Stories

Everyone has his or her life story to tell. May it be interesting, may it be long, may it be life-changing, there are many stories out there waiting to be told. In the newspapers, we read about people who are able to make it in this fast-paced, ever-changing world. Those are the success stories. There's so much to be learnt form these stories. Mostly, it's about how the person overcame all odds, challenges with iron-clad determination. Admittedly, this has become predictable but nonetheless, a seemingly essential ingredient for success.

Then there are stories which sets us thinking. Thought-provoking articles about what-ifs and the moving line which separates the good from the bad. Justification of certain punishments. Moral values. OB markers. There are a wide collection of stories that entices the grey matter to start working.

Of course there are also the stories which lead to tears. We must not forget that there are other people who are not as fortunate as us to be living in a material world. Sometimes, the world has been divided into two: one of a more affluent nature and the other a much poorer cousin being an understatement. People who are living well below the subsistence level, constantly worrying when the next meal is going to be, where is the next shelter to call home. There is help for them, but it is never enough. So should we expand our efforts or resign ourselves to the fact that we can only throw so many starfishes back into the water?

Life stories are wide and plentiful. If we ever bothered to stop to smell the roses, we should be able to stop and listen to the stories that people are willing to share. There is much to learn and helps to broaden our horizons.

Responsibility

It's a big word with many implications. Assuming a leadership position puts me face to face with this intangible entity which gets heavier with time. Some people are able to handle the burden admirably (Frodo Baggins in Lord of The Rings), others become weighed down by this invisible force. Friends who you can depend on become absolutely crucial in this juncture. While the rewards may justify the work, often, it is a thankless task.

I'm not sure how I'll handle it if it is being thrust to me. I only hope that I have the strength and persistence to see it through. It would by no means be the first time I'll be faced with it and it will definitely not be the last. To improve and grow, learning is needed. And it goes in a cycle...