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Writer's pictureDr Sp Mishra

Being Present, Aware & Grateful

Updated: Jul 17

This is the iconic moment of 1983 world cup
Kapil Dev taking Catch of Viv Richards
This was the catch of the final match
Surya Kumar Yadav (SKY) taking the catch

On 27 June 2024, Suryakumar Yadav (SKY) took a spectacular catch on the boundary rope in the final match between India and South Africa, turning the game in India’s favour. Until that moment, South Africa was cruising with David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen at the crease. This catch by SKY can be compared to the famous catch by Kapil Dev on 25 June 1983, against the formidable West Indies, dismissing the legendary Viv Richards. Both catches were pivotal in securing victories for India. After such matches, experts often highlight various events and players who contributed to the win. In a World Cup tournament, with multiple group-stage matches and knockout rounds, many players contribute to the overall success. However, in the final match, both teams start from scratch, and any pivotal moment can shift the game in favour of one side.

 

Our lives are similar to a game of cricket or any other sport. We start at zero every morning, and throughout the day, various chance events occur that may be in our favour or opposite to our plans or desires. It's important to remember that on any given day, both positive and negative outcomes are possible, and we have no control over them. Being aware of this human limitation is a great equalizer in the face of success or failure.


Reflecting on my life, I feel fortunate to have been born into an affluent middle-class family with a strong support system from extended family during my early years. I cherish the company of my siblings, with whom I played, fought, and learned valuable life lessons. My caring parents ensured we had everything we needed, and I was surrounded by loving grandparents, uncles, aunts, and friends from childhood to now. I had the opportunity and ability to pursue my professional interests, with great peers during my education and later in my career. With over 23 years of professional experience with a couple of MNCs, I was the first in my family to travel abroad, earn a PhD, start a business, and write a book. I have a loving family, close friends, cordial associates, and a happy, healthy life. Many of these achievements were beyond my control; I was simply lucky to be in the right place at the right time. I am aware of this and am grateful to every person and each day that has contributed to my 50 years of life so far.


It doesn't mean I've only experienced success so far; there have been many moments of trouble, grief, and challenges that came unannounced. I had very little control over the duration or impact of these challenges. What I've learned is to start each day from zero and be present in the moment with complete dedication. The outcome is absolutely beyond my control.


If you have been reading this so far, remember to be like Kapil Dev or SKY. Keep your focus on the present moment, run, try to catch the ball, and you never know, that could be the game-changer for your life. Just like a cricket match, the moments before and after are beyond your control. So, be present, aware, and grateful.

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