A new book, 30 Lessons from Life, by William Charles D’Souza, reminds readers that it is still simplicity, gratitude, mental health, and relationships that define true happiness. Sanjiv Kumar review.
Every person only has one chance in the journey of life. Once is enough if you live the basics of creativity and simplicity correctly. A new book reveals that even in the age of artificial intelligence and machine learning, the very basics of human life still lead to inner satisfaction and success today.
Undoubtedly, some life rules have changed dramatically and many people are having a hard time adapting to the old and new ways of doing things in their future lives. And this dilemma dominates the situation as time runs out.
In his debut work, 30 Lessons from Life, the new age poet William Charles D’Souza points out aspects of life based on daily observations and reiterates the simple fact that it takes a long time to understand, but it is never too late to change and reinvent.
Highlighting bits and pieces of his nearly 50 years of experience, he raises the issue of priorities between family and work, and says that it is family that stands by you unflinchingly when life hits you.
Without a doubt, he says, there is virtue in work and there should be virtue in the workplace.
In an age of ever-evolving technology and cyber-solutions, with people glued to their screens and a new sense of isolation and poverty, D’Souza urges the new generation to bring some sunshine into their lives, incorporate exercise, board games, social work and socialize with their elders and neighbors.
Close to Anne Frank’s observation that young people are, deep down, lonelier than old people, the commoner-turned-poet wrote: “Don’t worry about social norms. Love anyone who sympathizes with you. Someone who goes to the movies, travels, chats on the phone, someone who shares your joys, someone who helps you in bad times and never worries. Only then will you have a life partner and you will never die alone!”
And while mental illness has become a “pandemic icon” in our busy lives, he points out that mental health is true wealth. “Too much attention is paid to being physically healthy and well, and in most cases it is after encountering health problems. But when we talk about mental health, many say that it is insane, even though mental problems are now forming the symbol of the pandemic!” The poet advises people to take care of themselves and others and cherish mental health, the cost of which is little known.
Alluding to the importance of gratitude in life, even for ordinary delivery workers, he writes: “So next time you open the door to pick up a package, don’t just say ‘thank you’. At least ask if they need water and offer them a sip if you can. You’re more likely to get your empty bottle refilled more often than not!”
He says that in the hectic pace of life, being apart can be a problem, but networking with neighbors can help you get through the day. The poet suggests learning music, a magic that transcends all human actions, in order to change a life full of ups and downs. After all, where words cannot speak, music speaks.
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