ON KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM

ON KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM

MEANING OF WISDOM

The meaning of wisdom is to act in a right manner based on insight. Wisdom is also to judge what is right and wrong. It has been observed that the wisdom could also be attained from written work of philosophers and the teachings of sages. Wisdom could be enhanced through meditation/prayer, through experimenting truth in real life conditions including insights and enlightenment as enunciated  in the religious scriptures.

WISDOM HELPS TO DISCRIMINATE BETWEEN GOOD AND BAD

These pearls of wisdom are to be followed in order to discriminate what is wrong and what is right by following practically what is given in the scriptures. The evolution of civilization has been possible with experience gained over a period of time by understanding the right usage of five elements earth, air, water, ether  and fire through the application of knowhow, skill, insight and common sense. Evolution is possible by experimentation and application of mind to distinguish good and bad. After experimentation, the fertile result is made applicable for future and the useless or obsolete one just left out. It has also been observed that accommodated knowledge could stand us in good stead.

KNOWLEDGE WHEN USED RIGHTEOUSLY IS WISDOM

Wisdom is knowledge which a  person possesses about variety of subjects; about meaning, uses in variety of ways, their implications in variety of ways including how best to make use of these things practically in life. Wisdom is insightful knowledge and could be construed as cue from God who is the powerhouse of knowledge and excellence. He knows what has happened and what will be happening in the future too. In His realm, good or bad that happens in the life of a man happens for the good of a person. 

Bhagwad Gita is treasure house of knowledge of the cosmos and also how human behaviour could impact our lives.  Vedas too contain the words of wisdom, which if made applicable in real life can deliver us from problems and also help us in leading a spiritual life.  

WITHOUT WISDOM WE BECOME THE PRISONERS OF OUR HABITS

We have to train our habit to act wisely. This is partly through our family and our environments. These habits should not be superimposed on our real nature but should arise from our inner self. Mechanical habit formation or through temptation, means we are not taking into account the soul wisdom. Anything imposed on us becomes our habit and we become slave of those habits. We also become prisoners of our desires when we do not use our inner potentials to control the mind going berserk. Wisdom is to keep ourselves insulated from bad influences both in thought and action.

GETTING KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM

It is a fact that knowledge cannot be acquired by focused attention on the subject matter. The acquired knowledge when utilized righteously leads to enhancement in wisdom paradigm of that person. Knowledge acquired when not utilized judiciously remains theory oriented and cannot come under the category of wisdom.

God knows everything has been mentioned in Holy Quran. He is the Knower of the Unseen, and does not divulge His Unseen to anyone–except a Messenger with whom He is well pleased, and then He posts sentinels before him and behind him, so that He may know that they have indeed transmitted the Messages of their Lord.

We can raise our mental faculty through  use of knowledge gained.

• Quality of understanding differs from person to person. Different persons behave differently in a given situation according to his/her. That person will turn even a negative situation into positive one. Those who are having higher state of levelheadedness help others are compassionate to the needs off others.
• Wisdom could be acquired through efforts. When we interact with somebody, we get experience out of that. Somebody we take somebody else assistance as time demands or other time we transact assigned task independent of others’ assistance. All these activities spur our intuitive prowess or vision.
• Wisdom could be utilized whenever required. In a situation where there is nobody comes to our rescue, our own willingness to excel delivers us from that situation.
• A man with wisdom cannot be exploited by others. Nobody can hoodwink us when we have wisdom to distinguish between right and wrong and be judgemental about it all.
• As wisdom is scholarly knowledge or learning, it could be transferred. As wisdom constitute abundance in productive ideas attained through learning through introspection and putting that thinking into practice, it is evident that the knowledge learnt over a period of time could make difference.
• A man with wisdom does not showcase his wisdom but it is reflected in his attitude/behavior. A person with wisdom hardly acts in a manner which is prejudicial or contrary to the norms of behavior beneficial for the overall good.
• A person of wisdom will be ethical, good moral character, A man of wisdom is ethical, moral and upright. That person will enthuse others to follow his/her footsteps. That person could leave his/her footprints / impression wherever that person goes.

BIBLE PROCLAIMS: Wisdom, when used of God and good men, always carries a strong moral connotation. It is conceived as being pure, loving, and good.… Wisdom, among other things, is the ability to devise perfect ends and to achieve those ends by the most perfect means.

• Education and knowledge is his/her forte. Attainment of knowledge is the pursuit  of a man of wisdom.
• Wisdom is also to execute an action plan according to the need. Wisdom also guides us how to devise a plan of action and how best to execute it including collation of varieties of inputs for its fructification.
• A man with wisdom remains calm even in dire emergency. A wise man maintains his/her composure despite provocation.
• Will when becomes dynamic, it takes the shape of wisdom at its best. It is a truth that acquired knowledge got through self effort and experimentation thereof which gives a person the power to discriminate between good and bad, when to act and when not to act in consonance with one’s sense of right and wrong.

 

GANGOTRI – CHAR DHAM

IMPORTANCE OF A PLACE

India is rightfully said to be the land with difference as it comes to diverse cultures and traditions, castes, religions etc as others may call to  their own country of thr origin. Liking a place or otherwise may differ from person to person; some may be enamored by the unspoiled natural beauties while others may derive pleasure  after knowing the historical perspective of the place. Although religion is a binding force yet there are examples to show that even religious considerations are not the limiting factors when it comes to visiting a place which offers much more than having religious connotations and that too away from the din and bustle of city life.

I visited Gangotri, located in the state of Uttarakhand in the Garwhal section, from 18^th  May 2017 onwards. During this visit, I met many foreign tourists with whom I had the opportunity to interact. They were equally fascinated not only by the natural and pristine beauties of the area besides the historical perspective attached to CHAR DHAM.

Originally, CHAR DHAM was referred for PURI, RAMESHWARAM, DWARKA AND BADRINATH. This grouping was made by Adi Sankara – a great 8th century reformist but now CHAR DHAM are understood  as GANGOTRI, YAMNOTRI, BADRINATH and KEDARNATH because of magnetic beauty of the area and spiritual considerations. Yamunotri and Gangotri are identified with DEVI SITES whereas Kedarnath and Badrinath are identified or associated with Lord Shiva sites.

LIVING ENTITY THE GANGAJI – ITS SIGNIFICANCE FOR US ALL

While we discuss on CHAR DHAM, it is relevant to know about the significance of the most sacred rivers the Ganges and Yamuna. But first of all, I would like to discuss about river Gangaji along wit its origin and how it affects our lives. It is not merely a river but a living entity which bestows millions of people sustenance in various ways. Its river basin is 2150 Kms, provides supports in variety of ways for more than 50 million people, passes through four states of India i.e. Uttarakhand, UP, Bihar, West Bengal and also enters Bangla Desh. Its water irrigates fields of many states of the Indian Union.  

Considered one of the Char Dhams (the others being Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath), Gangotri is said to be the mythological source of the Ganga river, and the spot, where Bhagiratha worshipped Lord Shiva and consequently mother Ganga descended on earth when Lord Shiva relieved the river from his matted locks at Gangotri.

It meets with the other mighty river Brahmputra and forms the largest delta of the world known as Sunderbans. If we can say that Gangaji supports our life from our birth to death, there will not be any exaggeration. Hindus traditionally immerse the asthis (last remnants of bones after cremation) into the Holy Ganges.

Ganga – Jamuni Tahjeeb has been born and thrived since ages on Ganga – Yamuna banks. Many civilizations, cultures and traditions have flourished on its banks and found sustenance besides Yamuna too have contributed in enhancing these.

Taking into consideration the contribution of Ganga Ji in variety of ways, this mighty and holiest river has been recognized as the living entity of India by Uttarakhan High Court in the very recent past. By this verdict, it goes to show that anybody who spoils the purity of river Ganga will get the same punishment as awarded to humans for any transgression. Concerted efforts are underway in order to keep the river clean. The first river to be recognized as the human entity is Whanganui River in New Zealand because it is considered as the most sacred for the people

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE – ORIGIN OF GANGAJI

There is a best known legend that a very famous King Sagara from SURYAVANSHI rajput warrior clawn, known for their valour and bravery and fulfillment of their promises for which they undergo any situation or circumstances.  He exterminated /rid the world off all the demons – known for their dehumanizing activities  and also wrong doings to spread their demonic fiefdom and dark-age.  

After having finished the last shade of demonic forces, King Sagara wanted to test his supremacy. For this end in view, he wanted to stage Ashwamedh Yajna he  directed 60,000 sons (born out of mother Sumati) along with one son, named Asamanja born to queen Kesani in order to let the Yajna horse  uninterrupted. It means anybody interrupting the horse could have to fight a battle with the sons of Sagara. Thence came the role of the king of Gods, Indra who while observing the Yajna horse being taken unchallenged saw in all this a challenge to his celestial throne if the Ashmetha Yagna horse could succeed in its task. He surreptiously tied the Yajna horse at the hermitage of Sage Kapil who was in deep meditation.

LOCATION OF ASHMETHA HORSE

A thorough search for the horse was launched by the sons of King Sagara. To their discomfiture, they found the horse tied in the hermitage of the said sage namedSage Kapila – a Vedic sage an known for original proponent of the Samkhya system philosophy. He is also described as incarnation of Lord Vishnu.  They rushed towards the asharam and in the process, disturbed the meditation of the sage. In utter rage, the sage cursed the sons of the king with severity of which all sixty thousand sons just were burnt alive leaving a mound of ash for each of them.  It was later learnt that if Goddess Ganga touched each of the mound of ashes, then all could get liberation or moksha  – by cleansing the ashes with its holy water.

SINCEREST WORSHIP BY BHAGIRATHA

Subsequently, , Bhagiratha,  the grandson of King Sagara worshipped Goddess Ganga in order to please her. So much so was the  sincerity and severity of his meditation that his wish was granted by Goddess Ganga. Lord Shiva or Nilkanth (a most benevolent one who even takes a pot full of poison in order to save the humanity from destruction), who had locked the Ganga river in His locks released the mighty river Gangaji.

BHAGARATHA SHILA LOCATED AT GANGOTRI TOWN

The place where Bhagiratha, which is still there in the form of Bhagiratha Shila where he worshipped can also be seen by us in Gangotri – a testimony and an example which we can see by ourselves.

It is well said that severest and focused meditation for several years could force even the Gods to take in hand the task of delivering goods for their worshippers. Goddess Gangaji appeared in the form of a river and delivered off the sins of the 60,000 sons of King Sagara and as a result all of them got Moksha or liberation.

GANGOTRI  TEMPLE

There is a majestic Gangotri Temple which is also a testimony to the historical perspective since ages together. The original Gangotri temple was built by General Amar Singh Thapa from Nepal. People of all hues withstanding severe cold and visit the temple as a mark of respect to the Goddess Gangaji. Besides the idol of Gangaji, there is also the idols of Kali Maan and other deities. Along with Gangotri temple there are temples of Bhola Baba Ji and Lord Ganesha.

BHAGIRATH SHILA

There is the image of Bhagiratha who worshipped the Lordess Ganga and beseeched Her to  pass through the hermitage of Sage Kapila where the ashes of 60,000 were there so that the dead could get liberated / moksha.

GAUMUKH {GAU – COW AND MUKH – MOUTH)}

Gangotri Glacier resembles with cow’s mouth, situated about 19 Kms from the Gangotri town. It is the exact source of Bhagiratha river which is tributary of Ganga. It is also a most sacred pilgrimage spot and taking a bath in it is considered most auspicious and ritualistic.

As vast number of pilgrims visit CHAR DHAM from mid-April to November, it is indeed a gigantic task for the state administration to handle the rush and exercise all care and caution to avoid any untoward incident. I with my wife amongst others were the witness to the seriousness of the administrative staff who start their Bio-metric Registration from 5:00 AM onwards (when normal people enjoy their sleep at home).

From Haridwar- Rishikesh to the final destination GANGOTRI, YAMNOTRI. BADRINATH and KEDARNATH, the ever vigilant police force could be seen helping the visitors in variety of ways.

Following aspects need to be considered essential for further success of the pilgrimage:-

 (a) Although security cover provided by the security personnel enroute for the entire Yatra is really exemplary, yet more watchfulness is need of the hour to check speed driving or careless driving to avoid accidents or minimize them.  

(b) As almost entire route is very hazardous through out the entire journey. There are the places where only a single vehicle could pass at a time but when a vehicle comes from the opposite direction or when there is an abrupt curve, it becomes all the more difficult for negotiate. One wrong move by any driver may put the lives of the passengers into jeopardy. Accidents do happen when drivers do not observe traffic rules with care and caution. This danger is more pronounced at the sharp curves and unexpected arrival of vehicle from the opposite side. I suggest, if the road could be broadened a bit at the curves, {although it is a bit farfetched but it is not beyond the realm of impossibility, it will facilitate negotiation of abrupt turn by the opposite direction coming vehicle(s). Safety first should be the buzz word, this slogan should find indelibly printed in the mindset of the drivers.

(c) It is also observed that the road bunds either cemented or iron railings / pillars duly fixed on the road protected with thick iron-plates but it has to be ensured that such iron pillars / railings withstand the sudden impact of a comparatively heavy vehicle if and when it happens accidently!

(d) It is our experience that the passengers are in the habit of pestering the driver(s) for driving the vehicle with more speed. This persistence sometimes plays in the minds of the drivers and becomes a cause of accident. SPEED AND SAFE DRIVING DO NOT GO TOGETHER. If average permissible speed is maintained, the distance between Rishikesh.to Gangotri town is covered almost within 12 hours and if by speeding up with all the chances of accidents  if half an hour is saved then what! Heaven will not fall down on the earth if the vehicle reaches half an hour late with safe driving. Therefore, the drivers should be given free hand and not forced to drive faster than hitherto required. SAFE DRIVING is therefore a must.

(e) There is urgent requirement of erecting changing enclosure(s) for ladies after they take bath in Gangaji as are available at Haridwar (Harkipodi.

(f) I was really impressed by the Medical cover provided by the state Government in Gangotri town. Due to strenuous uphill and downhill turns of the vehicle my wife had bout of vomiting. She was really in a critical condition, she was not able to take anything for the entire journey. The Medical Officer in Gangotri provided her medi-care and we had a safe return journey from Gangotri to Rishikesh and to our home at Delhi by the grace of Maan Gangaji. I suggest that more medical staff should be deployed during the duration of the pilgrimage for the meeting the medical requirements.

(g) Effort should always be made to ensure that the fragile ground at the curves or at other places of the road are identified and fixed instantaneously. It is because any comparatively heavy vehicle make the fragile road give way and may become a cause of sudden accident and consequent unfortunate but avoidable fatalities.

(h) There is a requirement of planting more trees firstly to solidify the ground and secondly for keeping the eco-system clean.

(i) The drivers of the buses and small vehicle operatives should be sensitized and given periodical lectures for the need of a safe driving. Though there are boards and hoardings at the vintage spots highlighting the need of safe driving yet much needs to be done to avoid accidents due to human mistake.

(j) Traffic rules should be followed by the drivers of the vehicles and anybody found transgressing the rules should be awarded exemplary punishment such as revocation of driving licence for life or jail term for the grievous transgression for deterrence. 

(k) At the Sanctum Sanctorum at Gangotri Temple, the Security staff deployed should present a decent etiquette/ mannerism and honesty of purpose. They are the representatives of the State of Uttarakhand and their behavior or attitude they display is taken as the general behavior of the state as a whole.

(l) In the God’s abode, all are equal. No VVIP or VIP treatment to any for dharshan. We all are His creations should never be forgotten.

(m) After offerings are presented, at least five second’s time should be afforded to each devotee. In our group, we were not given that much time even. We do not know how many deities’ idols were there besides Gangaji inside the temple! We were just frisked out without proper dharshan. One can imagine the state of a devotee, when he/she cannot have proper dharshan after traversing so many miles. This system should be streamlined.

 

 

 

ON OUR HAPPINESS

ON OUR HAPPINESS

PLEASURE AND PAIN TWO ESSENTIAL FACTORS IN WHICH WE LIFE

We, as humans, have to accept some realities of life. There are two identities within which we are constrained to sustain ourselves. We have to live in pleasure and in pain as a way of life. Pleasure is associated or identified with good and pain is associated or identified with something awful or painful or bad. We learn from the experiences by living in pain and pleasure. Painful experiences provide us avenues to fight bad situations and come out successfully. In this sort of a situation, there comes an acceptance of having equanimity both in pain and pleasure.

HAPPINESS IN RELATIONSHIP TO OUR MENTAL OR EMOTIONAL STATE OF BEING

First of all, we’ve to understand that happiness is basically a mental or an emotional state of our being. Here satiety with what we possess, positive attitude and pleasant disposition despite hurdle counts . Happiness is contagious – it spreads if we intend to do so with sincerity. Our happiness could be enhanced if public good is ensured by our own Karma. Happiness cannot be spread without positive mindset. As in our happiness, our mental and emotional state come into play, it is, therefore, essential that our inner self should be pure and free off smut.

ESSENTIALS FOR A HAPPY LIFE

Further, there are three vital factors which help us live a meaningful life. These are materialism, realism and idealism. Materialism is a must to a limit but if our requirements cross limit then it would ultimately become a burden and give pain. On the other hand idealism and realism should not only be attained in our life but also practiced to the letter and spirit for a purposeful life. Purposeful living brings forth some duties and responsibilities for a happy living.

There is no disputing the fact that among all things in life including happiness, self is to be held on higher pedestal. While extolling the role of self, it is important that we are also aware of the surroundings in which we liVe. It is because everything and everybody is relative to each other for a harmonious living.

THERE ARE THE CHALLENGES TO BE FACED IN OUR LIFE

 Challenges in in our life open new vistas in our life and make our life more dynamic, thereby giving us ample chance to grow and also give incentive to let others to grow likewise. These also make us determined not only to face life for our own good but also bestows us the traits of goodness and compassion for others around us. We feel pain for others and may try to alleviate that pain with the resources we have acquired. All this affords us the chances to be happy after a good deed is done.

IMPORTANCE OF SELF IN RELATION TO OUR SURROUNDINGS FOR COMPLETE HAPPINESS

Nobody can dispute the fact that among all things in life including happiness, knowing self is more important. Having known the self, then by extension, our relationship with our surroundings is taken into consideration. A person in segregation is not considered fit enough to influence anybody or an organization. Living in harmony and with cooperative mentality works and that is possible with others’ active participation.

EVERYTHING AND EVERYBODY IS RELATIVE FOR A HAPPY LIVING

If every other thing is relative to each other so everybody has a responsibility to influence others and in this our happiness in relation to others’ happiness is important too. In essence, in order to live in harmony with our environment, it is essential that our environment is congenial. Here well-being of others which includes mental or emotional happiness or psychological happiness, physical happiness, economic happiness, political well-being etc. It would be a farfetched idea if a single person  could live peacefully because the concept of UNITY IN DIVERSITY is important for tangible results.

Happiness is a fuzzy and crazy concept which is different for different individuals. Some may feel happy on simple things in life and the others may not be happy with everything in possession. Subjective satiety or well-being or happiness is dependent on the following factors:-

Happy is the man who has overall mental satisfaction vis-a-vis:-

• Satiety in economic front. Everybody needs money for his/her sustenance. There are fortunate ones who could get opportunity to ache out a living and there are the ones could are not able to do so due to one reason or the other. If the person concerned could donate part of their money to the person in need, this makes the person concerned happy in a way.
• Satisfaction or contentment in mental well being/psychological and emotional state. For understanding an individual, it is not only essential to meet ones look after the barest essentials for life but also meet the emotional needs for a happy life/. For example, expression of inner feeling and understanding others feelings is a must
• PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE. The philosophy is our life counts for our happiness or otherwise. If our philosophy in life is to live a life according to laws of nature and in sync with norms of civic norms despite hurdles then happiness or sadness will not make any difference to us.
• Contentment in physical state. It is well nigh fact tha a good mind dwells in good body and for that to be a possibility body has to be kept in perfect fit state. In this direction, whatever possible we can do for others should be done.
• Happiness and Spiritual way of living. Spiritual way of living following a lifestyle which is in consonance with natural laws and following the norms of civil society. Here inner peace for following ethical and moral inclined life. Such person does everything in sync with healthy living. Thus spiritual oriented people are the happy people.

In conclusion, it could be comprehended that happiness is individualistic in nature. There are the people who are satisfied with barest minimum possessions but there are the ones who are not satisfied with affluence at their command thus become unhappy.

 

HAPPINESS IN OUR LIFE

True happiness in life is attained

Not by having all the comforts in life that we aspired
which though bestows us happiness for a so short

but, alas!  
Disappears like thin layer of snow on a sunny day
sooner than we actually anticipate in any way
leaving us high and dry
thus taking us to the spot we had started initially
with unhappiness writ large on our face eternally.
True happiness has to be earned – honestly

partly by leading a life full of care for others

by meeting others needs
whence our own bread and butter is earned
senergizing of our efforts

and using these for a healthy living
for a simple living and high thinking

for our efforts fructifying
Thus engendering a feeling of  satiety
without fear or favour eventually
resulting in profuse happiness to us in the process
producing positive emotional upsurge
making our heart ecstatic with pleasure

obliterating  the feeling of discomfort

by removing others discomforts

by the grace of Almighty God.

 

 

Do you think..your family would agree with all you are doing? (As asked by somebody).

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Best Answer: There are times when our family members would agree with all that we are doing and at other times they may not agree what we do or do not do. If I am doing anything which goes against the very principles of our family culture and traditions, no family member would agree  with my viewpoints. Secondly, if we do anything which tarnishes the well established image of our family; for instance if we resort to any crime or commit any sin which put all other members in disrepute then our family member will not like us for the anti social activities resorted to by us. Thirdly, if we have sufficient finance as individuals and do not come to the succor of our family when it is immensely required then our family will not like it. Fourthly, when our family wants us to follow certain course of action and we do something contrary to the well established norms then also our family members will not like it.

Be that as it may, it is the family which provides us assistance when we are children and it is family which comes to our assistance when we want to come out of the emergent situation, therefore, we have to think and act to safeguard the honour of our family when crunch time comes. All will agree when we are doing everything as per the greater good of the family it is liked by every member of the family. Therefore, it is possible that our family may agree with us or sometimes disagree with us but we have to accept the reality and agree to explore a common meeting ground for overall well-being of the family.*

*It is a axiomatic  that our intention should be to keep everybody in the family happy. For that to happen, the following points should be kept in mind:-

1. Doing everything in accordance with the interests of the family as a unit. Family is a sacred institution in which different responsibilities are assigned and performed by different members of the family according to their capabilities or capacities. There is unwritten law which pervades that all members have to take look after the total well-being of the family to ensure that nothing is done which may go against the grain of family’s well-being or may tarnish the image of the family in general. In other words, it could be said that although there is no codified rule which governs the family way of living but whatever duty is assigned by the elder in the family is taken with a pinch of salt and obeyed partly as a mark of respect and partly for ensuring that job assigned is done without let or hindrance and nobody can brazen it out-. .

 

2. Differences, if any, are sorted out with mutual agreement. At times, when there arises some difference of opinion or an unseemly act, these should be sorted out with mutual consent but with a notion that the authority of the elder in the family is respected and maintained and not diluted so that their writ runs large in the family hierarchy. .Sometimes when matters go off the tangent then complete family sitting should take place and every members’ opinion is taken on the contentious issue and matter sorted out without wastage of time. If an issue remains simmering for quite sometimes then it may snowball into a huge controversy and may entail loss of face or prove counter-productive to the overall interests of the family in general.

 

3. Sometimes compromises are made for the sake of saving relationships. Experience tells us that at times members of the family have to compromise and cooperate on certain matters for saving the honour of the family. For this, even self esteem could be at stake but family honour has to be given priority. Here, I do iterate that I do not subscribe to the idea of honour killing  for settling scores – which is below civility.

 

4. At times, if one member of the family disagree with others matters come to the head. The elders in the family should see that the differences in the family do not cross the limit of decency. If still things fail to quell, then everybody’s opinion should be taken for sorting out differences so that contentious points could be sorted out once and for all.

 

5. When is the time to divide the family. At times, it has been found that differences spin out of control, when all out efforts make no difference to sort things out, then only option is to family division based purely on give and take basis as how long the quibbling could be allowed to take toll in the family and spoil the atmospheric in the family. In this sort of a contingency, it is better that elder member of the family may help division in the family by dividing the assets; ensuring that everybody in the family gets his/her share.

 

6. Safeguards to the members who are aged and infirm. There are the members who earn and those who are not meaningfully employed also including those who are aged and infirm are taken care under the umbrella of family.

 

6. Division of family assets / properties but not the elders in the family. If there arises a situation when the division of family is the only solution then in this sort of a scenario, the interests of olds and infirm including non-earning members in the family should not be ignored. Also, old parents, who see everybody in the family with love and affection should feel free to go to anybody in the divided family; i.e. no restriction should be imposed on them in their oldage.

Over and above what is mentioned above, the following should be taken care of:-

• All should have union of unclear families during some important days like annual gathering for respecting family deity.
• Celebrate all the birthdays/marriage anniversaries etc together to keep the unity and integrity intact.
• Differences, if any, should be sorted out within shortest timeframe to bridge the gap so that the gap may not widen to disproportionate proportions which is difficult to fill.
• As family is the institution from where our development starts, we should always respect all its norms when we grow up and become independent financially.
• We should never forget our roots. One who forgets its roots is a turncoat of highest order.
• Sometimes we have to compromise but it is not because of our weakness but we’ve to check our ego and move on. Also, many a times, we have to remain quite after we come to know about a controversial happenings, which if reignited may will create still more fissures in the family. Remaining silent in these is the most sagacious for overall health and well-being of the family.

INNER THOUGHTS

Harbans  2 days ago

Asker’s rating:*****

 

 

 

ON POSITIVE THINKING

ON BEING POSITIVE

 

Childhood is the time considered most appropriate

Whence we can put matters of common sense

in our growing offspring

What they should do and what they should be avoiding

So that they cement their place

As responsible citizens when they grow up

And try to come out of the negative situations

By their grit and determination

Which they have learned in their childhood

Failures would be there, no doubt

But how to come out of situation

Depends on what they learned in their early days

Qualities of patience

With sufficient dose of persistence

And high quantity of perseverance

Will surely make much difference..  

 

ON HABIT FORMATION

It should be our sincere endeavour to put positive thoughts In our young minds so that they display positivism in their thoughts and deeds.. Even criticism should be with an intent to effect positive change in them.. It should not be; criticism for criticism sake – to lower them in the eyes of peer group. There is a case of a language teacher who is intelligent, upright, has impeccable class control, cynosure of students’ eyes, produces 100 results in her subject but one thing which is lacking in her is the display of intolerance whenever she is criticized (even for her improvement) or provoked. This intolerant attitude despite all the positive traits in her makes her unpopular with other staff members. It goes to show that we should cultivate  a healthy mix of balanced traits and avoid going to extremes in some cases and adopting middle course in others.

POSITIVE PERSONS ARE OPTIMISTIC AND CONFIDENT IN NATURE

While facing a piquant situation, the people with positive mindset always show optimistic and constructive approach rather than destructive and pessimistic one and they do not  drag their feet rather they face the given situation head on. Admitted that doubts may still persist on the way yet solutions are not far to seek.

Moving forward despite hurdles is need of the hour and this could meaningfully be possible when we possess progressive mentality. When faced with negative situation, ways and means should be explored to make it happen rather than accepting it as a play of destiny, It should be with firm belief  – only those who believe can succeed.

For weeding out undesirable or negative tendencies which impede our progress,  it is essential to always cultivate all those desirable traits which not only assist us in variety of ways but also make the environment around us congenial for a  purpose living. .

HABITS ARE FORMED DURING CHILDHOOD / PARENTS CAN MAKE OR BREAK A CHILD

It is observed that habits start forming from the age of three years. It is also a fact that when these habits are set it is difficult to remove them. The kind of environment we live in the family in the childhood remains indelibly in slate of our mind for good. Main objective of ours should be how to remove these unfairness which has taken root in our system. This mental conditioning could be removed by self effort and will power. The mental and emotional attitude that we imbibe by focusing on the bright side of life go a long in removing childhood prejudices and unfair conditioning. Today, I came across a child studying in class 2^nd. He is very naughty and fights with every other students in the class. This was telephonically conveyed to the parents of the boy in question. His teachers told that the parents of the boy do not attend any PTM. It goes to show that parents do not take care in streamlining the behavior of the boy and that is why the boy has become wayward. in his attitude.  

It is relevant to mention about a student (in her teen); who is otherwise very meticulous in her studies and intelligent but once she got comparatively less marks in a test in mathematics. On close scrutiny it was found that her disturbed state of mind was partly due to overconfidence and partly due to bickering between parents. Such was the intensity of negative feeling created in her mind that she was not able to come out of this negative mindset for a few days. During this period of negativism, she was not able to concentrate on her studies and hence could not  solve even the easiest of sums which she used to solve easily. This case history made me to imagine, how a child loses his/her composure and confidence when engulfed in negativity created by his/her own nears and dears.

A person can come out of this mental conditioning partly through training on specifics (3Ps)  patience,  perseverance and persistence  in will power,

PATIENCE

Our patience is tested on day to day basis. When somebody provokes us with something in order to lose our balance, there are two ways open for us, either we react in equal measure or we just are not reactive and remain calm despite provocation. When somebody provokes us, it means that person is himself/herself, to some degree, worked-up and is in emotionally disturbed mindset and also want us to feel the heat. The best course of action should be to remain calm and composed without any complaining or showing any annoyance. These are the hard words but a man with traits of patience will sure have these.

PERSEVERANCE

A person facing earth-shattering situation will have difficulty in handling that. He/she has to bring together all the willpower and strength of conviction and unflagging faith in his/her own capabilities and -to tide over the daunting situation and come out unscathed. A person who persists in effort despite difficulty with cool-headedness wins in the long run and even God comes to that person’s succor.

PERSISTENCE.

In life, we face many types of difficult situations, how best we determine to come out of these unpredictable situations which test our resolve depends solely on us. Not that we meet with success always. There are times when our sincere efforts do not bear fruits. Then what is the option. Leave the ground and engulf in despondency and bear the brunt of its consequences? Or exert still harder and come out successful. Belief in our capabilities comes when our persistent bring about tangible results. It is through sustained practice which bolsters our chances of success that we undertake become perfect in any creative work. Nothing is given to us on the platter should always be remembered. 

TRAITS OF A POSITIVE PERSON

A person with positivism always is balanced in his approach towards any task he/she undertakes. He/she is not disturbed by failure and also does not go overboard whenever he tastes success in life. For him life is a real drama and the ought to played on persistently. He / she remains in happiness and believes that obstacles in life have to be fought. Positive thinking has its effectiveness. this trait helps in keeping the person away from fear psychosis and resultant waywardness. Mostly, the barometer or mantra of success depends on the degree of positivism one possess. 

Moving ahead despite hurdles is need of the hour and this could meaningfully be possible when we possess progressive mentality. When faced with negative situation, ways and means should be explored to make it happen rather than accepting it as a play of destiny with the thinking that only those who believe can succeed.

RELIGIONS AND POSITIVISM

For a person endowed with positive attitude, religion for him/her is the way of life for knowing / exploring self or for self realization and uniting factor and not dividing communities on the basis of separate religious thoughts and belief. For a positive oriented person, religion is a pathway for establishing connectivity with God. The treasure of wisdom given in various scriptures of religions should contribute the unite the societies rather than divide them.

PERSON WITH POSITIVISM IS IN TEARING HURRY TO REMOVE TEARS FROM OTHERS’ EYES

A person who is endowed with positivism comes to the rescue of his fellow being whenever he finds somebody in need.

A PERSON WITH NEGATIVITY DOES NOT SEE LIGHT AT THE END OF A TUNNEL

Dark clouds do not remain for good but a person with negative outlook just sees darkness everywhere. He does not see brightness at the end of the tunnel rather he feels engulfed in darkness only. Difficulty for such person is not an opportunity to prove a point but on the other hand it is another onslaught of difficult situation. He does not know how to come out of this situation because nobody has taught him.

POSITIVE PERSONS ARE OPTIMISTIC AND CONFIDENT IN NATURE

When facing a piquant situation, the people with positive trait always show optimistic and constructive rather than destructive and do not drag their feet rather than facing the given situation. Admitted that doubts may arise on the way yet solutions could be explored.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNIFICANCE OF VALUE SYSTEM

VALUE OF VALUE SYSTEM

For living a life of significance

With all our slip ups nipped in the bud with full all patience

By aspiring for a code of conduct

With the experiences we get

From the daily routines done presently

And the incidents experienced in the days gone by

Which remain etched in our memory

And keep guiding us

To follow those thoughts and actions

Which are in sync with the norms and obligations

Set by the society for a civilized and orderly living

Some of value systems are transformed by the family we are born

From historical perspectives and socio-cultural traditions

Followed presently for evolution of civilization

Then also by democratic values of  thoughts of liberty of thoughts and expression

Strides in scientific temper and modern values thereto have helped improvisation

And mitigation of masses’ all round condition

By elimination of rampant paradoxes and superstition,

Innovation in transportation and media communication

Has really helped dissemination of information

Globalization has blurred the boundaries internationally

Spiritual values give religious insights into higher values and their application

Of positive thoughts of empathy, righteousness  and compassion

Besides indomitable belief on Supreme Consciousness

Through truthfulness and sincere meditation

This way we stand firm what relationship creations

Has with our Creator.

All mixed together make universal values a living reality

Higher values help maintenance of harmonious relationship a possibility

Helping us for mutual admiration for each others culture and values followed traditionally.

PURSUIT OF VALUE SYSTEM.

In the morning hours, while passing through junior wing of our school, I observed that some decoration pieces had fallen from the stand on which these were placed. The students were going to their respective classes even trampling those decoration pieces. Suddenly, I saw a small girl picking those decoration pieces and putting them at their proper places. She even took the assistance of her friends in the group. I mentioned this to one of the teachers who also appreciated this act of hers. I take this as a value learned from the parents or peer group. In our daily life, we are in tearing hurry to transact our personal business without caring what is happening around us – thinking that it does not concern us! This is travesty of fact, a fact which is considered as lowest in value system rung.   

There are no two opinions that values are man-made and need based too. Values considered good for particular community may not be considered good by the other community. For instance there are the communities who teach their children how to steal from the childhood itself. But stealing is considered as a crime by the land of the land. Then what our soldiers are trained for is another example of particular value – to safeguard the integrity of the country even by making supreme sacrifice. Here too values differ. It goes to show that there are some values which are required to be followed as a member of a particular region or society and there are some values which are considered respected in the country we live besides there are values which have universal appeal.

Whatever we do, we should do that with full consciousness or awareness. In that awareness, we should let love to dwell in us, without worrying about whether our act is according to the set values or not because whatever is done in sound awareness can hardly be wrong. Thus awareness and love are more essential. A practice being followed or learned over a period of time or randomly done gets into our habit or behaviour is value based.

The moral principles and values originated as code of conduct to mould human behaviour as a response to given situation. These have been gleaned from the chapters of history of the past and based on the experiences we formulate new sets of values suiting our timeline. This code of conduct helps us in fulfilling our objectives and help shape our destinies according to present requirements.

HOLY QURAN DECLARES: And the believers, men and women, are friends of another. They enjoined good and forbid evil and observe Prayer and pay the Zakaat and obey ALLAH and HIS Messenger. It is these on whom ALLAH will have mercy. Surely, ALLAH is Mighty and Wise.

Essentially,  for a civilized and organized society, it is important that the people observe some code of conduct brought about during the passage of time along with experiences gained during that period. The moral principles and values observed moulds the human behaviour. Study of historical perspective and ancient philosophies make huge impression on human evolution.

Human values have drawn their inspiration from various sources in the course of history besides spiritualism, philosophy and religion, socio-cultural traditions have been the predominant determinants for formulating the basic human values through different period of evolution of human civilization. Some of these are given as under:-

• HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE AND ITS AFFECTS ON CULTURAL VALUES.. Historical perspective play a dominant role in ascertaining the norms of behavior and values practiced at particular period of time. Codified history influences the present thinking and affects the societies in general. For example, in the medieval period is known to have associated with Islamic influence and rule in India. It went almost for three centuries including Mughal Empire who first of all invaded India and then adopted India as their own. The culture and value system they brought with them got assimilated in India itself and enriched Indian culture and tradition. Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb (Ganga-Yamuna Culture) which is effusion of Hindu and Muslim cultures.
• PHILOSOPHIES PROPOUNDED BY RENOWNED PHILOSOPHERS. Ancient philosophers contributed much for the present times as far as culture, tradition and values are concerned. For example contributions of renowned philosophers like John Loke (father of liberalism), Thomas Aquinas (Advocate of existence of God), Confucius (Advocated natural morality), Descartes (father of modern philosophy), Plato (Believed that there must be some power for the creation of universe),Aristotle (He wrote about abstract or concrete philosophy) etc. All these Western philosophers among others including those oriental Indians philosophies have contributed immensely to the cultural ethos and moral, ethical and cultural values of the world.
• EXPERIENCES GAINED DURING PASSAGE OF TIME FIRM UP CODE OF CONDUCT THUS MOLDING THE BEHAVIOUR OF THE PEOPLE.
• DEMOCRATIC VALUES. Democratic principles of liberty, freedom to elect governments of choice, freedom of expression, revision of incentives for democratization of thoughts are the main determinants of human values which help in evolution of higher values and virtuous life held dear by the people.
• VALUE SYSTEM MAKE HUMANS HUMANE. The distinction between human beings is the richness of value system one possesses among other basic modes of behaviour (ethical, moralistic, spiritualistic etc) which everybody should possess for a sublime and civilized living. A person could have higher value system in one field but could have lower value system in other field of activity. The index of value system is the richness in beliefs, faiths and norms of behaviour being followed by the society.

Lord Jesus modeled this core value when He uttered, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.

• POLITICAL VALUE SYSTEM. It has been observed that now-a-days politics is more or less bereft of values systems. The political parties and its leader publish manifestos for their respective parties but when they win the election, they woefully forget the promises made to the people. By their unethical acts they stoop to lower ladder of value system in political arena.
• RELIGIOUS VALUE SYSTEM. By following the religious teachings in various scriptures, the proponents / followers of religions follow these religious preaching and seek god’s connectivity. Those who follow religious philosophies without reservation and without diluting these teachings, get higher values in life. A person with higher religious values is rich in spiritualism with all the positive traits such as empathy, compassion etc which inspire us for meditation which is beneficial for our soul and provides us occasion to have indomitable belief on god. With this value system, we can stand for what we believe in relation to religion and spiritualism. Religious value too stresses maintenance of harmonious relationships with followers of religions other than ones own.

The VEDIC Value system enlightens us  about:  Dharma (Righteousness), Artha (Maternal possession), Kama (Desire), Shivam (Supreme Consciousness and goodness),Sundram (beauty), Satyam (Truthfulness),

• FINANCIAL VALUE SYSTEM. We require money in order to meet our various needs which we call material possessions for a comfortable living. For this, we have to work sincerely. If we earn this finance by adopting sincere and legitimate methods then it falls in the category of economic high value system. If we earn through some corrupt or ulterior means then it is low value system.
• SOCIAL VALUE SYSTEM. Social values are the ones which we learn from our family initially and then friends and environment in which we live. Social etiquette include learning social obligations, to live in harmony with others obeying all the civic rules, obeying social norms held dear by the society for concord and cooperation. Social values learned helps us in imbibing positive relations with fellow beings and shun antisocial and behaviour which is anti-thesis of social norms.
• ETERNAL VALUES ARE ABSOLUTE, REAL, it is pure consciousness, pure perception, pure knowledge, gives pure knowledge (ananda), bliss or everlasting happiness, eternal peace, exalted values and are eternal in nature. These values are like the light of the sun which gives energy to all the objects.

 

 

ON PROMISES MADE AND FULFILLED

PROMISES MADE AND FULFILLED

It is a proven reality

As stark as a day

Nothing works in isolation indeed

Since with cooperation, we succeed

For that we take others assistance

Sometimes from our nears and dears ones

And other times from rank outsiders

To carry us through

In thick and thin

By fulfilling sincere promises made with others

This way we pay back the way we take from others in sincerity

And make good the promises made earnestly

In the fixed period of time, as undertaken

Thus fructifying the promises made

Thus putting an indelible stamp of our honesty

Which carries us through in whatever venture we put our hands on.

If promises are broken

Then the sacredness of our pledge goes bust

Then main casualty is the trust

Between the parties concerned

And fact remains,trust once broken is never retrieved

Like glass-ware into piece broken

Cannot be united again.

 

ON PROMISES MADE TO BE KEPT

First of all, when we pledge somebody for something, it means we give our genuine word for fructification of that promise with all the sincerity at our command.  The promise given maybe for meeting somebody’s urgent need, here timeline for fulfilling that promise may also be kept in mind. Promise is not only with others but also with individual himself/herself too. It may be for maintaining sound health and well-being by observing cogent and well-meaning health rules as diet control; need for regular exercise to keep our body healthy on daily basis and need for spiritual forward march and principles to be followed on daily basis. For all these to be fructified, we extract a promise from ourselves for all round development; physical, mental and spiritual. In other words, promises could be used in general sense as well.

The need of writing this write up arose when one of my known friends could not pay the money on time as promised resulted in verbal duet firstly, then a permanent friction between the two families finally court case thereafter.

Sometimes I feel dismayed by the behavior of some of known or even rank strangers when it comes to carrying out promises. It may be innocently made promises to friends and well wishers but also well meaning promises impinging / impacting on our lives of many besides affecting emotions on the long run.

BIBLE STRESSES US TO FULFILL PROMISE: If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.

PROMISES TO BE MADE WITH OTHERS

We can make promises to be fulfilled so that others trust us and the business of this world as a whole functions. For instance, we take loan from banks or other individuals to meet our emergent needs and for that we promise to repay that loan within a fixed time-frame. If we are unable to comply with these promises, it results in various upshots according to the terms and conditions of the loan formalities. When promises are not made good to pay back, as promised, then we’ve to face the music. This happened in case of business tycoon Vijay Mallya, who duped the Banks and did not pay back the loan to the tune of Rs. 9000  Crores and fled the country.

The need for writing this write up also necessitated when I came to know the truth about reneged promise which can doom the life of a family.

There is a couple in our locality had three sons already besides one daughter but with the birth of fifth issue, it was becoming difficult for the couple to make both ends meet besides meeting expenditure on schooling etc. Also, with no source of income other than income from a small tea stall.

This couple, out of necessity, approached a renowned and venerated priest to help them find a suitable couple who could adopt their son as their own so that somebody from a good family background could bring up their fifth progeny as their own. At the same time, the couple solemnly promised in front of the priest and congregation that they will not have any right on their son after they have lawfully handed over their son to the suitable couple.

Afterwards, a suitable couple was shortlisted by the priest. This couple is honest, very religious, compassionate and known for their broad mindedness besides were not having any issue of their own since their marriage.

It so happened that I had some commitment in one of the sections in our organization, both the employees there, otherwise very good-mannered, dedicated and committed ones, were reluctant to talk to me; leave aside welcoming me to their office. When I insisted about the cause of their predicament, they were reluctant to come out with their elucidation. I imagined that something serious has transpired.

On my persistence about the real reason about their dilemma, one of them informed me that the baby which was legally adopted by other employee has been taken away from him. This has come like a bolt from blue for him and his wife has not recovered from the shock till now. This couple had developed a very good rapport with the small baby with daily routines– feeding, cleaning the baby and other related jobs of a toddler. 

Seemed clearly as though all the worries and disappointments had descended on the doorsteps on this couple lock stock and barrel. It is simply because the other couple had reneged from the promise made amongst the people of the community but also in front of God’s Altar besides legal formalities undertaken. This very cultured and thoughtful couple did not bat even an eye when they were informed that the mother of the baby had not slept for many days since the time legal adoption formalities were completed and may have unpredictable consequences if the child is not handed over to them. The child was returned back!

The above incident proves that we should either not make any promise or if a promise is made it should be kept come what may.

IN BHAGWAD LORD KRISHANA PROMISES TO HELP SUCH PERSONS WHO: Always think of Me and become My devotee. Worship Me and offer your homage unto Me. Thus you will come to Me without fail. I promise you this because you are My very dear friend.

 

PROMISES AMONGST THE MEMBERS OF HOUSEHOLD

While performing our day to day affairs in our home and hearth, although, we do not have written formal statement of intent yet only informal or unwritten understanding, purely on mutual trust and sound passion work naturally between the members of the families. Fulfillment of the unwritten promises is on the top of agenda and is considered as a sacred duty of each of the family member of traditional family life and if it is not done then anybody can hazard a guess the fate of that family! Muck and stink, if any ought to be settled in the family court of family under the supervision of elder in the family to get promises satisfactorily fulfilled.

Guru Gobind Singh gave the instructions: He should not break his vows or any other promise he makes nor commit perjury or treachery.

 

DETENTES OR PROMISES BETWEEN NATIONS

The affairs of the world can only be possible with promises to be made good. Starting from our home turf where we make promises, try fulfilling taking into cognizance the concern they have for their blood wellbeing between relations. When promises are made not due to one reason or another they try out different strategies in order that the rapport and relationship flourish.  For instance, yesterday, I extracted a promise from my grand-daughter to follow some norms of good behavior  like; respect your elders/older members, observe all the principles to be a good citizen, to study regularly not only the books prescribed to pass an examination but also which enhances general awareness. I extracted a firm promise from her that she will fulfill all the promises to the book. If and when some difficulties she will come back to me, she mentioned with a smile. 

Country’s affairs with other country; promises are made and fulfilled.  The lowest point in two countries’ happen when promises made in the form of détente between countries are not acted upon.  A country which breaks international understanding and laws are ostracized  by the countries in the formal institution and nobody trusts that country which does not act as per laid down norms of international behaviour. Even United Nation Organisation too works on the principles of its Charter which all the peoples of the United Nations have to agree viz; to save the generations from the scourge of war and to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, dignity and worth of the humans etc.

In Holy Quran it has been emphasized: Yea, whoever fulfills his promise and guards (against evil) – then surely Allah loves those who guard (against evil).

 

UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN COMPANIES

It has been said that a promise is an declaration of an individual’s firm intention – doubtlessly simple, a pure and sincere effort. In this sincere effort with full knowledge that a promise is being made to be fructified come what may. If It were no so, then the very idea giving our word defeated. But when intent of fulfilling promises is merely a show then I think that promise is partly due to our ego masquerading as false nobility, I reckon, may not see the light of the day since it is made on flimsy footings.

Then we can promise somebody, sanctified by God’s presence as a vow for fulfillment.

The following points should be kept in mind:-

• Promises once made should be made good.
• Breached promises leads to breach in trust. Trust once lost is difficult to be regained.
• We could be isolated and nobody believes us if we break our promises.
• In our family lives too there is unwritten agreements or understandings between the members of family and ought to be complied for overall health and welfare of the family.
• The business atmosphere is enhanced if we fulfill our promises by paying the dues, as undertaken.
• Vows once made should be obeyed. It is our sacred duty.