Don’t let tradition dictate your life

THE EDITOR: When we are small, we dream of what our lives would be and should be like. As our tradition and customs dictate, we should have a sound education, get a great job, be spiritual and of course, marry and have a family.

Now, I have been one who worshipped tradition and I dreamt for all the above. However, sometimes life does not work out the way we planned it, although we have put all effort forward. Momentarily, we feel frustrated and wonder if we inputted one and one, then the result should be two. Most of us however, have realised that life is not as simple as that. There are so many other contributing factors that influence our lives that are beyond our control. So for us to accept the unexpected, we have to be flexible and go with the flow. My personal experience (I am now over 30) is that life does not have to be structured as our culture makes it out to be. Who is to say that success is measured solely by your qualifications, career, and family life? I have realised that just attaining peace of mind, connecting to God and giving positivity to people is the most effective criteria to measure success.

Why should our present and future be dictated by rigid guidelines of the past? Does an adult necessarily have to marry to experience a full life? Do we need to keep climbing the corporate and social ladders? Should we always want something better (which may be good sometimes), while not experiencing the joy of the present? My philosophy is to do what gives you the most peace and joyfulness, whilst making sure this is pursued at the expense of no one. Life should be taken lightly and enjoyed to the fullest. We have to remember that we are each unique and special individuals. We should not do what others expect of us. We should not keep up with the “Joneses.” We are inherently and divinely special just the way we are. No one on this earth can be another me. There are a number of messages in this one article. But my main advice to you is to live your life the way you see fit. Whatever makes you comfortable is what you should pursue. Do not let tradition dictate your life. Leave your own legacy. That’s what I am doing now and it feels totally wonderful. Freedom to be is ecstatic; exercise it.

RAVI MAHARAJ
Tunapuna