A Convalescent 's Musings

 "As flies to wanton boys

We are to the God's "

Thomas Hardy

Eloquent lines depicting  Hardy's much - discussed pessimism  !!
Lines that echo the truth but I would say just the half truth .
In defence of the classic and eminent novelist and poet Thomas Hardy my take is that writing is  subjective and manifests one's attitude and state of mind . The autobiographical element is always there .
We are undoubtedly puppets at the mercy of fate and The Almighty .
The trials and tribulations of life , adversities and misfortunes  are certainly not easy to handle and need courage , fortitude and a balanced mind to go through them ! 
Thus the above lines exemplify Hardy's fatalistic and negative approach to life more so because of his ardous personal experiences .
Equanimity and balance of mind , the ' sambhav' as is befittingly  expressed in Hindi is what one needs to practice to face hardships and the not - so - good times . Though easily said than done,  the only way is to practice and try and develop a mind set that gives one the wisdom to think that these are all passing phases and this too shall pass.
Again as  Hardy  expressed that happiness is  " an occasional episode in the general drama of pain " !!
This is the perception where the problem lies...
To magnify , exaggerate and keep harping on the trying times  and difficulties that we all humans have to face only ends up in depression and disillusionment .
A deep strong faith in The Lord and the belief that He is our Caretaker. One who is looking after us every miniscule second can allay these negative thoughts .
Surrendering to Him is the ONLY OPTION for mortals and certainly that is what gives one the strength to develop a positive attitude and renews our reverence and faith in God .
Now in contrast to Hardy's poignant statements I am immediately reminded of Robert Browning's powerfully optimistic lines
" Grow old along with me
The Best is yet to be !"
The two great authors and poets' philosophy are juxtaposed !
Browning is known for his robust optimism  and  these oft quoted lines signify  that age is just a number . It is up to we humans beings to perceive life and advancing age  prudently .
In other words what one has always wished to aspire in life can be done so even by the sexagenerians , Septagenarians and even octogenarians ! Life begins anew for these age groups providing them some free time once their filial responsibilities are fulfilled..
This is the time to encash and pursue one's latent desires. Not only is this all-engaging and fulfilling but also opens new avenues and vistas,  as well as brings to the forefront various hidden skills that one was unaware of .
Nevertheless both Thomas Hardy ,the acclaimed English  novelist - poet of the early 19th century   , and Robert Browning. the popular  Victorian poet - playwright of the late 19th century are celebrated authors ...it is just that they have different ideologies .


Plus we Indians believe in Karma so definitely karmic effects cannot be ignored . The only solution is to have firm faith in the ONE who loves us unconditionally. Our deeds and our dedication towards them is important . However,  we have no control over their results so no use fretting about that. As the universal message of The Bhagwad Gita says
कर्मण्येवाघिकारस्ते माफलेषु कदाचिन!!