Who is Nahid V. Meshgin?
I am a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. I was born in Iran and left my home at the age of 16, because I had a scholarship to do my Highschool Year 12 in the USA. Since then, life has been an amazing roller coaster. Belief in a Higher Power along with my faith has helped me to withstand adversity and to have the willingness to hold vision and hope for the future.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I always wanted to be a professional singer, even though I have participated in choirs for about 30 years of my life. I enjoy listening to many different singers and appreciate their talents.
Who inspires you and why?
Many different people with virtuous qualities have inspired me throughout my life; these people have generally been service-oriented, gentle souls. My father comes immediately to my mind in that category. Public figures I could mention include ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Mary Maxwell, Mohatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, and many more.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I believe in the ripple effect of our actions, so I would strive to be virtuous; there are some examples of how we can all practice human virtues in my autobiography, The Journey. It has been my goal to attain these virtues, which include love, service and faith, so through my actions people around me may feel safe, fairly treated and trusting without prejudice. Hopefully, we can all try to acquire these qualities and together make a better world.
Favorite holiday destination and why?
I have travelled to so many diverse places in the world. In 2015 my husband and I took a cruise to the Kimberley region in Western Australia. This was the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen. The magnificent gorges, waterfalls, reefs, blue sky and waters of the Kimberley all imparted such a peaceful feeling, which will always be engraved in my soul.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I am very proud of our Kings Park and Botanical Garden here in Perth, so that is generally the first sightseeing stop, which is beautiful in all seasons. Our white sand beaches are also magnificent, as are The Pinnacles and Margaret River; the list goes on… Each one of these places has its own beauty. Of course, the sightseeing location I would take a friend to all depends on what types of interests they have.
What are you currently reading?
Thief in the Night: Or the Strange Case of the Missing Millennium by William Sears, which is an eye-opening investigation into bygone prophecies and their modern-day fulfilment. I’m also currently enjoying A Pace of Grace by Linda Kavelin Popov, which explores the essential elements of a life well-lived.
What are you currently listening to?
Generally, music by diverse artists. Some examples which I love are Images & Reflection by Robert J Boyd (which was recorded in Kings Park), Unforgettable by Nat King Cole – whose voice takes you out of this world, and Passione by Andrea Bocelli, who also has a magical voice. And of course, Persian classical music, which takes me back to the country of my birth. The choice of music all depends on one’s mood and the time of the day.
Happiness is?
Having my family around me, having my beautiful friends over, or sharing a prayer with someone. Walking next to the Swan River with my husband hearing the birds singing, watching dolphins frolicking in the water, and people walking.
What does the future hold for you?
I dream of a peaceful world free from prejudice, which is governed by a just humanity, where everyone cares for each other and for their environment, where we can focus our thoughts and efforts towards achieving the best for ourselves and others. This would be a “Golden Age”.
Nahid is the author of The Journey: Treading the pathway of love, faith and service – which is independently published and available from www.amazon.com.au
Image: Nahid V. Meshgin (supplied)