Slow Down

 

Slow Down

In this constantly bustling journey, life seems to get lost somewhere. Everyone is striving to survive in this world, with dreams of growth and fulfillment driving them forward. The methods employed, however, may differ.

It was my usual routine to arrive late from the shop, allowing me to familiarize myself with all the security guards on both the morning and evening shifts. The distance to my shop was quite far, requiring me to leave early in the morning and return late in the evening.

I discovered that there has been a change in one of the security guards in our society. He appears to be a young man, approximately 24 years of age. I noticed that he was consistently engrossed in reading books behind the front desk.

My flat was situated on the corner, making the guard counter easily visible from my balcony. I was quite intrigued to observe him daily, and I noticed that whenever I stepped out for a smoke around midnight around 1 AM, he was frequently engrossed in studying.

One day, I paused as I was about to enter the society and approached him, "I've noticed you're always engrossed in books. What are you studying?" At first, he hesitated, fearing that I might report him to the society manager. After assuring him that I was simply curious and meant no harm, he finally opened up and shared his story.

He mentioned, "My father is employed as a small tailor and lacks the financial means to fund my post-graduate studies. As a result, I am presently employed as a night shift guard to prepare for my govt. entrance exams." His determination inspired me, and I gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder.

I conducted my business in two different cities, spending 15 days in Delhi and the rest of the time in Ahmedabad. Upon returning after 15 days, I was excited to see that individual again. However, as I entered in the society's gate, I noticed that he was engrossed in his smartphone, seemingly enjoying its features. I speculated that perhaps he had adopted a new method of learning, as information is readily accessible through Google nowadays. Smartphones offer a variety of apps and resources for acquiring new knowledge.

I have always been interested in studying since my childhood, but my parents' business kept me occupied. Whenever I saw someone struggling to pursue their education, I was drawn towards them. I used to come to the balcony specifically to observe him every day, but for the past two or three days, I haven't been able to see him enjoying learning from his phone or something else.

I departed for my next journey to Ahmedabad and returned after ten days. Upon entering the society, I noticed his absence. I inquired with the guard uncle on duty, asking, "Where is the person who is always immersed in books?" 

Guard Uncle stated, “Time can bring about positive changes for some people and negative changes for others. This particular person has a similar story, sir. He used all his savings to buy a smartphone for studying, but ended up getting distracted in a different direction. He started spending his time searching for entertainment videos and now he is busy creating reels. Additionally, he has also switched to a day shift in a nearby society.”

I was taken aback by all of this and felt a sense of pain. Upon reflection, I realized that I had no relation with that individual, so there was no reason for me to be upset. Let it go, it was his life and he has the right to live it as he chooses.

I felt restless since Thursday and unwillingly I found myself walking towards the nearby society to see him on Sunday. I discovered the name of the society where he was working. When I reached, his work shift had ended and he was filming a reel with two boys outside the society gate.

He suddenly became aware of my presence, but without acknowledging me, he walked in the opposite direction. Initially, I considered stopping him, but my self-awareness prevented me from doing so.

Technology offers us numerous advantages, but its impact largely depends on our usage. Could easy access to inexpensive internet lead to people neglecting unemployment issues as they become engrossed in watching videos? Furthermore, how can one change their life goals without considering the consequences? 

This confusion left me feeling overwhelmed. I reluctantly made my way back home. 

Thanks for reading…