Not-so-up-to-it

Last weekend was again another touristic activity - I attended the 18th Anniversary Tokyo Historical Festival @ Asakusa.

Well, Japan, being a very cultured society, November 3rd, National Culture Day naturally became a public holiday here. By the way, Japan has the most number of public holidays in the world.

Funny thing we noticed about the costume procession was - very interesting costumes, but most "performers" seemed bored, and they dont bother to hide the boredoom! Not sure, if this meant being professionally natural or they are bored? Well the shot is one of many that "shows their boredoom". Check out their expressions. The lady on the extreme right seems to be giving directions in a pretty stern way (check out her finger!). Not sure what exact instructions are required though, since they are only walking on an one-way street parade. Bottomline most didnt look happy...hehe.

But how many people in this world are really happy deep down inside? The person who has it all? Successful career, friends, able to provide for family & seem to have a good relationship, good education? How about if the one who has it all was individualistic and cares only about self interests?

As I went through a very chaotic busy week at work, I was also bogged down by how frictions can easily occur when workload and stress builds up. At this point, people can easily snap at one another. What was originally a good working relationship or strong team can easily be broken down. I think luckily this is easily resolved if individuals understand human affection or warmth. The real value of life is not about the number of goals you set and hit bull's eye, rather how you go about attaining so. Sensitivity to other's feelings definitely helps. Understanding that he is stretched because he is constantly challenged by team-mates, understanding he is stressed as he has been working very late and wants to spend some time with his new-born baby, understanding that he is tired because of the number of hours ploughed in. All these empathy helped understand human behaviour better, especially when you need so in times where everyone is stressed. I am better at practicing warm and compassion now, ingredients for happiness. Better now...unfortunately, I snapped too.