The Wisdom of Life

The Wisdom of Life M achines, for instance, clocks and watches generally run on a system of cog wheels. The movement of one such wheel sets another in motion. If either of the wheels does not mesh with the other, neither will the cog wheel move, nor will the machine be set in motion. The same applies to human plans in the modern world. There are two “cog-wheels” here as well. And life’s system functions properly only when the two engage and work together in unison. One wheel in this world is that of man, while the other is that of concomitant circumstances. Here, the individual can be effective only to the extent that external circumstances will permit. Given this state of affairs, wisdom lies in his knowing what is possible and what is not possible for him in terms of his circumstances. Where interests are in conflict, the actual point at issue is not what should be the settlement from the point of view of justice; the actual solution to be sought in such a situation is that which is possible in practical terms. That is why, in such instances, one should be willing to accept the possible, instead of engaging in futile hostilities over the issue of ideal justice. Such efforts will lead to nothing but further loss. The same is the case with nations. Here, too, the leaders should look to what is achievable and what is not in respect of actual circumstances. I have travelled to many parts of the globe and have tried to understand this matter in depth. To me, the degree of success achieved by the individual or the nation is in direct proportion to the effective interlocking of “cog-wheel,” within a broad framework of non-adherence to rigid ideologies.