One of the things I love to do is meet people. It is not really about whether we meet for coffee or a meal; it is the conversation which always make me keen. Food is a by-product; the talks/ discussion/ conversation is what makes me meet people

The other day we met our children’s school friend’s group over dinner. The discussion was on various topics like – parenting, habits of children, their schooling, future plans, our professional lives, relationships, etc.

As we completed the main course, we looked at options of Dessert. Usually, I don’t take the menu card to order. I am okay with whatever is ordered. With menu card in their hands, their eyes bore a disappointed look. Instantly I asked, “Guys what happened? Nothing good?”

One of them instantly replied, “I am dieting, and am avoiding desserts. I thought I will have a cheat meal today. But it is not worth cheating for the desserts available here!”

Amazing insight isn’t it! He did not want to have a cheat meal, because it was not justified. While many of us have become conscious about food intake we have, yet we end up having items, which we have decided not to indulge in. I am not against it. My question is – ‘is it worth it?’

Let’s look at a few more situations –

• Having a drink when I have decided that I will quit alcohol
• Having a smoke inspite of committed to stay away
• Copying answers in exam to get a few marks
• Trying dishonest means to win a sports match
• Misdirecting someone so that you can move ahead
• Hogging on restricted food when no one is watching you
• Breaking a signal as a traffic constable in not seen
• Siphoning off money when no one is watching
• Indulging in affairs inspite of already being committed in a relationship
• Taking advantage of situation in the family and taking away properties

One person whom we can never be dishonest with is ourselves. We have enough ways to convince ourselves that what we did was justified in those moments. We can make stories and fool the world. But how do we cheat ourselves. Heart of heart, we know it is not correct. Yet we indulge in it for a few moments of pleasure.

All we need to do is – be honest with ourselves. Anytime there is a situation where you have to make a choice to whether to cheat or not, you need to just ask yourself this one question – IS IT WORTH CHEATING?