What's in a name...Kal?

There are three things I find worth mentioning about the name Kal.

Kal (pronounced same as the English name Cal) is often used as the short version of various Indian names (Kalpesh, Kalyani, etc). I have found that many Indian Americans use Kal instead of their full name as it is easier to pronounce for westerners, e.g. Indian American actor Kal Penn whose first name is actually Kalpen.

Kal (pronounced "cull" with a soft-K) is also an interesting hindi/urdu word, as it has dual meaning. Depending on context, it can mean 'yesterday' or 'tomorrow'. For example, kal I ran 10 miles, and hence kal I will be in pain. I found this word very relevant to me, as I find myself constantly reminiscent and sentimental about the past, while always obsessed with the future and what's next. As a result, I often find myself unable to live in the present and embrace today for what it is.

The University of California, Berkeley is also referred to as Cal (Cal...Kal...close enough). Ironically, I attended its nemesis across the Bay.