As we ambled through our condominium complex, engaged in discussions on global and domestic affairs, a shrill whistle abruptly interrupted us. The guard signaled towards a makeshift pedestrian pathway across the road, diverting traffic into a narrow lane due to an earlier accident. This incident prompted reflections on the knee-jerk reactions often taken in response to such events, overlooking more pressing concerns like reckless cycling within the complex. My wife’s observation that accidents are inevitable, no matter the precautions, resonated deeply.
In Delhi, a colleague met with an unfortunate accident while lost in contemplation, stepping off the curb into the path of a bus. Despite sustaining multiple fractures, he acknowledged his own fault and remained grateful for surviving. Earlier, the Delhi Traffic Police implemented a mandatory helmet rule for two-wheeler riders, but a community objected on religious grounds, seeking exemption for women. A senior colleague from that same community wisely remarked that accidents do not discriminate based on faith.
During my travels to Bhutan, I was advised against visiting certain areas due to ongoing insurgency. I remarked philosophically that fate would prevail, but my Bhutanese companion countered that we should not invite danger. This reminded me of an Indian saying about the unpredictable nature of events.
Recalling an incident from my youth, when four of us braved a hail of pebbles over a hundred meters, I realized that while I have grown less daring with age, I still appreciate the invigorating feeling of taking calculated risks. As Sally Hawkins aptly stated, “You only do good work when you’re taking risks and pushing yourself.”
