Shakti's Musings & Travelogue

What comes to your mind when you hear the word “Independence”? I bet for each one of us, it’s like a string of different meanings! But let’s be real, for many, it’s a word we toss around like a Frisbee during a picnic. When we think about Independence, are we truly independent? I mean, are we really free to think for ourselves, or just echoing what the media and our world leaders spoon-feed us like we’re at a never-ending dinner party where we didn’t even ask for seconds?

One could always argue that we have the grand choice to act based on our likes and dislikes, right? But let’s be honest. That’s only true if we’re living in a cozy cave somewhere. It’s far away from WiFi and responsibilities! And as for death, come on—no one really gets a say in that either. You can’t book an appointment with Yamraj. It’s not like you can say, “Hey, I’ve got a busy schedule; can we pencil this in for 2030?”

The vast majority of humans feel like they’re auditioning for a reality show titled “Survivor: Work Edition” when it comes to jobs. They are often in roles that make them feel this way. They show up daily just to keep their fridge stocked. This allows them to maintain their Netflix binge-watching habits alive!

I’m still waiting for a country where folks can just wave a magic wand and poof! All the corrupt bureaucrats, politicians, and government officials disappear—like socks in a dryer. And don’t even get me started on the legal system! It’s more like a funhouse mirror where murderers and criminals get the “this is your lucky day” prize instead of strict punishment. We find ourselves in a wild game of “choose your leader,” with a bunch of familiar faces—all the same old corrupt ones—because, let’s face it, the good candidates are busy trying to figure out how to pay their rent rather than campaigning. It’s like having a buffet of rotten food and saying, “Well, I guess I’ll have to eat this!”

Finally, neither kids get to pick their parents (who wouldn’t want to choose a superhero mom or dad, right?) nor can adults decide the wild ride that is their love life. It’s like everyone’s trapped in their own little hamster wheel, thinking they’re independently zooming through life while really just running in circles with a side of confusion!