A Fountain of Wisdom: Lessons for Every Soul

 A Fountain of Wisdom: Lessons for Every Soul

 

One day, a merchant, an old man, and his young daughter happened to meet by the side of a clear, sparkling fountain. On the fountain was an inscription that read: “Learn from me!”

 

Each traveler paused and reflected on the message, drawing a unique lesson from the flowing water, shaped by their own experience and understanding.

 

The merchant spoke first.

“I see how this fountain began as a mere trickle but, as it journeys toward the sea, it is joined by brooks and streams until it becomes a mighty river. From this, I learn that we too should begin our work, however small, with determination. Over time, with effort and support, even humble beginnings can grow into great business enterprises.”

 

The old man then shared his thoughts.

“To me, the fountain teaches quiet service. It gives its water freely, asking nothing in return, serving both friends and strangers alike. I believe we too must serve others selflessly and silently, just as this fountain does.”

 

Finally, the little girl spoke with innocence and clarity.

“I think water is only useful if it’s pure. Even animals won’t drink it if it’s muddy. So I believe we should keep our hearts and lives clean and pure. Only then can we be truly useful.”

 

Though the Teacher is one—the fountain—the lessons drawn were different.

Everyone learns according to their aptitude and capacity.

In the great school of life, a day in which we learn nothing is a day lost.

  The Gita’s Timeless Guide to Greatness: Wisdom Beyond Time, Ego, and Limits

What inspired astronaut Sunita Williams to carry the Bhagavad Gita into space? What gave Olympic shooter Manu Bhaker the strength to strike gold? What guided Mahatma Gandhi through his monumental journey? The answer lies in the timeless wisdom of the Gita — a text that has illuminated paths to greatness for centuries.

Life often feels like a roller-coaster — soaring highs, gut-wrenching lows. We chase success, only to stumble into stress and burnout. We seek love but fall into conflict. We dream of greatness, only to be lost in routine. Is it possible to rise, to achieve, to love, without being broken along the way?

The Gita says: Yes.
But it doesn’t merely offer feel-good quotes — it provides a structured, scientific approach to living. Like gravity or motion, the Gita’s principles are universal. They cut through confusion, clarify purpose, and build inner strength. Ancient in origin, yet astonishingly modern in relevance.

Harvard research shows only 15% of success comes from knowledge. A whopping 85%? It’s attitude. Yet, most people invest 100% in facts and zero in mindset. We're often trapped in self-centeredness — the very thing that limits our potential. True greatness begins when we transcend the self.

Legends lived this truth.
Ustad Bismillah Khan played the shehnai for love, not awards. Einstein wasn’t chasing a Nobel — he was driven by wonder. Eric Liddell, Olympic gold medallist, said simply, “God made me to run, and I run for God.” That’s where excellence is born: from purpose, not pressure.

Success isn't reserved for the wealthy or the naturally gifted. Not everyone can be a Tendulkar. But every soul carries equal spirit. That’s the real power source. When you recognize your talent as a divine gift and act in gratitude, you unlock flow, focus, and fulfilment.

The Gita also reveals the root of broken relationships — attachment. When love gets polluted with selfish desire, it becomes transactional. But pure love — selfless, steady — transforms everything. It turns struggle into celebration, tasks into joy, and duty into devotion. As Christ echoed, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”

Above all, the Gita develops what modern education ignores: the intellect.
Many geniuses have fallen not from lack of talent, but from lack of direction. Diego Maradona’s brilliance faded due to poor choices; Messi thrived because of discipline. Elvis Presley had talent beyond compare, but no intellectual anchor. The intellect governs the mind’s impulses, brings stability, and fuels long-term growth. Yet no school teaches it — only wisdom traditions like the Gita do.

The difference between mediocrity and mastery, chaos and clarity, destruction and destiny — lies in this higher guidance.

 

 

IF HE EXIST

 I drive joy there was a doctor in Benaras who spent 7 minutes in the morning and evening for mediation on God. Knowing this, his colleagues and friends laughed at him. One day they argued that he was wasting 7 precious minutes on something, which he had been misled into believing. The doctor replied, “Well, if God does not exist, I agree that I am wasting 7 minutes a day. But, if He exists? I am afraid you are wasting your entire lifetime. I prefer to waste 7 minutes rather than a lifetime. Why should you grudge me the 7minutes joy that I derive 4m.-

ILLUSTRATED REVIEW : 7thheaven moment of the week IN gt won by 7 wk    

The Healing Power of Tears

  

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The Healing Power of Tears

 

Tears play a vital role in maintaining both emotional and physical well-being. Shedding tears alleviates suffering, releases mental tension, eases depression, and helps individuals process emotions such as grief, fear, anger, and joy. Crying is a natural mechanism for emotional release and should never be suppressed. After shedding tears, one often experiences a sense of relief, emotional balance, and inner peace.

 

Interestingly, tears can also provide physiological benefits. They aid in overcoming symptoms such as nausea and muscle stiffness. Women, who tend to cry more freely than men, are statistically less prone to heart attacks. This suggests that emotional release through crying may contribute to cardiovascular health.

 

Scientifically, tears are primarily composed of lacrimal fluid, which contains antibacterial substances and proteins that strengthen the immune defense of the eyes. Biologists recognize that tears help cleanse the body by eliminating harmful substances. Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of penicillin, demonstrated that tears possess germ-killing properties. Regular eye care should include natural tear production, as it clears dust, dirt, and potential irritants, reducing the risk of eye infections.

 

Just as laughter is often hailed as the best medicine, crying offers similar therapeutic benefits by relieving tension, depression, and pent-up emotions. Humans experience various types of tears—whether of joy, sorrow, anger, or fear—stemming from deep-seated psychological responses. Remarkably, nature ensures that newborns cry at birth; if they do not, external stimulation is required to provoke crying, as it is essential for their survival. However, infants do not produce tears for a few days to four months due to underdeveloped lacrimal glands.

 

The unchecked pursuit of wealth, power, and material gratification often blinds individuals to the importance of emotional health. Enslaved by desires and driven by arrogance, many seek happiness through external means, believing wealth and dominance will bring fulfillment. Yet, those who disregard emotional well-being and genuine self-awareness may find themselves trapped in cycles of delusion, leading to emotional distress and even greater suffering.

 

In conclusion, shedding tears is an essential part of human existence, offering both physical and emotional relief. Embracing the natural act of crying can lead to improved health, clarity of mind, and a more profound sense of peace.

The Enigma of Dharma: A Path to Happiness and Righteousness

 

All beings seek happiness, peace, and serenity in life. Hindu shastras teach that such a life is attainable by following the path of dharma. Swami Vivekananda defines dharma as ‘that which makes man seek happiness in this world or the other.’ The Vedas declare, ‘All is established in dharma’; ‘dharma is the foundation of the entire world.’

 

Valmiki, in the Ramayana (3.37.13), considers Lord Rama to be the personification of dharma. In the Ayodhyakanda (21), Rama states, ‘Dharma is the highest and most superior; even truth acquires value only if it conforms to dharma.’ In the Aranyakanda (9.30), Sita asserts that dharma alone begets wealth and happiness and is the source of all that is worth achieving. The Tirukkural similarly proclaims, ‘As dharma leads to prosperity and supreme happiness, how can anything greater than that be obtained by man?’

 

Despite its extensive usage in the Dharmashastras, Puranas, and Itihasas, the concept of dharma remains enigmatic. Even Wittgenstein’s notion of ‘family resemblance’ fails to capture the true nature of dharma, as its meaning ranges from everything to nothing.

 

Bhishma, in the Shanti Parva of the Mahabharata, states, ‘Dharma sometimes takes the shape of adharma.’ He argues that although ‘dharma was declared for the advancement and growth of all creatures,’ it is difficult to define what righteousness truly is. Identifying dharma’s exact nature is a complex challenge.

 

In early Buddhist texts, dharma refers to ‘the ultimate elements of things.’ In later Buddhist texts, it denotes ‘the essential function of things.’ According to Buddha, whatever leads to peace, humility, control of desires, love of solitude, earnest striving for moral and spiritual progress, and the easy pacification of the mind is dharma.

 

The Jains hold a unique perspective, viewing dharma and adharma as material atoms that enter the soul. Dharma represents motion, while adharma signifies rest. The Jains uphold that the very nature of jiva (the soul) is dharma. The Acharanga Sutta declares, ‘Arhats of all times have only one sole message to give: no beings should be harmed; this is the eternal dharma.’

 

In the early 19th century, when Indian scholars interacted with English-speaking intellectuals, they struggled to explain dharma using the highly problematic English terms ‘religion’ and ‘ideology.’ Unlike religion, which requires exclusive adherence, dharma does not demand singular loyalty. Similarly, while ideology lacks a transcendental dimension, dharma embraces it.

 

Dharma also cannot be equated with law, as it is more than a set of rules; it is the underlying principle that governs and creates law in the universe. While the essence of dharma is intuitive and accessible, its precise definition remains elusive, making it one of the most profound and complex concepts in spiritual philosophy.

 

 

 

 

IF HE EXIST

 I drive joy there was a doctor in Benaras who spent 7 minutes in the morning and evening for mediation on God. Knowing this, his colleagues and friends laughed at him. One day they argued that he was wasting 7 precious minutes on something, which he had been misled into believing. The doctor replied, “Well, if God does not exist, I agree that I am wasting 7 minutes a day. But, if He exists? I am afraid you are wasting your entire lifetime. I prefer to waste 7 minutes rather than a lifetime. Why should you grudge me the 7minutes joy that I derive 4m.-

ILLUSTRATED REVIEW : 7thheaven moment of the week IN IPL Delhi Won by 7 wk, and no 77 got man of the match     

The Self-Destructive Nature of Jealousy

 

 

The Self-Destructive Nature of Jealousy

Jealousy is a powerful and destructive emotion that often compels individuals to act against their own best interests. Rather than fostering positive relationships and mutual growth, some people allow jealousy to dictate their actions, sowing discord and division instead of harmony and unity. This phenomenon is particularly evident in the workplace, where an individual who cannot tolerate the success of a colleague may resort to spreading rumors, creating conflicts, and undermining team spirit. Such behavior not only damages relationships but also disrupts a productive environment, leading to overall dissatisfaction and inefficiency.

The root of jealousy in adulthood often lies in an individual's emotional immaturity and unresolved insecurities carried forward from childhood. It is a universal human trait, affecting people across all walks of life—whether they are the owners of small businesses or the heads of multinational corporations. Even those in positions of power, such as employers and supervisors, may experience jealousy, rejecting innovative ideas simply because they did not originate from them. This inability to appreciate the success of others ultimately stifles progress and creativity, both at an individual and collective level.

Ironically, those who are most consumed by jealousy often refuse to acknowledge it. They deceive themselves into believing that their resentment is justified or that it does not exist at all. However, jealousy is as conspicuous as a wound on a clear face—it cannot be hidden for long. The more an individual harbors such negative feelings, the more evident their insecurity becomes to those around them.

A person’s true downfall begins not when they fail, but when they resent those who succeed. Jealousy is like a poison that one prepares for another but ends up consuming themselves. It clouds judgment, erodes inner peace, and leads to self-sabotage. In essence, jealousy is the jaundice of the soul, tinting one’s perspective with bitterness and preventing the appreciation of life’s true joys.

To overcome jealousy, one must cultivate self-awareness, practice gratitude, and embrace personal growth. Instead of allowing envy to dictate actions, individuals should channel their energy into self-improvement and collaboration. By celebrating the success of others and learning from their achievements, one can transform jealousy from a source of destruction into a catalyst for personal and professional development.

The Significance of Tirth and Kumbh: A Unifying Tradition

There is a popular saying, ‘Sare tirth baar baar, Gangasagar ek baar,’ meaning that the pilgrimage to Gangasagar, near Kolkata, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. However, a similar once-in-a-lifetime experience presented itself during the recently concluded Mahakumbh at Prayag. A fierce debate has unfolded in the public domain, including social media platforms, regarding the importance of Kumbh. It is crucial to understand that Kumbh, and tirth in general, transcend the common rhetoric of faith, religion, and spiritualism.

Rabindranath Tagore described Bharat as a ‘Mahamanav Samudra’—a great human ocean. This land has been home to people of diverse cultures, religious beliefs, ethnicities, and social statuses, coexisting since time immemorial. Just as rivers flowing into the ocean merge with it, relinquishing individual identities, so do people from different backgrounds integrate into the collective identity of being Bhartiya.

The Rig Veda states, ‘Kavayah stayshrutah,’ meaning that wise individuals can see the Truth hidden behind the veil of ignorance. But how does an ordinary person perceive Bhartiyata, the unity rising above all observed diversities? How can they get a glimpse of unity in diversity? These are fundamental questions, and the Bharatiya mind has provided a unique answer: the institution of tirth.

The original meaning of the word ‘tirth’ is a passage or way, specifically locations along a river or stream that serve as crossing points. In ancient times, these tirths became centers of human settlement. As communities reached uninhabited riverbanks and dense forests, settlements were established around these locations. Due to their strategic importance, tirths became gathering spots for travel, trade, and crossing water bodies. Over time, these sites evolved into centers of religion, learning, and culture.

Examining the various tirth episodes in the Puranas reveals an in-depth introduction to Bharat. Tirths provide an opportunity for people to experience their land and fellow citizens directly. In the Mahabharata, Lomash Rishi explains the significance of pilgrimage, stating, “Tirth removes fear from the human mind. This is the greatest outcome of tirthyatra. It dispels apprehensions about unfamiliar places and people, replacing fear of the unknown with love.”

Maintaining reverence for tirths and encouraging participation in tirthyatra is one of the most ingenious contributions of the Bharatiya mind in fostering unity and national integrity. From this perspective, the importance of tirths such as Kumbh assumes an even greater dimension. It not only quenches the spiritual thirst of the faithful but also strengthens the unity, integrity, and continuity of Bharatiya culture and civilization. Kumbh becomes a vista through which people witness and experience the unity of India, transcending perceived diversities. It serves as a divya drishti, a divine vision through which the common person perceives the Bharatiya Mahamanav Samudra—the great human ocean of India.

 

 IF HE EXIST

 I drive joy there was a doctor in Benaras who spent 7 minutes in the morning and evening for mediation on God. Knowing this, his colleagues and friends laughed at him. One day they argued that he was wasting 7 precious minutes on something, which he had been misled into believing. The doctor replied, “Well, if God does not exist, I agree that I am wasting 7 minutes a day. But, if He exists? I am afraid you are wasting your entire lifetime. I prefer to waste 7 minutes rather than a lifetime. Why should you grudge me the 7minutes joy that I derive 4m.-

ILLUSTRATED REVIEW : 7thheaven moment of the week IN IPL Rcb Won by 7 wk     

 

  

Mastering Willpower: The Key to Achieving Your Goals

  

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Mastering Willpower: The Key to Achieving Your Goals

Willpower is essential for overcoming obstacles and making tough decisions. It is not an inborn talent but a skill that can be developed and strengthened to help us reach our goals.

As one saying goes, “The trained will is a master weapon.” Willpower allows people to break habits, take control of their lives, and shape their futures. The dictionary defines willpower as “control of one’s impulses and actions.” The ability is within you—it just needs to be harnessed.

Strategies to Strengthen Willpower

1. Stay Positive

Willpower is most effective when directed toward uplifting and constructive purposes. It is not about self-denial but about pushing past laziness and staying committed to future goals. When things get tough, visualize yourself successfully reaching your objective and keep moving forward.

2. Set Clear and Specific Goals

Vague goals like “I will exercise more” are less effective than specific ones such as “I will walk for 45 minutes every morning” or “I will read for an hour, three nights a week.” The more precise your goal, the more likely you are to follow through.

3. Believe in Your Purpose

If you don’t genuinely see the benefits of your goal, motivation alone won’t be enough. The strongest incentive is a deep desire to improve your self-image and take control of your life.

4. Act as If You Already Have Strong Willpower

Sometimes, pretending to be strong-willed can help you become so. Repeating affirmations like “I am determined to quit gambling” reinforces your commitment. Over time, your mindset shifts, and your willpower strengthens.

5. Train Your Willpower with Small Challenges

Practicing self-discipline in small ways can prepare you for bigger challenges. Simple exercises like standing up and sitting down 30 times or replacing scattered matches one by one can help build mental resilience. You can also make a list of tasks for Saturday morning and not eat lunch until they’re all completed.

6. Anticipate Obstacles

The phrase “Where there is a will, there is a way” is only part of the truth. Even with strong determination, challenges will arise, and you need to be prepared for them.

For example, many people who quit smoking fail because they never planned how to resist cravings. If you’re quitting alcohol, rehearse a response for when someone offers you a drink. If you plan to jog but wake up to rain, have an indoor workout ready.

7. Be Realistic

Unrealistic goals can set you up for failure and discourage you from trying again. Instead of aiming to lose 27 kilos in three months or exercise for three hours daily, set a series of smaller, achievable milestones. This approach ensures steady progress and long-term success.

Final Thoughts

Willpower is like a muscle—the more you train it, the stronger it becomes. By staying positive, setting clear goals, believing in yourself, and preparing for obstacles, you can develop the discipline needed to achieve anything you set your mind to.

The Ever-Changing You: A Journey Through Time and Atoms

The saying that you can never step into the same river twice holds a profound truth—not only does the river change, but so do you. The person who steps into the river a second time is no longer the same as before.

The human body is a constantly evolving entity, composed of over 37 trillion cells—more than the number of seconds in a million years. Every day, approximately 330 billion cells, or about 1% of our total, are replaced in an ongoing cycle of renewal. Beyond cells, the very atoms that form our bodies undergo transformation. With seven octillion atoms (a seven followed by 27 zeros) in our bodies, we replace 98% of them every year.

We Are Made of Star Stuff

Dan Levitt, in his book What’s Gotten Into You: The Story of Your Body’s Atoms, from The Big Bang Theory Through Last Night’s Dinner, explores the origins of the atoms within us. He traces their journey from the birth of the universe, through violent cosmic events, to their eventual role in shaping our bodies. Like Carl Sagan before him, Levitt reinforces the idea that we are, quite literally, made of star stuff. Even after death, our atoms continue their journey, cycling through the earth, ocean, and sky in a never-ending cosmic dance.

This means the atoms that make up our bodies have been here before—part of the long evolutionary march of life. Some atoms that once composed ancient beings, historical figures, or even long-extinct creatures now reside within us and will be passed on to future generations. Atoms, though they can change into subatomic particles, are indestructible.

The Illusion of a Fixed Self

If our physical composition is in constant flux, what does that say about our identity? The self we perceive as stable is, in reality, an ongoing narrative—a mental construct we create to navigate daily life. From childhood to adulthood, through education, careers, and family, we piece together a sense of self that is ever-changing.

Philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre argue that the self is not a fixed entity but a fluid construct that emerges from the choices we make. There are no absolute heroes or villains, saints or sinners—only individuals making choices that define them in the moment.

The Freedom to Choose a New You

The you that exists today is not bound by the past. With each decision, you have the power to reshape who you are. In this sense, the self is not a rigid identity but an evolving force—the Unself beyond the Self.

Just as the river flows and transforms, so do you. The atoms within you have journeyed through time and space, and so too can your consciousness, shaped by the choices you make. The question is not who you are—but who you choose to become.

 

 

 

 

IF HE EXIST

 I drive joy there was a doctor in Benaras who spent 7 minutes in the morning and evening for mediation on God. Knowing this, his colleagues and friends laughed at him. One day they argued that he was wasting 7 precious minutes on something, which he had been misled into believing. The doctor replied, “Well, if God does not exist, I agree that I am wasting 7 minutes a day. But, if He exists? I am afraid you are wasting your entire lifetime. I prefer to waste 7 minutes rather than a lifetime. Why should you grudge me the 7minutes joy that I derive 4m.-

ILLUSTRATED REVIEW : 7thheaven moment of the week IN HOLI you got 7 colour rainbow in Venue Delhi     

The True Essence of Peace

  

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The True Essence of Peace

Once upon a time, a king announced a contest, offering a prize to the artist who could paint the best depiction of peace. Many artists participated, and after careful consideration, the king narrowed his choices to two paintings.

The first painting portrayed a serene lake, its still waters reflecting majestic mountains that towered around it. Above, a soft blue sky stretched across the horizon, dotted with fluffy white clouds. Everyone who saw it believed it was the perfect representation of peace.

The second painting also featured mountains, but these were rugged and harsh. Above them, a storm raged, with lightning streaking across a dark sky as rain poured down. A powerful waterfall cascaded down the mountain’s side, creating a loud and chaotic scene. At first glance, this painting did not seem peaceful at all.

However, upon closer examination, the king noticed a small bush growing in a crevice behind the waterfall. Within its branches, a mother bird had built her nest, calmly sitting amidst the roaring water. Despite the surrounding turmoil, the bird remained undisturbed—completely at peace.

The king chose this second painting as the winner.

"Do you know why?" the king explained. "True peace is not found in a place without noise, trouble, or hardship. It is found in the ability to remain calm and steadfast in the midst of life's storms. That is the real essence of peace."

Mahashivratri: A Celebration Beyond Religion

A prominent journalist once asked me, “Sadhguru, if I am a Muslim or a Christian, can I celebrate Mahashivratri?” I responded, “Muslims cannot participate. Christians cannot engage. Hindus definitely cannot join. Only human beings can, because Mahashivratri is a celebration of human nature.”

Mahashivratri is not about any particular religion, culture, or creed. It is a night dedicated to exploring the limitless potential within us—the ability to transcend our limitations. Among the thirteen Shivaratris in the lunar calendar, this is the most significant, as planetary alignments on this night create a natural surge of energy within the human system.

The yogic sciences recognize this phenomenon and offer tools to harness it. Staying awake on Mahashivratri is not just about keeping our eyes open; it is about awakening the deepest dimensions of our being. Most people move through life in a state of unconsciousness, their eyes open but their awareness asleep. This sacred night offers an opportunity to break free from that slumber. The practice of sitting upright through the night is not a ritual but a way to allow energy to flow freely through the spine, leading to heightened awareness.

Shiva, the Adiyogi, represents this boundless potential. He is not a deity in the conventional sense but a symbol of both stillness and dynamism. He sits in absolute stillness, yet the cosmos dances around him. His presence reminds us that we, too, can find inner stillness while allowing life to unfold around us without being entangled in it. Today, this message is more relevant than ever.

Look at the world—conflicts, divisions, and turmoil. The problem is not a lack of resources or intelligence; it is the absence of conscious human beings. The human mind, when turned against itself, becomes the greatest source of misery. People create their own heaven or hell within their minds. This powerful instrument, which can be a source of boundless joy, has instead become a machine of suffering.

To help individuals harness the potential of their minds, we introduced the ‘Miracle of Mind’ app—a free tool offering just seven minutes of daily meditation. Imagine the transformation if even half the world’s population sat still and turned inward for a few moments each day. Meditation is like brushing your teeth—not something you do because you enjoy it, but because you understand its impact on your well-being. It is hygiene for the mind. A harmonious mind creates joy, clarity, and balance, while a chaotic mind breeds stress, anxiety, and turmoil. We see the consequences of this imbalance on a global scale. While plastic in the oceans is an issue, "plastic in the brain"—toxic thoughts, compulsive reactions, and a lack of conscious response—is an even greater crisis.

When people learn to master their minds, they naturally become more compassionate, inclusive, and capable of experiencing life in its full depth. A mind that is free from entanglement becomes a gateway to the infinite. Mahashivratri is not about rituals or religious identities; it is about discovering the inner freedom that allows us to live with grace. When a human being becomes truly still—not just physically, but at the very core of their existence—they become a conduit for something far greater than themselves.

 

 

 

IF HE EXIST

 I drive joy there was a doctor in Benaras who spent 7 minutes in the morning and evening for mediation on God. Knowing this, his colleagues and friends laughed at him. One day they argued that he was wasting 7 precious minutes on something, which he had been misled into believing. The doctor replied, “Well, if God does not exist, I agree that I am wasting 7 minutes a day. But, if He exists? I am afraid you are wasting your entire lifetime. I prefer to waste 7 minutes rather than a lifetime. Why should you grudge me the 7minutes joy that I derive 4m.-

ILLUSTRATED REVIEW : 7thheaven moment of the week IN WPL delhi no 7 top score against gujart     

Conquering Fear: A Path to Inner Strength

 Conquering Fear: A Path to Inner Strength

Fear is a powerful emotion that resides deep within our subconscious mind. It has the ability to control our thoughts, actions, and overall well-being. When fear takes hold, it can cause a person to withdraw from normal activities, experience unexplained tension, and develop a lingering sense of anxiety. However, fear is not invincible. By understanding and addressing its root causes, one can learn to overcome it. Fear is nothing but a state of mind, and with the right approach, it can be conquered.

One of the most effective ways to eliminate fear is to face it repeatedly. The more we expose ourselves to the things that frighten us, the less intimidating they become. This process, known as desensitization, gradually weakens fear’s grip on our minds. For example, a person who fears public speaking can practice speaking in front of small groups before gradually addressing larger audiences. With persistence, the fear that once seemed overwhelming will eventually fade away.

Another strategy to combat fear is to laugh at it. Humor is a powerful tool that can diminish fear's influence over us. When we make fun of our fears and view them in a lighter manner, they lose their intimidating power. By treating fear as something comical rather than daunting, we can reshape our perspective and regain control over our emotions. The next time fear strikes, try laughing at it—see how its intensity diminishes.

The Law of Averages also plays a significant role in conquering fear. In many cases, the things we fear never actually happen. Our minds tend to exaggerate potential dangers, leading to unnecessary stress and worry. By recognizing that most fears are unfounded and unlikely to come true, we can train our minds to think more positively. This shift in mindset allows us to focus on possibilities rather than worst-case scenarios, reducing fear’s ability to dictate our actions.

Knowledge is another powerful weapon against fear. The more we understand something, the less frightening it becomes. Fear often stems from the unknown, and by educating ourselves about the things that scare us, we remove the mystery and uncertainty surrounding them. Whether it is a fear of heights, darkness, or failure, learning about its causes, effects, and ways to handle it can significantly reduce anxiety and empower us with confidence.

Spirituality and faith also offer a great source of strength in overcoming fear. Many people find solace in prayer and belief in a higher power. Repeating affirmations such as "If God be with me, who can be against me?" instills a sense of inner peace and assurance. This deep faith creates a shield against fear, making us feel protected and supported. Faith can provide comfort in times of distress and serve as a guiding light when facing life's challenges.

Finally, one of the most effective techniques to conquer fear is visualization. By frequently picturing the opposite of what we fear, we reprogram our subconscious mind to focus on positive outcomes. Instead of imagining failure, envision success. Instead of anticipating rejection, picture acceptance. By regularly practicing positive visualization, we can gradually replace fear with confidence, courage, and optimism. In the end, fear is only as strong as we allow it to be. With determination and the right mindset, we can conquer it and lead a life of confidence and fulfillment.

A Pledge to Mother Earth

By Thich Nhat Hanh

Dear Mother Earth,

The human species is just one of your countless children. Yet, many of us have been blinded by greed, pride, and ignorance, failing to recognize you as our mother. Unaware of our deep connection, we have harmed you, jeopardizing your health and beauty. However, when we look deeply, we see that you possess boundless patience, endurance, and energy to heal and transform the damage we have inflicted—even if it takes hundreds of millions of years.

When greed and pride surpass our basic survival needs, the outcome is always violence and unnecessary destruction. History has shown us that when a species grows too rapidly beyond its natural limits, it threatens the delicate balance of life. In such cases, nature inevitably intervenes, and conditions arise that lead to the decline of that species. Often, these conditions stem from the species itself. We have come to understand that harming others, whether our fellow humans or other beings, ultimately means harming ourselves. When we learn to protect all forms of life, we are, in essence, protecting ourselves.

We recognize that everything in existence is impermanent and interconnected without a separate self-nature. This understanding reveals that, in the ultimate dimension, you transcend birth and death, being and non-being. Yet, it remains our responsibility to safeguard you, to restore harmony so that you may continue in your magnificent and precious form—not only for our children and their descendants but for five hundred million years and beyond. We want to protect you so that you may remain a radiant jewel within our solar system for countless generations to come.

We know that your greatest wish is for us to live in a way that cherishes life in every moment. By cultivating mindfulness, peace, stability, compassion, and love, we honor your wish and respond to your boundless love. We firmly believe that by generating these wholesome energies, we can help reduce suffering—on Earth and within ourselves. In doing so, we alleviate not only human suffering but also the suffering caused by violence, war, hunger, and illness. By healing ourselves, we heal you as well.

Natural phenomena such as floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis are not punishments or expressions of your anger; they are simply part of the natural order, occurring to restore balance. Just like a shooting star streaking across the night sky, these events are inevitable aspects of existence. At times of great disaster, we have turned to you, seeking reassurance, asking if we could still rely on your stability and compassion. You did not respond right away. Then, gazing at us with infinite compassion, you finally answered, “Yes, of course, my children. You can always count on your mother. I will always be here for you.” And yet, you followed with a question of your own: “Dear children, can your mother count on you?”

Today, we offer our heartfelt and solemn response: “Yes, Mother Earth, you can count on us.”

 

 

 

IF HE EXIST

 I drive joy there was a doctor in Benaras who spent 7 minutes in the morning and evening for mediation on God. Knowing this, his colleagues and friends laughed at him. One day they argued that he was wasting 7 precious minutes on something, which he had been misled into believing. The doctor replied, “Well, if God does not exist, I agree that I am wasting 7 minutes a day. But, if He exists? I am afraid you are wasting your entire lifetime. I prefer to waste 7 minutes rather than a lifetime. Why should you grudge me the 7minutes joy that I derive 4m.-

ILLUSTRATED REVIEW: 7thheaven moment of the week Sa beat England by 7 wk on  a champion league match