Ego!
By: Harsh Bhandari
Tags: Picture Composition, Ego, Relationships, Life Lessons, Wishful Thinking

In the image, two humanoid figures, both of which are silently empty, are seated in opposing directions. Both individuals are leaning downwards, giving the impression that they are both subdued. We can see arid land and no other humanoid figures in the image, therefore these two are the only ones who exist. Despite the fact that the figures are not facing each other, the small figures within them are looking at each other, desiring to interact but feeling powerless. The fact that the smaller figures are solid while the outer figures are empty sends a message that all humans are empty on the inside; it is only their soul (subconsciousness) that is solid. We humans frequently find themselves in a bind.

We humans frequently find ourselves in situations when we are unable to interact with someone we have known for a long time, despite a strong desire to do so. This might happen for two reasons: our ego or our preference for self-respect over the other person.

When I saw this photo, it reminded me of a situation that is somewhat similar to this.

I found a friend in high school with whom I quickly clicked and began spending the majority of my time with. We were socially awkward at the time because we didn’t have any other buddies. Years passed, and our bond became stronger.

As we grew older, we began to learn more about ourselves, the activities we enjoy doing, the things we are passionate about, the people we admire, the locations we want to visit, and so on. We were broken into groups and our time was shared with other friends. We made it clear that we were each other’s first priority, but fate had other plans for us.

We had the option of studying sciences or other subjects in 9th grade. I was interested in computing and mathematics, so I went with Sciences, whereas he was more interested in designing and sketching, so he went with Arts.

We began to make more friends, participate in other projects, and devote our time to other activities. We grew apart without even realising it. We were ecstatic to have so many new friends, and I was personally taken aback by my sudden celebrity. We lost touch after school and relocated to different cities. After a certain age, everyone begins to experiment with various emotions. The sensations of romance, guilt, thankfulness, envy, and so forth.

Those were the days when the only reason for sadness was a mountain of homework. We begin to meet people who become essential parts of our lives, and we get that feeling of a new beginning, and we waste a lot of energy on the wrong people. There are times when being surrounded by a large crowd does not make us feel less lonely. When we are severely hurt by folks who come into our life to show us the value of our presence and then depart as soon as they find better company, and we sit there thinking about how wonderful those school days were!

Oh, how I wish I had made a more concerted attempt to keep in touch with my high school acquaintance. He was the one who stood by me when I had no one else. Despite the fact that he had done nothing wrong to me, I believe I had lost a true friend. Is it too late to strike up a dialogue? What will he say about me? What right do I have to start communicating to him again? Will he recognise me if I initiate a discussion, and, more importantly, why should I initiate the conversation?

My ego had taken over my head at this point, and I couldn’t stop myself. Maybe he was in a similar situation, maybe he, too, wanted to talk to me, maybe he was missing the good old days, but ohh, we live in a world where being busy in our life is a sign of success. I’m hoping to learn a new lesson and not let people like this leave.

~Harsh Bhandari