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Source: The Hindu

(http://www.hinduonnet.com/2002/03/09/stories/2002030900070800.htm)

Miscellaneous

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Religion

 

 

Man must face challenges boldly

 

 

 

 

CHENNAI

March 9.

 

Many among us invariably refuse to face problems and if possible avoid taking a

decision. This arises out of cowardice and confusion in the mind as to what is

to be done in times of crisis or situations, which need a solution. "Remove the

wavering attitude and face the challenges boldly instead of postponing an

issue." But how one could act during such crucial periods? This question has

been answered in the Bhagavad Gita. In spite of the fact that the dazed Arjuna

was suddenly filled with delusion whether to fight according to his own earlier

moves or give up the attacks on the plea that several people will be killed. Yet

thus was the one positive thought in him viz. that there is an external guide to

remove his confusion, Lord Krishna, and he approached Him in all humility and

requested Him to enlighten him on a solution. Likewise we should also totally

rely on God who is seated in our hearts, to help us on arriving at a correct and

sane decision. He will certainly show the!

path and enable us to find a way out of any tangle. It was God who made Arjuna

come out of his indecision by giving an analytical exposition on duty and how he

should dedicate the fruit of his action at His feet. There are many external

forms assumed by the illusion, which strews the path of duty with thorns. Yet if

examined well, only one thing is at the bottom of it all, viz., a shallow

identification of oneself with the body. The Lord then makes clear about the

perishable nature of the body and the eternity of the soul within.

 

Sri Sukhi Sivam, in a lecture, explained how the Lord gave the example of a

person without a desire for fruit feels, in relation to the work he does, a

sense of moral duty. Krishna then presents the heroic and subtle characteristics

of a man of poise and wisdom. There is miraculous power in desireless action by

which both the individual and the society are richly blessed. Even today unlike

some who are keen only to satisfy their own cravings for worldly objects and

resort to evil steps, a farmer can be seen cultivating his land despite several

difficulties, for he has related his work to the welfare of the society. If he

is keen only on money he may have raised opium plant, which will surely enrich

him. The action of a person, the Lord emphasises, should be governed by the Law

of Virtue. "Entrust yourself to Me carrying out ordained duties and I shall take

care of you" are the Lord's firm words of encouragement to a confused man.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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