In the humdrum and bustle of life, there are days when we look for solace. A place where the pause button stops time and reminds us why we live and what we live for.
It used to be that social media was one of the places where we shared our joys, triumphs, successes, worst days, tears, and losses. We stayed “connected” because it was a place where we believed, no matter how distant our friends and relatives are, digital technology has kept us only a touch away.
That was then…before the trolls came. Before the disruptors invaded our space and privacy. Where inappropriate behaviour and language became a norm rather than the exception. Where cursing and bullying on-line has become a standard for propagating a culture of hate and anger. Our children have began questioning our teachings and asking more (or less) questions because of what is “shared” online.
Social media platforms, while an avenue for relative joys in life, has dramatically changed. Today, it has become a platform for political and personal agenda. To say that the well is poisoned, is probably a rough description of this scenario.
As half of the first month of 2019 is over, I challenge everyone to devote the next 60 seconds to meditate and ask yourself the question, “how do I focus to achieve finding a quiet place in my life for the remainder of the year?“
At every crossroad in life, we take a leap of faith when deciding the road we take. Often times, we procrastinate at turning a new leaf because we fear that it isn’t time to let go or we remain complacent in our comfort zone or that we’re probably too old to shift gears. The question we need to ask ourselves is not how our photos look like in 2008 compared to 2018. You can sift through all those photographs and post the ones you like from a decade back and look good (better) on your profile picture. But that’s selective bias. It’s what’s deep inside you that truly matters. Are you in a better place? Are you happier today than ten years ago? What were the things and events that mattered or didn’t matter at all? Have you left the baggage of regrets in your life or are you still lugging on to them or treasuring them like the masochist you are?
The mind is like water. When it is turbulent, it’s difficult to see. When it is calm, everything becomes clear.
– Prasad Mahes
It is a kind reminder to everyone (including me) that anything that costs you your peace is too expensive.
This year, I am looking forward to finding more quiet places in my life. Somewhere where I can find myself once more and walk away from people and situations that threaten my peace of mind, self-respect, values and morals or self-worth. Somewhere where in the midst of life’s many storms, it is tranquil.
Relative Joy 