Don't Go With The Flow

When I got my Grade 10 result, remotely related and immensely curious people-acquaintences wanted to know whether I planned on studying Commerce or Science. When I my reply, “Arts,” shot out of their dichotomised option, with half-shock and half-worry they wondered why, despite me scoring high marks. In the initial moments, I did question my decision but I’m glad I didn’t let myself get dragged down.

Four years have passed since and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I never thought I'd say something this poetic for my academic life but through Arts, it feels like I’ve found myself.

I began my first year on a high note, intrigued by all that came my way. No, it hasn’t been rainbows and unicorns all along; there have been times, several of them, where I’ve wanted to stop because I thought I’d “Had enough.” But when I realise what the whole process has done for me on an individual level and the kind of implications these disciples have on the world, I only feel gratitude.

Anthropology (no, it’s got nothing to do with cockroaches) has broadened my understanding of the world like nothing else has. It’s forced me to stretch the boundaries of my mind, question everything I’ve ever believed and welcome multiple perspectives. Psychology made me realise how subjective everything is and my mind is blown by its own power. Literature, well, inspired me to do what I’m currently doing- to write. I’ve found an exciting career opportunity that links to my academic roots. Even though there’s a long way to go before I start out as a professional, just thinking of how powerful a medium I’ve found to bring about positive change makes me dance with joy, literally.

When I look back a few years later, it won’t be the “Arts degree” or sceptical advisors that’ll matter; it’s the journey I chose to undertake and the lives I influenced thereby that will.

So, don't go with the flow- Don't go with something just because everyone around you is. Go with your inner flow because that's what will drive your passion and help you discover yourself. 

Aditi :)

I didn't know

I didn't know that giving up was so hard. You'd think it would be easy - after all, most people give up at some point. I've seen people give up on their dreams, people give up while working, people give up on people. But hasn't it ever been hard doing the opposite? Isn't it difficult giving up knowing you've come so far and that there is a possibility of things working out? Shouldn't giving up be hard and not easy then?

I didn't know that it would be so much fun making thank you cards. Very recently I took part in a competition and sent thank you cards to everyone who helped me and I think the kind of happiness I got from doing that was just of a different kind. Making their day made mine. I need to keep that in mind and continue appreciating others. 

I didn't know my sister could miss me. Well she said that she missed my laptop more than me but that's besides the point. She does keep saying she didn't miss me though. I'm going to stay happy knowing she missed me anywayy. :)

I didn't know dancing would be half as much fun. A while ago, when I'd feel tired and bored, I'd just begin YouTube videos and follow them and I realised the feeling I get after dancing is close enough to after running or exercise - I think it's an adrenaline thing. It also gives me more confidence to attempt dancing in front of an audience if I ever have to so maybe that's a good thing.

I didn't know I could code with the rise and fall of the sun. Honestly the amount of effort and time that went in that contest was tremendous and it made me realise my own capacity. It changed the way I think about myself and the subjects I'm studying and how I'd probably want to work. I got more focus, I feel much clearer.

There is so much to know.
There is so much to learn.
There is so much to experience.

And we can do all of that, only if we'd let ourselves go. Let go of the I don't know's and start working on the Now I will know's. Start immersing yourself in what you want to really do apart from following the monotonous system of study we have and discovering new things everyday. It'll change the way you think, and it'll change you.

I didn't know a lot of things.
But now I do.
And I don't know a lot of things.
But soon I will.

I hope you do too <3
Kanksha