Little Minds

One of my school teachers’ would always say, “ Little things please little minds.” As a child, I always wondered the meaning and purpose behind those words. Our lives were simple as kids. We were mostly engrossed in school, homework and playing. We felt as if studying was the most difficult job in the whole world. We wanted those days to fly away as soon as possible, not realising that those were indeed the best days of our life, never to return. No stress, no worrying about the future or consequences, learning something new every day. We were naive, innocent and curious. We loved being the centre of attention, at least in front of our families. And they showered us with their love and care.

After school was over, we all became a part of the rat race, whether we intended to or not. College life was different yet enjoyable. We all wanted to make our careers and be somebody. Our carefree life was taken away by coaching classes and competitive exams. Stress and anxiety captured our minds, not willing to die down. By the time we were out of college, we had understood the actual reality. Life isn’t a cakewalk and it was never meant to be. Office deadlines and month-ends engulfed our lives as if they were the sole purpose of our mere existence. Family life took a back seat even though socially all of us are quite active.

We have 1000 friends on social media, yet we may not find a single one in time of need. Almost 20 years back, this wasn’t the scenario. Our parents managed to find time for their near and dear ones through their busy schedules while we struggle to even give them a call. Technology has brought us closer to those who are far away while simultaneously taking us far from those near us. As a 90’s kid, I consider myself fortunate enough to have spent my childhood playing with my friends on the playground rather than playing on a Tab. The situation was completely different back then. Love existed among people and personal interaction was given more importance rather than a telephonic conversation. At present, amongst the hustle and bustle of city life, we are more inclined towards texting rather than meeting an old friend at his home. As a kid, I always wanted to be an adult. Thinking that it was easier to be a grown up.

But, now that I am an adult, all I want is to be a child again. How I wish those good old days would come back! Those days of curiosity, innocence, trust, friendship and carefree attitude. Of enjoying the little pleasures of life with our near and dear ones and living in the moment. Being true and honest to ourselves as well as others. It is usually said that kids are the most honest of all. They always speak what they think is right, without using any diplomacy or manipulation. Although this can be good as well as bad at the same time, it is the best way. Saying things as they actually are, without disturbing the facts.

As adults, we always think twice before speaking; taking into account the person in front of us as well as the situation. Most of the times, there is a huge difference between what we say and what we actually feel. And we choose to keep our real thoughts to ourselves not wanting to hurt others, but we end up hurting ourselves in the process.

It is a fact that the past shall never return. We aren’t kids anymore and we are not as young now as we think we are. We are growing older and older as the years pass and before we know it, it might be the time to go in the blink of an eye. Does that mean that we should continue living our lives in the same boring way as we are at present? Wouldn’t it be better being a child at heart and taking life in its own stride? One at a time, living and enjoying the moment, not worrying about the future but tackling the present with determination and a beautiful smile.