I know why people are known by the friends
they keep. These days, when the influence of families is diluted, the friends
constitute the “carefully chosen “family, a family where you can have all the
freedom to take a path going straight to hell. (Metaphorically speaking, of
course). As it is fashionably stated today, you can’t choose your natural
family. You can only tolerate them and sometimes, not even that.
I see many “close” friends meeting many
nights a week to celebrate their “friendship” with alcohol, weed, cocaine etc.
“Carefully chosen family”, did I say? That’s right. I did say that.
But then, our generation grew up with
family being friends, too. This two in one package was unbeatable. Having fun
with family was going on picnics with parents, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles
, doing train journeys with specially packed Tiffin boxes which was the most
exciting meal ever , playing cards during the journey and generally having a
whale of a time. Where we felt loved and protected. Where there was zero
tolerance for any disrespect, disobedience or rudeness of any kind, and of any
“friend” who taught you to stray from family norms into undesirable habits and
addictions. Friends were supposed to be those who dragged you away from any
dubious people and habits around you , in case you strayed. THAT was true
friendship.
Different times, different perspectives!
But, the consequences of lifestyles will be seen in similar patterns. That
doesn’t change. It is not only what YOU feel but how others see you; too, that
brings the consequences. Too much sun will burn your skin. Too much darkness
and you won’t be able to bear the sun. Too much freedom and you might wish you
had been balanced.
Life has to be lived with love, humility,
and yes, sacrifice, too. This is true freedom for the soul because it comes
into this world encased in a body. These are essential requirements.
Surekha Kothari
surekhakothari.wordpress.com
Speakingtree Blog: www.speakingtree.in/public/surekhakothari
