Philosophy - Your Cup Of Tea & Coffee
Dear Readers,
The moment we hear the word philosophy a kind of aversion arises. It happens with most of us, if not all. A basic line of thought which is palpable in us is, 'It's an age driven by technology that is fast, highly connected and rapidly changing so where is the time to delve into philosophy? The argument per se sounds strong and convincing. But is it so in reality? We'll have a look.
What is philosophy? Literally speaking, it is the 'love for wisdom'. But that's an academic definition. Let's place it aside for the time being. Let's delve into something that connects with us more deeply. Relax we'll go slow.
I ask you a simple question, "Do you want a beautiful life? ". "Oh! Come on Abhishek! Who doesn't? Yes of course", I imagine your reply. But I ask you further, "Do you have a beautiful life at present?''. If your answer is 'No' then probably I request you to read further and if your answer is 'Yes' then you should definitely read further.
If you look with careful observation you'll find that you live your life in your mind. Isn't it? Your pleasure & pain, Joy & Sorrow, Love & Hatred, are all present within you. Yes at times we do feel it at the physical level but then it is limited. The first tender touch of your lover might be on your hand for a few minutes but the feeling of it remains lifelong. Or the pain of a physical injury was temporary but the fear of it still scares you. How all these aspects are connected to philosophy?
We as individuals have a tendency to amplify things. Be it our thoughts, feelings, emotions, real-life scenarios the amplification is a natural consequence. Philosophy empowers you with the wisdom to look at things the way they are. It enhances your perception and your ability to question your own ideas. For example, You'll find many individuals who proudly proclaim that they don't subscribe to any philosophy and such things are of no use to them. They claim that they are practical about life. Sounds immensely strong and interesting. But wait. Don't you think that this very idea of practicality on which they function in itself is the philosophy of their life. If I speak more specifically 'having no philosophy in itself is a philosophy'. Albeit, there exists many strands of philosophy but the centre of focus here is primarily your own self.
Philosophy will help you to question your own thoughts, ideas and beliefs. A natural consequence of this questioning is that you will be able to unearth new aspects about your own self. The function of a question is to dig deeper and deeper. And trust me you'll find new answers as you go further in the process. This ability to question, to examine, to look more deeply, to search for more clarity, to think more critically and to accept more holistically is philosophy.
Philosophy will not only help you know yourself better but it has a multidimensional effect. You will think more deeply about a plethora of things that function around you and that which affects your life. Be it people, the government, the market, the situations the list is endless. Therefore, I personally feel that by taking a little pause from the daily hustle-bustle of life you can certainly carve out some time for yourself and take a dive into philosophy. Don't go by my ideas of philosophy. It's of little use. But jump into the ocean yourself and discover something new and fresh for your own self. I am sure and hopeful that philosophy will be your guiding light.
Ending with the eternal words of Great Greek philosopher Socrates who said, ' Know Thyself'. That is the starting point of wisdom.
Thank you!
Image Credit - Jeremy Thomas (https://unsplash.com/photos/FO7bKvgETgQ)
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