Where And How

‘Where do we want to reach and how’ is the most insignificant question. Our atomistic thought pattern is fine. The prevalent incoherent and irrational approach is beyond question. Our directionless-ness is okay. Emotionalism is not a problem. Our celebrating the leaders is the best thing to do on earth. The blame game is a noble pastime. Having no clearly defined priorities is in order. Starting a venture without giving much thought to the goals is normal.

Our intolerance and less appreciation of ideas is not an issue. Our deep division of the knowledge is not a point of concern. Suppressing the individual – for whom all the social institutions exist – is acceptable. An excessively communitarian thinking which engenders buck-passing is perfectly alright. Lifeless words and dry as dust speeches are most welcome. The wild goose chase is worth seventeen years of efforts.

What is not in order and not worth trying is to find out ‘where we ultimately want to reach and how’. Only this question is the waste of time. Quite naturally and most certainly. But:

hur halaak-e ummat-e pesheeN ke bood

zaaN ke bur sundal gumaaN kardund ‘uood

(Each past nation that ever perished, it perished

Because it misjudged the priorities.)

(Maulana Rûm)

rakhiyo Ghaalib mujhe is talkh nawaa’ee pe ma‘aaf

aaj kuchh durd mere dil meiN sewaa hotaa hai