When you meet up with old friends after a long time, the conversation usually covers a wide range of topics. It is probably because each of us wants to give a complete update in a brief time capsule, that we package various threads into a single fabric. I was part of such an entertaining episode recently, and I wish to record it as a tribute, for it was an enriching experience. I wish to explain the rather not-so-obvious title for this post, before the readers walk down the wrong lane of thought. The phrase which is listed as the title for the post was presented by one of my friends. And the first word comes with a symbolic undertone: people who have little or no regard to moral values, rather than the usual meaning.
“Money is the root of all evil and that all rich people get snobby and unfriendly…”
“I do not think so, it is more to do with the greed, to have more…”
“When one is not true to his/her intentions, and wants to deceive others, he/she may see momentary gain, but on the longer run will be left with reasons to live with…”
“If all the bitches earn riches, why should we have morals? ”
“You are you, and not someone else…live your existence...”
“What’s wrong if I be the same? At least I can enjoy, what have I got by being me? ”
It is important to understand that to pass through a phase of grief, emotional turmoil and despair without taking to drugs, alcohol, over eating or indulging in practices which are rather not common or moral; one needs to become a spiritual champion. I belief, the pay off for enduring suffering, for soberly embracing the inevitable bouts of emotional pain that nature or others bring , is wisdom and serenity in the face of calamity. Having said that, it is important to note, the work of a champion is beyond just plain simple or easy and needs support from people around us and also from within.
It is important to notice the dual role of nature in regard to good cop – bad cop schematic in any calamity that we are subjected to. It gives us an opportunity to learn, presents us with a lesson, but what we learn from it and how we act upon it is what defines us. With increasingly fragile relationships that we seem to entertain and subscribe to, the principle of mutually respecting one another and their emotions by being true to each other – through the trials of life, is slowly fading away. What goes around… comes around. It is important to respect Nature, and understand the necessity to stay true to what we are. This gives us immense happiness and a sense of dignity for our existence. To seek beyond nature – to deceive others through immoral practices will only see nature punish us…the cruel way.
Place: Le Meridien – Jakarta
Date: 14th March 2011
P.S.: The credit for the photo reference goes to another close friend of mine.
