Only recently I heard this adage from a friend

“Socho mat janay do” which, interestingly, can be interpreted in two quite opposite ways.

“Socho! Mat janay do” and “Socho Mat! Janay do”.The adage serves to make a point against negativity and pessimism. The placement of exclamation mark plays a world of difference in the meaning of the phrase. It practically transforms the negative into positive or positive into negative, depending on the mindset of the interpreter (Think! Don’t let go) or (Don’t think! Let go) Whoever coined this phrase wanted to show the duplicity of words and pose a challenge to cognitive instincts of humans and their ability to interpret words. Sometimes actions can be as deceiving as words; more so in recent times.

So the question is how to read between the lines; how to see the glass as half full instead of half empty and last but not the least how to counter the negativity & pessimism and replace all this insanity with optimism.

Quite recently, if a friend would renege on her promise or a colleague would be found trying to stab me in the back, my first reaction would have been one of shock and disbelief. I would cringe with disgust and try not to have to do much with such a crafty person and even if I had to, I would be at guard but experience have proved this strategy a failure.

First of all recognizing that someone is trying to play the word game or acting nice is important. Becoming cynical is not what I am suggesting; however watch out for people whose vested interests might overlap with yours. Watch out for those on whom you are unduly dependant on. Avoid the fragility of circumstances and situations as much as you can, however I believe most of the times its just fate that brings you in the middle of something unpleasant. Sometimes all the planning and caution proves in vain.

After overcoming your subsequent reaction of shock and disbelief, patience is the virtue you would need in abundance in handling the malice. Smile a Bring-It-On smile and focus on the damage done. “Socho mat! Janay do (Don’t waste yourself writhing in rage over the perpetrator, focus on the damage done and think of ways to repair)

So the wrong-doer should be left alone to continue the persecution and work on his malicious agenda?

No if he doesn’t stop at this and if he can pose further threat to you.

And yes if the circumference of his malicious actions and words doesn’t converge on the boundaries encompassing your being.

Faith is another virtue you should call forth. I believe whoever does harm comes to harm sooner or later. There is a divine entity at work who is the best arbiter. Don’t dwell on negativity! Run away from it as fast as you can.

Feel gratitude for what you have and aspire not for what you don’t. Nature makes it own course for you. Persist on what you believe in with faith and positive mindset. And most importantly, nourish and uphold the nobility of thoughts, words and deeds. Odds are you’ll be an odd one out. That notwithstanding, more power to nobility!

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