self preservation

We all live our own lives, eyes fixated on our path, our road, our destination. We encounter others, it is but expected, however, do we ever look up?

Our minds are so enveloped and fazed by the worries of our own minds, those of others seem irrelevant. I mean, self-preservation is key, right?

But, where do we draw the line, when must you put others over yourself? When must you abandon your path for the sake of another's?

We've been brought up in a society that relies on self-preservation, on individuality. We all fight, fight for our place in the world, to survive. The workplace is a battle-field, it's combatants fighting for promotions and success. Education is a race to the top, students climbing over each other to get the highest mark. We can turn against one another at the click of a finger, at the risk of self jeopardy. We are taught the pillars of compassion, kindness and justice, yet do when put to an ultimate test, what takes precedence?

We live in the world of our own story, we, the main character, our only concern. Yet, when does it change? Does it ever? Do we ever notice those around us suffering, in a turmoil of darkness and despair?

In every world there are others. In every story, there's more to be told.

We are self-focussed, our concerns for others outweighed by our own doubts, fears and judgement.

What if one day we all woke up and we read the stories of the others, those who aren't us. Would the world be a better place, whatever that is. What if we were able to see, see it all so clear, not tainted by a slight thought of "me, myself and I" .

Would I see the pain in her blue eyes, the tears that are shed every night. Would I notice how her body slumps in defeat, her smile forever absent on her porcelain face?

Would I see a world darker than mine?

O

[note- severe night rambles]