Break-free
At 32, Radhika had achieved a lot in
her life. She was holding a master's degree from one of the best business
schools of India and working at an enviable position with a leading
Multi-National Company.
Born in a middle class family, she
had worked hard to achieve this. Her parents were proud of her and couldn't
contain their excitement. Why should they? Their daughter had gifted them their
first car.
Radhika had just returned from a
15-day European holiday. Despite her mother telling her to pack well, she had chosen
to carry her backpack and stay with a local European family. It was strange for
her mother, for Radhika could afford the best hotels, but chose not to. She was
also worried for her safety, for she travelled alone for the first time and
didn’t even want her friends to accompany her.
It was a lovely Sunday afternoon.
Mother called out to Radhika, “Lunch is ready, come over.” She got no response
and called her again, then the third time and then she came out of the kitchen.
Radhika was standing by the window, lost in her thoughts. Mother patted her
shoulder when she broke her eye contact with the parrot who was sitting near
the window for a long time.
“Mom, I want to quit my job.”
Radhika said.
Mother was stunned, she said, “I
thought, you loved your job. They value you and pay you so well. Didn't you
tell me last month, that they will promote you soon? People look up to you,
they envy your position.”
“That's right mom, they are
promoting me next week. But there is something missing, something incomplete.”
Radhika said.
She continued, “People envy my
position, but you know what I envy? That parrot!”
Mother wanted to hear more. “Look at
it, isn't it beautiful? People want to cage it, so that they own a beautiful
bird. The parrot may look beautiful in the cage too, but then it is not living
the way it should. Mom, I want to break free just like that parrot. I am a traveler,
I love exploring places and cultures. I am quitting my job next week and
joining a traveler’s club.” She said, with twinkle in her eyes.
Mother smiled and said, “They are
right when they say, kids can teach a lot to their parents. We gave birth to
you, but you gave me the meaning of life. Go and fly high.”
It’s been 5 years and today Radhika and
her husband own a Travel Company and doing what they love the most. Together,
they make people fly high and fulfil their travel dreams as well. She is one
very happy person today and enjoys her life.
Do what you love. Break free.
