Why is Life Good for Some and Bad for Others: The Role of Understanding and Effort

Understanding life is akin to mastering a challenging subject where the ones who grasp its concepts effectively are able to solve life's problems effortlessly. There is no guarantee that life will be a bed of roses, and emotions ranging from joy to sadness are inevitable as situations fluctuate between favorable and unfavorable conditions. It is in how we navigate and adapt to these changes that our life experiences diverge.

A Journey from Disadvantage to Success

My own experience speaks volumes on the power of understanding life and the importance of effort. Born into a lower-middle-class family, my family of seven was confined to a one-bedroom home during my childhood. Despite these challenges, we were fortunate to attend the nearest government or missionary schools available. Up until my 8th grade, my academic performance was average, driven more by my indifference to the conventional educational system than any inherent zeal for learning.

However, from my 9th grade onwards, an unexpected transformation occurred. My interest in mathematics and science started to grow, fueled by a combination of innate curiosity and a determination to succeed despite the lack of quality resources. The challenges posed by inadequate teachers and limited access to educational materials only reinforced my resolve to learn and grow.

Self-education became my primary mode of learning. Every day, I invested 10–12 hours in studying, absorbing knowledge from books and internalizing complex concepts without the aid of tuition or coaching. This intense dedication laid the foundation for my success. My hard work paid off with not just academic accolades but also a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

The Power of Knowledge

My journey was, in many ways, a testament to the power of knowledge. As the proverb goes, 'Knowledge is the wealth that increases as much as you spend.' The experience resonated with me deeply, reminding me of the iconic Sanskrit sloka:

Na chor haryam Na cha raj haryam
Na bhratu bhajyam Na cha bharkari
Vyuye krute vardhart ev nityaam
Vidya dhanam sarva dhane pradhanam

Translating to:
No one can steal it, no authority can seize it.
It can't be divided between brothers, nor is it heavy to carry.
It increases when you spend and multiplies when you share.
Knowledge is the best wealth among all the wealth in the world.

This quote encapsulates the transformative power of knowledge. The pursuit of learning and understanding life not only propels individuals forward but also equips them with the tools to navigate life's challenges with greater ease. My success in securing the top rank in my school and later being selected into the IIT-JEE without any external assistance speaks to the profound impact of this approach.

Understanding and Preventing Problems

Life, much like the most challenging subject, favors those who understand its intricacies. Einstein's wisdom, that "intellectuals solve problems, geniuses prevent them," highlights the importance of foresight and preparedness. By grasping the fundamentals of life, one can not only address existing issues but also proactively prevent future ones. This proactive approach underscores the need for a keen understanding of life's dynamics.

Overcoming Adversity and Blame

Difficulties are not always fair; they are a natural part of the journey. Some are fortunate to be born into advantageous circumstances, while others, like me, face numerous obstacles. The choice lies in whether one chooses to be a victim of their circumstances or to rise to adversity through continuous effort and self-improvement. Abraham Lincoln's advice, "If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I would spend six sharpening my axe," aptly encapsulates this idea.

Bill Gates succinctly captured the same sentiment when he said, "If you are born poor, it is not your mistake, but if you die poor, it is your mistake." This statement challenges the notion that poverty is solely a matter of fate and emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's outcomes. By sharpening one's skills and knowledge continuously, one can transform their life trajectory.

Conclusion

Ultimately, life's fairness lies in our ability to understand and navigate it. While some may encounter favorable conditions, others may face more challenging circumstances. The true test of life is not how fortunate we are but how well we can adapt and thrive in any situation. By embracing knowledge, effort, and a proactive mindset, we can overcome life's challenges and shape a fulfilling life.