Last Wednesday, as usual, I headed to work using JakLingko. When the vehicle reached Jalan Rambo, a passenger wanted to get off there. However, since there was no JakLingko stop at that location, the driver didn’t stop.
Other passengers, as usual, suggested getting off at the next stop or guided the person to the appropriate stop for Kampung Rambutan, which was at the SMP N 222 signpost.
But instead of following the advice, the passenger became visibly upset and started shouting. Upon alighting at the next stop, they yelled, “If it can be simplified, why complicate it?”
Simplify or complicate?
On the surface, this phrase sounds wise, but it doesn’t apply to every situation. In the case of JakLingko, not stopping at unsanctioned points isn’t about complicating things—it’s about maintaining order.
Imagine if everyone tried to simplify things for themselves without considering others, like driving against traffic, littering, or ignoring common rules. This “magic phrase” could then become an excuse for selfish behavior, disregarding collective interests and societal norms.
Living in a community requires adhering to agreed-upon rules and norms to ensure social harmony and order.
When to use this “Magic Phrase”
The phrase is powerful and should be used in the right context—specifically, when you’re being unnecessarily hindered despite meeting all requirements or fulfilling obligations. For example:
- Bureaucratic delays: You’re struggling to process documents despite having all the necessary paperwork.
- Discrimination in transactions: You’re having difficulty buying a vehicle outright even though you have sufficient funds.
- Unjustified obstacles: You’re being hindered in resolving a case or issue for someone else’s benefit.
In these cases, the hurdles aren’t justified and usually arise from someone seeking personal gain. This is where the phrase is valid and useful, as it pushes back against unnecessary complications.
Conclusion
Not all situations can—or should—be simplified to suit us. At times, we need to accept some difficulties to respect the interests of others. Similarly, we should strive not to complicate matters for others.
Ultimately, the best among us are those who make things easier for others while respecting shared rules and societal harmony.
