The Quest for Why

Remember when we were kids and our curiosity was like a never-ending spring? We’d bombard our parents, teachers, and anyone who’d listen with relentless “why” questions. Why is the sky blue? Why do cats purr? Why does the sun set? Every answer seemed to open up a whole new world of wonder.

But as we grow older, that pesky “why bug” seems to take a permanent vacation. We get caught up in routines, responsibilities, and the day-to-day grind. Then, one day, out of the blue, you find yourself hit with an existential “why”— one that’s not about the colour of the sky or the behaviour of cats, but about the essence of your own existence.

Mark Twain once said, "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why." This profound “why” isn’t like the ones we used to ask—it’s fundamental, deep, and often too complicated. The only person who can tackle this question is you.

I’ve been wrestling with my own version of this grand “why.” Well, my approach has been rather simple. I always start with the low hanging fruits i.e. starting with the simpler questions to build some momentum. Let’s dive into a few of these simple “whys”:

1.???? Why do I ride my motorcycle? To get out this urban chaos and experience tranquillity. I love to experience the heartbeat of two hearts being in tandem (engine and mine).? And strangely even when you are riding at speeds, the world around just seems to slow down.

2.???? Why am I a pet parent? I became a pet parent only because of the pestering power of my younger daughter.? My furry kiddo Casper (labrador) is more than a pet; he is my favourite kid.? He has taught me what is unconditional love, he has also taught me how it feels to be a mother and how it is very different from being a father.??

3.???? Why do I like high-altitude trekking? It’s a physical challenge and the payoff is the serenity and the breathtaking views.? It’s a humbling lesson that tells you how tiny you are every time you stand in front of that mountain.? In the thin air, it's just me and my breath—a meditative experience.

4.???? Why do I write? After years of selling soaps, shampoos and motorcycles my entire career, writing feels like an artistic expression. Most of what I write are also reaffirmation notes to myself.? I now feel that I too have the right side of the brain and it works.

5.???? Why do I teach? Teaching is my way of sharing knowledge and inspiring the next generation. I enjoy the youthful vibe and feel energised.? I also enjoy blending education with a touch of irreverence and fun.???

6.???? Why do I read? Reading non-fiction feels like having a deep conversation with the author. It’s a chance to engage with more evolved ideas and perspectives.? It makes me feel like a student again.

7.???? Why do I want to travel the world? The world’s diversity beckons me. Traveling is my way of expanding my horizons, embracing adventure, and discovering the beauty of different perspectives.? I am a foodie and the different cuisines are a big attraction.

8.???? Why am I a non-conformist? Conforming can feel like living in someone else’s shadow. Being a non-conformist means embracing individuality, challenging norms, and carving out a unique path for yourself. I like living life on my own terms.

Answering these “why” questions might seem like a small step, but each one helps build a clearer picture of who I am and what drives me. And who knows? Maybe these answers will unlock a deeper understanding of that existential “why”.

So, if you’re feeling tangled in your own “whys”, start with the basics. As you explore these simpler questions, you might just develop the skill to tackle the bigger, more profound ones.

Remember, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” — Lao Tzu

Smile, enjoy the process, and keep asking those “whys”. The answers might surprise you.

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