Ages ago, when TVs and phones were non-existent, and stage shows were the highest form of entertainment, there lived a famous artist named Kumar in India. But Kumar was no ordinary artist. Since the age of 15, Kumar was playing the role of Lord Krishna in roadshows.

Years of practice had perfected Kumar’s play, and he traveled to far-off places depicting the story of Krishna. Due to the busy schedule, Kumar often kept the attire of Krishna even off-stage, as he was performing almost every day. The character was so perfect that everyone called him “Krishna.” No one outside his native village knew that his real name was “Kumar.”

Finally, after 50 years of acting, the day of retirement came. His return was well celebrated in the village, as he had earned fame for the small place all over India.

Now back to his village after ages, on the first day of retirement, Kumar decided to visit a local tea stall. But on his way, he noticed some people laughing at him. He could not understand why and kept on walking.

Upon reaching the stall, Kumar asked for tea. But even here, the shopkeeper seemed surprised. Nonetheless, as the tea was being prepared, Kumar took a moment to adore his village. “Such a beautiful place,” he thought. But before he could think any further, the peace was disturbed as someone was shouting constantly.

Kumar turned around and was surprised to see the shopkeeper repeatedly shouting, “Kumar! Are you listening?” “Your tea is ready!” In anger, Kumar yelled at the shopkeeper himself, “Fool! Can’t you see there is no one else here? Whom are you calling?” Confused, the shopkeeper told him, “I’m calling you!” To this, Kumar replied, “Who is Kumar? I am Krishna!”

It all made sense now. Immersed in the role of Krishna for years, Kumar had forgotten his real name. In fact, he had visited the tea stall dressed as Krishna. No wonder that people were laughing at him on the way.

As we have seen across this mission, our affection for a certain identity creates inertia against change and growth. We hold on to things that help us feel a sense of “I.”

In Kumar’s case, it was the role of Krishna, but the problem is more widespread than it appears. A lot of prevailing chaos in the world can be attributed to people clinging to a certain ideology, a religious or political view as “good” and closing their minds to everything else.

The moment one defines their identity as “good”, the seeds of “bad” are sown as well. The stronger the love for “good,” the uglier is the resistance against “bad.” From a person passing toxic comments against other religions to the rise of Nazis and current terrorist groups, it always ends in Us versus Them.

Surprisingly, the solution to the great problem is simple. All you need is awareness. Whenever you see yourself resisting certain people or ideas, just slow down and ask yourself, “Am I clinging to an identity? If yes, then what should I let go to be free?”

Play all roles in life, but do not cling to any.

Be free 😊