Tired is Unresourceful

We took a recent trip to Jammu and visited the Sacred Shrine by walking on foot, all the way up and all the way back well within 24 hours… For those of you who are unfamiliar with the distance, it is about 38 km (24 miles). Such long trip on foot becomes difficult even with devotion in the heart but I believe that there is some energy that the place holds that is isn’t tough either, even for a person like me who has not moved a limb in the last three years!

While we were coming back, I was nearing exhaustion. I am someone who likes to acknowledge people and pass a smile to strangers as well. I also like to stop by and shop a little, curiously looking at the things little shops have on offer. But I did not do any of the “mostly me” activities and my goal was to get to the base, get to the hotel and sleep! The thought of stopping by did occur to me but my body did not support that at all.

Precisely, at that moment in time, a question arose in my mind- how much did it take for me to not act in accordance with my nature? Well, the answer is- 38 km! That is it!!! A bit of tiredness of the physical body and I moved out of the essence of who I am!

Wonder what happens to people who are tired by the struggles of life… Those who are struggling just to stay afloat… those who have given up long back and are still breathing, fulfilling their duties and responsibilities.. those with unhealed abuse and trauma… and the list is endless…

While the pandemic shows the sign of fading, the pandemic of fatigued body and tired minds is still in its full wave. It shows up as snappy behaviour, crying at almost nothing, exhaustion, anxiety and a constant state of overwhelm.

Therefore, a kind word to whosoever we meet won’t hurt.. A warm embrace may cool things down for someone… Some compassion… a bit of kindness… a little more intended action is all we require today…