Guest guest Posted October 14, 2004 Report Share Posted October 14, 2004 Hare Krishna, The scriptures have given guidelines to organise all aspects of human life. All the aspirations of man have been envisaged by the four Purusharthas, of which Artha and Kama pertain to material life. Dharma and Moksha are the ideals which guide human destiny. Liberation is the ultimate goal of human birth and has to be realised by one and all; Dharma is the foundation on which all human activities must be pursued. While scriptural prescriptions are meant to be followed by one and all, the freedom to do so rests with the individual. Every individual has to decide for himself whether he wants short-term gains by compromising values or a peaceful life by leading a moral life. When Dharma becomes the guiding spirit of a person's life then he may have to face problems as others who interact with him may not to his values. Those who desire only worldly success often throw caution to the winds and resort to quick-fix methods to realise their ambitions. But such people will not have peace of mind though for all purposes they may be successful. This phenomenon is very common in today's world. Restlessness, frustration and tensions seem to go hand in hand with success in the modern world. Is it not necessary to get back peace of mind which is the birthright of every human being? What is the use of wealth and power if one loses the soul in the bargain? Just as a person plans his career meticulously he has to plan his personal life also. The worries and tensions are due to lack of proper planning. Instead of organising one's life holistically by allocating necessary time for Krishna , the entire time and energy are spent on career-related and on other worldly activities. The effect of such a lopsided lifestyle is felt only in a crisis as such a person is ill-equipped to tackle his problems. The four aspirations envisaged in the scriptures have their legitimate demands on a person. One of the oft-quoted dictums in spiritual tradition is that Krishna protects those persons who depend on Him. It is one's firm link with Krishna, which will stand one in good stead in life and not money and power because they are fleeting. All worldly ambitions must be guided by Krishna consciousness if one desires peace of mind. Many among us get distressed when confronted with problems which seem to be difficult to overcome, not immediately realising that they can be surmounted by sincere prayers coupled with the Divine grace of Krishna. Life is a challenge which ought to be faced. It will neither be a bed of roses nor of thorns. But Krishna has provided us with opportunities to go through the journey without getting bogged down by worldly activities. The guidelines laid down in scriptures should be strictly followed and we should put in hard work and efforts honestly and diligently and carry out the duties enjoined upon us. Tests before us can be withstood by reposing faith in Krishna when He will surely extend His protection. What has to be remembered in this connection is that Krishna not only presents Himself in the entire world but also sits in our hearts guiding our actions and witnessing what is being done. How then should Krishna's presence be experienced within? For this, there are ``Nama Mantras'' which, when uttered with faith, will enable us to remain undisturbed by hurdles. Consistent chanting of the Divine names of Krishna will grant us the moral strength to remain firm in the wake of troubles. Scriptures mention ‘nama sankirtana’ as the pathway to reach Krishna. There will be no need to get demoralised even in the wake of seemingly tough exercises. The devotees on their part should do their duties without anticipating the rewards because frustration will set in only when their expectations remain unfulfilled. Another vital fact that they should know is that Krishna's every creation has some purpose. They should keep their thoughts pure, conduct themselves with utter humility and avoid indulging in gossips about others. Even when all others desert us Krishna will be with us. A devotee should shed ego, give up anger and other evils and develop tolerance. Such a spiritual life ultimately enables one to attain ineffable Bliss. Please Chant:Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare HareHare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare HareAnd Be Happy. ---------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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