THE WISDOM OF LIFE

THE WISDOM OF LIFE For Success M ACHINES, for instance, clocks and watches generally run on a system of cogwheels. The movement of one such wheel sets another in motion. If either of the wheels does not mesh with the other, neither will the cogwheel 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 accompanying circumstances. Here, the individual can be effective only to the extent that external circumstances will permit. Given this state of affairs, wisdom lies in knowing what is possible and what is not possible in terms of circumstances. Where interests are in conflict, the matter at issue is not what should be the settlement from the point of view of justice; the 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 with respect to the actual circumstances. This is a universal matter where the degree of success achieved by the individual or the nation is in direct proportion to the effective interlocking of “cog-wheels”, within a broad framework of nonadherence to rigid ideologies. It was America’s good fortune that it found leaders throughout its history, who were free from the delusions of utopianism. They understood the laws of nature and started their national journey in accordance with these laws. By making steady progress for the last two hundred years, America has come to be the foremost power in the world. The right way to proceed in this world is to allow things to take their natural course without placing any obstacles in their path.