Whilst the heart remains the kernel of our biological existence; it is - however- the metaphysical victim to our imprisoned dreams and unremitting emotions...
More often than not, we are phased with heartbreak and despair - which diminishes our confidence to pursue what truly sets our hearts ablaze. Our internal clouds of doubt enshroud our ambition, dampen our determination and inhibit initiative. Therefore, most of us find ourselves stuck in purgatory. Bouncing back-and-forth, in a cyclical fashion, between what is and what could have been or should be. These sporadic thoughts lead to questioning one’s life choices, infringe upon mental well-being and essentially hampers one’s social aura. Only a daring few take the risk of plunging toward their passions and dreams and maintain that incessant drive to attain their definition of a fulfilling life- regardless of life’s setbacks. Others settle with their circumstance and accept it as their fate, without giving it another try. Why?
Well, various reasons spring to mind: Firstly, people associate age with deadlines. The old-fashion mindset that one should have obtained certain things by a certain age, or that one is too old to pursue their heartiest desires, condemns people to sign a settlement deal with life. Secondly, people view society’s two-cent comments as a form of approval or validation and tread accordingly. Society’s perception of what should be a ‘hobby’ and what should be a ‘career’ puts pressure on people to re-evaluate their passions as a career. However, they fail to realise that - in doing so - they become puppets for society and unknowingly exploit their autonomy. Denzel Washington had once said that having something to ‘fall back on’ is ridiculous because that would only apply if we are not doing what we truly love- which made sense. Why do our hobbies or passions have to take the backseat? Rather, we want to ‘fall forward’. In this case, we can at least see what we are about to hit. Thirdly, they deem their obligation towards their current responsibilities (be it family, finance etc.) as being the main reason for not trying to pursue what they intended on. Often being welcomed by the misconception that ‘it is too late’. Lastly, the parasitic bug of lack-of-confidence breeds excessive analysis and overthinking. Having the burning desire to begin what we wanted will not gain fruition if it only dwells permanently in our headspace. We can’t keep the cogs turning without fuelling it and what it the use of sustaining this if no momentum is gained? If anything, it would just be wasteful energy expenditure and a futile pursuit.
The adage: ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’ is anything but a metaphorical saying. Science has justified this proverb using data mining, and likewise, this proverb is also applicable to forlorn ventures. The longer we spend neglecting our true calling, dreams and passions; the more intense the feeling of unfulfillment and emptiness evolves. We become prey to merely existing and floating through an amorphous life, often being taunted by regrets and ‘what could have been’. We often feel belittled by other’s successes and growth but fail to realise that life is not a race, and everyone has their own paths to follow. If we don’t look forward and focus on our own path, we will always miss the opportunities for our own growth. This rubbernecking into the lives of others only causes a traffic jam in our own lives. So, never lose your attention on the road ahead because you are too engaged in checking your rear-view mirrors. What is the use of only seeing the signs when it has passed? How would you be able to direct yourself on the correct route thereafter?
Tragic but true, each of us are our own fabulous masters of misery. We dwell in self-pity and continually complain even when we know it accomplishes zilch output. We need to realise that we all came into this world on a default setting and it was our responsibility to determine when we upgrade or personalise our life’s settings. Sure, circumstances dictate but it doesn’t limit possibility. We are all accountable for our life choices. Only those who are open-minded enough to view life as non-linear, veto excuses, hone their mistakes and learn from them - as well as not being swayed by the failure to try - gain lucid insight and enlightenment.
These are the ones that accept past occurrences and don’t allow it to conquer their foresight. These are the ones that revere true abundance and fulfilment because they’re not anchored to circumstances and societal views. These are the ones who lead fulfilling lives and are at peace with all that is and all that is to come. These are the ones that, even after countless failures and diversions, still rebelled against circumstance and trudged toward their heartiest desires. These are the ones that continue to fight against hanging up their coats before time. These are the ones that achieve bliss. Are you one of them?!
Thank you so much @Faathima Khan. We appreciate your warm feedback and are very pleased to note that POW is receiving such great feedback in its early phases. We acknowledge that the magnitude of impact, by which these pieces are received, varies from person to person and is dependent upon where the person is in their lives and what they may be experiencing. However, POW will continue to offer support and provide motivation through its platform.
This piece is so poignant and apt when it comes to the emotional rollercoaster that 2020 set us off on. We so very often allow the negative experiences and people in our lives diminish our confidence and enthusiasm and allow it to dictate our capability. I also love how you point out that we tend to dwell in self-misery instead of dealing with our sadness for a beat, then dusting ourselves off and overcoming our failures. This is the perfect piece of writing. I wouldn't call this a pearlita, the magnitude of wisdom conveyed in this little piece is anything but small!