Crossing the limits means going beyond what is accepted as the norm. This concerns misbehaviour, malpractices and untested thinking. When any one of these happens it transforms into rudeness and abhorrence.

So much so that one is at wits’ end to do something about it. Being pushed to the limits also does not augur well. And one may try to escape its consequences before the going gets worse. It’s a rough road for those who dare to cross the limits and venture into unknown territories because no one really knows what is to become of the transgressor. Consequently, limiting oneself to the familiar, time-tested things is to acknowledge their existence.

When one is at odds with a prevailing order then it can backfire. To prevent this, one must not provoke or dissuade or invade private space.

To be able to follow this, one has to exercise restraint. To affront is to upset the very rules and regulations set down. So being responsible for one’s actions could well work out in the end. To cross the divide is to invite trouble and a lot of headache.

The consequence is clear enough of trying to play with fire. Only those who have endurance, power and stamina can see it through to the bitter end.

True. There are instances of amazing feats being pulled off and records set. But the others have to follow the herd and not goof up in the process of proving themselves. This is not to say that no one should try and stand out from the crowd. But this feasibility can be called into question and remain an issue for open debate.

Raising the stakes is foolhardy, for the odds of not making it increases. It’s better to analyse the situation before committing oneself. Needless to say, this will forestall doing anything not considered at par with the realistic possibility. Or else take the risk of cutting oneself off from reality.

Trying not to let fancy thoughts override one’s concerns is the right course to follow. Taking off before the necessary preparation has been completed is a folly. And after it is all over and done with, one see it for what it is — a false grandeur. A dare with its own possibilities and expectations but one which turns out to be an exercise in futility.