#Sacrifice

Devotion is the act of shelving one’s own desires to endlessly till the barren fields of others’ ideals. It blurs the boundaries of self in pursuit of another’s expectations until one’s presence fades into a whisper. Behind the mask of a noble virtue lies a reverse self-defense mechanism, unable to sleep without external validation. Ultimately, it is a long journey to realize that offering without expecting a return is the sweetest reward of all.

Martyrdom is the act of sacrificing oneself on the thorn of others’ indifference while brandishing a lofty ideal. The ultimate self-sacrifice is always reflected in the mirror of other people’s conscience.

Sacrifice is the act of trading one’s own comfort under the banner of a greater cause. Lauded as noble in religion and ethics, it often serves as a get-out-of-guilt pass for others or power. While draped in heroic tales, it conceals the truth that personal desires are shoved aside. Ironically, those who preach sacrifice most loudly secretly wish someone else would take their place. Indeed, it is a transaction cloaked in self-denial.