me @sonamchamaria on Twitter when sharing my post.
“This post is a part of ‘DECADE Blog Hop’ #DecadeHop organised by #RRxMM Rashi Roy and Manas Mukul. The Event is sponsored by Glo and co-sponsored by Beyond The Box, Wedding Clap, The Colaba Store and Sanity Daily in association with authors Piyusha Vir and Richa S Mukherjee”
SoulSpeak with Sonam 
It is so good to come across a fellow Tarot Card Reader and Author, Sonam. Your past decade has been studded with highs and lows. Really sorry about your Mom. Her blessings from above are sure to bring you all that you desire. Wishing you a wonderful decade to follow!
LikeLike
Sonam… I am sorry for your loss.
You have taken things in your stride, become an author and are able to write your mind.
That’s what blogging is all about. I can feel your pain and at the same time my belief in “asking God for stronger backs” gets stronger. A multitude of things have happened the last decade. I am glad I got connected with your blog through this hop!
LikeLike
M really sorry for your loss Sonam. But, I am also happy to see that you have showed such positive strength to channelise your grief in the tasks which surely must have made your mother proud. As a mother myself, I can surely say, I would be really proud to have a daughter like you. With so many talents, you are a live inspiration for many youngsters. When people start giving excuses for not continuing their passions due to work, you are one example to prove that a person can pursue many things together.
I have shared this post with my teenage daughter with the hope that she learns a thing or two from you.
Bless you
#readbypreetispanorama
LikeLike
Hi Sonam, it is my first visit to your blog. From this post, it is evident that you have already made your Ma proud of you in various ways. Keep at it. Here’s to another decade of many highs!
LikeLike
So sorry for your loss, and kudos for the grit and perseverance you have shown in the last decade. You have faced adversities and let them make you stronger.
LikeLike
A decade of achievement I must say. I would have loved if you had shared how you came to terms with the loss of a parent. I had a hard time, more than 6 years to accept the loss.
LikeLike
Each and every word you shared are reflections of what made you and it was by your “Ma!”
I am sure she is listening to you
Keep writing because she has the left the legacy in you and keep that lamp burning …
LikeLiked by 1 person
That is such a kind thing to say Meera – thank you!
LikeLike
With having so many talents with you, you will definitely gonna make your maa feel proud for sure. I just can’t imagine the pain you have gone through by losing your mom. Hug you dearly and yes she is always with you. Best wishes for this decade
LikeLike
Your Ma would always watch for you and be with you. I got a bit emotional while reading this one. Hope you have a fulfilling next decade.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much. Yes, I feel she’s always watching over me. You too 🙂
LikeLike
I’m pretty sure your mom would be immensely proud of who you have grown to be. One of the most heartwarming post I have read. Keep up the good work. Lots of luck for the decade to come.
— rightpurchasing
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much – your words mean a lot – I hope she is proud. Thanks and same to you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
She sure is proud.
Good luck and best wishes 🙂
LikeLike
Awww loved it!! I loved the book too!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Vidhya ☺️
LikeLike
Beautifully laid out post with different facets of your personality and your learnings from each. I enjoyed reading it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Prerna ❤
LikeLike
I loved how you started the post with one-liners. That sums up the entire journey in a few words. I find a lot of similarities in your and my journey. The pain of losing a parent is irreparable and I know ti well. Hus to you. Also, we share an interest in art, writing, and travel. Good to connect with you here,
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Vartika – and omg, we have quite a few similarities! I would love to connect with you. Are you on Instagram?
LikeLike
Loved the honest recap of the decade and now i understand where your debut book came from. Has added that book to my TBR. Hugs and kudos to you for going through the parental loss. Losing a parent is always tough and stressful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much ❤️
Please let me know how you like it and do leave a review
Yes, losing a parent is heartbreaking.
LikeLike
Losing a parent is an unimaginable pain for any child and your post is a sweet dedication to your mother. Kudos to you for juggling all the roles so well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Disha!
It is indeed very painful. Thank you!
LikeLike
I can’t even imagine what you’re going through. But stay strong and engulf in all the happy memories. This is such a beautiful dedication post. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Shalini – glad you liked my writing ❤
LikeLike
So sorry for your loss. You are one strong and talented girl and your Ma has given you the right values. Your love for your mother is reflected in each and every word of this heartfelt and beautifully written post. I hope the next decade brings a lot of happiness and you continue to make your Ma proud because she is around you, always blessing you with the best.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Arushi – I am so glad my post touched a chord with you – I really do love her a lot.
I hope she is proud of me – will try to continue doing the things I do.
LikeLike
Thanks for sharing the story of your decade with us. I see you have taken the right steps this decade to take your career and business to greater heights in the next. Sorry for your loss of your mother. Sending you all the strength to cope with that.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Namratha – that is very kind of you ❤
LikeLike
Wow, learning from your perseverance I would remind myself of you on dark days. You have seen heights and depths in a decade and stood by. Your love for your Maa is seen in the entire post. How admirable it was that she encouraged you to pursue your path passionately.
Also, a big tight hug Sonam. A loss like this is irreversible. I hope the new decade you sore up higher. Your book in now in my TBR.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much!
I indeed love her a lot! Yes – she was very unlike conventional parents..
Thank you for understanding my loss. Hugs to you too ❤
Please do let me know how you like my book when you read it!
LikeLike
Always follow your passion!! Your Ma has been your pillar and so sad to loose her. But keep up with the good work and keep being positive. Hope to read your book soon!!!
LikeLike
Thank you Shail – that’s the dream!
Yes please – do pick a copy and also let me know how you like it!
LikeLike
Highs and lows are part of life and what makes a difference is how we deal with them. You certainly dealt very sensibly with them. It had been eventful decade for you. Loved knowing you 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Hemasha – rightly said. ANd yes, this decade was quite eventful for me!
It has been lovely knowing you too.
LikeLike
Art and blogging are the best two ways to go Stressed to sorted!! Wishing you all the success to come in all through the years!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes indeed Jyoti, well said! ❤
Wish you all the success as well!
LikeLike
You have indeed had such a diversified decade and done so much, all the best for next decade
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Pooja – yes, my decade was quite eventful.
Thank you and same to you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That was so beautiful and heartbreaking. Your mom sure raised a bright and brave daughter, who’s gone on to succeed in every way possible. Happy 2020!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Pavi ❤
Best of luck to you as well
LikeLike
Your post prompted me to check Tarot. I never knew that Tarot reading was a thing! Thanks for the info! – Rohit Verma
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s great Rohit! You should totally get a reading done sometime – maybe I can give you a discount as well 🙂
In the meanwhile, you can check this out:
https://soulspeakwithsonam.com/2018/09/16/tarot-card-reading-what-why-and-how-it-helps-you/
LikeLike
That’s so amzing, you are blessed with so many qualities,Iam So sorry for the loss of precious one i.e MOM Sonam, but her blessings are going to be with you at every stage of life, she must be very proud of her girl , from there too, as her girl is on the bright way of her achievements , wishingyou many more feathers to your cap in coming decades.
Archana
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Archana – I feel her blessings are with me whatever I do.
Thank you and same to you ❤
LikeLike
From my journey as a blogger to author, I learnt that one can, indeed, manifest all you dream of. If something’s meant to be, it will. Loved this and your debut book. Good luck😊😊🤗🤗🤗🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Sivaranjini!
And yes, I absolutely believe that all we dream of, can come true ❤
LikeLike
Sorry for your loss, Sonam… the love for your mom shines through every word in your post…hope this decade brings all good things!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Jayanthi – yes, I truly love her and miss her a lot.
Thank you and same to you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I loved how you start with a positive note! I am sorry for your loss. Vo Maa Hoti hai use sab pata chal jati hai. You are very brave and you add so many positives in your personality. Your book’s title is very intriguing. I loved your journey from tarot card reader to author. Best wishes and God bless you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Deepika – I am so glad you liked my book title – please do pick a copy when you have time 🙂
LikeLike
First I am very sorry for your loss..I know it must be so hard for you to get over this loss..but you had made your ma so proud by your amazing achievements in various field. I have to say you are a multitalented girl who owns so many beautiful feathers in your cap. all the best for new decade..great to get connected with you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for your words Surbhi ❤
I hope I've made her proud.
I'm so glad to connect with you as well!
LikeLike
I am sure your mom is surely proud of you Sonam
I am checking your instagram page right now as I love doodles.
Wishing you awesome new decade.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Romila – I hope she is.
ANd thank you for checking out my artpage!
YOu too have an amazing decade ahead!
LikeLike
Your mom would be so proud of you. Keep doing the good work.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Ruchi – I hope she is 🙂
LikeLike
You had an eventful decade and you have very lovingly expressed it.. Am sorry for your loss..Your mom has been a great support to you throughout your life and the pain of her loss is evident in your post..But she will always be around you blessing you always ..May you have numerous more victories in your life..
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Pashmeena – I believe her blessings will always be with me.
Thank you for your wishes and for liking my writing style ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your one liners said Everything about your decade . Losing a parent is the biggest loss . Life is shaken but you are a strong girl . Stressed to sorted ! Best wishes for your future too
LikeLiked by 1 person
People whom we love and lose never go away. They are always beside us.I have lost far too many people and I know how difficult it is.Just make her proud and u will feel so good. God bless
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is indeed difficult – the best we can do is carry on.
Thank you for your words 🙂
LikeLike
I loved your title from possibilities to milestones. And intro words says it has been indeed a happening decade for you. I’m sorry for your loss and can understand the emptiness as I also lost one parent in the last decade. So you are from SRCC wow. I look forward to reading your book for sure and your soul art page is really beautiful. I feel your Ma is a big inspiration for you and somewhere smiling looking at your success.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Pragun – its always tough losing a parent.
Yes – she is truly a big inspiration for me. Yes please – do read my book and let me know how you like it ❤
LikeLike
Your closeness to your mom shows in every word of this post Sonam. I’m sure she’s watching you and feeling proud of all that you’ve achieved. And you have achieved a lot. Loved the sweet pics that go with each memory, and the style of writing too.
God bless you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Radhika for appreciating my writing style. I hope your words are true and my Mom is really proud. God bless you too ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow… There surely are milestones. May you have a fantastic decade ahead. You surely are an artist. Your book is on my TBR now.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much!
Do provide me feedback on my book ❤
LikeLike
Wow! what a journey Sonam! I have been carrying a Tarot card with me for over 15 years now, but never had the time or the courage to get into it to learn it full fledged. Your decade has been eventful with ups and downs and I felt the impact when you said that you saw something that you could never unsee. Power to you girl
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glad you liked my writing. And whether you read Tarot cards full-time or not, I do believe they give a lot of peace and can be compared to a personal compass for guidance 🙂
LikeLike
Hi Sonam. I am so sorry for your loss and your post absolutely reflects how you miss mom. Lots of love and hugs.
I saw your book around on the blog chatter book review programme. And the title itself intrigued me though I have yet to read the book.
You made your way wonderfully through the decade, with your indomitable spirit. And I’m sure you will carry on like this. Your mom, somewhere there, is watching over you. Take care.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Sonia – your words mean a lot to me. Please do read and let me know your thoughts on it – I would love your feedback!
LikeLiked by 1 person
A touching and heart warming journey indeed!
You have risen like the Phoenix and emerged strong from your losses. Your artwork is a honest reflection of your soul. And it is beautiful.
I wish you the courage to achieve all your dreams…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Priyanka!
I don’t know about phoenix, but I did try my best to carry on 🙂
And so glad you liked my artwork!
LikeLike
Hi Sonam. I came to know about ur loss while reviewing ur book. I know ur pain. U r a brave girl and u have proved it all the way. When you’ll feel alone, just take shelter in art and writing. Stay blessed, best wishes.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Swarnali – Your words mean a lot to me
And yes – art and writing provide me with solace 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You have written a post that comes straight from the heart. Many congratulations on all your successes. Hope you achieve more and reach greater heights.
Cheers,
Meena from balconysunrise.wordpress.com
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Meena – so glad you liked my post 🙂
LikeLike
Loved your indomitable spirit. A heart touching write up. Kudos to you for holding in to your dreams and achieving such heights. Wishing you success always.
Deepika
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Deepika
Hugs ❤
LikeLike
First of all I am so sorry for your loss. each word of ur blog screams of how madly u miss your mom. But i am sure she would be very very proud of u for everything u have achieved so far. the badges of art, tarrot, blog shine across beautifully. N crossroads took me back to 2011 when my sister was in SRCC and we would invariably attend on of the most sought after DU fest.. time has made u strong and may u keep following ur heart every single day.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Supriti,
Yes, I really do miss her a lot. Thank you for appreciating my talents 🙂
And ooh – how I miss DU days!!
LikeLike
Hugs, Sonam. You are such a brave girl and your mom has raised you to be indomitable spirit that you already are. Keep moving upward…best wishes. Loved your post.
Janaki (@beyond the familiar)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Janaki! That is very kind of you indeed – your words mean a lot to me!
LikeLike
Quite an eventful decade. We all need that nudge sometimes. Enjoyed reading your post, Sonam. I too lost a parent in the last decade, but his guidance lives on. Wishing you the very best.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Ritu – its always tough losing a parent.
Wish you all the best too!
LikeLike
Hi Sonam,
To start with, i am Prachi. I happened to be Neha’s friend from school. Lost touch with her over time.
I have been following your blog for 2 years now. I am sorry to hear about Aunty. I had met her only once and still remember how warm she was. Sending her lots of prayers ( Nam myo horenge kyo I follow too :))
I love your blog posts and would soon be buying your book too. Keep up your good work.
Lots of best wishes
Prachi.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Prachi – it was indeed a huge setback to lose my Mum. Thank you for your prayers 🙂
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo really kept me afloat through it all. So glad you like my writing and I really hope you like my book 🙂
Do let me know your thoughts on it, when you do
LikeLike
A heart touching post. I fee so happy when I see women traveling solo. It gives a liberating feeling. Best wishes you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Piya – it sure is a liberating feeling!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sonam, your life stories over the years have been inspirational, enlightening and hugely interesting. It’s been an honour to be able to keep in contact with you and the family.
I was devastated to learn of your mum’s passing as I know how much she meant to all three girls and of course dad.
Moira and I were unable to meet the family in November due to the collapse of Thomas Cook Ltd. But hopefully one day soon……..
Love from Scotland xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Eric for your kind words.
And yes, we would love to have you over sometime – I really wish I get the opportunity to meet you and Moira some day 🙂
LikeLike
You are a multi faceted personality. I’m so sorry for your loss and I wish that all your dreams come true. May 2020 be yours
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Shivani for your words 🙂
LikeLike
Its been quite an eventful decade for you undoubtedly. You have seen the highs and lows of life. But you kept persevering and following your passions instead of stopping at the roadblocks Is my biggest takeaway from your blog.You are a big source of inspiration for many including me. Wishing you more success and happiness in your future endeavours in the next decade as well,,!!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Anjali – it indeed has been an eventful decade. Wish you luck for the next decade as well!
LikeLike