'Reflection' is a word with several meanings. It may signify an image we hold of ourselves — as our reflection in a mirror. We seek an accurate image, but of course, we hope for a reflection to express the best of ourselves. Reflection also means to take time. Today, with the immediacy of technology, our concept of time has changed. We may become frustrated if a computer takes a few seconds to undertake a process. We talk about young people preferring videos to reading, eliminating the need to reflect in favour of immediate consumption. But there is beauty in reflecting—thinking, analysing, letting the mind wander, and observing unexpected connections.

We're encouraged to rethink our opinions and reevaluate our preconceived ideas through reflection. The most poignant meaning of reflection is pondering where one has been, where one is now, and where one is going in the future. Through reflection, we attempt to understand the world and our place in it.

Reflection is necessary if we are to be conscious, take responsibility for our actions, and contribute to the world. It helps us adjust our route and connect with others along the way. This issue brings some of the most impactful stories from the past five years, picked by STIR's Editor-in-Chief, Amit Gupta, to your inbox, so that you can join STIR in its mission to See, Think, Inspire and Reflect.

My congratulations to STIR on the 5th anniversary of a journey you are pursuing. Thank you for reflecting on art, architecture and design in all its facets and allowing us to accompany you – from India to the world.