Dreams and Sacrifices, Aspirations & Compromises-Humans !

 Humans are interesting creatures, for they have social relations, dreams and aspirations. These are the traits which arguably distinguish us from the rest of the creatures.

And our lives are a constant flux and trade-off between our dreams, aspirations and the imminent reality. There is a trade-off between the short term hustle and the long term tranquility, between self -interest and the bigger picture we tend to ignore in pursuit of the self -interest. There is often a trade-off between social relations, responsibilities/duties and our personal goals. More often than not we tend to ignore the former for the latter. Think of the instances in your life where you have done that. But, above all, it is the realisation of it that strikes you at some point in your life. 

From my own experience, I have realised that not every cost for the so called glory is worth the price. This doesn't mean that I am promoting mediocrity. It's just the cost for the success that I want you to factor in. If you are ready to compromise on the very roots (read parents/family) for your personal gains, then that is selfish of you to pursue that success.

From past some time, I have been thinking of sharing a personal instance, the regret that still haunts me at times. It's about not being able to be by my mother's side during her last moments on earth. I still distinctly remember the last conversation I had with her, a day before her heavenly journey. While she was keeping unwell for some time I was busy with the final year project and presentation of my B.Tech course. 20th May 2016 was the day when I had my presentation of B.Tech final year. As soon as I was done with the presentation and other formalities, I called my mother to convey that I have submitted my project. "Aapka Beta Engineer ban Gaya aaj" were the exact words I said. Visibly happy with it, she congratulted me and said "Tumhari badi yaad aa rahi hai aaj" (She had never talked like this before). Those words struck deep and still echo at times (But I sort of ignored it that day). I was to leave for home the next day, but delayed it because of some avoidable reasons. 21st May 2016 (about 4.00 PM) was the fateful day, when I got message from Home that my mother is not well and that I should reach home as early as possible. Sensing the panic and the urgency, I had realised what had just happened. I would never be able to see the person who brought me into this world !

But look at the selflessness of the heavenly soul ! She, knew that I had plans to move to Delhi for Civil Services preparation after graduation. A few days before the fateful day, she in a serious conversation with my father, asked him to perform her last rites himself and not let me involved in this, solely for the reason that my preparation should not get affected. And my father took the entire responsibility onto himself. He ensured that I move to Delhi for preparations and further that I should not get distracted, he always assured me not to worry about home. And because of the strength and character he had shown, I could focus on my studies. I can never pay back for those sacrifices .

I don't know what made me share this, but, it's just that, I want to say that whenever in doubt/dilemma regarding a few decisions that would decide your future, please weigh in the cost and commensurate benefits that will accrue. And in no circumstances the cost should outweigh the benefits, more so, for the intangible assets, the bonds that can't be weighed in against any accomplishments.

Anyways, everyone has their own thought process and experiences that affect thei Life  choices and things they prioritise !