Sigmund Freud and Carl Gustav Jung were two great minds of the world (of psychology). They agreed on a few things, but disagreed on other significant matters. Because of the latter, they weren't very close friends.
Now Freud had shared a few of his own dreams and experiences with Jung, when they were on cordial enough terms to discuss this and that over cigars.
After the former's death, a reporter interviewing Jung did what reporters are paid to do- he made an attempt to make his story sizzle with a little inside information.
So, salivating at the mouth, he asked Jung, "Can you tell us one of Freud's dreams?"
Jung promptly replied that that information had been shared in confidence, and he would not compromise on that.
Surprisingly, the reporter actually asked him why not, since Freud was no longer around.
Jung, without batting an eyelid, replied-
"Because regards last longer than life."
I was already in love with Freud. These five words made me fall in love with C.G. Jung.
It speaks volumes about a person's character when they can respect their adversary. Like those fighters who bow to each other respectfully before or after a fight. Or when a bowler applauds a good shot off his delivery.
Or the warrior who doesn't attack when the opponent's back is turned, and instead waits for him to finish lifting his chariot out of the mud, so that he may fight with his head held high again.
There are battles that are fought with honour.
P.S. For those who don't know, the one in colour is Jung.
P.P.S. Don't they look like brothers? But while Jung is endearing in a charming, boyish sort of way, Freud looks like a strapping old fellow who seems to know what he is worth!
P.P.P.S. Ah! What wouldn't I give to spend an evening with them! Together or separately, as per their convenience and wishes! We would sit in plush couches and discuss great things over wine, coffee and cigars, throw our heads back and laugh at various things, "hmmm hmmm" at each other a lot, and generally be friendly.
Instead, I will just be content with the thought that in reading their work and deriving real pleasure out of it, I come as close as I can possibly get to them.
