Calm under pressure

‘It is by presence of mind in untried emergencies that the native metal of man is tested,’ said American poet James R Lowell. The ability to make calm and sensible decisions in testing times was a trait that could be seen in mythological figures such as Savitri, who literally engaged Yamraj in a verbal duel and ultimately won over the life of her husband, Satyavan. When facing life’s stressful situations, this quality can turn the tide favourably.

Once, a judge sentenced a prisoner to be hanged any time the following week, from Monday to Friday, and that the exact day of his execution would not be specified. Much to everyone’s surprise, the prisoner looked immensely relieved. When questioned, the prisoner said he was glad to have escaped the punishment given by the judge. The judge was puzzled and demanded an explanation.

The prisoner said if he was alive until Thursday, then his execution date could not be on Friday, as the judge has called it a surprise punishment. So, his execution on Friday was ruled out. Of the remaining four days, if he was alive until Wednesday, then again, his execution on Thursday would be ruled out for the same reason. As the same logic would be applicable to all the days, a surprise punishment could never be given. The judge was so impressed with his presence of mind that he relieved him of the capital punishment.

All difficult situations, they say, have loopholes. What we need is a calm and composed mind under stressful conditions to find it. And, as the Dalai Lama says, ‘If an individual has a calm state of mind, his attitudes and views will be calm and tranquil even in the presence of great agitation.’