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     

Are You Reaching Your Full Potential

  Are You Reaching Your Full Potential

It is easy to feel dissatisfied with yourself and envy others but this mindset will not lead you anywhere productive Instead it is far more beneficial to identify what might be holding you back from becoming the best version of yourself Below is a self-assessment test to help you evaluate your progress and identify areas for improvement

Answer Yes or No to the following questions and use the scoring guide at the end to reflect on your results

1 Do you take sufficient time and effort with your appearance to ensure you always look your best
2 Do you choose your clothes carefully spend what you can afford on them and take good care of them
3 Are you aware of the difference good posture makes such as walking smartly

4 Are you alert and outward looking interested in other people and what is happening around you
5 Are you enthusiastic about things that interest you and eager to connect with those who share similar interests
6 Do you enjoy social activities and sharing experiences with others
7 Do you have a definite and realistic plan for your future
8 Do you persistently work toward your goals despite temporary setbacks
9 Are you aware of your limitations and actively trying to overcome them or improve yourself
10 Are you engaged in work that you either enjoy or believe is useful and meaningful
11 Are you quick to spot and seize opportunities
12 Can you work and play well with others as part of a team
13 Can you accept criticism constructively assess its value and learn from it

14 Can you agree to disagree with others while maintaining friendly relationships
15 Can you follow instructions without becoming resentful
16 Do you have a sense of humor including the ability to laugh at yourself
17 Are you patient when others are rude to you
18 Are you reasonably optimistic and able to stay cheerful during tough times
19 Do you enjoy listening to others
20 Do you consider the feelings of others as much as your own

Scoring Guide

5 marks for every Yes answer
70 and above Excellent You are making the most of yourself
60 to 70 Good You are on the right track but there is room for improvement
50 to 60 Satisfactory You are doing okay but there is potential for growth
40 to 50 Fair You need to put in more effort to reach your full potential
Below 40 Poor Reflect on your No answers and use them as opportunities to improve

By identifying areas where you answered No you can take actionable steps toward becoming your best self

 Unbinding the Knots of Suffering Understanding the Ten Fetters

Our suffering arises primarily from our minds and how we perceive the world In Buddhist tradition the concept of samyojana translated from Sanskrit as knots represents the ten fetters that bind us and rob us of our freedom These inner knots compel us to act and speak in ways we might not choose driven by deeply ingrained patterns Understanding these fetters is the first step toward untying them and achieving liberation

The Ten Fetters

1 Craving
Craving arises when we believe that obtaining the object of our desire is essential for happiness However like a fish drawn to bait without seeing the hidden hook we may not perceive the danger in our cravings By looking deeply into the nature of our desires we can uncover their emptiness and free ourselves from their grasp

2 Anger
Anger robs us of peace and happiness in the present moment It stems from ignorance and distorted views By practicing mindfulness and looking deeply we can understand the root of our anger and let go of it untangling this knot within us

3 Ignorance

Ignorance or holding wrong views blinds us to what is true and right Instead of acknowledging our lack of understanding and waiting for insight to arise we act impulsively out of ignorance Awareness and reflection help dissolve this fetter

4 Complexes
These include feelings of superiority inferiority and equality All three arise from a focus on self in relation to others leading to comparisons and competition Freeing ourselves from this knot requires letting go of self centered thinking

5 Doubt
Doubt creates inner conflict and prevents peace It often stems from ignorance cravings or complexes Cultivating clarity and understanding can help us overcome this fetter

6 Attachment to the Body
This fetter is the belief that this body is me that our existence begins and ends with the body By understanding that our true nature extends beyond the physical we can untie this knot

7 Dualistic Thinking
Viewing pairs of opposites such as right and left birth and death or being and non being as unrelated traps us in limited thinking Mindfulness allows us to see the interconnectedness of these opposites freeing us from this duality

8 Attachment to Views
When we cling to our beliefs or what we perceive as absolute truths we limit our growth True progress on the spiritual path requires openness and the willingness to release rigid views

9 Perverted View
This arises when we deny the law of cause and effect believing events occur randomly By observing deeply we can see that outcomes are the result of interconnected causes and conditions much like planting a seed to grow a plant

10 Attachment to Rituals
Believing that liberation can be achieved solely through performing specific rites or ceremonies is another fetter True freedom comes not from external rituals but from deep inner transformation

The Path to Liberation

Recognizing these ten fetters and their influence over us is the first step toward unbinding ourselves from their control By practicing mindfulness reflection and insight we can gradually loosen these knots reclaim our freedom and experience true peace and happiness

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 Djokovic no 7 won round three ,     

The Power of Everyday Courtesies

 The Power of Everyday Courtesies

Small words like "thank you," "please," and "excuse me" hold immense power in shaping our daily interactions. Despite their simplicity, they carry a weight that can profoundly influence relationships, careers, and social harmony. These words act as lubricants, easing the friction in human connections and creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding.

In the world of business and sales, these courtesies are indispensable. A polite gesture or a kind word can turn potential customers into loyal clients and open doors to new opportunities. On the other hand, those who overlook these basic pleasantries often fail to see beyond their immediate interests, missing the broader benefits of goodwill and respect.

Unfortunately, the modern obsession with speed and efficiency has led many to dismiss these small acts of courtesy as outdated or unnecessary. In our race against time, we often forget that a moment of politeness can yield long-term dividends, both emotionally and professionally. Neglecting these gestures may result in lost connections, diminished goodwill, and missed opportunities for personal growth.

Spreading Joy Through Kindness

Everyday courtesies have the power to uplift the spirits of friends, colleagues, and loved ones. A kind word or a genuine compliment, delivered promptly, can brighten someone’s day and foster an environment of positivity and happiness. Delaying or withholding such gestures, however, can diminish their impact and the goodwill they generate.

As the poet wisely observed:
"It is easy enough to be happy,
when life goes along like a song.
But the man worthwhile
Is the man who can smile
When everything goes wrong."

This sentiment highlights the strength of character that comes from maintaining kindness and composure, even in challenging circumstances.

Happiness Through Appreciation

True happiness does not stem from the accumulation of material possessions but from the ability to appreciate and enjoy what we have. Practicing small acts of courtesy and gratitude enhances our capacity for joy and creates a ripple effect that extends to those around us.

In a world that often prioritizes ambition and self-interest, these "little courtesies of everyday" serve as gentle reminders of our shared humanity. They encourage us to pause, acknowledge the contributions of others, and foster connections that enrich our lives.

In conclusion, the power of politeness lies in its ability to transform ordinary interactions into meaningful exchanges. By embracing these simple yet profound gestures, we can create a more compassionate and harmonious world—one kind word at a time.

Navigating the Spectrum of Love and Hate in a Diverse Nation

In a nation of over a billion hearts, love and hate are powerful forces shaping destinies daily. From fiery online debates to vibrant street protests, from the euphoria in cricket stadiums to the solemnity of courtrooms, emotions oscillating between love and hate define India’s collective reality.

The Love-Hate Spectrum

This spectrum encapsulates a range of emotions influencing our spiritual and moral decisions. It reflects how we respond to people, experiences, and situations, offering insights into what we value or reject. Recognizing these subtle, overlapping emotions helps us navigate life with empathy and clarity, discern selflessness from selfishness, and avoid the pitfalls of apathy.

In India, the love-hate dichotomy is particularly pronounced due to growing social, cultural, and political polarization. Issues surrounding caste, religion, and regional identities evoke intense emotions, creating both unity and division. These shared feelings are not just personal but also deeply intertwined with the nation's evolving narrative.

Love: The Force That Connects and Inspires

Love inspires growth, fosters connection, and strengthens bonds. Acts of love, even when inconvenient, build trust and harmony. For instance, a mother sacrificing sleep for her child does so out of unconditional love. Similarly, choosing to support a friend in need strengthens relationships and deepens mutual respect.

Rumi’s wisdom, “Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull of what you really love. It will not lead you astray,” reminds us of the importance of introspection. By reflecting on what excites us and feels meaningful, we can make life’s significant decisions with confidence—whether they concern career choices or personal relationships.

Hate: A Reflection and a Teacher

While often seen as negative, hate can also serve as a guide, pointing to unresolved conflicts or misalignments with our values. For example, discomfort in a toxic work environment might motivate us to seek healthier opportunities. However, dwelling in hate can lead to bitterness. The Bhagavad Gita offers timeless advice: “Hatred never ends through hatred. By non-hatred alone does it end.”

By acknowledging and addressing these emotions, we can transform negative feelings into constructive actions. This shift not only fosters personal growth but also promotes collective harmony.

The Role of Emotional Awareness

Emotions profoundly influence our decisions. A 2023 study published in the Journal of Emotional Intelligence highlighted that individuals who reflect on their feelings are better equipped to make thoughtful, long-term decisions. For instance, when choosing between two job offers—one financially rewarding but uninspiring and the other aligned with passions but less lucrative—emotional awareness helps identify the path that resonates with our well-being.

Similarly, in relationships, unresolved resentment may signal the need to reassess boundaries or even part ways. While such realizations require courage, they ultimately lead to emotional freedom and healthier connections.

Love as a Universal Practice

Committing to universal love, spreading kindness, and rejecting divisive forces can counteract the pain and suffering in society. Consistently practicing love through our actions, words, and intentions nurtures spiritual growth, balances emotions, and alleviates humanity’s collective struggles.

A Mirror for Self-Awareness

In a diverse society like India, the love-hate spectrum serves as a mirror, encouraging self-awareness. By honestly acknowledging our emotions, we can act in alignment with our true selves. Life is ultimately guided by what we cherish and what we avoid. The choice between love and hate lies in our hands, shaping the path toward a more meaningful, harmonious existence.

 

 

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 Walsh no 7 lowe scored a goal ,     

Embrace Happiness: A Path to Fulfillment Think and Talk About Positivity

 Embrace Happiness: A Path to Fulfillment

Think and Talk About Positivity

When we dwell on our troubles, ailments, or disappointments, we inadvertently give these negative aspects more power over our lives. Talking about grievances only amplifies them, prolonging their hold on our well-being. Instead, shift your focus to the joys, successes, and pleasant experiences that enrich your life. Speak of your achievements, your passions, and the elements that bring fulfillment to your daily endeavors. By consciously avoiding conversations centered on grievances, you’ll find those worries gradually fading from prominence.

Celebrate Achievement for True Happiness

Happiness is not merely a means to an end; it is an end in itself. It’s a state of being that requires conscious effort to cultivate. Every individual has their own unique stepping stones to happiness, shaped by their temperament, ideals, and aspirations. Reflect on your most joyful moments, and you’ll likely find they followed personal achievements. Whether in work, relationships, or self-improvement, these moments of triumph bring a profound sense of satisfaction and happiness. The Royal Bank of Canada aptly captured this sentiment in their Monthly Letter: true joy comes from mastering areas of life that hold meaning for us.

Adopt an Optimistic Perspective

To lead a happy and fulfilling life, practice looking at the sunny side of every situation. Optimism is not just an attitude; it’s a commitment to yourself. Here are key principles to guide this practice:

• Cultivate Inner Strength: Be so strong in mind and spirit that external disturbances cannot shake your peace.
• Spread Positivity: Talk about health, happiness, and prosperity with everyone you meet, inspiring optimism in others.
• Empower Others: Make it your mission to help your friends recognize their own worth and potential.
• Celebrate Others’ Success: Take as much pride in the achievements of others as you do in your own.
• Learn From Mistakes: Let go of past errors and focus on the opportunities and triumphs yet to come.

Radiate Cheerfulness

Happiness is contagious. Maintain a cheerful attitude, offering a warm smile to every person and creature you encounter. This small act of kindness can brighten someone’s day and reinforce your own sense of joy. As you focus on self-improvement and personal growth, you’ll discover less time and energy for criticism or negativity. Fill your days with constructive activities and positive thinking to crowd out worry and dissatisfaction.

Rise Above Negativity

Resolve to be too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to let trouble take root in your life. Worry, fear, and anger are distractions that rob us of the present moment. By committing to positivity and adopting a mindset of gratitude and resilience, you create a life centered on happiness and purpose.

In summary, happiness is not a fleeting emotion but a practice and mindset. By celebrating achievements, fostering optimism, and spreading joy, you pave the way to a fulfilling and contented life. Choose happiness not just as a goal but as your way of being, and watch how the world around you transforms.

Adapt and Endure A New Year’s Reflection

A brand new year is here but we also carry with us naturally a considerable amount of the past A favorite quote on the past is the one by writer L P Hartley who remarked The past is a foreign country they do things differently there It is a refreshing way to say that things change with time and circumstances the context becomes different what was thought to be scandalous could be acceptable today and vice versa We need to move on and wherever possible adapt even as we feel enriched happy or burdened unhappy by the past

In the history of evolution which quality is most important for survival of the species Charles Darwin known for the theory of evolution with Alfred R Wallace said It is not the strongest of the species that survives not the most intelligent that survives It is the one that is the most adaptable to change It is interesting that while adjustment and adaptation cooperation and coopetition were part of one s way of life in previous generations it is less so in present times To adjust in Indian lingo among some of us is a bad word as it implies giving in surrendering a bit and whittling the ego

The word endurance does not figure in the dictionary of those who fiercely uphold individual freedom at any cost in a situation that might beg some endurance from us Swami Venkatesananda in his commentary on the Bhagwad Gita s verse 15 in the second chapter explains the need for endurance and or detachment by asking you to imagine that you are walking through the forest on a cold morning Suddenly a monkey jumps on you and tears your shirt so that the cold wind blows on your bare back You feel so cold but you endure it This is titiksa patient endurance of suffering

The cold wind is blowing on your face as well but you are not even aware of that This Swamiji says is sama equanimity wherein the external condition does not affect you in the least

The spiritual aspirant strives to practice endurance To him pain and pleasure are alike As Swami Sivananda pointed out the more you are able to identify yourself with the immortal all-pervading Self the less will you be affected by the pairs of opposites

Coming back to the past present and future as a movie title put it Yesterday Today and Tomorrow all masters and ancient teachings advocate honing the art of transcending the past living in the present and dealing with the future when it is appropriate to do so No point agonizing over the past and letting the present slip away or unnecessarily worrying about the future and forgetting to live in the present moment

Happy memories are made when you live joyfully in the present But if most of your time is spent regretting the past and stressing about the future it only wastes time and energy The New Year is a good time to affirm to live life afresh with a heart brimming with kindness compassion joy and ah yes to adapt and endure for the right reasons

 

 

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 : in epl Raul 7 scored a goal ,