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     

The Vital Role of Water in the Human Body

 The Vital Role of Water in the Human Body

Water is an essential component of the human body, making up approximately 65% of an average healthy individual's weight. In lean individuals, this percentage can be as high as 70%, while in those with more body fat, it may drop to below 55%. Even a minor reduction in the body's water content—about 1–2%—can trigger thirst. A greater loss of around 5% can lead to dehydration symptoms such as dry skin, a parched mouth and tongue, and even hallucinations. If the body loses 15% of its water content, it can result in fatal dehydration.

Water performs several crucial functions within the body. It helps maintain internal chemical stability, preventing extreme fluctuations in pressure, acidity, and composition. It lubricates joints, reducing friction between bones, and forms a protective layer around soft tissues to prevent them from sticking together. Vital organs like the brain and heart are surrounded by protective fluids that are primarily composed of water. Additionally, water acts as a transporter, carrying food, waste, oxygen, and carbon dioxide throughout the body.

Water also plays a critical role in regulating body temperature. Sweat evaporation helps maintain the body's heat balance, preventing overheating due to metabolic processes that convert food into energy. Furthermore, water is vital for digestion and waste elimination through perspiration, urine, and digestive fluids. Because of these essential functions, maintaining a proper water balance in terms of both quantity and quality is crucial for overall health.

In India, a significant number of illnesses stem from contaminated drinking water. Waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, typhoid, jaundice, and various intestinal infections are common health concerns. Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is essential to preventing these widespread ailments.

The Threat of Ancient Viruses Resurfacing

Scientific advancements have led to the eradication of diseases like smallpox and significant control over others like polio. However, a new threat looms—ancient viruses trapped in polar ice. As global temperatures rise and Arctic ice melts, these viruses could be released back into the environment. If they find their way into human populations, diseases such as smallpox, polio, and influenza could return in more dangerous forms. Additionally, entirely new diseases may emerge, posing a severe global health risk. The discovery of an ancient virus deep within the Greenland ice pack highlights the potential dangers of climate change on human health.

. Beyond Borders: A Spiritual Perspective on Migration

The human urge to migrate has existed for centuries, driven by the pursuit of prosperity and security. Yet, the debate over immigration and deportation raises deeper philosophical questions—are borders real, or are they mere human-made illusions?

A spiritual seeker transcends these artificial lines drawn on maps and embraces the oneness of existence. The earth itself has no natural boundaries—rivers flow freely, winds cross continents, and birds migrate without restrictions. Only humans have created borders, often out of fear, ego, or power. Ancient wisdom teaches that attachment—to land, identity, or ideology—creates division. An awakened soul sees beyond nationalism and recognizes the interconnectedness of all beings. Much like the musk deer chasing a fragrance that originates from within, humanity often searches externally for what is already present within its essence. Migration itself is not the issue; the intention behind it matters.

Spiritual wisdom calls for an expanded vision—moving from Desa Bhakti (devotion to one’s nation) to Visva Bhakti (devotion to the world). The enlightened ones never confined their compassion to a single land or community; they saw all beings as one. The world is not a collection of separate nations but a unified organism. If one part suffers, the whole is affected. Just as a single rotting section of a melon can spread decay to the rest, unrest in one region inevitably disturbs global peace.

Global peace is not an abstract ideal but a necessity. Violence, forced displacement, and rigid national policies are not just political issues but spiritual concerns. The true test of any law, including deportation policies, is whether it upholds human dignity. Enforcing rules without compassion leads only to suffering. If a nation must regulate immigration, it should do so with fairness—allowing people time, support, and means to transition rather than pushing them into despair. Justice without kindness is merely cruelty in disguise.

India is more than a geographic entity; it is a consciousness, a land where spiritual wisdom has flourished for millennia. While people may leave its borders, they should carry its essence—its teachings of peace, nonviolence, and interconnectedness. True migration is not of bodies but of wisdom, spreading harmony rather than division. Anekantavad, the Jain philosophy of respecting multiple perspectives, teaches that while some glorify nationalism, others feel constrained by it. A true seeker embraces both views, understanding that patriotism is valuable but must not become a barrier dividing humanity.

In times of division, spiritual beings bear a greater responsibility—to dissolve the borders within their hearts. Imagine a world where decisions are guided not by self-interest but by universal well-being. When we see the planet as one temple, every being as family, and every act as an offering, then illusions of deportation, discrimination, and nationalism fade. The real journey is not from one nation to another but from division to unity, from attachment to liberation. If borders disappeared tomorrow, who would we be—Indians, immigrants, or simply souls on a shared journey?

May Bhagwan Jinendra bless the world with wisdom so that we transcend walls and embrace a higher vision—one where peace knows no borders, flowing like a river, touching all in its path.

 

 

 

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 s.gill no 77 got man of the match on first champion league match     

The Power of Initiative: A Key to Success

 The Power of Initiative: A Key to Success

Initiative is one of the most vital attributes that lead to success in life. It is the ability to take action without waiting for external prompts. Those who show initiative demonstrate leadership, ambition, and responsibility. The difference between those who achieve great success and those who struggle often lies in their willingness to act proactively.

The Different Levels of Initiative

1.    Self-Starters: The Leaders of Success
The highest level of initiative is found in people who take action without being told. These individuals recognize opportunities, anticipate challenges, and act swiftly to address them. They do not wait for instructions but instead take ownership of tasks and responsibilities. Such individuals are often recognized for their contributions and receive honors, though financial rewards may not always be immediate. However, their long-term success is almost guaranteed because their proactive nature sets them apart from the rest.

2.    The Responsive Workers: A Step Below Leadership
Next in line are individuals who act promptly when given instructions. They do not take the first step on their own, but once directed, they execute their tasks efficiently. These individuals may not reach the pinnacle of leadership, but they earn respect and often receive steady rewards for their dedication. Though they may not receive the highest recognition, their reliability makes them valuable in any organization or team.

3.    The Hesitant Doers: Mediocre Performers
There are also those who only take action when reminded multiple times. These individuals lack the drive to act on their own and need constant supervision. They may perform adequately, but their lack of self-motivation prevents them from excelling. As a result, they do not receive honors or recognition, and their pay often reflects their limited contributions.

4.    The Reluctant Workers: A Life of Struggles
Some people only act when faced with absolute necessity. They require external pressure, whether from circumstances or authority figures, to get things done. Their lack of enthusiasm results in indifference from their peers and superiors. They often receive the lowest pay and are seen as dispensable employees rather than essential team members.

5.    The Passive and Unwilling: Destined for Failure
At the bottom of the scale are individuals who refuse to act even when guided step by step. These individuals resist effort, refuse to learn, and reject guidance. Their unwillingness to improve leaves them unemployed, struggling to find opportunities. Society often views such individuals with contempt, as they contribute little and expect much in return.

Why Initiative Leads to Success

Success is not just about talent or knowledge; it is about taking action. Those who demonstrate initiative often rise above challenges, identify new opportunities, and pave the way for innovation. Employers, leaders, and visionaries all seek individuals who take responsibility without needing constant supervision. Whether in business, academics, or personal life, initiative is the defining characteristic of those who achieve greatness.

How to Cultivate Initiative

1.    Be Observant – Recognize opportunities where action is needed.

2.    Take Responsibility – Own tasks and decisions without waiting for others.

3.    Be Proactive – Solve problems before they become bigger issues.

4.    Embrace Challenges – Step out of your comfort zone to grow and learn.

5.    Stay Motivated – Keep pushing forward even when rewards are not immediate.

Conclusion

Initiative is the foundation of personal and professional success. Those who take action without waiting for direction often become leaders, while those who hesitate or refuse to act find themselves struggling. By cultivating initiative, anyone can unlock new opportunities and achieve long-term success. Whether in the workplace, in education, or in life, taking the first step is often the most important move toward a brighter future.

The True Meaning of Wealth

Most of us dream of becoming wealthy, envisioning a life free from financial worries. While this is an admirable goal, achieving it requires diligence, perseverance, resourcefulness, and creativity. For a select few, wealth is inherited, but for the majority, the journey to financial success is filled with challenges and struggles. However, the true meaning of wealth extends beyond material possessions and monetary riches.

To truly understand what it means to be rich, one must first differentiate between wealth and riches. According to Swami Swaroopananda, global head of Chinmaya Mission, wealth is derived from the universe’s vast resources. Nature itself is called Sri or Lakshmi, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. Everything we produce comes from nature, and those who utilize these resources effectively can create wealth. This perspective shifts the focus from mere accumulation of money to a broader, more holistic understanding of prosperity.

The Earth has been a generous provider, offering resources for human benefit. However, unlike other species that give back to nature, humans have primarily been takers. Adi Shankara, the revered philosopher, once stated that true poverty lies in insatiable desires. A person who constantly feels they do not have enough, regardless of their wealth, is the one who is truly poor. Thus, wealth should not be measured solely in monetary terms but in one’s ability to appreciate and utilize what they have.

Basic necessities such as food, shelter, and clothing, coupled with sound sleep and peace of mind, indicate that one is not poor. Financial abundance does not guarantee happiness; in fact, many wealthy individuals suffer from stress, dissatisfaction, and poor health. An unhappy mind can lead to an unhealthy body, resulting in stress-related ailments such as high blood pressure. True wealth lies in a balanced life where both mental and physical well-being are prioritized over mere financial gain.

Shakespeare’s Iago in Othello wisely states, “Poor and content is rich, and rich enough.” This suggests that contentment holds greater value than limitless wealth. A person who constantly fears losing their riches may never truly enjoy them. Throughout history, scriptures, proverbs, and stories have emphasized that real wealth is found in contentment. Those who are satisfied with what they have, regardless of their financial status, are the truly rich.

Sharing what one has, even in scarcity, is a mark of true wealth. The Bible reinforces this by stating, “Not he who has much is rich, but he who gives much.” Hoarding wealth fosters a sense of poverty, whereas generosity enriches both the giver and the receiver. True prosperity comes from a willingness to share, fostering a sense of abundance that transcends material possessions.

Swami Swaroopananda further advises that while one may lose money, they should never lose their mind, faith, or gratitude. A positive attitude, a giving spirit, and good health are essential components of lasting wealth. Richness is not solely defined by financial status but by a joyful disposition and a heart full of gratitude. Ultimately, a person with a genuine smile and a content heart is richer than the wealthiest billionaire.

 

 

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 Diaz no 7 scored a goal in epl ,   , and in final  odi s.gill no 77 got man of the match and seires     

Unleashing Your Inner Artist: The Power of Imagination

 Unleashing Your Inner Artist: The Power of Imagination  

 Deep within your mind resides an artist, a powerful creator named Imagination. This inner artist holds a brush that can paint vivid pictures—images that can either uplift you with hope and joy or burden you with fear and despair. Imagination is the architect of your thoughts, weaving visions of what may unfold in the future. However, despite its creative force, it remains blind to reality; it has no knowledge of what truly lies ahead.  At times, this artist takes on a pessimistic persona, painting dark, foreboding images filled with danger, failure, and sorrow. Such bleak visions can weigh heavily on the soul, distorting perceptions of reality and instilling a paralyzing sense of fear. In extreme cases, these negative imaginings can push individuals to the brink of hopelessness, leading them to make drastic, irreversible decisions.  Yet, in other moments, this artist transforms into an optimist, painting scenes of triumph, peace, and happiness. These bright and hopeful images can inspire confidence, igniting within you the courage to face challenges with resilience. Such uplifting visions serve as a guiding light, reinforcing the belief that brighter days lie ahead and that success is attainable.  Your inner artist can be both your greatest ally and your most formidable adversary. 

It has the power to either elevate your spirit or drag you into the depths of despair. Therefore, mastering control over this artist is essential. If you find it leaning toward pessimism, you must step in and command it to redirect its focus. Just as a painter selects colors and shapes with intent, you must instruct your imagination to craft images that empower rather than weaken you.  No individual should fall victim to the shadows cast by a negative imagination. As human beings, we possess willpower—the ability to direct our thoughts and reshape our inner narrative. Instead of allowing your imagination to conjure up worst-case scenarios, consciously guide it toward visions that strengthen and motivate you.  

Choosing to see the brighter side of life is not just wishful thinking; it is an approach that fosters resilience, productivity, and overall well-being. Dark disasters that loom in the realm of imagination often never materialize. Why, then, should you allow them to steal your peace? Instead, embrace the power of optimistic visualization and harness the creative genius of your inner artist. Paint a masterpiece filled with hope, determination, and the boundless possibilities that await you.

The Illusion of Human Supremacy

Man is a deluded creature, constantly believing that he is born to rule and dictate. This human illusion has taken on dangerous proportions in modern times, as man embarks on a relentless spree of destruction, consuming and eradicating all that he mistakenly perceives as inferior. The religious and scriptural belief that humans are the pinnacle of all creation has fueled the dangerous conviction that we are the undisputed monarchs of all we survey.

The misconception that nature has bestowed upon us the right to dominate and eliminate other species at will is the root of speciesism. Centuries ago, the great Persian mystic Hakim Sanai implored humanity to coexist with all creatures, while the poet Anvari warned that hubristic humans pose a threat to all living beings, both human and non-human alike.

Mystics have long held that the true realization of equality and justice can only be achieved when humans accept a fundamental truth: that every leaf, ant, and branch of a tree possesses a pure dizaaf—an essence and spirit as sacred as that of any human.

In other words, it is not enough to strive for equality and fairness among humans alone. True justice demands that we extend our empathy and respect to all beings. How, then, can we justify our condescension toward other species? We must never forget that har zarra chamkta hai anwaar-e-Ilahi se—every particle glows with the effulgence of divinity. Our ingrained arrogance blinds us, even in our so-called compassion for animals, which often carries an undertone of superiority, akin to Rudyard Kipling’s pejorative notion of The White Man’s Burden.

Who granted us the right to treat animals as we have done since the dawn of civilization? Humans pride themselves on being the most exalted and ethical beings—but are we? Jalaluddin Rumi once asked, Shadeed-az-kwa nee ast munazin/Ya rafeer ul-qist amnazeer/Choon ke ast shadaaz raftam ke azdaan/Wahen ul-khirama, za dizt’un bu’azir?—I exist and cherish my existence, just as all beings on earth do. If they strive to preserve their lives, how can I kill even the tiniest creature merely to satisfy my palate?

Rumi asserted that all life is sacred: Taa’shif nifaak b’astz sang—even a seemingly lifeless stone holds a degree of consciousness; respect it. Like many mystics, Rabia Basri and Rumi followed a vegetarian lifestyle, abstaining from milk and dairy products. Sheer mun-haraam nuzt—to me, even milk is forbidden. Rumi even refused to partake in the ritual sacrifice of animals on Eid-Al-Azha.

Our values, ethics, and moral compass vanish when we consider animals as lesser beings. Our inability to treat every life as equal has hindered our ability to practice true egalitarianism among humans. The rampant exploitation and devastation of nature is merely an outward expression of our deep-seated speciesism and our erroneous belief that we are the apex of all creation.

 

 

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 in Isl Mumbai no 7 scored a goal, and in first odi s.gill no 77 got man of the match     

The Art of Self-Acceptance: Embracing Your Worth

 The Art of Self-Acceptance: Embracing Your Worth

In a world driven by opinions, expectations, and constant comparisons, it's easy to fall into the trap of self-doubt and insecurity. However, recognizing your inherent value and fostering self-confidence is essential for personal growth and emotional well-being. Here are key insights to help you embrace your worth and cultivate a healthier mindset:

1. The Impossibility of Pleasing Everyone
Understand that no matter how hard you try, it's impossible to satisfy everyone. People have diverse perspectives, preferences, and expectations. Striving to meet all of them will only drain your energy and diminish your self-worth. Instead, focus on doing your best with fairness and integrity. Once you've given your best effort, let go of unnecessary worries about others' opinions.

2. Self-Worth is Not Comparative
Avoid the pitfall of comparing yourself to others. Your journey, progress, and experiences are unique. Thinking that you're worse, slower, or less significant than someone else undermines your individuality. Remember, your value isn't measured against others—it stands on its own merit.

3. The Power of Self-Perception
People often perceive you based on the value you place on yourself. If you carry yourself with confidence and positivity, others are likely to respond in kind. Constructive self-thoughts shape your behavior, decisions, and interactions. Believe in your strengths, acknowledge your achievements, and maintain a positive outlook.

4. Recognition Does Not Define Importance
Lack of recognition from others does not equate to a lack of importance. Many meaningful contributions go unnoticed by the wider world, yet they make a significant impact. Your value isn't determined by external validation but by the authenticity and integrity you bring to your actions.

5. Resilience in the Face of Failure
Failures and setbacks are inevitable parts of life. They do not define your potential or diminish your worth. Rather than viewing them as reasons to give up, see them as learning opportunities. Every challenge you overcome strengthens your resilience and adds to your growth.

6. Seek Understanding, Not Blame
When faced with difficulties, focus on identifying the root cause instead of blaming yourself or external circumstances. This proactive approach promotes growth and problem-solving, enabling you to learn from experiences without being weighed down by guilt or frustration.

7. Building Confidence Through Small Wins
Self-confidence grows through consistent efforts and small achievements. Instead of overwhelming yourself with large, daunting goals, break them into manageable tasks. Each small success builds momentum, reinforcing your belief in your capabilities.

8. Constructive Criticism vs. Personal Judgment
Criticism, whether fair or harsh, is not an absolute reflection of your worth. Learn to differentiate between constructive feedback and subjective opinions. Use criticism as a tool for improvement, not as a measure of your identity.

9. Empowerment Comes from Within
Your personal growth and transformation depend on your mindset. External influences can inspire or challenge you, but ultimately, change comes from within. Be resilient, stay determined, and refuse to be discouraged by temporary obstacles.

10. Overcoming Feelings of Inferiority
Inferiority feelings are not permanent or unchangeable. Acknowledge them without judgment and work towards building self-awareness and self-compassion. Every step you take to understand and accept yourself diminishes the power of these negative feelings.

In conclusion, embracing your worth is a continuous journey. Be kind to yourself, celebrate your progress, and remember that your value is intrinsic—independent of external approval or circumstances. Stay positive, stay strong, and believe in the incredible potential within you.

Basant Panchami: A Celebration of Knowledge, Love, and Spring

Basant Panchami is a lively and vibrant festival that heralds the arrival of spring and honors Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, wisdom, music, and arts. Widely celebrated across India, this festival is known for its colorful customs and deep spiritual significance. Also referred to as Saraswati Puja, Basant Panchami symbolizes the goddess’s connection with learning and creativity, marking both a spiritual observance and a seasonal transition.

Falling on the fifth day of the bright half of the lunar month Magh, usually in late January or early February, Basant Panchami signals the onset of spring. Traditional beliefs suggest that seasonal transitions take around 40 days to fully manifest, and thus this festival serves as an early welcome to spring—often called the ‘King of all Seasons’—with its promise of new life, vibrant colors, and renewed energy.

Yellow is the predominant color of Basant Panchami, symbolizing creativity, knowledge, and prosperity. This hue is also reflective of the mustard fields that bloom abundantly during this time, painting the landscape in brilliant shades of yellow. In northern India, where winter still lingers, and in central and western regions, where spring begins to take hold, the festival represents nature’s gradual transition toward full bloom.

Interestingly, in some regions of India, Basant Panchami is linked to Kamadev, the Hindu god of love, and his consort, Rati. According to legend, Kamadev played a crucial role in awakening Lord Shiva from deep meditation to help Goddess Parvati win his affection. This story adds another layer of meaning to the festival, symbolizing the awakening of earthly desires and the rejuvenation of life with the onset of spring.

A prominent mythological tale associated with the festival involves Kamadev attempting to stir Shiva’s emotions by shooting his flower-tipped arrows. This act provoked Shiva’s wrath, leading him to open his third eye and incinerate Kamadev with a fiery glance. However, Kamadev was later revived on the day of Basant Panchami after Shiva married Parvati. Thus, Kamadev and Rati are also venerated on this auspicious day, representing love, desire, and renewal.

Basant Panchami also holds educational significance. Families often encourage young children to write their first words with their fingers, symbolizing a fresh start in learning. Additionally, the festival is considered an auspicious time to engage in scholarly activities, music, and the arts, reflecting the blessings of Goddess Saraswati.

The festival is not just limited to rituals and prayers; it also includes lively traditions like kite flying, particularly popular in northern and western India, where the skies become a canvas of colorful kites. Historically, Basant Panchami has been significant to Sikh communities as well, with Maharaja Ranjit Singh promoting it as a day of social gatherings in Gurdwaras. Beyond India, the festival is celebrated in Nepal, Bali, Indonesia, and other countries, showcasing its cultural richness and universal appeal.

 

 

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 in epl Nottingham forest scored 7 goal and no 7william also scored a goal     

Take Life as It Comes

 Take Life as It Comes

Walking along a paved road in his heavy boots, a soldier stepped on a small pebble, dislodging it from its place.

The pebble thought, What a misfortune to be displaced from my spot. I once paved the way for men to walk on. While my fellow pebbles continue to serve humanity, I am cast aside. Yet, I am still near those who serve.

A little while later, a boy passed by and picked up the pebble.

A human touch to a stony heart how comforting, thought the pebble.

The boy carried it for a while, then swung his arm and flung the pebble into the air.

To soar through the sky without wings how exhilarating, the pebble marveled.

The pebble's flight ended abruptly when it struck a glass pane in a bungalow window, shattering the glass into pieces. It tumbled onto the soft bed of the lady of the house.

What an honor, thought the pebble, to rise from the lowest road to the softest, most exalted place.

After some time, the household staff discovered the pebble and the shards of broken glass on the lady’s bed. They gathered them and threw them out through the window, back onto the road.

The fall was sudden and jarring, but the pebble reflected, How fortunate I am to return to my place among those who serve.

Moral Take life as it comes and cherish every twist of fate

Eternal vs. Infinite: The Evolving Essence of Sanatan Dharm

In the final book of his award-winning Foundation series, science fiction writer Isaac Asimov draws a thought-provoking distinction between eternity and infinity.

Set in a far-future Galactic Empire, mathematician Hari Seldon formulates psychohistory, a science combining sociology and mathematics. By analyzing behavioral patterns of large populations, psychohistory predicts future events with probabilistic accuracy. Seldon foresees the inevitable fall of the Empire, followed by 30,000 years of Dark Ages, before the emergence of a second Empire. However, he devises a plan to shorten this period of darkness to just a thousand years.

Asimov's narrative contrasts the immutable nature of eternity with the limitless possibilities of infinity. Eternity represents a self-contained, unchanging cycle, while infinity embodies endless flow, dynamic and ever-transforming. The eternal is static, fixed within its confines, whereas infinity transcends it, flowing toward unbounded potential.

This distinction finds contemporary relevance in the interpretation of Sanatan Dharm, often described as an eternal code of duties or rightful conduct. The term "Sanatan" is commonly associated with permanence, an unalterable foundation of traditions. Yet, another perspective sees Sanatan Dharm not as static but as a dynamic, fluid, and inclusive system, evolving to embrace diversity and transcend rigid classifications.

The Maha Kumbh, the largest gathering of humanity on Earth, exemplifies this duality of the eternal and the infinite. Held every 144 years, it represents timeless tradition while also showcasing boundless inclusivity. Millions gather beyond the confines of caste, creed, nationality, or sect, embodying the infinite embrace of Sanatan Dharm.

In Arrow of the Blue-Skinned God, author and indologist Jonah Blank captures this fluidity through the story of a Rajasthani man who adapts his identity to different roles. As a dawn-prayer chanter, he embodies the priestly Brahmin. As a retired soldier, he reflects the Kshatriya warrior. As a farmer, he becomes a Shudra, and as an accountant for his agricultural work, he takes on the Vaishya identity. This adaptability, which transcends rigid caste divisions, reflects the essence of a dharm that is not constrained by timeless tradition but thrives on the infinite possibilities of change.

Sanatan Dharm, when viewed through the lens of infinity, is a living, evolving philosophy. It moves beyond the eternal to embrace transformation, inclusion, and the boundless potential for growth—reaffirming that the infinite always encompasses the eternal.

 

 

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 India beat England on first t20 by 7 wk