SURMOUNTING THE BARRICADES
Be Realistic in Your Planning

THE writings of Anne Bronte (1820-49), an English novelist, reflect realism. One of her sayings is: ‘There is always a ‘but’ in this imperfect world.’

This is a wise saying. The present world is devised for the purpose of human trial. That is why the ideal state is not achievable here. Different kinds of limitations mark this worldly existence. Here, man being free in his speech and actions, there are repeated clashes of interest. That is why no one is able to achieve a friction-free life. Here one is always faced with a ‘but’ in one’s way. It is therefore essential for man to take ground realities into account in planning his activities. If he fails to do so, he will be a miserable failure.

You are free to drive your vehicle at top speed on the street. However, you do not have it in your power to free the street of all the vehicles heading towards you from the opposite direction. You are free to make a bid to stop an oncoming procession, but you do not have it in your power to keep the armed police from interfering. You can hold rallies and processions for any issue concerning your own community, but it is impossible for you to stop counter-reactions among the rival group. On the issue of denial of your rights, you can launch fiery movements in protest, but you do not have the means to change the law of the world that man can receive only that which is commensurate with his abilities.

There are barricades of ‘buts’ everywhere in this world. One must acknowledge that such barricades exist and plan one’s actions accordingly. If you overlook this factor, then nothing but destruction will await you.