meeting the reality of life

Last night I sat with a good friend of mine in a lounge. We were chatting. The TV was on, showing 'the Amazing Race' where two couples were fighting for a flight ticket. One couple stood in front of a ticket counter, being attended by an officer. Then, the other couple cut the line, asking for attention of the same officer. Feeling interrupted --and afraid of not getting the ticket-- the first couple defended their position. The two couples started arguing. One even called security officers to get rid of the others.

Now, if you watch the Amazing Race, or any other similar quiz, you'd know that scene such as this is not uncommon. Things could get even worse. For a big sum of money, some people would do just about anything. I really didn't like it. I hate it when people let go of their values, just for the sake of money. Yeah, a big and instant money, I should understand... But, still...

After a few while, my friend made a comment, "Erika, I think you haven't met the reality". I paused, getting ready for what she was about to say. "It's scary to see people being deceitful to others, right in front of your eyes. But you cant avoid it. This thing is always happening. They do it for wealth, position, anything." She then continued, "You're still a student. Plus, you study here, in Australia. Probably when you start working you'll witness it. And if you're too kind and naive, some people will take advantage of you. It's scary, but you have to know it and be prepared."

..........

She is so right. I haven't tasted the bitterness of reality.

Why would some people go to that length just for a temporary luxury? Is that what people have to do to survive? Survive from what? Is survival measured by money, title, and fame???

But she is so right. And I'm so sad. Or frustrated? Where is integrity? Where do you put moral values? When I step out to the reality, will I be able to stand it? Even more frightening, will I be strong enough to uphold my principles, without any distortion?


"Piling of more wealth has kept you heedless. Till you saw your graves. Yes, soon you will come to know. Again, yes, soon you will come to know. Yes, it you would have knows with knowledge of certainty: you would not have loved wealth. Undoubtedly, you shall necessarily, see Hell. Then again, undoubtedly you shall necessarily see it with the eye of certainty. Then, undoubtedly, you shall surely be asked about the favours. " (At-Takathur: 1-8)