Confrontation with Bhaskar

I went to Bhaskar’s room and faced him. He wondered why I hadn’t been answering his calls. I told him straight up, “I’m done with network marketing. I’m tired of the fake promises and chasing unrealistic desires. I just want a peaceful life now.”

He was shocked because I used to be one of his most dedicated team members. He had really high hopes for me. So he asked, “Why? What’s wrong?”

“I’m tired of chasing something that’s not real. It’s messing with my mental health. Trying to persuade people to join me fills me with anxiety. I’ve lost friends, neglected my spiritual life, and my studies are now suffering. I’ve also wasted a lot of my dad’s money. I’m not blaming you, but I’ve realized this is not my cup of tea” I explained with determination.

He nodded silently and said, “Chirag, remember your promise to your team? They depend on you a lot. And what about the challenge you took up in front of your classmates? They’ll tease you if you back out now.”

“So what if my classmates mock me? Do I have to act like a fool to prove something to them? Dragging people into chasing unrealistic dreams? It’s absurd. I’ll be honest with my teammates, and it’s up to them how they take it. Everyone has their own choices,” I responded with frustration.

“What’s wrong with you, Chirag? Everything seemed fine before. But now you’re rebelling against our teachings and principles,” he asked.

“Okay. I will be very clear. I visited my uncle; He made me realize my pathetic condition. I’ve decided to listen to him and try to follow his advice,” I replied.

“So, what about your uncle? Doesn’t he work and earn money? Why is he advising you to stop if he does?” he asked.

“Yeah, he does earn a lot, actually. But he doesn’t do it by manipulating others, by selling big, unrealistic dreams and leaving them frustrated. He owns a company where people work and get paid for their services, and he doesn’t interfere in their personal lives,” I explained.

“So, what’s your goal, then? How do you intend to make money and find success in your life?”

“I’m going to concentrate on my career. First, I’ll learn some skills and then figure something out. But definitely not through network marketing,” I replied.

“Do you believe you can achieve success that way?” he pressed.

“Success isn’t just about making loads of money and giving people questionable advice. You’re encouraging folks to chase after money relentlessly as if that’s the only way to lead a fulfilling life. Isn’t that so?” I countered.

“Sure, money is essential for survival and comfort,” Bhaskar replied.

“Absolutely, but that doesn’t mean network marketing is the only option. There are plenty of legitimate ways to earn money,” I asserted.

“But then you’d have to work for someone else, following their rules. You wouldn’t have the freedom; you wouldn’t be living like a king,” Bhaskar retorted with a wry smile.

His smug smile ignited a fire inside me, but I kept composure. “You speak of freedom. What kind of freedom is that? Do you not abide by government traffic rules? Pay taxes? Adhere to all regulations set by higher authorities. Don’t you follow the rules to earn money even within your network marketing organization? We’re all bound by rules in this world. So, spare me this nonsense about freedom and all. I have already seen what kind of freedom is there.” I said.

“Alright, it is mentioned in The Bhagavad Gita that we should do our work without being attached to the outcome. What do you have to say about that?” Bhaskar challenged.

I scoffed and looked at him, talking to myself, “Now you are gone. You shouldn’t have brought Bhagavad Gita into this discussion.”

“Hmm, so you’re talking about the Bhagavad Gita? Have you ever read it?” I inquired.

“No, I haven’t read it. But I’ve heard about it somewhere,” Bhaskar replied.

“Well, there are various kinds of work. Some are prescribed in scriptures, while others are self-concocted. If you believe you can whimsically do something and call it a duty, then that’s nonsense,” I stated firmly.

“Why are you getting annoyed?” he asked.

“Do you have a Bhagavad Gita in your room?” I asked him.

“Yes, I bought one after being inspired by you,” said Bhaskar.

He handed me the book, and I opened it, showing him the verses that discussed different types of work and the modes of material nature. I also read the purports written by Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Then, I looked at him confidently, but he remained silent, unable to respond.

“Is there any difference between us and a dog? We’re essentially doing the same things. We work hard to eat good food like a dog scavenges for its meals. We sleep in comfortable apartments while a dog finds a corner on the street to rest. We fight to protect ourselves and our loved ones, just like a dog defends its territory. We’re essentially living a refined version of a dog’s life,” I stated with a serious expression.

“Thank you, Chirag! You can go now. All the best for your future.” said Bhaskar, shaking hands with me.

Seeking Guidance From Uncle

As I walked back to my room, I couldn’t shake off the feeling that maybe comparing our lives to dogs was too harsh. Despite being relieved to break free from the pressures of network marketing, anxiety about my future still lingered. Network marketing was all I knew about earning money and exploring other options seemed daunting. Feeling uncertain, I resolved to discuss my concerns with my uncle. Since it was late at night, I decided to reach out to him via WhatsApp, pouring out my worries.

The next day, my uncle called me up and asked, “What’s on your mind?”

“I’ve been thinking about how to earn money. I don’t want to rely on my father,” I confessed.

“You’re still a college student. Why the rush for money? Are you responsible for your family now? Focus on your spiritual growth and studies for now. Just concentrate on these two aspects, and everything else will fall into place. Chant the Holy Names, and clarity will come,” my uncle advised before ending the call.

I realized that I was unnecessarily worrying about my future. Instead, I should enjoy my life more. So, I kept my daily routine very relaxed. After my college hours, I spent most of my time reading scriptures, hearing chants, and listening to lectures.

Dealing with Roommate’s Disapproval

After a week, my roommate Shubham arrived, who still had high expectations from network marketing. He came up to me and said, “What’s your problem? Why are you losing this opportunity?”

“No, I am fine. I will focus on my studies more. I don’t want to waste my time in this nonsense network marketing anymore,” I replied with a smile.

“Then what about your dreams? Do you think sitting quietly and reading scriptures could make you successful?” he asked.

“For me, peace is everything. I want a peaceful life. I don’t need to hustle for money. My dad sends me enough pocket money. And after my graduation, I can also earn a good amount of money. Why should I unnecessarily bother about money?” I replied.

He was annoyed and left my room. After two days, he came up to me and said, “I am leaving this house. You have to take care of the rent from now on. I am not going to pay anymore.”

“Hmm… I was thinking that you would take such a step. Anyways, do whatever you want,” I replied.

I felt relieved that no one was disturbing me so I could focus on my spiritual life more. I also informed my uncle that all the disturbing elements had gone from my life.

He suggested I go to his house after a month in Holi. I agreed, and he also sent me tickets. I was very happy that my life was sorted. But when I went to his house, I discovered that there were a lot of obstacles I had to get rid of, and they were very tough to face.

What happened at Sumay-uncle’s home will be revealed in the next chapter. Stay tuned…