Journey of Reflections

The day commenced at 5 AM with a sub-zero temperature. Clad in layers of woolly clothes, I boarded the coach to London at 6 AM. The day held significance at work, prompting a flurry of thoughts to occupy my mind. Given my tendency to simulate various scenarios, I mentally rehearsed the upcoming meetings, proposals, and considerations for teams and stakeholders — contemplating their outcomes, my deliverables, and associated timelines.

For nearly an hour, I observed misty valleys draped in a delicate crust of ice. Despite the serene scenery, my mind remained preoccupied with the anticipation of the day ahead. Eventually, I drifted into slumber.

However, my brief respite was interrupted when my mobile rang. The news of a sudden demise within our close circle reached me, leaving me in disbelief and sorrow.

She was an entrepreneur with a lot of aspirations and a healthy and pious soul who was respected in society. The unexpected collapse and tragic demise serve as a stark reminder of how we can unexpectedly fall into the clutches of death, causing excruciating pain for our loved ones.

When I commenced my journey, my mind was consumed by anxiety, pondering various concerns such as the opinions of my peers, responses from stakeholders, and the potential outcomes of my work. However, as I alighted from the coach, a peculiar emptiness replaced those initial thoughts.

Walking toward the metro station, I observed the hurried pace of people, each with their own set of hopes, desires, and aspirations, yet completely unaware of their destinies. This moment offered me a chance to reflect on the inherent unpredictability of our lives, especially when we fervently pursue our dreams.

Revelations

In life, there are no signboards to guide us, but certain events prompt self-reflection on whether to live in constant worry about the future or to smile at our destiny and embrace each day to the fullest.

Everyone aspires to be recognized at work, to stand out as the best in the team, and to make our loved ones proud of our accomplishments. We seek awards, accolades, and excellence in every endeavor. However, it’s perfectly acceptable if things don’t always go as planned. Life transcends these ambitions; it’s about the values we uphold, the love we share, and the peace of mind we bring to others.

When the moments in life push you back to square one again and again and again, you may feel dejected and shattered. The only thing that can help you bounce back after hitting rock bottom is your self-respect and self-confidence. However bad others may treat you, you always take good care of yourself. That is the only thing that will bring you back to the days of glory.

The relentless pursuit to showcase your resourcefulness, skillfulness, and abilities to the world is an ongoing rat race that has persisted from the era of foragers and will likely persist till the very end. However, it’s crucial not to push too hard. This journey is uniquely ours, and it deserves the time it takes to reach its pinnacle.

“There are years that ask questions and years that answer” — Zora Neale Hurston