Phil shared these words about Aarthi:
The first words that come to my mind are kind, patient and caring. I admire how Aarthi commits to the relationships she holds with those who mean something to her and puts the work into maintaining those relationships – I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone as dedicated to this as she is. Aarthi is very easy-going, relaxed and empathetic. She doesn’t judge people and will accept you for who you are. As someone pathologically committed to self-improvement, I find this sometimes difficult, but being with Aarthi has helped me to accept myself and learn to relax and let go more.
Aarthi is an amazing dancer, and I love seeing the thought and care that goes into her choreography. Even more, though I enjoy hearing her stories about teaching young people to dance – it shines through that this is the part she loves most. My favourite thing about Aarthi is her childish, mischievous, silly side, which comes out when we (infrequently) dance together.
Over the years I’ve known Aarthi, she’s become more confident, ambitious and sure of herself, which doesn’t come as a surprise to me but should: she’s relocated her entire life to a country with alien traditions, culture and weather, and has found her own way of being here seemingly without any trouble. She now manages a large team of counsellors, and I do not doubt she will be CEO of the charity she works for within a few years. Aarthi takes life in her stride and dances through its travails, which is a lesson to me.
Aarthi shared that
Phil constantly surprises me. He’s intelligent (sometimes too intelligent), silly (I get to be a child with him) and inhibited. What I admire the most about Phil is his passion, drive and thoughtfulness.
Phil’s a walking encyclopaedia—I’ve always told him that it is his best and worst feature. I am in awe of his ability to retain knowledge of nearly everything, but it’s also bloody annoying when he constantly knows the answer.
Five years later, Phil still remembers little facts or mundane details I may have mentioned in passing – he would still buy a book or gift of something I’ve mentioned being interested in (e.g. He got me a calligraphy book when I mentioned in passing that I would like to try it or would cook me my favourite meal when he knows I’ve had a stressful day at work)– his thoughtfulness is a constant surprise and one I feel very grateful to be on the receiving end of.
