My Constitution
Countries have their own constitution, so I wonder why not have a constitution written for me. A constitution to define who I am and commit to state my core beliefs. It would spell out my values and etch out my self-imposed restraints. The “directive principles” laid out in the constitution would help me govern my conduct and identify violations as and when they arise.
In addition to directive principles, a constitution would define the executive, the legislature, citizens who elect the parliamentarians and the justice system to enforce it. I imagine my five senses constituting the Executive, proposing decisions for consideration, and my heart being the Parliament, the venue for decisive debates. My conscience, would be the ultimate stake-holder objecting to any unconstitutional behaviour it perceives and brings it to the attention of the Supreme Court, my rational mind.
As courts are expected to do, my mind too would deliver an unbiased judgement and where required, mete out punishment, without any fear or favour. This court too should stand the scrutiny of its citizen, my rational mind. While in public life justice delayed is justice denied, for me I believe as it is for my personal benefit, justice−better late than never.
Like England, which has an unwritten constitution, many people I am know have an unwritten one governing their lives. Wanting to reflect, here is my humble attempt to my pen constitution.
My preamble would read
“I, Shankar Jaganathan consciously decide that all my conduct will be in the true spirit of a global citizen, treating every individual with respect and fairness, the same way I would like to be treated, and exert all my energy to fully realise all elements of my potential while being conscious of my social responsibility to the current and future generations.”
The five directive principles to govern my life:
- You get what you give: Life is like a mirror. You see yourself in others and get only what you give.
- Less needs means more freedom: Travellers choosing comfort travel light. Do with less to do more.
- Live in the Present: Look back only to learn, and look ahead only to plan. Regret and worrying is optional.
- Value-add begets rewards: Work to add value, don’t chase rewards. As rewards seek contributors.
- Beliefs drive behaviour: Change is the only constant. Adapt yourself by modifying your beliefs.
I am often called an idealist. As an optimist, I don’t see any downsides in it. I see any failure to abide by my own principles as an exception and not the rule. I was not sure if I had the courage to publicly share these beliefs and live by it. But as I turn 65 today, I believe it is as good a day as any other to start.
A sincere request to my well-wishers, like the discerning media, please give a shout when you see me deviate, as constructive feedback is my need.
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