A World Without Shadow

I was at Taragaon Museum, walking my way out after taking hours to look through the art galleries, mesmerized by the creativity of people and their ability to create such insane and blissful art at the same time.

While I was walking out, there was a glass door on the way. I was waiting to see my reflection on the glass. As I got closer to the door, I did not see my reflection. Getting a bit closer again, there was still no sign of seeing myself on the glass.

I started walking faster because I felt uncomfortable not seeing myself on the glass door.

And finally, there I was.

I slowed my pace, taking a moment to look at myself.

Then a question arose in my heart and mind:

How would the world be if there were no shadows?

I know shadows are often overlooked because they have always been with us, one way or another.

While walking on a road, it is always by our side, copying every move of ours. The shadow of trees, which we often seek after walking on a bright sunny day just to rest. We crave the serenity of a tree, or simply take a moment to see the beauty of the shadows of leaves touching our face and body.

Or the sunset, when you feel the warmth of the sun on your face and the cold breeze at the same time.

I realized that shadows often give us a sense of relief.

Have you ever noticed that a person who is unaware of how they look, or not paying attention to their movements, often slows down just a little to glance at their reflection? Or even softens for a moment when they see their shadow?

Because it has always been familiar.

And perhaps because they cannot stay mad at their shadow for too long.

How would you feel if, from tomorrow morning, your shadow did not exist in any form?

Would you even dare to be seen without ever looking at yourself in any way?

I honestly think the shadow is the most familiar version of ourselves. The one that follows us without judgment.

The shadow never asks us to be prettier, smarter, stronger, or different. It simply walks beside us.

Maybe that is why we feel comfortable with it, no matter how the world looks at us.

Maybe the shadow is not just the absence of light. Maybe it is the silent proof that we exist.