Wisdom from a Nightmare

Oh the terror. Just woke up. It's 4.35 am right now. This is not the kind of incident I wanted to record. In fact, almost always, I fail to recollect my dreams/ night terrors. But the torment I had just now is unforgettable. It felt very real (duh).

I can't even describe what happened because it was too horrific even though it was just a nightmare. Take your best guess based on the picture. I can only say it was a situation of tragic loss. I am failing to understand why my subconscious projected it. Regardless, it holds some important lessons. My takeaways are:

1. Be more selfless if you can, always.

The world is in desperate need of people who can be so. The terror is too much for me to process even right now. An act of selflessness was crucial to avoid the loss.

2. Be safe than sorry!

Don't shy away from minor inconveniences in the present (especially due to your inclination to be lazy). They may have the potential to cause you regret in the future.

3. Don't let material success get to your head.

Having a certain sense of achievement may affect the way you interact with people. It might also lead to an inessential ego. Always be nice to people. You don't know what lies ahead.

4. Try to become mentally strong.

You never know when you will be faced with an adverse situation. Very few people can manage a calm demeanor in pressure situations.

5. Your life can change at any moment!

In the most unimaginable way possible. So get off your high horse and surrender the imaginary control you think you have over life. Empathize with others. Don't feel too bad about the things they say because eventually, it doesn't matter. What matters is how you choose to respond, because that is the only thing you can control.

6. Time is always of the essence.

You cannot afford to waste it in moments of indecision and inaction (the precursor to my nightmare). Build your fund of knowledge and strength of character. Hold yourself accountable and fulfill your obligation to everyone (including yourself) in a timely manner. As is often said, right deeds if not performed at the right time may end up being useless.

Whew! All this from one nightmare! I know; it's insane. A scary yet useful reminiscence.

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P.S. I have digitized the above much later. Had scribbled as soon as I woke up at 4.35 am, 04/10/2019!