Growing Better

There’s something that comes naturally to all of us; something which our bodies are programmed to do; something which requires the most basic of things (food, air, water). That something, is Growing Up. What does not come naturally to most of us, is Growing Better. It may sometimes require a continuous conscious effort. Trust me, it is easier said than done. What makes this journey difficult, is the fact that one doesn’t realize the need for it.

They say “Offence is the best Defence”. This defence mechanism is deeply engraved in human nature. In times of confrontation or quandary, our first reaction is this defence – we oppose, and sometimes even fight, with the situation, the idea, the person. What we sometimes fail to realize, is that maybe the fight in which we are stuck, is with ourself. It is quite challenging to accept that “I can be wrong too”. Understanding an alternate point of view requires peace within self. It must be based on the foundation of trust and respect, which would help us in appreciating what is desired of us and what “realistic” expectations we must have of others. This is probably what would start our journey to Growing Better; better within ourself, before being accepted as better by people around us.

Another aspect of Growing Better is being stable with respect to situations and people. Now this demands even more effort from within, although to some it may come as naturally as a personality trait. But for those unlucky ones who struggle with it daily, it sure is a herculean task. This might lead to our being happy or sad at the drop of a hat, which takes a toll on our health as well as our relationships. To become “as calm as a summer sea”, we must possess the depth of one. Let us not get ruffled and lose our cool over matters which do not matter in the long run. From what I understand, only Life and Death matter in the long run.

Our biggest asset during this transformation is positivity which comes from faith and hope. Faith in the Supreme Being, faith in self and faith in our loved ones is undoubtedly the major strength we need to harness. Muscles get stronger when they are exerted, and same is the case here. Being mentally tough in trying circumstances gives us the strength to keep moving ahead towards overcoming the odds.

Hopefully, the author would also understand the above, and Grow Better.