One of the most beautiful things about life in general is its mystery. Even when we may tend to think we have done and seen it all, the next morning may bring us a surprise. Again, even after that, our limited human condition may make us conclude that this one event is the surprise of our lives. However, in saying that, we may as well have spoken too soon because the wheel is still in spin.
Of course, it is only humanity to get easily accustomed to the past and present way of life. This often leads to oblivion, to the extent that we may go on as if we are immortal. As we continue to live, we also adopt an abstract and impersonal attitude towards other people’s experiences and misfortunes. That is simply because in our comfort, a thought of misfortune coming our way will hardly cross our minds. That may go on for as long as possible until one day and in one moment, a different reality of life hits us in the face.
As always, in the moment, the event of our dismay may make us feel emotionally and mentally devastated, but that’s not it. What is more significant is the possible events thereafter. It becomes testing time for everything we believe we are. If, in good times, one would have asked to describe ourselves, we would have come up with every positive and potent attribute. We may say we are strong, confident, emotionally intelligent and resilient, but completely break down in the face of misfortune. That is highly likely to happen, especially when, during our good times, we have let our guard down. In those days, we capitalised on resources at our disposal to circumvent certain undesirable situations and discomfort, so much so that we become mentally and emotionally weak and unfit for the hard times that may come.
On the other hand, if in good times, we keep a balance and stay cognisant of all possible eventualities, we will be better-equipped to adapt to all situations. This is not to mean that misfortunes will be a walk in the park, but the fact that we also anticipate helps us to build some psychological response mechanisms. Therefore, it is highly important that we cultivate an attitude that looks at life as a coin with equally opposite sides, and that we may experience any one of them at some point in our lives. We could even take it a step further, and live with the acceptance that both fortune and misfortune are equally part of our existence and have purpose. For there can be no light without darkness, and when life hits us in the face and it feels as if it is the end, we build resilience, knowing that, just as life itself is, it is all temporary. Moreover, whatever it may be, it shall pass, and we shall rise again – slowly, but surely.
*Uncommon Sense is published bi-weekly in the New Era with contributions from Karlos Naimwhaka. YouTube channel: Karlos Lokos
– karlsimbumusic@gmail.com