Dedicated to Swamiji Ajay Jain ji

Swami ji said …

What makes any man act? What makes him do anything at all? Why does he do what he does? What motivates him? What inspires him? What is it that he seeks? What fruits does he hope to obtain from his actions? These are indeed important and highly consequential questions in the life of anyone— and even more so from the perspective of one who seeks spiritual upliftment and joy.

If one observes children, one might notice how they seem to enjoy certain things—drawing, reading, solving puzzles, or something else altogether. It is not that they are masterful at them. Rather, they simply seem to enjoy doing them- and it appears as though- it is the ‘soul’ that is partaking in this action of theirs- making them experience pure, divine joy- as they giggle with delight and radiate happiness.

No matter how much they struggle, or ‘fail’, they do not judge themselves for it. They simply keep at it. They are merely enjoying ‘doing’ whatever it is that piques their curiosity. They have little inkling of ‘gain’ or ‘loss’, of reward or failure.

Yes, the first thought that comes to one’s mind on hearing this is that life is not as simple as that. And that is true. Life can seem complicated, with all its shades of grey. Reward and failure can have very real consequences. But, then, life is also not meant to be an enslavement to ‘results’.

One cannot live today only for tomorrow. Of course, the future must be considered. But, one who walks while looking only further ahead is bound to stumble on the path beneath his feet.

And that is the essence of the question that stands before us: Can we do something simply because we like doing it? Simply because it gives us joy?

The spiritual seeker must ask this question repeatedly. And, more often than not, answering it can be difficult. Not all days in the office can be great for us. Not all days in business bring a profit. Not all days spent taking care of a child or an elder seem rewarding or joyful. Not all days spent studying at school feel equally satisfying.
There are just as many bad days as good ones, just as many losses as wins— if not more. The fruits of our actions, whether in the short term or the long term, cannot always be- what we would like them to be.

That is simply not how life works. It is important for us to awaken the mind— to rid it of its obsession with ‘results’.
Yes, one needs an aim; that is certain. But attachment to that aim is fatal and must be avoided at all costs. True joy comes when one realises that an unwavering commitment to one’s cause, and anchoring one’s happiness to the fulfilment of that cause- are two completely distinct perspectives— and two completely different ways of life.

Take the story of Eklavya and Arjun. Eklavya’s devotion was centred upon the act of learning itself. Without Dronacharya physically present to teach him, he practised with such dedication that he attained extraordinary mastery. His commitment was so complete that, when Dronacharya asked for his right thumb as ‘guru dakshina’, he gave it without hesitation.

Arjun’s path was different. He had been promised by Dronacharya that he would become the greatest archer of his time and the fulfilment of that promise naturally became important to him. Thus, in the same story, we see two very different relationships with an aim: one in which fulfilment lay largely in devotion to the pursuit itself, and, another in which the attainment of a particular result had assumed great importance.

History remembers Arjun as one of its great heroes. Yet it also remembers Eklavya. Perhaps that itself tells us something. Achievement may determine who wins, but, devotion to one’s pursuit can leave behind a greatness of an entirely different kind.

But the reality of life is that we cannot truly control what happens tomorrow, nor can we ever know with certainty what results our actions today- will bear tomorrow or in the future. We can only take joy in knowing that we did our best today. That we left no stone unturned in the pursuit of the path we chose. And that, in fact, is all the joy that we are allowed. Joy in the action itself.

That is when our actions become our prayer and our praise to God. Every moment we live, we are grateful for having lived it and for having done the best we could. Every day of our lives then becomes an ode to God and His mysterious ways.

Swami ji said …

Through the ages, man has worshipped God in innumerable forms. Sometimes in the form of powerful beings, sometimes in human form, and sometimes as other mysterious creatures. Various holy books are believed to be the ‘Word of God’ and are often treated as the ultimate law to be followed.
Then there are holy places believed to be the abode of God, to which pilgrimages are made— sometimes even at one’s own peril — in the hope of experiencing or sighting the divine.

Many a time, one seeks God to alleviate one’s troubles. One hopes to seek His blessings so that one’s problems may be taken care of. But, then, there are those who use these various means of divine worship and knowledge, rituals and practices- in the hope of enriching themselves spiritually.

They fast, they pray, they observe rituals, they read scriptures— strictly following everything that has been proclaimed to be the path to God. And that is, in fact, a great feat in itself. For it takes great effort and strength to do this. It is only those with enduring discipline- who are able to take out the time and sacrifice other aspects of their lives to devote themselves to God and self-realization.

But, there is one danger that always lurks in the shadows, and, everyone on this path must be aware of it. It is that, in the midst of all this hard work, daily meditation and prayer, one may forget to keep an eye on how one actually ‘feels’ and ‘thinks’.

Every spiritual seeker must ask these questions: “How good… How pure are my thoughts?” “How truthful am I?” “What is the true purpose behind my spiritual practice?” “Am I being honest with myself when I say that I am doing all this only to attain ‘self-realization’ or do I want to attain some powers that can make me more powerful than others?”

The mind has a curious way of contorting one’s perspective. After years of ‘जप, तप, ध्यान’- one might end up feeling superior to others and feel that he has a right to judge their actions. A departure from humility after so many years of focussed effort on controlling his impulses- would be catastrophic for one’s spiritual progress.

This can happen to the best of us. We might begin to feel that we have the ‘right’ to be judgemental. We might convince ourselves – that reprimands and harsh words from us are justified because, after all, we are seekers of God- which somehow gives us the birth-right to ‘tick off’ people, hurting them deeply while doing so.

Some of us begin to feel that our spiritual practice makes us deserving- even of material wealth. The mind convinces us that since we ‘serve’ God, we truly deserve the best even in this world. In fact, without realising it, we begin equating our spiritual efforts with material results.

Sometimes, we might even lie in the belief that we possess the moral superiority to do so, convincing ourselves that the person being lied to is only being done a favour.

We begin to think of others as being below us— convinced that those who live ‘non-spiritual’ lives are, in some way, lower than us in stature.

If we closely follow the message of Lord Krishna, it simply boils down to keeping a watch on the ‘nature’ of our ‘actions’. Our actions can only be pure, if, we are truly pure from within— when our thoughts and intentions are untainted by greed, anger, jealousy, pride and other such impulses.

Thus, inner purity becomes an essential and uncompromising characteristic for those who seek God and spiritual upliftment. This can only be achieved through constant reflection and honest questioning of oneself.

The inner voice within us— God’s voice— is always there to be heard. It might grow faint amidst the tumultuous windings of the mind, but, it is always there. Whenever we begin to stray, it whispers to us, reminding us to be watchful of our thoughts, words, deeds and actions. “Are they pure, noble and well-intended? Are we being honest when we praise someone and laud his achievements or is it a farce that we put on for others to see? Are we genuinely happy on seeing others progress or are we consumed with jealousy- but pretend to be ecstatic on seeing them prosper? Can a double-faced person ever succeed on the spiritual path?”

It is completely up to us to clear the mind and listen to this ‘Voice’- that is loud and clear- in the din and confusion around us. For it speaks only the Truth— the Truth that can set us free- from the never ending cycle of birth and death…” जितना ध्यान हम तन की सफाई में लगाते हैं , उतना ही ध्यान अगर हम मन की सफाई में लगाएं, तो जीवन स्वर्ग बन जाए…”

Swami ji said…

Don’t we often hear people around us – asking in a worried voice, “हमें उस जगह जाना है… हमें वहाँ का रास्ता ठीक से पता नहीं है… आप रास्ता बता सकते हैं क्या?”
And once the directions are made clear to us, we usually do not face much difficulty in finding the destination we had intended to reach. On finally locating the place, we are filled with relief and silently thank the good samaritan who had helped us in our time of need.

On a serious note- “Would it really be possible for any one of us to grow, evolve, and develop into a mature, sensible, and balanced person- without the wisdom, experience, and knowledge of a guide, a mentor, or someone who shows us the right direction and the correct way – with the selfless intent of drawing out the best in us, making us aware of our potential and capabilities; the options that lie before us, and the need for us to make the right choice?”

The choice is ours to make. The best mentor in the world- with all his precious, valuable advice- could find himself being stone-walled by us, and, see us shrivel like a rotten apple- due to our lack of will, our disinterest- at the thought of venturing into the field- which ‘he’ knew was apt for us. But, our attitude- speaks volumes about our unwillingness to act on his suggestions and guidance.

The question then is: ” How many of us are actually willing to walk the path that we, too, deep within our hearts, know to be the right ‘way’ for us? ” But again, the challenges and obstacles- that we are certain await us on our path- often appear to be humongous- because of our habit of overthinking. They, mostly, make us take a U-turn or veer away from the path meant for us, without even pausing to reconsider whether our decision to do so is right or wrong; childish or mature.

Why are adolescents drawn towards all the vices in the world at such an impressionable age, in spite of all the motivational talks and counselling sessions they attend? Do they, even for the shortest span of time, replay in their minds the values and principles that their parents tried to inculcate in them? Can they even recall the number of times their parents had told them- ” बेटा, सही मार्ग पर चलना…”
“अच्छे संस्कारों के रास्ते पर आगे बढ़ना…”

And, if, once in a while, we were to quietly reflect upon our own past, we might be left astounded at the number of individuals who, knowingly or unknowingly, tried to guide us in the right direction as- “कोशिश तो बहुतों ने की थी हमारा मार्गदर्शन करने की, परन्तु उस मार्ग पर चलना हमें ठीक लगा या नहीं, उसकी ज़िम्मेदारी हम पर थी – और आज भी, हम पर ही है…” But, how does one really hope to know what the right course of action is ? ‘Paralysis by analysis’- often leads to indecision and missed opportunities.

The spiritual seeker can only hope to do this by training his heart and mind. Regular meditation and prayer create an instinct – a subtle understanding of the world around him – that guides him ‘correctly’. What might initially seem to be an ‘irregular’, ‘illogical’, or , ‘hard’ choice may, at times, appear to be the correct path to take.
This may be for moral reasons, or, even for more practical ones – such as knowing that, whilst there may be difficulties in the beginning, he will be far better off in the long run.
What this means is that he is no longer driven by impulse, instant gratification, or greed. He must choose his actions wisely, weigh them morally and principally, and commit to them with the understanding that they are for the best and for his good.

An earnest devotee understands at a point in time – that the pauses, the many things that are left ‘unsaid’ by His ‘guru’ – while He imparts ‘gyaan’ to Him – hold a wealth of meaning in them.The devotee then has a choice- to either use his mind- and fill in the words that were not said aloud by his ‘guru’ – which would benefit him greatly in everyday life- or, maintain a careless attitude and not read too much between the unsaid lines- and go about his spiritual life in a casual manner- depriving himself of further spiritual growth.

We will always be shown the correct path – by the Guru, by parents, by teachers. But, taking that path and continuing to walk upon it can only be done by us. This commitment can only take root within us when we truly imbibe God in our hearts, minds and way of life. Those who develop faith in Him find it increasingly difficult to follow an immoral path. Their awareness that they are doing something wrong, and, the guilt that follows, compels them to self-correct.

In other words, their spirituality becomes their guiding light. And, the more one surrenders to God, and, the more one keeps Him in one’s thoughts and prayers, the brighter that light shines- within and without, further reconfirming that- ” आध्यात्मिक मार्ग सबसे सुंदर मार्ग है…”

Swami ji said…

Perhaps a person’s character, contributions, and nature are remembered, cherished, and recalled most vividly only after they have passed away. Sad as it might seem, this is quite true. We, too, vividly remember the quirks, the smiles, and the habits of those around us when they are no longer with us.

Yes, we might leave behind worldly possessions– a house, a car, money for our kith and kin. But, who really remembers one’s forefathers as time passes by, or,
genuinely thanks them from their hearts- for the roof over their head- as all of it had to come to them finally- they maintain. Yet, we do remember the smiles, the jokes, the laughter, the wisdom, and their kindness. That is truly what we leave behind. That is our legacy- in the true sense of the word.

‘Karma’ is all that matters– our actions, our thoughts, and our intentions. These are what truly matter, and it is the remnants of how they make the people around us feel that live on beyond us.

Thus, to be truly successful in life, do not focus merely on material gains, but, also on how we have made people feel. Have we left people feeling comforted? Feeling cherished? One must definitely not try to be a ‘people pleaser’, but, one must make an effort to be nice to everyone. After all, if , there is one thing that we all want– whether we are children or elders– it is to be loved and cared for. Thus, making someone feel cherished can be no less than a gift.

A smile, a light-hearted joke, a comforting comment, or, a word of encouragement is often more valuable than gold and silver. Such things enrich people’s lives in a way that wealth cannot achieve.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be remembered and cherished as a soul who left behind imprints of love, kindness, helpfulness, and, understanding in the hearts and minds of all those he met during his lifetime? Could anything be worthier than to be treasured as one who left behind footprints of joy, laughter, and happiness wherever he went– footprints that remain embedded in the memories of others?

Unknown to us, after we have passed on to the other realm, wouldn’t it still be an honour to continue to hold a special place in the hearts of others– as a memory that refuses to fade with time– simply because we stood by them when they needed us the most? Perhaps, even years later, they would continue to remember and speak of- “हमारे नेक कर्म, जो हमने तब किए थे, जब हमने बिना अपने बारे में सोचे उनकी मदद की थी…”

And could there be a greater honour than this– “जब लोग हमारे ‘जाने’ के बाद भी हमारे गुण गिनते-गिनते थकते नहीं हैं…” When, even after we are gone, people do not tire of remembering and recounting our good qualities, the kindness we showed, the help we offered, and the moments when we stood by them. Perhaps that is one of the truest measure of a life well lived. For what greater legacy can there be than to continue living, not merely in photographs or possessions, but in the gratitude, affection, and memories of those whose lives we touched?

The spiritual seeker must try to imbibe this philosophy in his mind. Kindness and love are what we can give to this world. Both can be given abundantly, and doing so is what will make us great in God’s eyes.Showing genuine patience and gentleness is nothing less than prayer. It is such acts that make us dear to God and bring us closer to Him.

“Live life as though you are praying– as though God sees you and hears you every moment…” The same reverence, respect, love, and joy that we feel in the presence of God should also be reflected in the way we treat His children. If we truly see God in all – then our gentleness towards others, our patience with them, our willingness to understand them, and our desire to bring them happiness- becomes an extention of our prayer itself.

One cannot claim to be spiritual and, yet, be ill-tempered towards others. Little is achieved in God’s eyes, if, we close our eyes in prayer every day but are unable to see and alleviate the pain of others- with our eyes open.

Swami ji said…

“हमें बातें करने में, बोलने में, बहुत मज़ा आता है..!” Isn’t that so? We love to talk. Chatter. Have long conversations. Gossip. State our opinion on everything possible. Get into lengthy debates— to prove a point to others— as to who is right— and naturally, it always has to be us. We dislike losing in any round of a conversation- as we feel we can never be at a loss of words.

Strangely, we make it a point to know about what is going on in other people’s lives and pass our judgement on what is right or wrong in their lives— even when no one has sought our verdict. Also, some of us could be so gifted with the art of speech that we could speak endlessly and needlessly- even at the cost of irritating others.

Perhaps the need within some of us to express ourselves clearly- and to let others know what we think of them- is so powerful that, like a steamroller, we let out all that is within us— without thinking of the consequences that our hurtful words could have on the other person… “कयोंकि हम सोचते हैं कि हमारा दूसरों को उनके बारे में सब कुछ साफ़ तरह से बोलना अत्यंत आवश्यक है, हम मुँहफट हो जाते हैं…हम यह भूल जाते हैं कि वही शब्द जो हम सबको जोड़ सकते हैं, वे एक पल में रिश्तों को तोड़ भी सकते हैं…”

Why is it so difficult for us to understand the essence of the proverb- “Silence is golden”? Wouldn’t it be better for us to remain silent during moments when we are needled the most by others, picked on deliberately by someone, in order to get an angry reaction from us— when we might just erupt like a volcano and let angry and disrespectful words flow out, unabated, which would later fill us with regret for having said them? Or should we choose to maintain a stoic silence in the face of repeated attempts by others to provoke us and draw an angry response from us?

In the end, it is completely up to us to tide over the most delicate moments in our lives by either wearing a cloak of silence—that earns us respect— instead of resorting to words and speech that could later fill us with regret.

“जब हम समझ जाते हैं कि चुप रहने में ही हमारी भलाई है…”— it is then that we start thinking before we speak. “Do I really need to say what I’m about to say?”— we think twice before saying anything untoward to anyone.
“Would it be better if I refuse to take the bait, remain nonchalant, and treat the matter as one that did not warrant an agitated response from my end ?” “Won’t I gain more— “अगर मैं ऐसे क्षणों में चुप रहूँ और मौन धारण कर लूँ ?”- we remind ourselves and thus are able to control our words from spilling out unnecessarily.
Conquering that ‘difficult’ moment by exercising restraint is better than entering a phase of self- reproach and accuse ourselves later- “मैंने ऐसे क्यों बोल दिया उस समय?” “He must be feeling so bad about the rude manner in which I spoke to him…”

The very thought of it fills us with contrition. But, words, once said, cannot be taken back— and to what effect? Our harsh words will obviously pierce the mind and heart of the other person.

A spiritual seeker understands the importance of weighing his words carefully – before giving them a sound. He knows that- “जिस तरह से धनुष से निकला बाण कभी वापस नहीं आ सकता है – उसी तरह हम अपने बोले हुए शब्द वापस नहीं ले सकते हैं…” – so why should we speak just for the sake of speaking. He knows that the energy that would be wasted by him while indulging in nonsensical chatter, could be conserved and utilised for his spiritual furtherance. In what way would he benefit by being malicious and deliberately hurt people with mean, vengeful words? He would only be accumulating bad ‘ karma’ by nurturing ill-will against others- he reminds himself. He knows that God would be happier to see him ‘heal’ others with his warm and comforting silence- instead of ‘hurting’ them in any way- through any word or action of his- which could fill him with remorse later.