Passage 22

In English

You should set aside imitation and you should develop your own inner strength. Whether it is in our conduct and behaviour or in the way in which we dress and talk, all seems to depend on imitation. You have a life of your own, you have desires of your own, and you have a mind of your own; but by imitating and following the mind and actions of someone else, you simply turn yourself into a slave. You are an independent person. Where does this come from and what is the meaning of (freedom)? You have freedom of thought or . This word comes from a combination of “” and “.” You follow the dictates of your own desires but never undertake to follow the desires of others. Introspect well on your desires and think carefully; and if you feel that it is good, follow it; but if you think that it is bad, give it up. But man today does not take such a step. He is ever ready and is always attempting to imitate others.