'Good' view 'Bad' view

Though we live in a palpitating and vibrating world, it is a mere planet in the solar system, a speck in the galaxy, practically a 'nothingness' in terms of the larger universe beyond. And then beyond that? We do not know. Do we really exist? Are we really here? In the light of this question, everything around us, our lives, our thoughts and emotions, our comings and goings - are of no significance.Life and death seem irrelevant. But two pillars seem to rear their heads in the midst of this mysterious void. The good and the bad.
They say that where there is light there must be shadow. I have probed the mysteries of the dark. I have quested and sought answers. Is the dark evil? What is this thing called 'right'? Is the 'morality' preached by society the only way? Not necessarily so. Morality essentially is the seat of consciousness existing in each of us which gets conditioned by what one imbibes from one's personal life. Accordingly, the mapping of one's morality differs from person to person. What matters at the end of the day is whether one should be truthful to oneself. In the process, one might be self-centered or manipulative, but so be it. Even our karmas are designed by God. We scurry about gloating over our 'virtues' and condemn the 'sinful' but that's sheer stupidity. As we spin as almost invisible specks in this dark vastness, why blame ourselves for acts of omission and commission? Ask that Power somewhere out there, why it should be so. Why the differing mentalities, circumstances and reactions?
While you mull upon that, the flip side to the story is that though the Power is the Great Designer, sometimes we have a little leeway to do our own thing. To make our own mistakes. Or maybe use our own will. Then, the edges of good and bad blur a bit. It's interesting. Lying they say, is not done. But white lies have saved many a relationship. Marital fidelity is advocated. But a little fling on the side never hurt anyone. In fact, it often lifts the spirits - as long as it does not last too long. Good for the ego and the morale. Flattery is hypocrisy. And that is bad by any holy book. But bolster the boss's self-esteem with some verbal polish and watch your promotions and perks pour in. The mother-in-law is another one to practise this technique on. Practical morality. A pity if you can't adjust to it. In any century or clime, while values have been respected, survival has largely depended on the art of knowing how to look out for oneself. And as the poet once said, "And still God has not said a word."
As told to Sudeshna Chatterjee
sudeshna.chatterjee@timesgroup.com