What principles define how you live?

“You are an idiot; you know nothing about the importance of the topic”, a stern and loud voice growled. An officer was chiding his subordinate for his ostensible mistake.

Subjective v/s Objective

The fictional officer and his team, as described above, are ubiquitous figures. Individuals often praise their commendable actions, kind disposition, and optimistic outlook. Nonetheless, such views are subjective. The extent and nature of their behavior have long been contentious topics. The discussion continues on human behavior devoid of instinct, particularly in cases of capital punishment or the death sentence, which garners some sympathy. Despite the atrocious acts of murder and/or rape committed by the condemned, there are sympathizers who advocate for a reversal of the punishment. The death penalty remains a polarizing issue.

Is Scolding Bad?

Scolding for errors or misconduct is a common way to express disapproval, but when it becomes habitual, it poses serious concerns for both parties involved. Those in authority have the power to discipline the offender with a verbal warning, reprimand, or more severe penalties, after a documented and structured process. Still, a self-absorbed individual fails to recognize the value in others, only seeing worth in themselves. This attitude slowly infiltrates and solidifies, replacing inherent qualities and becoming a fixed aspect of one’s personality, obvious in daily interactions. Arrogant superiors cultivate their formidable image.

Narcissist

A narcissist often captiously undermines others to keep their own narrative and ideology. They tend to place themselves at the center of attention, expecting everything to revolve around them. Narcissists are loquacious, often boasting about their supposed greatness and “achievements,” disregarding the feelings of others. In their self-promotion, they do not shy away from harming friends, relatives, or colleagues. Bragging about illusory accomplishments to gain admiration or feigned importance is typical of such individuals. While seeking praise is normal, an excessive inclination towards it can be detrimental.

What to Choose?

Honesty, diligence, compassion, and hard work are virtues often spoken of, yet they are viewed skeptically due to widespread corruption. Individuals who reject these principles are considered deviant by societal standards. They often choose deceit, falsehood, treachery, and the illicit accumulation of wealth. Ironically, such individuals advocate for noble deeds in others while engaging in insincere religious and spiritual practices. Their public persona and private actions are contradictory, switching as convenience dictates, leading to deception.

Blended Approach

(A)Goldsmith’s Approach

The appropriate course is naturally inquisitive. It goes without saying that achieving the Absolute is impossible. Attempting to define an absolute good or bad is futile, as even Nature seeks to balance opposing forces. A goldsmith adds a certain amount of copper to achieve the desired hardness in gold for crafting intricate ornaments. Similarly, we must blend varying degrees of good and bad to achieve a proper and balanced mixture.

(B) A Balance Approach is Good

A balanced approach and genuine actions define a person as virtuous or wicked, acceptable or not. This is the reason our ancient scriptures advocate for equilibrium. When Yudhisthira was confronted with challenging questions by the invisible “Gandharva,” he correctly stated that preserving life is paramount in dire or perilous situations. He elaborated that “Dharma” is what steers us through life’s ups and downs; it signifies taking the right action based on time, circumstances, and location. It echoes the adage, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”

(C) Telling the Truth Tactfully

Truth is not only virtuous, but it also saves us from many difficult situations when delivered politely and tactfully. There’s a folktale about an elephant dearly beloved by a monarch. When the elephant was dying, no one dared to inform the monarch of its death, fearing for their lives. A wise man relayed the news to the monarch in an indirect manner. He reported that the elephant was unconscious, not consuming food, and not breathing. When the enraged monarch asked if the elephant was dead, the sage diplomatically responded that he was not stating that, but rather, it was the monarch’s conclusion. Such stories impart valuable lessons about practical wisdom in life.

Smart Move

There are two paths: the right and the wrong. Yet, there exists a third, more practical path—the middle way. If one achieves the desired outcomes without causing harm and by taking this middle path, it is preferable. It should not be considered a compromise but rather, in contemporary terms, a “smart move.” Depriving others of their rightful claims is wrong, but to adjust and align matters so that everyone receives their due is both just and wise. It propels society towards progress in a manner that is inclusive and embracing.

Summing Up

In conclusion, maintaining a balance between good and bad is essential, creating perfect harmony. Positive and negative, north and south are crucial and inseparable. Without one, the other loses its importance and luster. “Honesty is the best policy” suggests that dishonesty also exists and is undesirable, necessitating its rejection. Similarly, just as mortar requires concrete and cement to form a solid structure, a strategic combination of opposing forces can yield remarkable results.

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