Day in and day out we find ourselves, whether we agree or disagree, engaged in one of the finest and funniest games of the world- The Blame Game. Golda Meir says, ‘There can be no doubt that the average man blames much more than he praises. His instinct is to blame. If he is satisfied he says nothing; if he is not, he most illogically kicks up a row.'
In today’s politics, it is the major game being played by all political parties in varying degrees more by design than by default. Ironically, such political gossip stories are found to capture a sizeable portion of media space at the cost of serious discussion on matters concerning common man’s welfare and wellbeing.
While on the subject, I am tempted to share with you one short story from 'Akbar- Birbal' stock. The story goes like this: Akbar, the Great Moghul Emperor once asked Birbal, his most favorite and wisest courtier who was immensely loved by the commoners too because of his ready wit and wisdom, to paint his portrait. Accordingly, Birbal commenced the job and completed it within a week and then presented the portrait to the Emperor. Akbar was extremely delighted to see the portrait. In order to have comments from his other courtiers (Navratnas), Akbar asked them to offer their views on Birbal's art work. So, everyone came up to the portrait one by one, had a deep glance, detected few mistakes and put dots on such points where improvement was required as per their perception. Interestingly, some of the courtiers made corrections on the portrait itself. Consequently, the portrait was smeared with dots and dashes. Akbar was very upset and asked Birbal to offer his comment and reaction. Birbal gave it a thought for a moment and called for blank canvases, paints and brushes for each of his fellow courtiers. He then requested them to paint the portrait of the emperor with all the improvements and corrections suggested by them. Interestingly, none came forward to perform the job. Akbar was obviously annoyed and angry to assert, “What a difference between 'Doers and Doters'?”
The moral of the story is: whenever you point an accusing finger at someone, you have the other three fingers pointing at you.
In fact, the real boldness lies in admitting our own mistakes and laughing at ourselves. Acceptance of our own weakness is a greatness which paves the path for our improvement and progress. Ralph Marston puts it in another way, 'Concern yourself more with accepting responsibility than with assigning blame. Let the possibilities inspire you more than the obstacles discourage you.’
Milan K. Sinha is a freelance writer. He has worked in Banking and Insurance sector for three decades following three years of active writing in various newspapers and magazines. Presently he is engaged in stress management, wellness and awareness activities besides freelance writing. He is based in Patna and can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it."
