Normalise Normalcy

Society applauds visible heroism. When a terrorist attack is thwarted, when firefighters extinguish a blaze, when police swiftly solve a crime or when authorities restore order after chaos, accolades flow generously. Medals are awarded, headlines are written and gratitude is expressed. Crisis management is dramatic, and it attracts attention and recognition. Yet, far more significant is what happens when nothing happens. There is usually no recognition of a person who ensured nothing untoward happened.

On countless ordinary days, law and order remain intact not by accident but by vigilance. Fires do not break out because safety norms are enforced. Crimes do not occur because deterrence is strong. Threats are neutralised long before they reach the public eye. This normalcy, which we take for granted, is the end result of strong discipline and preventive effort.

Many who safeguard us embody what Gita teaches us: 'Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana' - perform your duty without attachment to fruits of action. Their work is not driven by applause but by responsibility. They quietly retire and live a life not recognised, not appreciated.


The true greatness of such people lies in ensuring that an emergency never arises. The absence of crisis is the highest form of competence. It is time we appreciate normalcy as an achievement. In appreciating normalcy, we begin to recognise quiet warriors whose unseen dedication preserves peace and good times we casually enjoy.