What If

Summary

The article contemplates the implications of a life without adversity or challenges, suggesting that such a scenario might lead to complacency, arrogance, and a lack of understanding or empathy for others' struggles.

Abstract

The reflective piece titled "What If" delves into the hypothetical scenario of a life devoid of opposition or hardships. It questions whether the absence of an enemy or challenges would motivate individuals to prove themselves or if it would lead to a life of stagnation, akin to a "crazy body on our mom's couch." The author ponders if innate genius or abundant wealth and power would encourage exploration and connection with others or if it would result in arrogance and a disconnect from humanity. The article emphasizes that while we may speculate about how we would fare in alternate circumstances, our current life, shaped by its challenges, is what defines us. It cautions against envying other paths, as they may not be as fulfilling as they appear, and suggests that our present condition, with all its imperfections, is rich in its own way. The piece concludes by encouraging readers to appreciate the value of their unique journey and the lessons learned from their experiences.

Opinions

The author posits that adversity is essential for personal growth and self-improvement.
A life without challenges could lead to a lack of motivation and a failure to develop one's potential.
Being born with advantages like genius, wealth, or power does not guarantee a well-rounded character or understanding of life's complexities.
The grass is not always greener on the other side; envying others' perceived ease can blind us to the richness of our own lives.
Embracing and learning from our current circumstances is more productive than dwelling on unchangeable "what ifs."
The article implies that understanding and empathy for those less fortunate is crucial and may be lacking in individuals who have never faced hardship.

The other side is no better

If we had no enemy and challenges Everyone and everything were on our side Would we try to convince Or work hard to prove ourselves Wouldn’t we be just a crazy body on our mom’s couch Would we even try to leave our parent’s house

If we were born genius Had every knowledge well-programmed in our brains Would we explore Or connect with others Wouldn’t we be so arrogant that we forget we are humans

If we were powerful and wealthy And were always part of the successful ones Could we manage our advantages well Would we understand those who fail Or get why some are moneyless Wouldn’t we be just like those we often criticize Or, even worst, ignore the other side of life

We’ll never know how we’ll be Unless we become what we think we should be But life’s made us who we are now Because that’s who we can be for the moment The other side is no better It’s just different, though it looks spectacular in our biased eyes

As bad as we may feel Our “what if” won’t change anything It just makes us lesser Envious but blind about the richness of our life Bitter but unready to better our circumstances

What If

The other side is no better

As Clocks Hit Loud

We came along the journey

Where To Go

Life is a flat road

Feeling Lost

We can’t apprehend

How Some Breathe

Most don’t even want to fathom