what lies beyond the horizon?
over the seas on the other side;
foreign lands, eclectic people, ancient cultures
but what if for me, the world ends at the shore?
my world ends in my own land,
in familiar territory.
what can be learnt from other people?
from civilizations beyond my own;
new languages, exotic lifestyles, novel experiences
but what if for me, my world is my society?
my world ends in my own neighbourhood
amongst friends and family.
what is the truth about my own land?
in my country, of my people, today.
we ruled the world in ancient times but are feeble now.
but what if for me, the present is in the past?
my world is in my own head
lost in delusional memories.
what is my goal in life?
to learn from my mistakes, and to learn from others;
trial and error, the journey more important than the destination.
but what if for me, life’s purpose to achieve perfection?
flawless people, perfect community, idyllic life,
a utopian existence.
what is the value of diversity?
people of all races, religions and beliefs;
living in harmony, peaceful and tolerant.
but what if for me, all “others” are enemies?
to be suppressed at all costs
leaving me alone in this world with only my kind.
what can be gained from pride?
in myself, my culture, my heritage;
hold my head high, live with dignity.
but what if for me, my ideal is everything foreign?
distant lands, alien cultures, unfamiliar existence
living an empty life.
with my head buried in the sand
there is nothing beyond the horizon
no learning,
reality never prevails.
life is spent in a endless pursuit of the unachievable
the world is one dimensional
in the shadow of my dreams.
- satyajit venkatraman
february, 2010
