Don’t we always tend to find mistakes, complain about petty things that hardly matter and try to project how miserable and unfair life is?
Well, I find myself doing that at times. But I believe I have learnt a very important lesson in life. The incident may not seem substantial but, to me, it sure was a revelation.
Only the other day, I was dining with my friends at a pretty decent place, 5-star food I would say. But I couldn’t refrain myself from complaining about the oily food and routine menu of the place. I had a hefty discussion on the issue and was pretty disappointed with the dining arrangements. I came back to my room with glimpses of the chat still lodged in my mind.
As I stood in the balcony gazing at the city and enjoying the warm dusky breeze, I witnessed a rather sorrow sight. The backdoor neighbourhood inhabits a group of daily wage workers and labours. I can safely presume that the children in this neighbourhood cannot afford schooling. There were these bunch of kids, 8-10 years old, who were fighting for a share in the lunch, which was nothing but plain rice and dal mixed in a large dish with a lot of water, apparently. The kid who had the bowl had a look of satiation to the core. He seemed to enjoy every bit of the mouthful he swigged as did the other kids. The sight left me awe-struck.
I began to wonder how insignificant that chat was. I had the privilege of such fine dining and yet all I cared was about the irregularities of the place and all that remained with me after was the disappointment. Was it really worth it? I believe not!
Some may argue that it is about what we deserve after all our efforts we put in, what we are entitled for and what we can demand. True, maybe, but would we not be much happier if we don’t spat over such little things? Wouldn’t we be much better off not complaining rather try to find a way around?
It is always easier to find good in what we have if we look at those less privileged souls who haven’t been blessed with all that we possess right now. It doesn’t mean we shouldn’t strive for better but the exertion of the endeavour shouldn’t overleap the enjoyment in all the little things that are worth cherishing. Those kids might not have all the tang in that dish but they were satisfied and happy and that is what matters.
This post has a very simple yet significant message. One may say that it is a stale philosophical stuff. But, that was an afternoon I would not want to ever forget. Perhaps, this would work as a log for me if not anything more.
Do give it a thought. If you have, it is time to start working on it. Well, I have!
Stop complaining and start living only to see the beauty in all the things with and around us.
Cheers,
Piyush.
