Some of life’s most meaningful conversations are never planned: Yesudas S Pillai

Yesudas S Pillai recounted how a chance encounter with a stranger during a rain-soaked morning run inspired him to reflect on empathy, resilience and the power of listening. The experience prompted him to share life observations, drawn from decades of personal and professional experiences.

Below is his complete post shared on LinkedIn:

July 4, 2026 : I woke up to a sky that seemed to have opened itself up sometime during the night. The rain was relentless.

For many, it would have been reason enough to stay indoors. For me, a runner who also happens to love the rain, it was every reason to step outside.

Some of life’s most meaningful conversations are never planned. I had left my phone behind. After finishing my run, I noticed a gentleman nearby with a phone in his hand. I requested him to click a picture. He smiled and readily obliged.

Then we simply began talking. Both of us were enjoying the rain. Within minutes, he did something many of us struggle to do. He opened up to a complete stranger…..

The encounter became a moving reflection on empathy, resilience, kindness and the healing power of listening, reminding us that everyone carries unseen battles.

After crossing fifty, I stopped chasing certainty. Instead, I began collecting reminders. Sharing 10 of them with you in my article published by Free Press Journal

Not theories. Not motivational quotes. Simply reminders that life has taught me.

I don’t know whether these are lessons. They are simply observations gathered from rain-soaked runs, mountain trails, books, failures, conversations, financial struggles, moments of success, and countless encounters with ordinary people living extraordinary lives.