Shekhar’s Sunday Musings
Humans have short lives. There’s no doubt about it. The biblical lifespan – three scores and ten (Psalm 90 verse 10) – was short – or was it 120 years (Genesis 6:3)? Whichever yardstick it is, we age far, far faster than other living creatures. And the time allotted to fulfill obligations is far too short.
A normal human ages fastest during the mid-50s when one or more bones start creaking or the muscles begin telling. And thereafter the catabolic process is quick and apparent not only to people or friends, but self-realization dawns on us too that all is not what used to be, taking a particularly heavy toll on our mental well-being.
For those attaining 90 or above, with reasonable achievements and fulfillment, it can be a life well lived. For many, especially for those whom worldly duties and responsibilities remain unfinished, life can continue to seem unfulfilled.
But for the large majority, even before they feel a little comfortable in their jobs or whatever it is they do, trouble comes calling. Some fall victim to serious ailments, others get bogged down with small, but nagging, problems. These can be long, debilitating and irreversible.
That is the inevitability of life. We are unable to come to terms with this short, one life – that is if you don’t believe in rebirth. The feeling and reality that we just don’t have enough time left to fulfill our commitments overwhelms us, and this can be quite disconcerting and worrisome.
Some are quick to realize the inevitability of it all and act quickly to adapt or change, which is helpful but this may not always work. It is said an attitude of gratitude is the key to happiness. Easier said than done. Perhaps treating life as it comes, life on life’s terms (and not ours), and one day at a time, might be the panacea. Who knows? Worth a try anyway!
(Here is the new column by a veteran journalist and a great communicator, Mr. Shekhar Nabiar, that appears every Sunday-Editor.)
