Knowledge, humility and some cockiness

I often feel intimidated thinking of how much I ought to know in comparison to how little I know. People around me are experts in their own fields. I’m talking of 18-20 year olds, mind you. The command they have in their turf is commendable. There have been times when I have looked at all of them with such great awe. Even in a small group, I feel as though I'm miles behind. When I look at the whole world, I feel like a speck of dust – so little and insignificant...

In my peer group, as I see it, the bigheads try to put me down. True, I know so less about fashion, technology, sciences, math, literature; and they are sure to beat me in their backyard. I agree I’m a master of none. I sure want to learn the ways of the world. Ages ago I used to feel inferior, not any more. My luck, I take the other quite lightly and tend to look for humour in each person's busy doings (mine included); and there’s very little for me to worry about. But there is an aura about those smart alecks that is a bit turning off. At times, with knowledge comes the ‘I-know-it-all’ kind of an attitude – quite understandable that. When a person knows a particular subject in great depth, that person automatically begins to feel superior. But my dear reader, don't you think that there must also come humility with knowledge? Isn't it important to stay grounded? I have come across people who have actually told me that they know-it-all (using the exact same phrase). That's what made me think. Can knowledge be called knowledge when there's so much pride attached? Even the Tao Te Ching stresses on knowledge being gained with humility.

I found this beautiful and inspiring quote by Guruji that put tears in my eyes. Have a read.

"Knowledge is a burden

if it robs you of innocence.

Knowledge is a burden

if it is not integrated into life.

Knowledge is a burden

if it doesn't bring joy.

Knowledge is a burden

if it gives you an idea that you are wise.

Knowledge is a burden

if it doesn't set you free.

Knowledge is a burden

if it makes you feel you are special."

- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Guruji