James Cromwell played the character of George Sibley in 'Six Feet Under', a TV series. IMDB calls this series as 'A chronicle of the lives of a dysfunctional family who run an independent funeral home in Los Angeles.'. Among other things, the character of George Sibley has a quote that sounds quite interesting: "Life is a series of accidents". Some other people have also spoken in the same way while receiving big awards.
There is an opposite view, that simply thrashes this argument. This view states: 'Life is not a series of meaningless accidents. When things are bound to happen, they surely will.'
I think, the truth lies somewhere in between, at least for me. Many things that have happened to me have been purely accidental. Being born into a hard-working, middle class, honest, well-educated, loving family must be a very good accident. When we look around, we see so many miserable families. The misery could be for a number of reasons, ranging from extreme poverty to dysfunctional relationships. That I was born into a family that cherished hard work, honesty, dedication, belief in one's ability and yet also recognized an element of destiny was a true blessing.
However, this 'lucky' accident could very well be taken for granted by some, and in some cases, completely wasted. Do I fall into either of these categories? Obviously it is not for me to say. But I have not 'completely' wasted it, for sure. Is that an accident, too?! Well, this thought would make one crazy, as there is no end to these questions.
The reason behind all this writing is to simply share these series of accidents (and sometimes, planned accidents?) with everyone. Why am I sharing this? Do I want publicity? Am I trying to promote myself? Am I trying to create some sort of myth around myself? Do I want people to say 'Oh, how humble' or 'Oh, so inspiring!'? Frankly, I do not know, and I do not care.
Why do I not care? Some of us may find this strange or 'made-up', but, honestly, I feel I have now reached a stage of 'giving back'. It may be a big thing to say, but that is the truth. I have taken, sometimes, grabbed, so much from the world. However, for the last few years, somehow, I feel content. I do not feel the need for taking anything from anyone. Instead, my inner voice keeps saying, give, whatever you can. Even if it is something very tiny, so be it. Give. Keep giving. Do not think or worry about anything else.
May be, this is a part of the same thought. Whatever little I know, have (or have not) done, simply share it. Who would be interested in it? Who knows, and who worries about it? I have had the opportunity of interacting with some very bright friends, seniors, colleagues, and students over the last 25+ years. Whatever I have learnt from them is also here. So, it is not at all my creation. It is simply a recollection of my professional life. Naturally, it would be a bit tainted. Some other people may have different memories and/or views. I completely respect that.
This is a little roller coaster of a journey. I am sharing it as honestly as I can. In parts. Once a week.
Warning: You may get bored to death, or find it very useful to get over your insomnia. Read it at your own risk!
Very well written Atul.
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteNice initiative!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteMy Friend, We were also involved in one of the "Accident" :-) (Sanjay Suryawanshi)
ReplyDeleteYes, Sanjay! It has been great to know you.
DeleteHello Atul Sir! Looking forward to reading your blog!
ReplyDelete-Prachi Deshpande
Thank you very much, Prachi!
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