Last
fortnight has been very taxing physically and mentally. The viral fever took
its toll and the impotence of not being able to run took its toll on near and
dear ones. Finally patience gave way on the fourth day and the Gandhian
succumbed to seek the aid of an antibiotic. Well meaning advice from wife and
my good friend Bala grated and I must have done damage to the friendship. A
premature return to the course on Friday and lay off on Saturday was the last
straw. My wife also has been saying that I have become intolerant of criticism
of late.
What
I decided after hearing my good friend Bala’s well meaning advice for rest was
totally inexcusable. I decided to stop posting on Dailymile and sharing my
running stats even with my wife. Last I was secretive with my wife was when I used
to fib about the number of cigarettes smoked. Bala backing off the Dandi
Sabarmati run set me thinking.
I
thought long and hard during the run today. I thought what my Guru and mentor,
MKG would have done in the circumstance. I was reminded of his letter to his
father to confess when he stole. I decided to put down my thoughts in a blog to
have a cathartic effect.
I
have been observing that I have started to revel in praise and any advice
however well meaning .but, perceived as contrary to my bull-headed ways was
simply shut out. Seeing that such advice has come from my wife and Bala, two of
the people who could only have my good at heart and who do not need to sugar
coat their advice, I decided to make amends and take criticism in its stride
even if I may not agree finally. My posts must have become too vain if it is
starting to incite the competitive streak in fellow runners while ostensibly
claiming to be running to my own beat. Bala’s directness has shown me the mirror;
maybe, others are being too polite and taking my bragging quietly.
Maybe,
my little talent of being able to run is getting to my head. Unrestrained praise
at Dailymile is also having its effect. What is the use of reading Bhagvad
Gita, if I cannot be ambivalent to praise and criticism. I have decided to
start posting on Dailymile and not get affected by praise or criticism. I just
hope that this foolishness does not cost me the friendship of my good friend
Bala.
