Redefining Privilege:
The True Essence of Grace in Our Lives

In today’s world, the concept of privilege is often perceived through a material lens. Many equate privilege with positions of power, exclusive opportunities, or the acquisition of wealth. While these aspects do indeed represent forms of privilege within the material world, they only scratch the surface of what genuine privilege entails.

True privilege transcends material wealth and status; it is the presence of grace in our lives. This grace, often subtle and overlooked, manifests in various forms and moments, guiding us through life’s complexities. It is found in the small directions we receive when we are stuck, the solutions that emerge when we face dilemmas, and the unexpected assistance from others that opens new doors.

Reflecting on my own journey, I recognize the countless instances where grace has played a pivotal role. From receiving the best medical care as a congenital heart patient to effortlessly navigating educational opportunities and career advancements, grace has been a constant, albeit quiet, companion. These moments of grace were not earned through material efforts; they simply flowed into my life, shaping my path in ways I could never have anticipated.

I believe all of us have grace in our lives, which come our way in one form or another. However, the challenge is that not all of us can recognize it. I consider myself extremely fortunate and privileged that at least in my mid-40s I have been able to acknowledge the presence of grace. I have realized that it has existed throughout my life and continues to do so. Through this article, I hope to encourage others to redefine privilege and recognize the subtle yet powerful role of grace in their own lives.

What is the Concept of Grace?

The word ‘Grace’ is usually defined as ‘undeserved favor’. It is something that cannot be earned, and is something that is freely given to us in our lives. The Greek word for grace is also translated as “divine favor”. For those who believe in organized religion, this usually translates to God’s power at work in our lives, empowering us to become who we are meant to be. For others, it might translate to the work of destiny, the universe, or any other higher power one believes in. Grace refers to that invisible life force that creates our stories without us really making an effort to do so. Grace is in everything we have, and everything we are.

Why is it Difficult to Perceive Grace in Our Lives?

Many of us fail to recognize grace in our lives. Have you ever noticed times in your life where you overcame difficult circumstances, made difficult choices, were able to extend love and forgiveness to others when you didn’t really feel like it, or met someone accidentally who went on to become a key person in your life later? We usually overlook the subtle nudges that steer us in the right direction and the timely solutions that alleviate our uncertainties. We often do not appreciate the small acts of kindness that pave the way for new opportunities.

Yet, it is the presence of all these that prove the flow of grace in our lives. Perhaps we focus so much more on the privileges we do not have, rather than the ones we do, is why grace is so elusive. In my opinion, grace constitutes true privilege, far beyond any material gain.

What is True Privilege and How do We Redefine It?

To understand privilege in its truest sense, we must look beyond the tangible and recognize the intangible presence of grace in our lives. This grace is a privilege that enriches our existence, providing guidance, support, and unforeseen opportunities. It is a privilege that we have not worked for, yet it is invaluable and ever-present.

One of the ways that has helped me recognize grace and redefine privilege in my life is through observation and self-reflection. Taking a step back from focusing on life’s innumerable ‘lacks’ or the negatives, to observing all the positives in one’s life story till now. As we traverse our life journeys from the moment we are born, it is crucial to reflect on the moments of grace that have shaped us. One cannot help but marvel at the unraveling of one’s life story and the immense grace that flows through it.

Grace and Self-Reflection – Redefining Privilege in My Own Story

Personally, my story began with a congenital heart condition, but I was fortunate to have parents who were determined to ensure I received the best medical care. My father worked exceedingly hard to earn every bit of money to pay the bills for my surgery. My mother, too, fought tirelessly to get me the necessary operation, allowing me to grow up as a normal child and attend school without feeling limited.

At a young age, I was admitted to The Scindia School, one of India’s premier boarding schools, and later, I wrote a letter while in the 10th grade that led to my admission to Wellington College in the UK, one of the finest private high schools. These opportunities seemed to come effortlessly, as if I was simply flowing with the grace that surrounded me.

Although I was not particularly academic, life continued to present opportunities. I rebelled against going to the US for college by deliberately scoring low on my SATs, unlike my brother Romit, who scored well. Yet, I found myself at Syracuse University, which eventually led to a job at Deloitte, where I thrived.

During my time at Syracuse, self-reflection became a pivotal part of my growth. At Deloitte, I met Claudia Wolf, my first boss and an inspiration. Later, I met Janine, my wife of 18 years, who provided the space and freedom for both of us to excel and explore.

An MBA program followed, and soon I was back in India, helping my father expand his vocational training business to 500+ centers nationwide. We trained thousands of young individuals in 22 sectors. Later, I took over the family business school, which flourished under my leadership.

Despite being told by doctors at the Mayo Clinic that I would need heart surgery by the age of 40, I reached 45 without requiring it, a testament to the presence of grace in my life.

Now, sitting back and reflecting on my life at 45, I can see the power and existence of grace through and through my journey. It fills my heart with gratitude. I can see countless moments that worked in my favor without me making any extra effort towards it. Moreover, I truly believe that if all of us look at our own journeys, we will all recognize the presence of grace in abundance. However, perhaps we become too selfish or too focused on the negatives in life, that we become unable to appreciate the presence of grace or divinity in our stories. These moments of grace are what I consider true privilege.

Through this reflection, I urge others to redefine their understanding of privilege. Embrace the notion that true privilege lies in the existence of grace, and learn to appreciate the subtle, yet profound, ways it shapes our lives.

Practicing Grace in our Daily Lives

Viewing our lives through the lens of grace is a transformative power like no other. Given below is my own acronym that helps me recognize grace and be steered by it in my daily life.

• • G is Gratitude for the past and the present.
  • R is Respect for all lives that exist.
  • A is Acceptance for who we are, what we are, where we are in our journey.
  • C is Compassion for everyone around us.
  • E is Energy – positive energy – that surrounds us.

Recognizing and valuing this grace is a privilege in itself, far more significant than any material possession or status. Hope this blog article helps all of us reflect and lead a more meaningful life.