Are You a Pawn or a Player?

Imagine a world where every chess player used the same opening, the same strategies, and the same tactics. Boring to watch or?

Similarly, society often molds us into carbon copies, adhering to pre-determined paths: school, university, career... But is this cookie-cutter approach the ultimate recipe for happiness? Or are we sacrificing our unique potential for the illusion of security?

I’ve spent countless hours with young minds at a crossroads, their eyes reflecting a mixture of hope and uncertainty. When asked about their dreams, the responses are often predictable: doctor, lawyer, engineer — safe havens rather than passionate pursuits. It’s as if society has crafted a limited menu of acceptable aspirations, leaving little room for culinary adventure.

This isn’t a condemnation of parents or guardians but an acknowledgment of the pervasive societal script. We’re conditioned to prioritize external validation over internal compass. The fear of deviating from the norm can be paralyzing. But is this fear truly our own, or has it been carefully cultivated?

A film named Focus offers a chilling glimpse into the power of manipulation. Will Smith spent two days meticulously programming the gambler’s mind, hacking into his decision-making processes to orchestrate the perfect heist. Similarly, society often plays puppeteer, directing our desires through targeted advertising, social media algorithms, and cultural narratives. Are we making conscious choices, or are we merely reacting to expertly crafted illusions?

The philosopher in me wonders: to what extent are we authors of our own destinies? Are our passions genuine expressions of our souls, or carefully constructed facades influenced by external forces? While genetic predispositions undoubtedly play a role, the overwhelming evidence suggests that our environment shapes our desires, beliefs, and ultimately, our choices •_•

To be continued…..