The 4 Non Blondes’ song What’s Up is a perfect lyrical metaphor of the story of each of our lives. We are always trying to figure out a destination. Whether it is the search for a concrete career path, a life-long partner, a sense of purpose, each one of us is in a continuing battle of figuring out what comes next in our lives. Some of us have definite plans while others tend to be very lax in putting weight on what comes after today. The truth is neither of these two is better than the other.
Climbing the great big hill…
Where do you stand on the hill that you call ambition? Have you reached the apex? Or, are you still figuring out how to get there? Chill… You will have your equal share of doubts – of questions as to whether you are doing the right things. Again, do whatever you want to do. Because at the end of the day, it’s your life and no matter how much others will fiddle and get involved in it, you are the final arbiter and the final say will come from you. Just do what your heart tells you to do. Do not be afraid of judgment but don’t be cynical about other people’s opinions. These are born for reasons that are equally acceptable as the essentiality of your own belief. Just don’t let them dictate the story of your life.
The world is made up of brotherhood…
I always have this question in mind – would I be able to live without connecting to people? I tried. This year, I went to five countries alone with as little connection as possible. It was the best thing that I ever did, but it gave me this harsh truth that no matter how much you want to be alone, you will and will need people. The truth is that we only see connections that are essential to our lives without thinking that we are connected to a lot of people. The pilot that brought you from your point of origin to your destination was there not just for the job but also for the fact that there are people who rely on him including you. The small food stall owner who cooked that delicious laksa that you love was not just there for profit but also because she knows that people will need to eat good food. You see, this world is made up of brotherhoods of different sizes. You can never be alone and you will never be. As much as you hate people, you cannot stand on your own without the toil of others.
I cry sometimes just to get it all out…
Like a glass filled to the brim, you will soon start spilling over. Our emotions can sometimes outsmart us. When these times happen, remember that it is perfectly normal. Get angry; shout the most demeaning expletives you can think of; say as many “fuck you” as you want, just let it all out. The more you hide your emotions, the more dangerous they become. Just spill it over. Be as mean as you can go as that is the best way to outgrow such emotions – for you to become better at handling them. Again, let it all out.
I’m feeling a little peculiar…
Be unique! And by that, I mean that you must be true to yourself. Don’t cripple your wings because society dictates that you have to be this way. Remember that the best reflection of yourself is observed by no other person but you. Remember that you don’t have to fit in some other person’s shoes. Remember that whatever you want to become, you are capable of doing so. The only limit that you have is the one that you set on yourself. Go further than what you ever want. Be your own motivation.
I wake in the morning and I step outside…
Consider each day as a gift. The more you put a value on what is happening today, the more you become focused on achieving something that will not just influence you right now but will also shape your future. Don’t be afraid to go beyond your norms. Keep that fire of desire burning within you. There is no such thing as a dead-end failure. Only that some people give up after a few tries. Never give up. If something becomes comfortable, then it means that you are no longer growing. Get going, no matter what.
I take a deep breath and get real high…
This may sound cliché but it is the truth – for most people, this world is too much to handle. The complexity of our existence makes us wonder if all these are worth the fight. But I tell you, when you come to a point of uncertainty, just shrug it off. Take a deep breath and remember one thing, you are here to please no other person but yourself. Whatever things you enjoy, immerse yourself in it. Get real high and be as happy as you can be.
So what’s going on?
Keep your own pace. The destination that you want might be miles away or just around the alley, but it doesn’t matter as long as you continue moving. Remember to ask yourself, what’s going on? Re-evaluate your goals. Be more proactive in doing things. Influence others to become better people. But don’t force your spoon into their mouths. Like you, they know what’s best for them. Keep a close connection with people but never intrude in their personal space.
Pray for a revolution…
At the end of the day, pray for a revolution - a revolution of ideas, beliefs, and aspirations. Continue to seek change. And be an instrument of change. This world is in chaos, so keep reminding yourself that “All is well”!
So, here I am. 28 years of life and still...
Adios amigos.
