The exercise of will consumes us; the exercise of power destroys us; but the pursuit of knowledge leaves our infirm constitution in a state of perpetual calm. So desire or volition is dead in me, killed by thought.

Honore de Balzac - La Peau de chagrin



Another quote I cannot avoid to mention, it made me smile a lot. So I'm reading this book called "The Argumentative Indian", which I'm finding extremely interesting! It is a very deep yet clear and understandable analysis of today's Indian society/political situation etc. explained by Indian historical facts, religions, culture and other aspects. It breaks down MANY weastern stereotypes and even misleading information that has been taught to Indians in the past years from leaders of the BJP and their "remaking history", omitting part of the Indian cultural background and mostly its diversity in order to be more appealing to voters. The writer, Amartya Sen, has won the nobel prize for economics, and is also extremely knowledgeable in other subjects, which makes its books very complete, touching several topics and making them all come together, linking them to today's India. One of the things that I've read so far that impacted me a lot, is the story about this Muslim leader in India in the 16th century, named Akbar, who promoted dialogues and exchanges among different cultures and religions within India in order to have a richer, more dynamic and understanding society. And he did so also in his own life by surrounding himself in his political and social life by people from very different backgrounds and religions in order to learn more from them and be a better and more representative leader. Wow, no comment on that! Just need to look at today's Italy, France, USA, and many more...so much to learn guys! And from the 1500s, can you imagine?! 500 hundreds years ago a MUSLIM leader encouraged the integration and acceptance of all subcultures and religions...I would like to open the book in front of Bush's face and the stupid fears he transmits to the American people!
But yeah, about the funny quote! The title of the book comes from one of the author's argument, which is the fact that Indians like to talk a lot, argue and discuss topics. And he inserts a quote from Ram Mohun Roy, a 19th centry Bengali poet

"Just consider how terrible the day of your death will be. Others will go on speaking, and you will not be able to argue back."

So Indian! It brought back very nice memories...how nice to be immersed in such a different culture, there is so much to learn in this world! Lately I haven't been traveling as much (except for DC last weekend which was an amazing and fun roadtrip, visiting Landon and the US capital, partying with AIESECers...), but I can travel with my mind and I realized I can go so much further! And it's all up to me, my efforts and my imagination. No money, time or organization required, just ME. I've been enjoying challenging myself in many means, I feel like I've grown a lot...Desires and volitions are dead in me, killed by thoughts...