Plain and simple


Above me the skies are blue interspersed with myriad patterns of clouds lit up into strange hues by the setting sun. I walk barefoot across the grass looking up at the wondrous vista; and do not mind the spray from the sprinklers, as they shower me with drops that feel cool on my warm skin. I realize that I have nowhere to go; and no one to meet, and this moment is all for me, and my world is this spray colored by the fading sun like a prism into the vibgyor colors of the rainbows. Life is plain and simple; and I do not know why we try to make it so complicated with our phobias, perceived needs and complicated relationships. The most enduring concepts of human existence; can be reduced to a minimalist approach, much like the US constitution that our 40 wise founding fathers signed, and is all of 33 small pages (with all the subsequent amendments included) that fits into my back pocket. It is a miniature book and is thinner than my wallet, I have to carry around to keep my identity as a person.
‘Forming a more perfect Union’ to ‘secure the Blessings of Liberty for ourselves and our Posterity’ are simple yet powerful words and all 44 presidents have gone on to ‘establish justice’ and ‘promote the general welfare’ each in his own way, backed by the legislative and judicial arms of the government. Today the 50 states are provided a ‘common defense’ and enjoy a level of prosperity protected by the Constitution. It does not take long to read the whole constitution and its VII articles; nor does it take much more time to read all the 27 amendments (the last one took 202 years from proposal to enactment), that have been passed in two subsequent centuries. Their power lies in their simplicity and even when all is said and done the constitution still retains its power with the opening words of ‘We the people of the United States’ and does not reduce the peoples’ ‘immunities and privileges’.
The Declaration of Independence which preceded it was unambiguous on these personal rights when it stated “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” So now I walk barefoot on the grass, uninhibited in a state that allows me to be free to pursue my dreams; with all the immunities possible, and I have the free use of the privilege of being a citizen.We must take up the path of compassion and bring happiness to the huddled masses. Education and knowledge remain the first step to self actualization and we need to ensure that each child is given the this choice, to learn to walk on this path. The future is for them and we are only the means to provide it.
The sun has long set while I wrote this and a brilliant full moon has risen, and I look down and see two shadows cast on the side walk. One shadow is from the moon and the other from the mercury street lamp; and I realize that I similarly have two duties to fulfill in this life, one to my creator, and the other to my fellow citizens. The rights they have given me, are also privileges, to lead a higher life and to be myself. My freedom to pursue happiness is not constrained by these laws; as they are an aid, for natural and human laws must be obeyed, in a civil society. There is still much I can accomplish and more I can contribute to life and liberty, by following my inner calling. I will not let dogmas, prejudices and bigotry to cloud my mind and only allow the clear light of reason, perseverance, and being here now, become my mantra for success. I start my journey to my goals refreshed; and hope to gather other kindred spirits along the way, as together we can be a force for greater good, much more than what we can each accomplish apart.

This entry was posted in Self actualization by Rajiv Kapoor. Bookmark the permalink.

About Rajiv Kapoor

Rajiv Kapoor was born in New Delhi. He was educated by the Jesuits at St Xavier’s, and graduated with Honors, from The University of Delhi. Rajiv Kapoor did his MBA in International Business from Penn State and is now settled in the US. He has traveled across most states of India, when he was working on modernization of Rice Mills, and understands their diverse culture and history. This book is a historical fiction, dedicated to his city of birth. His extensive research dives deep into a critical moment, in India’s long history, for his latest Historical Thriller “The Peacock Throne Wars”..

20 thoughts on “Plain and simple

  1. yes…this stage in life is more for reflections, spending “alone” time in reflections and contemplatations. Letting go of past regrets and getting back to source. Its called “vanpratha” . Understanding who we are and what we are doing on this planet becomes our primary goal. Happiness within is appreciated and fellow travellers on this path seem to all get together to pursue their goals, watching the gross world go by. Yet loving even the grossness and mundane existence is all a part. Enjoy the process and reflect more.

  2. Well said Bina as reflection, contemplation and getting together to pursue goals that are important to us in life, is very important. Having attained some knowledge of who we are and our place in this universe, we can now work on what our values show,will make a difference for humanity. That is the source of true happiness; as we will feel far more satisfied with our life, if we work on what is really important not just for our-self, but for the greater good of the others around us.

  3. After looking at a handful of the articles on your website, I truly like your technique of blogging.
    I saved as a favorite it to my bookmark website list and
    will be checking back in the near future. Please check out my web site as
    well and tell me your opinion.

  4. This is very interesting, You’re a very skilled blogger. I have joined your rss feed and look forward to seeking more of your excellent post.
    Also, I have shared your site in my social networks!

  5. I am extremely impressed with your writing skills as well as with the layout on
    your blog. Is this a paid theme or did you customize it yourself?

    Anyway keep up the nice quality writing, it’s rare to see a great blog like this one
    nowadays.

  6. I feel this is one of the most vital information for me.
    And i am happy reading your article. However want to remark on few
    normal issues, The web site style is wonderful, the articles is in point of fact nice : D.
    Good task, cheers

  7. Hi to every body, it’s my first pay a visit of this weblog;
    this website contains remarkable and in fact good
    material designed for readers.

  8. I’d like to thank you for the efforts you’ve put
    in writing this blog. I’m hoping to check out the same high-grade content
    from you later on as well. In truth, your creative writing abilities
    has encouraged me to get my own, personal
    website now 😉

  9. I’m really inspired together with your writing abilities and also with
    the structure to your blog. Is this a paid theme or did you customize it yourself?

    Either way stay up the excellent high quality writing,
    it is rare to look a great weblog like this one these days..

Leave a Reply to Leopoldo Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.