PASSION

An inferno ignites your bones. The tips of your toes tingle with electricity. Your vision sharpens, your breathing intensifies, your mind focuses like a magnifying glass. Passion has just seized you by the wrist, invaded your consciousness and infused your every cell. Passion has numerous symbols and countless descriptors. It has been analyzed by philosophers, explored by historians and utilized by visionaries and leaders, artists and philanthropists. It gushed through Mahatma Gandhi’s veins as he walked India’s dusty paths. It coated Michelangelo’s hands as David rose out of marble and into being. If anything is certain, if anything holds true, it is that passion has a power beyond comprehension and an uncanny tendency to shape the universe.

Passion is the star that helps drifting souls navigate the world’s turbulent tides. Nothing is as singularly capable of transforming a monotonous existence into a life of sincere purpose and sublime joy. Why? I think it is because passion is blind to boundaries. It cares not for socio-economic status, disregards disabilities and invalidates the ‘need’ for natural ability. It knows no limits, and it obliterates all obstacles.

Tragically, in this hectic age, we all too often get sucked into completing menial tasks, working with oppressive deadlines and juggling cumbersome responsibilities. The flames that previously crackled in our chest cavities are reduced to glowing embers. We begin to see little difference between one day and the next. We become resigned creatures of habit, not ardent pursuers of visions. That is why it is so important for us to put aside circumstances and speak to our hearts: they will not mislead us by encouraging negativity, for the heart of every person is aware that he who serves the most, reaps the most. John Lennon imagined a ‘perfect’ world without countries or religion. Now, picture a global community of individuals driven by selfless passion, in pursuit of their dreams, leading lives that are bless in turn. Which seems more ideal and less idealistic? Which world would you want to inhabit?

by Pratik Raghu.