Swami ji’s Sandesh… “हम दूसरों को परखने में इतनी जल्दी क्यों करते हैं ?”

Swami ji said …

“Do not judge a book by its cover”- is a saying- often used to remind us- that the first impression we form of someone may not always be correct. And, human beings are far more complex and profound than mere books! It is often not possible to recognise their potential, gifts and values even after spending considerable time with them.

Many a time, we make assumptions about others. We form opinions based on various factors—sometimes on their appearance, sometimes on the way they speak, sometimes on the way they dress, their professions, and so on. It is a natural exercise of the intellect. The mind creates filters and categorises people. Accordingly, we decide whether they are important to us or not.

This is not something to be ashamed of. It is often a practical way of dealing with society.
However, this does not mean that such ‘filtering’ should be adhered to in heart and soul.

After all, even the society around us is merely “माया”. Someone who is important today- may become inconsequential tomorrow in the eyes of society, and, vice versa. It is all a result of ‘karma’.

The absolute truth is- that we are all equal. Irrespective of our circumstances, no one is more important than another in the eyes of God. And that, even though it may seem difficult to believe, is what truly matters.This is what we, too, must realise and internalise.
Everyone we meet and interact with- is just as special as anyone else. We can learn a great deal from each one’s experiences and wisdom- irrespective of what they look like, how they dress or where they work.

If we are willing to remove the tinted glasses of class, stature and status that distort our vision and conceals the true image of our fellow beings- we will realise that everyone has something immense to contribute. Through the smallest of actions and the simplest of words, they can teach us invaluable lessons about life.

Appearances can be deceptive. But, we are so greatly enamoured by the ‘suits and boots’ of the rich and famous people- that in our eyes they can never do anything wrong- while a scruffy looking person- can never do anything right and we write him off immediately.

We never know—our bias towards one’s colour and background- could be preventing us from making a wonderful friend. We may not be paying attention to someone who does not ‘look’ wise- but regularly offers pearls of wisdom while interacting with others. It is also possible that someone could be warning us of an impending peril, but, because the person appears too plain and simple for our liking, we fail to heed his warning- smirking- ” ये बेवकूफ, नासमझ इंसान मेरे कल के बारे में क्या बताएगा ?”

Those on the spiritual path already know this. In fact, it is something they can ignore only at their own peril. Often, God communicates with us through others. The most impactful words, the most touching actions and the most inspiring suggestions—all these come from Him, with the people around us serving as His medium.

It is, therefore, important to keep one’s eyes and ears open. Those seeking enlightenment must remove from their hearts and minds all unfounded prejudice and intolerance, and look upon everyone around them as their brethren— the children of God.

It takes effort to understand those who are dissimilar to us. However, it is necessary, to respect the differences between us and others- if, we seek to develop spiritually. People are diverse in their characteristics, but, ultimately, they are quite alike.

Everyone’s experiences and perspectives must be considered. That is how we can truly expand our horizons and understand others better. It is also how we come to understand ourselves better.
There is a curious truth about life: the more we accept people who are different from us- the more we allow ourselves to grow and develop. We must remember-” ‘ईश्वर’ राजा और रंक को एक ही नज़र से देखते हैं…”