HARMONY IN JOINT FAMILY

[Guest guest]

Harmony in joint family

We are living in a world where dissensions are increasing day by day. The joint

family system is becoming non-existent. If we try and live in accordance with

the following code of behaviour, we could live in harmony and peace, not only

within the family, but everyone outside.

Try not to find fault with others. Ignore minor faults completely. When it is

necessary to point out major faults, do so lovingly without hurting the other

party. In case of difference of opinion, have a free and frank discussion

immediately. Otherwise, differences will grow more and more, mutual love will

be eroded and the stored up differences will explode one day. Talking over the

matter then and there, in a friendly spirit, would prevent such extreme

situation. Be ready to sacrifice personal likes and dislikes for the sake of

others. There will then be no room for differences to arise and consequently

peace will prevail. Let us not lift an accusing finger at others. Remember "Who

is to blame is not important, only how shall we set the situation right." Serve

everybody, instead of serving oneself. This will gradually help removing our

ego, our individuality. When this happens our little specific wants, our likes

and dislikes (areas of differences in a joint family will be reduced. Our

‘wants’ merge with those of others. We become one and there is

total peace and harmony. We should understand there are different types of

people and different styles of their actions. If one person is very stubborn,

the other should surrender and then later talk to him lovingly about it. If one

is continuously stubborn, then part lovingly. If you feel someone is prejudiced

against you, you should have love for that person. One day he will understand

you and everything will become peaceful and blissful. Finally, remember that

the common aim is realization of God and one should work for it.

(Source: The Ideas Exchange, 18-6-2003)