Snake Around Shiva’s Neck


During a conversation with a senior colleague of mine, he remarked, ‘Nasir, you know it all depends on where the thing is – the thing itself maybe inconsequential but it assumes significance if it is placed elsewhere.’


I asked him to elaborate.


He said, ‘Look at the snake. If it is on the ground people will rush to crush it but if it is around Shiva’s neck people will worship it.’


Never a truer statement was uttered. I thought and thought and thought. His words resonated in my ears and mind. Even now, it resonates. 


Take the corporate world. In one department nothing happens while in another one promotions, solid bonuses and salary increases are given. The department where nothing is happening is like the snake on the ground and the department where things are happening is like the snake around Shiva’s neck. Likewise, in life, there are plenty of examples.


If you wish to move on in life then see where you are placed. Relocate yourself. Reinvent yourself. Don’t blame the circumstances. Don’t blame anyone. It will not take you anywhere. Aim for a spot where you are in the spotlight. 


Instead of slithering on the ground, curl around the deity’s neck. 


-          NZ

18.12.2019

BN: 209

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