I realized that the Stampede is a metaphor for something many of us face. Albeit, in a realm which is not necessarily external.

It is also one of the best analogies to explain a phenomenon —one which leads me to write… almost compulsively.

The stampede has three components — a closed space, a potent influx and an inadequate efflux.

The space may be likened to the mind.
Of course, it isn’t always a finite or a closed space…
It may be infinite and it may be open — so vast — it may hold everything without producing so much as a stir, a crinkle or an undulation.

But, something tells me that mine isn’t in that state most of the time. There is a distinct limit to how much it can hold or contain before it starts throwing up or showing tantrums.

That is when the phenomenon starts.

The world has so much to offer.
And most of it is crap.
There is a limit to how much the mind can tolerate any influx (be it crap or gyaan even) before it buckles — before there is just too much thought to bear to think about.

There then comes a time where the entry doors must be closed.

A disconnect from the world outside.

It must be accompanied, however, with the opening of the exit doors.

But that won’t be enough.
All the entrapped thoughts need to be sought — a connect established with every one of them… even as they wrestle for space and vie for attention within the overcrowded mind.

Then some must be chosen — 
To leave.

The Exit.

Once outside, they transform.
Into stories.
They live amidst the world outside… some loved, others criticized.

But the residual mind becomes free — freer than it was in a long time.
Decongested.

Every once in a while, it needs the disconnect-connect drill.
Or else, there shall be a stampede.
Many thoughts will be killed. Innumerable ideas will die.

When they’d rather become stories.