Paulo Coelho’s stories have deeply touched my heart and I daresay, enlightened me. In The Alchemist, Santiago meets many different characters in the pursuit of his dream. The story of one character, the merchant, is deeply etched in my heart.
The merchant initially set up his shop selling crystals to earn enough money to fulfill his dream; a pilgrimage to Mecca. Unfortunately, upon setting up his shop, he got used to his lifestyle and made excuses not to pursue his dream. He ultimately lost his passion for life and his business began to deteriorate. It was only when his fate crossed paths with Santiago’s, did his life begin to change.
Santiago worked for the merchant with a steadfast desire towards his dream, and this pushed him to innovate and take risks, such as placing a display case outside to attract people over to the crystal shop. It was risky, for crystals were fragile, and the merchant was originally adverse to this idea. He finally conceded and agreed. Business improved.
Once more, Santiago suggested selling tea in crystal glasses. The merchant knew that this would bring more business, but was apprehensive to this change! It may sound absurd, but he didn’t want to expand his business. The hunger which Santiago possessed challenged the merchant to look for further horizons, for knowing his immense possibilities, he now knows what he can accomplish, yet he does not want it anymore, for he was too comfortable with the status quo.
The merchant would live the rest of his life only dreaming of Mecca. He would only see the immense possibilities of his businesses. I, too, have been touched by Santiago, but I refuse to dream about living. I will pursue my dream and live my life to the fullest.
