Striving towards Excellence

-Karthik Gurumurthy

I believe that every truth I discover is meant to be shared with others, not kept to myself alone, as Elizabeth Cady Stanton wisely noted.

Sometimes I feel like I'm a guardian of a fragile, threatened civilization—as if without my vigilance, everything would collapse. This feeling of sole responsibility can be overwhelming, giving me the sense that I alone understand what's truly happening in the world. When I notice these feelings arising, I recognize them as a signal to pause and reflect. These moments of certainty might indicate I need to check my reality and seek additional perspectives.

I've learned to test my perceptions against those of people I trust. This helps me avoid the trap of self-righteousness or isolation in my views. Through honest dialogue with others, I often discover new dimensions to what I thought I knew completely. This humility reminds me that I'm rarely the sole possessor of truth—truth is too vast and multifaceted for any one person to grasp entirely.

I've found that shared commitment to truth carries remarkable power and lifts my spirit in ways that solitary knowledge cannot. When multiple people recognize and honor the same truth together, it creates a bond that strengthens everyone involved. I feel compelled to express this commitment, whether through formal spiritual practice, community involvement, or simply in meaningful conversations with friends.

I've come to understand that truth often emerges not as a static fact but as a dynamic process—a relationship between myself and others that evolves through exchange and mutual discovery. When I share what I know, the truth gains depth and brilliance through others' perspectives and experiences.

I need courage to face the truth, especially when it challenges my assumptions or requires me to change. But I've learned that embracing truth, however difficult, ultimately strengthens me and helps me grow into a more authentic version of myself.