Another quick question, how would you advice one to deal with racism that may be experienced by us in foreign countries? Why do I still seek a westerner’s approval, despite my being conscious of it and attempting not to do so? What steps can I take to rid myself of this weakness? I see this in our fellow countrymen too, and I hope we outgrow this mentality.
France was and still is developing closer links with India, politically, economically as well as culturally. But there is a strong stamp of misguided socialism as well as a long standing feeling of elitism and a superiority because of the recent glorious past. The new realities of a fast changing world order and a global shift is yet to sink in. But through all this its ties with India has remained unaffected and even grown which is a good sign, a sign that the soul of France is deeply connected to India despite marked differences in its outer expressions.
As to racism one should just ignore it and be one’s authentic self. In the long run it helps if one remains true to one’s own inner truth. Though people may look askance initially because of a natural misunderstanding of different ways and approaches to life, they respect you subsequently for your integrity as well as for who you are. One should be one’s true and authentic self in all circumstances is indeed the best.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
