The Hindu Article - Power of mind control

[Guest guest]

Date:08/08/2003 URL:

http://www.thehindu.com/2003/08/08/stories/2003080800870900.htm

 

Miscellaneous - Religion

 

Power of mind control

 

CHENNAI AUG. 8 . At the time of birth no one can be praised as good

nor branded as bad. The child, when it makes its appearance on the

earth, is neutral, not subjected to any external influence or

concerned about any other aspect of life. But as it grows,

circumstances and environment around it make it to gain the praise of

others or get condemned as incorrigible. This arises out of the

company in which it gets involved. It is also possible to make the

bad into good if opportunities are provided to the person. There will

be transformation and this depends on the power that is developed to

control the mind. The mind, the culprit, is often compared to a

monkey that is never steady. Even after listening to the glorious

words of Lord Krishna (in the Bhagavad Gita), Arjuna says that his

mind is not steady and it vacillates. "It seems to me that to keep

that restless, relentless, defiant and impetuous mind under check is

as difficult as to control the wayward wind."

 

To this the Lord's reply is marvellous: "No doubt the fidgety mind

cannot be so easily kept under control. Certainly by perseverance,

constant endeavour, it can be subdued." Anger too can be checked by

sheer practice. Efforts can certainly bring about a change in a

person considered of less than average intellect, to become an

outstanding leader or scholar. The atmosphere, in which the young

men, who are the guardians of the future, get trained, will reflect

their behaviour. If they too, even while young, do not allow their

minds to be attracted by evil influences, they can shine as

torchbearers. Endeavour and practice should be their watchword.

 

Illustrating how the "power of mind control" can result in welcome

change in a person, the Jeeyar Swami of the Vanamamalai Math, in a

discourse, recited a Hindi verse, which says that even the iron

pulley used to draw water from a well will develop a groove and show

slow signs of wearing out as the rope used goes over it number of

times and that even a granite can show a cavity by the constant

rubbing by a rough rope. Another important advice all should

remember, the Jeeyar Swami added, is that the Supreme Lord guides the

thinking and the actions of all. Sometimes the mistakes that men

commit may be so grave that God may not be readily inclined to extend

His mercy, but according to Srivaishnavism, if the penitent approach

Him through an appeal submitted to the Divine Mother, She will plead

on their behalf to guide them and provide solace.

 

© Copyright 2000 - 2003 The Hindu