Friends, why does a beautifully wrapped gift appeal to you? Why do suspenseful films or stories fill you with excitement? Why does meeting an attractive person for the first time feel so thrilling?
Let’s explore these questions through this story:
Sudhir’s life was going smoothly until three years ago. That was when he joined a new company, and unbeknownst to him, a quiet storm crept into his life, turning everything upside down. He found himself stuck in turmoil, often blaming Shefali, a colleague who became his friend and later his lover, and at times, blaming himself. Gradually, his relationships with his friends and family also started deteriorating.
After hearing Sudhir’s story, Ramu Kaka said, “Son, neither you nor anyone around you is at fault. The fault lies in our education and the so-called wisdom it fosters. The burden of our knowledge and understanding grows heavier by the day, bending us to our knees, yet no one is willing to lay down this burden. You must have noticed the flood of advisors around you and on social media. Somewhere, your current situation stems from their influence.”
Sudhir interrupted, “Kaka, so you’re saying none of this is my fault?”
Kaka smiled and said, “Son, applause requires two hands. Anyway, there’s a famous saying in English that life should be an open book, allowing people to know and understand you. This phrase has been repeated thoughtlessly, and we’ve started following it without question. The same has happened to you. Today, your girlfriend, friends, and family know everything about you—your flaws, your thoughts, your joys and sorrows. Whenever you try to say or do something different, they remind you that it’s beyond your capability. If you insist, they recount your shortcomings or past failures.
“They’ve come to know all your moves and thoughts, and now, without even fighting, you’re engaged in a silent battle with them,” Kaka said, gazing at Sudhir as if inviting him to share his thoughts.
Sudhir hesitantly replied, “Yes, Kaka, you’re right. Initially, Shefali used to tell me, ‘I share everything with you, but you keep things hidden.’ Slowly, as I fell deeper into love, I began sharing everything without realizing it. Now, I can’t seem to keep anything to myself, and people around me are taking advantage of it. Tell me, Kaka, how can I come out of this?”
After a thoughtful pause, Kaka replied, “Son, you’ve dug this pit for yourself. Climbing out will be difficult, but not impossible. You must try, though it will require patience and endurance. Life’s mysteries and certain thoughts should remain untold. Think about how excited you feel before watching a suspense movie or reading a novel. If the suspense is maintained, it keeps you engaged and stays with you even afterward.
“When you receive a gift, you’re thrilled. The unknown about your future excites you. But if the future were revealed, life would lose its charm. Why do you visit unknown places? Because you’re curious about them, even if you know some details. This curiosity drives you to explore and enjoy. We haven’t seen or fully understood God, and that’s why the eagerness to know and experience the divine remains.
“Thus, every action, every revelation should happen at the right time to keep the excitement alive. To preserve enthusiasm, there should be a little suspense even in daily life. If you create this, everyone around you will be captivated by you. You’ll be happier, and the atmosphere around you will be filled with joy. Maintain a bit of distance from your lover or spouse, and they’ll be drawn to you even more. Occasionally, offer gifts or do something out of the ordinary to keep love alive. The same principle applies to all relationships.
“Begin living your life a little differently, where you hold the reins, and it will become truly delightful. I hope you understand what I’m saying.”
Overjoyed, Sudhir exclaimed, “Kaka, I wish I had come to you earlier! But now I understand everything, and I’ll do exactly as you’ve advised.”