How to Act ? Acceptance is Passive, whereas Gita Does Not Encourage Passiveness

[Guest guest]

I have a question. As human beings we are supposed to react to

situations. By being a silent witness to negative happenings don't

you think we are creating more karma, that is, not reacting when we

have the means to? An example - a close friend cheats you after he

takes you into his confidence. You come to know of his ulterior

motive later and you have all the means to react by confronting him.

But instead you just let it pass with the impression that it is all

a part of the cleansing process by God for clearing past karmas.

Herein lies the dilemma. Question: How are we to know this is due

to a past karma and what is the assurance it is not a fresh one in

this birth? The Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by being passive it

will not help our pursuit in search of God. By remaining silent to

the above situation the aggrieved person will undergo mental stress

and anger and may also be labeled as a coward for not confronting

the person concerned. If he reacts then he is deemed as going

against the Divine's plans. Question: How does one draw a line in

situations like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind enough to elaborate

on this dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards.

 

mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Mahendraji, Can you please point out specifically what you found in

Swamiji's message, which indicated that he is promoting

passiveness? What is your understanding of acceptance?

Thank you kindly, Ram Ram

 

-----------------------------

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

GUIDELINES FOR POSTING A RESPONSE:

 

1. The group is focused on the Holy Gitaji, therefore, only

responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will be

posted.

 

2. Making reference of Gitaji shloka is highly encouraged - at least

once in the response. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or

other scriptures to substantiate your response.

 

3. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting

sadhaka's time. Under no circustance the answer should be limited to

half a book page, at the most 3-4 paragraphs.

 

4. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the

extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas

 

5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only.

 

6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other

organizations (we do not have the bandwidth to review links to

determine if content is appropriate for distribution).

 

7. Complete reproduction of texts from any book is strongly

discouraged, however partial cut - paste is acceptable and

references may be made of the book or author(but not links to other

sites).

 

8. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone

number, address etc.

 

9. Please use appropriate judgement and only address the response to

a particular individual, where it makes sense to do so.

 

10. Due to the large readership, only those responses will be posted

which are in line with the general philosophy of taking Shrimad

Bhagavad Gita as the reference.

 

11. Moderator will reject any content that does not meet guidelines.

However, for expediency, moderator at his discretion, may modify /

delete portions of the posting for mispelling, wordiness that is

irrelevant to the overall core discussion, personal information,

opinions / feelings etc. that do not align with guidelines.

 

12. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth,

westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use of only

Sanskrit words, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit

bracketed wherever possible.

 

13. Any personal remarks over the knowledge of any sadhak or about

the stage at which any sadhak is standing in his quest / sadhna /

spiritual journey - must not be included in your posting. Also,

there should not be any sarcasm towards fellow sadhaks in this

spiritual learning and sharing.

 

MODERATOR

Ram Ram

[Guest guest]

I have a question. As human beings we are supposed to react to

situations. QUESTION: By being a silent witness to negative

happenings don't you think we are creating more karma, that is, not

reacting when we have the means to? An example - a close friend

cheats you after he takes you into his confidence. You come to know

of his ulterior motive later and you have all the means to react by

confronting him. But instead you just let it pass with the

impression that it is all part of the cleansing process by God for

clearing past karmas. Herein lies the dilemma. QUESTION: How are we

to know this is due to a past karma and what is the assurance it is

not a fresh one in this birth? The Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by

being passive it will not help our pursuit in search of God. By

remaining silent to the above situation the aggrieved person will

undergo mental stress and anger and may also be labeled as a coward

for not confronting the person concerned. If he reacts then he is

deemed as going against the Divine's plans. QUESTION: How does one

draw a line in situations like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind

enough to elaborate on this dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards.

mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Mahendraji, Can you please point out specifically what you found in

Swamiji's message, which indicated that he is promoting

passiveness? What is your understanding of acceptance?

Thank you kindly, Ram Ram

 

-----------------------------

NEW POSTING

-Shree Hari-

 

Mahendraji,

There are a few issues here. Realise that it the person who destroyed

your trust that is the foolish one, not you, that person is looking

away from God, how much harder for that person to break the cycle of

birth and death, with such betrayals. This person needs your

compassion if you can raise yourself to that level, then your healing

has begun. Also remember if that person can make you feel anger and

resentment, then this ex friend is controlling you, but if he/she

cannot, with Bhagwans help, then you are controlling you. I do not

see this as passive, looking to God is never passive.

This article you are asking about is one of the most profound

articles I have ever read, I advise you to read and read it and

think very deeply upon Swamijis words.

 

With Respect and Divine Love,

Mike Keenor

-

 

Hari Om

 

A beautiful question, drawn from real life itself. I am sure

Sadhak's shall rise to the occassion in addressing this real dilemma

for even those who strive and want to be calm and serene.

 

Mahendra Rajji is advised to carefully follow the deliberations of

sadhaks. Sure we have people who experienced similar dilemmas and

conquered over them.

 

In my personal view EVERY SADHAK experiences this dilemma.

 

One thing is quite clear. Silence is infinite times more powerful.

It hurts the sinner more than the sword in hand. Sinner can never

forget his sin. Never !! He always knows he sinned against you. In

reality, already a line of demarcation between you and him has been

drawn. You have already gained , he has already lost ! Why now

confrontation? To show him bad before others? To tell him, he is

wrong! Does he not know it?

 

To get him to " acknowledge " his wrongness? That is not in your

control, however powerful you may be. That only God through nature

can accomplish. Never you can. Try it. You will only end up

incurring more sins.

 

Secondly whether it is fresh karma of the sinful or reaction to old

karma of the aggrieved- whether the aggrieved has not already become

purer? Yes! Yes!

 

Has the aggrieved already not learnt that - Nothing is mine? Yes!

Yes!!

 

Even if aggrieved has power to retaliate, is he not running the

risk of incurring a new sin- if he takes the sword in the hand ?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will the bad karma of friend not leave imprints of darkness over

his soul and give him results- multiplied in intensity and volume?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will not the aggrieved party become wiser and will not the aggrieved

party be ever careful in future ? Yes! Yes!!

 

We shall deliberate it further- we have to be conforming to

Moderators' guidelines..

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

 

This is not past karma but swabhaav of your and swabhaav of other

person with whom you are in a state of reaction. If you drink water

and you drink alcohol, would not there be a difference in you? This

rule applies to every inter-action even between humans, and it is

not past karma but instant karma. Gita never said passive search of

the god, but it was indeed a teaching in midst of war, and passivity

of Arjun was removed. How you concluded the reverse? War is fighting

or karma without concern for results because, the war is chosen so

carefully. If you think the cheating is not a big problem, do not

go for war, only change your way of life to avoid it as did Krishna

leave Mathura for Dwarka. He is thus called RanChod

 

Where did you find references of past karma in Bhagwat Gita? Karma

is a movement of the swabhaav or continuety of transformation. The

swabhaav changes itself by karma, and new swabhaav is sum of old

swabhaav and karma plus direction. Thus, you being cheated or some

one betraying trust is a matter of result of intraction between two

Dharma or two swabhaav like the Mahabharata.

regards

K G

Krishna Gopal

 

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

GUIDELINES FOR POSTING A RESPONSE:

 

1. The group is focused on the Holy Gitaji, therefore, only

responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will be

posted.

 

2. Making reference of Gitaji shloka is highly encouraged - at least

once in the response. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or

other scriptures to substantiate your response.

 

3. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting

sadhaka's time. Under no circustance the answer should be limited to

half a book page, at the most 3-4 paragraphs.

 

4. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the

extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas

 

5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only.

 

6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other

organizations (we do not have the bandwidth to review links to

determine if content is appropriate for distribution).

 

7. Complete reproduction of texts from any book is strongly

discouraged, however partial cut - paste is acceptable and

references may be made of the book or author(but not links to other

sites).

 

8. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone

number, address etc.

 

9. Please use appropriate judgement and only address the response to

a particular individual, where it makes sense to do so.

 

10. Due to the large readership, only those responses will be posted

which are in line with the general philosophy of taking Shrimad

Bhagavad Gita as the reference.

 

11. Moderator will reject any content that does not meet guidelines.

However, for expediency, moderator at his discretion, may modify /

delete portions of the posting for mispelling, wordiness that is

irrelevant to the overall core discussion, personal information,

opinions / feelings etc. that do not align with guidelines.

 

12. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth,

westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use of only

Sanskrit words, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit

bracketed wherever possible.

 

13. Any personal remarks over the knowledge of any sadhak or about

the stage at which any sadhak is standing in his quest / sadhna /

spiritual journey - must not be included in your posting. Also,

there should not be any sarcasm towards fellow sadhaks in this

spiritual learning and sharing.

 

MODERATOR

Ram Ram

[Guest guest]

QUESTION: By being a silent witness to negative happenings are we

not creating more karma, that is, not reacting when we have the

means to? An example - a close friend cheats you after he takes you

into his confidence. You come to know of his ulterior motive later

and you have all the means to react by confronting him. But instead

you just let it pass with the impression that it is all part of the

cleansing process by God for clearing past karmas. Herein lies the

dilemma. QUESTION: How are we to know this is due to a past karma

and what is the assurance it is not a fresh one in this birth? The

Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by being passive it will not help our

pursuit in search of God. By remaining silent to the above situation

the aggrieved person will undergo mental stress and anger and may

also be labeled as a coward for not confronting the person

concerned. If he reacts then he is deemed as going against the

Divine's plans. QUESTION: How does one draw a line in situations

like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind enough to elaborate on this

dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards. mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Mahendraji, Can you please point out specifically what you found in

Swamiji's message, which indicated that he is promoting

passiveness? What is your understanding of acceptance?

Thank you kindly, Ram Ram

 

-----------------------------

NEW POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Who told you Mahendra Bhaiyya that as a human being we are supposed

to react to situations? How then you will realise God? What is the

difference then between a sadhak and ordinary person, between an

ordinary person and an animal? Animals react ! Daddy comes to you

by " inaction " Bhaiyya! Not by " reaction " ! Who can break this chain

of action-reaction? A Sadhak Bhaiyya!! How? By " inaction " !!

 

Those who hurt you will regret and rue of their own. Keep a wound

healing medicine - called by Mike Bhaiyya as " compassion " - always in

your cupboard. You might need it in future for applying lovingly,

understandingly on his wounds or on the wounds of some soul similar

to him.( Vasudevah Sarvam) It is always a fresh karma as far as he

is concerned ! It is always pursuant to an old karma of yours- as

far as you are concerned.!! Neither you remember, nor he remembers

the prior lives.(Vasudevah Sarvam) Daddy knows. Is Daddy that

ignorant?

 

For you reaction is over. No new action is needed. Move ahead! Why

do you look at your friend, his deeds, his ways? Why don't you look

at God who sent pesticides for removing dirt gathered inside of you?

Father sending medicines to cure fever!! Where is the question of

retaliation? Should not you become happy? Daddy remembered you

Bhaiyya! Damn care that friend. Next time when you meet with him,

whose eyes will be towards south ? Whose face will exhibit

radiance ? Smile it out! " Taans tititkshva Bharat " ( O Arjuna -

forbear that).

 

Don't fall prey to your ego. Don't think he cheated you. Don't think

he proved you to be an idiot and don't now try to prove that you

were not an idiot. You were good then, you are good now and you

should try to remain always good in future. Thinking about him ,

however, certainly is latest and fresh stupidity.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

 

-----------------------------

 

Belief in the theory of Karma does not preclude one to be passive,

tolerant and indifferent. Karma will follow everyone. That does not

mean than one has to escape and hide behind fatalism, indifference

and apathy. Our scripture teaches that we should not tolerate

intolerant ideology and Asuras in the name of tolerance. Our wise

men and Gods have shown the courage to wipe out deviant people. We

should be active in wiping out our disease and enemies. If we

tolerate our enemies and disease in the name of tolerance, we will

be wiped out. Tolerance of intolerant ideologies and intolerant

people is not a positive virtue. It is pathology. Hindu scriptures

remind us that Shanti Comes only from Shakti.

 

Kannan Devan

------------------------------

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

 

Swamiji always says - " Karne mein Saavdhaan, Hone mein prasanna "

In doing we must be careful, but in the situations and circumstances

that come to us, remain ever happy. Whatever situations that

present themselves, we have little control over, we can only control

our actions / reactions and thereby remain ever ALERT " Saavdhaan " ,

particularly in unfavourable situations. We are not encouraged to

be passive therefore do the needful. Swamiji gives example of a

thief that comes into the house to steal, we are supposed to report

him to the authorities, so that he receives the appropriate

punishment.

 

Unfavourable situations and circumstances are sent by God's Grace.

It makes us more careful. If we utilise the situations properly then

they are very useful in our spiritual progress. When we want

something other than the unfavorable situations that have come to

us, it is a misutilisation of the circumstance that we are placed

in. We judge every situation with reference to worldly happiness

only. The worldly happiness only effects the outside - they do not

effect us inside. Therefore Swamiji says to renounce desire for

happiness and pleasure - this is proper utilisation of the

unfavourable situations that have presented themselves. Move towards

God - utilise your independence.

 

Meera Das

------------------------------

 

Mahendra ji gave his money to his now so called friend. It may have

been done in good faith. Money may have been given as A Loan. If

this assumption is true, then if Mahendraji is thinking of blaming

his friend for Not returning back his money, then in that case , I

feel that Mahendraji is not being Responsible. By Taking

Responsibility of the situation, Mahendra ji can do what he feels is

correct , without being attached to the Outcome. If he can do that,

he is living in Freedom and not building any Karmas. He may feel

like accepting the situation and Not acting up on it . He may feel

like taking his friend to Court and Yet not building Karma. He is

free to do as long as he is not attached to the Outcome , but Enjoys

the very process of his action . His is Inaction, thus a state of

One ness .

 

This is how i understand the BHAGWAT GITA.

 

love and light ,

Gokul

(Gokul Mehta)

-------------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

-Shree Hari-

 

Mahendraji,

There are a few issues here. Realise that it the person who destroyed

your trust that is the foolish one, not you, that person is looking

away from God, how much harder for that person to break the cycle of

birth and death, with such betrayals. This person needs your

compassion if you can raise yourself to that level, then your healing

has begun. Also remember if that person can make you feel anger and

resentment, then this ex friend is controlling you, but if he/she

cannot, with Bhagwans help, then you are controlling you. I do not

see this as passive, looking to God is never passive.

This article you are asking about is one of the most profound

articles I have ever read, I advise you to read and read it and

think very deeply upon Swamijis words.

 

With Respect and Divine Love,

Mike Keenor

-

 

Hari Om

 

A beautiful question, drawn from real life itself. I am sure

Sadhak's shall rise to the occassion in addressing this real dilemma

for even those who strive and want to be calm and serene.

 

Mahendra Rajji is advised to carefully follow the deliberations of

sadhaks. Sure we have people who experienced similar dilemmas and

conquered over them.

 

In my personal view EVERY SADHAK experiences this dilemma.

 

One thing is quite clear. Silence is infinite times more powerful.

It hurts the sinner more than the sword in hand. Sinner can never

forget his sin. Never !! He always knows he sinned against you. In

reality, already a line of demarcation between you and him has been

drawn. You have already gained , he has already lost ! Why now

confrontation? To show him bad before others? To tell him, he is

wrong! Does he not know it?

 

To get him to " acknowledge " his wrongness? That is not in your

control, however powerful you may be. That only God through nature

can accomplish. Never you can. Try it. You will only end up

incurring more sins.

 

Secondly whether it is fresh karma of the sinful or reaction to old

karma of the aggrieved- whether the aggrieved has not already become

purer? Yes! Yes!

 

Has the aggrieved already not learnt that - Nothing is mine? Yes!

Yes!!

 

Even if aggrieved has power to retaliate, is he not running the

risk of incurring a new sin- if he takes the sword in the hand ?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will the bad karma of friend not leave imprints of darkness over

his soul and give him results- multiplied in intensity and volume?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will not the aggrieved party become wiser and will not the aggrieved

party be ever careful in future ? Yes! Yes!!

 

We shall deliberate it further- we have to be conforming to

Moderators' guidelines..

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

 

This is not past karma but swabhaav of your and swabhaav of other

person with whom you are in a state of reaction. If you drink water

and you drink alcohol, would not there be a difference in you? This

rule applies to every inter-action even between humans, and it is

not past karma but instant karma. Gita never said passive search of

the god, but it was indeed a teaching in midst of war, and passivity

of Arjun was removed. How you concluded the reverse? War is fighting

or karma without concern for results because, the war is chosen so

carefully. If you think the cheating is not a big problem, do not

go for war, only change your way of life to avoid it as did Krishna

leave Mathura for Dwarka. He is thus called RanChod

 

Where did you find references of past karma in Bhagwat Gita? Karma

is a movement of the swabhaav or continuety of transformation. The

swabhaav changes itself by karma, and new swabhaav is sum of old

swabhaav and karma plus direction. Thus, you being cheated or some

one betraying trust is a matter of result of intraction between two

Dharma or two swabhaav like the Mahabharata.

regards

K G

Krishna Gopal

 

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

GUIDELINES FOR POSTING A RESPONSE:

 

1. The group is focused on the Holy Gitaji, therefore, only

responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will be

posted.

 

2. Making reference of Gitaji shloka is highly encouraged - at least

once in the response. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or

other scriptures to substantiate your response.

 

3. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting

sadhaka's time. Under no circustance the answer should be limited to

half a book page, at the most 3-4 paragraphs.

 

4. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the

extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas

 

5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only.

 

6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other

organizations (we do not have the bandwidth to review links to

determine if content is appropriate for distribution).

 

7. Complete reproduction of texts from any book is strongly

discouraged, however partial cut - paste is acceptable and

references may be made of the book or author(but not links to other

sites).

 

8. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone

number, address etc.

 

9. Please use appropriate judgement and only address the response to

a particular individual, where it makes sense to do so.

 

10. Due to the large readership, only those responses will be posted

which are in line with the general philosophy of taking Shrimad

Bhagavad Gita as the reference.

 

11. Moderator will reject any content that does not meet guidelines.

However, for expediency, moderator at his discretion, may modify /

delete portions of the posting for mispelling, wordiness that is

irrelevant to the overall core discussion, personal information,

opinions / feelings etc. that do not align with guidelines.

 

12. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth,

westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use of only

Sanskrit words, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit

bracketed wherever possible.

 

13. Any personal remarks over the knowledge of any sadhak or about

the stage at which any sadhak is standing in his quest / sadhna /

spiritual journey - must not be included in your posting. Also,

there should not be any sarcasm towards fellow sadhaks in this

spiritual learning and sharing.

 

MODERATOR

Ram Ram

[Guest guest]

FOLLOW-UP CLARIFYING QUESTION:

 

Thanks a lot for the respective explanations and interpretations. I

can see the situation in a slightly better perspective now. Sorry,

if I had wrongly quoted the Gita in my quest. But herein I must

clarify that it was nothing to do with any monetary matters. I was

just posing a query as to how to draw a line when a person who takes

advantage of your soft nature by repeatedly ( I repeat, REPEATEDLY)

asking for favours but is not sincere i.e. not honouring his

assurances of repaying in kind. Can we still entertain him knowing

his character? How do one equate this with the Divine's cleansing

process? At times an inner feeling tells that you are being cheated

but compassion in the heart often overrules it. This is where the

real dilemma lies. God has given us the knowledge and experience to

discern the right from the wrong but in such cases often we overlook

it and give in in the name of compassion. By not granting the

favours asked for we feel the guilt. Would that be wrong in the eyes

of the Divine for not utilising his gift of the intuition? However,

I am deeply impressed with the reply that one has to leave

everything to Him and I am going to do just that even if it means

getting 'cheated' repeatedly. Once again thanks a lot for all those

diverse explanations. Mahendra Raj

 

--------------------------------

 

ORIGINAL QUESTION: By being a silent witness to negative happenings are we not

creating more karma, that is, not reacting when we have the means to? An example

- a close friend cheats you after he takes you into his confidence. You come to

know of his ulterior motive later and you have all the means to react by

confronting him. But instead you just let it pass with the impression that it is

all part of the cleansing process by God for clearing past karmas. Herein lies

the dilemma.

QUESTION: How are we to know this is due to a past karma

and what is the assurance it is not a fresh one in this birth? The

Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by being passive it will not help our

pursuit in search of God. By remaining silent to the above situation

the aggrieved person will undergo mental stress and anger and may

also be labeled as a coward for not confronting the person

concerned. If he reacts then he is deemed as going against the

Divine's plans. QUESTION: How does one draw a line in situations

like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind enough to elaborate on this

dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards. mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Mahendraji, Can you please point out specifically what you found in

Swamiji's message, which indicated that he is promoting

passiveness? What is your understanding of acceptance?

Thank you kindly, Ram Ram

 

-----------------------------

NEW POSTING

 

There have been earlier discussions in the Gita Talk group, that can

also supplement and provide a deeper understanding on this subject.

Mahendraji and Other Sadhaks, please review these as well:

 

Why do Bad Things happen to Believers ? Is Life a Compromise ?

/message/1453

 

From Gita Talk Moderator

--------------------------------

PREVIOUS POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Who told you Mahendra Bhaiyya that as a human being we are supposed

to react to situations? How then you will realise God? What is the

difference then between a sadhak and ordinary person, between an

ordinary person and an animal? Animals react ! Daddy comes to you

by " inaction " Bhaiyya! Not by " reaction " ! Who can break this chain

of action-reaction? A Sadhak Bhaiyya!! How? By " inaction " !!

 

Those who hurt you will regret and rue of their own. Keep a wound

healing medicine - called by Mike Bhaiyya as " compassion " - always in

your cupboard. You might need it in future for applying lovingly,

understandingly on his wounds or on the wounds of some soul similar

to him.( Vasudevah Sarvam) It is always a fresh karma as far as he

is concerned ! It is always pursuant to an old karma of yours- as

far as you are concerned.!! Neither you remember, nor he remembers

the prior lives.(Vasudevah Sarvam) Daddy knows. Is Daddy that

ignorant?

 

For you reaction is over. No new action is needed. Move ahead! Why

do you look at your friend, his deeds, his ways? Why don't you look

at God who sent pesticides for removing dirt gathered inside of you?

Father sending medicines to cure fever!! Where is the question of

retaliation? Should not you become happy? Daddy remembered you

Bhaiyya! Damn care that friend. Next time when you meet with him,

whose eyes will be towards south ? Whose face will exhibit

radiance ? Smile it out! " Taans tititkshva Bharat " ( O Arjuna -

forbear that).

 

Don't fall prey to your ego. Don't think he cheated you. Don't think

he proved you to be an idiot and don't now try to prove that you

were not an idiot. You were good then, you are good now and you

should try to remain always good in future. Thinking about him ,

however, certainly is latest and fresh stupidity.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

 

-----------------------------

 

Belief in the theory of Karma does not preclude one to be passive,

tolerant and indifferent. Karma will follow everyone. That does not

mean than one has to escape and hide behind fatalism, indifference

and apathy. Our scripture teaches that we should not tolerate

intolerant ideology and Asuras in the name of tolerance. Our wise

men and Gods have shown the courage to wipe out deviant people. We

should be active in wiping out our disease and enemies. If we

tolerate our enemies and disease in the name of tolerance, we will

be wiped out. Tolerance of intolerant ideologies and intolerant

people is not a positive virtue. It is pathology. Hindu scriptures

remind us that Shanti Comes only from Shakti.

 

Kannan Devan

------------------------------

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

 

Swamiji always says - " Karne mein Saavdhaan, Hone mein prasanna "

In doing we must be careful, but in the situations and circumstances

that come to us, remain ever happy. Whatever situations that

present themselves, we have little control over, we can only control

our actions / reactions and thereby remain ever ALERT " Saavdhaan " ,

particularly in unfavourable situations. We are not encouraged to

be passive therefore do the needful. Swamiji gives example of a

thief that comes into the house to steal, we are supposed to report

him to the authorities, so that he receives the appropriate

punishment.

 

Unfavourable situations and circumstances are sent by God's Grace.

It makes us more careful. If we utilise the situations properly then

they are very useful in our spiritual progress. When we want

something other than the unfavorable situations that have come to

us, it is a misutilisation of the circumstance that we are placed

in. We judge every situation with reference to worldly happiness

only. The worldly happiness only effects the outside - they do not

effect us inside. Therefore Swamiji says to renounce desire for

happiness and pleasure - this is proper utilisation of the

unfavourable situations that have presented themselves. Move towards

God - utilise your independence.

 

Meera Das

------------------------------

 

Mahendra ji gave his money to his now so called friend. It may have

been done in good faith. Money may have been given as A Loan. If

this assumption is true, then if Mahendraji is thinking of blaming

his friend for Not returning back his money, then in that case , I

feel that Mahendraji is not being Responsible. By Taking

Responsibility of the situation, Mahendra ji can do what he feels is

correct , without being attached to the Outcome. If he can do that,

he is living in Freedom and not building any Karmas. He may feel

like accepting the situation and Not acting up on it . He may feel

like taking his friend to Court and Yet not building Karma. He is

free to do as long as he is not attached to the Outcome , but Enjoys

the very process of his action . His is Inaction, thus a state of

One ness .

 

This is how i understand the BHAGWAT GITA.

 

love and light ,

Gokul

(Gokul Mehta)

-------------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

-Shree Hari-

 

Mahendraji,

There are a few issues here. Realise that it the person who destroyed

your trust that is the foolish one, not you, that person is looking

away from God, how much harder for that person to break the cycle of

birth and death, with such betrayals. This person needs your

compassion if you can raise yourself to that level, then your healing

has begun. Also remember if that person can make you feel anger and

resentment, then this ex friend is controlling you, but if he/she

cannot, with Bhagwans help, then you are controlling you. I do not

see this as passive, looking to God is never passive.

This article you are asking about is one of the most profound

articles I have ever read, I advise you to read and read it and

think very deeply upon Swamijis words.

 

With Respect and Divine Love,

Mike Keenor

-

 

Hari Om

 

A beautiful question, drawn from real life itself. I am sure

Sadhak's shall rise to the occassion in addressing this real dilemma

for even those who strive and want to be calm and serene.

 

Mahendra Rajji is advised to carefully follow the deliberations of

sadhaks. Sure we have people who experienced similar dilemmas and

conquered over them.

 

In my personal view EVERY SADHAK experiences this dilemma.

 

One thing is quite clear. Silence is infinite times more powerful.

It hurts the sinner more than the sword in hand. Sinner can never

forget his sin. Never !! He always knows he sinned against you. In

reality, already a line of demarcation between you and him has been

drawn. You have already gained , he has already lost ! Why now

confrontation? To show him bad before others? To tell him, he is

wrong! Does he not know it?

 

To get him to " acknowledge " his wrongness? That is not in your

control, however powerful you may be. That only God through nature

can accomplish. Never you can. Try it. You will only end up

incurring more sins.

 

Secondly whether it is fresh karma of the sinful or reaction to old

karma of the aggrieved- whether the aggrieved has not already become

purer? Yes! Yes!

 

Has the aggrieved already not learnt that - Nothing is mine? Yes!

Yes!!

 

Even if aggrieved has power to retaliate, is he not running the

risk of incurring a new sin- if he takes the sword in the hand ?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will the bad karma of friend not leave imprints of darkness over

his soul and give him results- multiplied in intensity and volume?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will not the aggrieved party become wiser and will not the aggrieved

party be ever careful in future ? Yes! Yes!!

 

We shall deliberate it further- we have to be conforming to

Moderators' guidelines..

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

 

This is not past karma but swabhaav of your and swabhaav of other

person with whom you are in a state of reaction. If you drink water

and you drink alcohol, would not there be a difference in you? This

rule applies to every inter-action even between humans, and it is

not past karma but instant karma. Gita never said passive search of

the god, but it was indeed a teaching in midst of war, and passivity

of Arjun was removed. How you concluded the reverse? War is fighting

or karma without concern for results because, the war is chosen so

carefully. If you think the cheating is not a big problem, do not

go for war, only change your way of life to avoid it as did Krishna

leave Mathura for Dwarka. He is thus called RanChod

 

Where did you find references of past karma in Bhagwat Gita? Karma

is a movement of the swabhaav or continuety of transformation. The

swabhaav changes itself by karma, and new swabhaav is sum of old

swabhaav and karma plus direction. Thus, you being cheated or some

one betraying trust is a matter of result of intraction between two

Dharma or two swabhaav like the Mahabharata.

regards

K G

Krishna Gopal

 

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

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12. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth,

westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use of only

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bracketed wherever possible.

 

13. Any personal remarks over the knowledge of any sadhak or about

the stage at which any sadhak is standing in his quest / sadhna /

spiritual journey - must not be included in your posting. Also,

there should not be any sarcasm towards fellow sadhaks in this

spiritual learning and sharing.

 

MODERATOR

Ram Ram

[Guest guest]

FOLLOW-UP CLARIFYING QUESTION:

 

Thanks a lot for the respective explanations and interpretations. I

can see the situation in a slightly better perspective now. Sorry,

if I had wrongly quoted the Gita in my quest. But herein I must

clarify that it was nothing to do with any monetary matters. I was

just posing a query as to how to draw a line when a person who takes

advantage of your soft nature by repeatedly ( I repeat, REPEATEDLY)

asking for favours but is not sincere i.e. not honouring his

assurances of repaying in kind. Can we still entertain him knowing

his character? How do one equate this with the Divine's cleansing

process? At times an inner feeling tells that you are being cheated

but compassion in the heart often overrules it. This is where the

real dilemma lies. God has given us the knowledge and experience to

discern the right from the wrong but in such cases often we overlook

it and give in in the name of compassion. By not granting the

favours asked for we feel the guilt. Would that be wrong in the eyes

of the Divine for not utilising his gift of the intuition? However,

I am deeply impressed with the reply that one has to leave

everything to Him and I am going to do just that even if it means

getting 'cheated' repeatedly. Once again thanks a lot for all those

diverse explanations. Mahendra Raj

 

--------------------------------

 

ORIGINAL QUESTION: By being a silent witness to negative happenings

are we not creating more karma, that is, not reacting when we have

the means to? An example - a close friend cheats you after he takes

you into his confidence. You come to know of his ulterior motive

later and you have all the means to react by confronting him. But

instead you just let it pass with the impression that it is all part

of the cleansing process by God for clearing past karmas. Herein lies

the dilemma. QUESTION: How are we to know this is due to a past karma

and what is the assurance it is not a fresh one in this birth? The

Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by being passive it will not help our

pursuit in search of God. By remaining silent to the above situation

the aggrieved person will undergo mental stress and anger and may

also be labeled as a coward for not confronting the person

concerned. If he reacts then he is deemed as going against the

Divine's plans. QUESTION: How does one draw a line in situations

like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind enough to elaborate on this

dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards. mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Please review as well similiar Gita Talk discussions at:

/message/1453

From Gita Talk Moderator, Ram Ram

 

-----------------------------

NEW POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Bhaiyyaji - very good decision jee by you in the end! That is

victory of self - bhava (inner expression) of self conquering logic

of mind. Up to there perfect jee. Divine jee. But on the ladder

there is one more creature residing called ego/pride/ ahankaar /

doership - existence in ego of raag and dvesha (likings and

disliking) and dense ignorance and stupidity is lying to be

conquered. There you are a complete failure. Pride of goodness is

that total failure and ignorance. What do you think goodness is your

personal trait only? Does it not exist in every thing created by

nature, every atom has its own importance, every creature, every

tree has its own utility. Every thing has been made for others only.

Trees do not themselves eat the fruits. They are for others.

Mother's Milk is not for her consumption, it is for the baby. Rivers

flow for others, Sun shines for others. Every thing which you claim

to be yours has been received by you from others. You can only use

them for others. Your body also has been given to you by others and

it for others. To give others - is the goal of every thing which has

been made by Mother Nature and Daddy. What is then so important

about your goodness? How can you call a target of your sadhana, your

testing goal to be cheat? On what right. You are giver. He is taker,

now where is confusion?

 

Simply relinquish " desire for happiness " from your target of

compassion and keep doing good, that taker of happiness through you

will become " Bhagvat svaroop " (the very form of God) for you. There

is God inside him also, you are looking at him as if he is a cheat,

how God will be visible to you? Mind it Bhaiyya - if you expect

something from world it is " dukhalayam " . The moment you relinquish

fruits/expectation - this world becomes - Vasudevah Sarvam.

 

Right decision, right path, right acceptance of viveka, right

reliance over bhava, but sold out to false pride of goodness and

sold out to ignorance of considering target of sadhana itself to be

bad unless it provides immediate reciprocation in kind. No Bhaiyya.

Bhavas are not meant to be used for business deals - I give you

compassion, you give me agreed reciprocation in kind. There is no

deal. It is clear he is taker. It is clear you are renouncer. You

become entitled to get Daddy, if you selflessly do as a matter of

duty, and you are settling down to getting that regular habitual

defaulter's reciprocation in kind - can you see the difference

Bhaiyya in results? Hence give him happiness feeling obliged to him

because he is getting as per his destiny only, but he has kindly

made you as " medium " .

 

Says Lord Krishna in Gita to Arjuna - nimitmatra bhav Savyasachin- O

Arjuna ( Savyasachin) become merely a medium.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

-----------------------------

Ram Ram,

No where in Gita, Krishna favored passiveness. In fact it's the

other way. Had Krishna supported passiveness, there wouldn't have

been any Mahabharat. The message is very clear. The problem is with

us, we have misinterpreted it in the past and still doing the same.

For the same purpose of selfishness, few people (few but powerful)

had misinterpreted our Sanatan Dharma also. Today the Sanatan (a

thing which can't change with time) Dharma has become a Glass

Dharma, which can change/break very easily (due to

misinterpretation). Krishna wanted Arjuna to fight for his rights

and that was his Dharma too. Gita says to work as hard as possible,

but without expecting any thing for self. Leave the result to Him,

our duty is to work. If someone tries to misuse us, we should oppose

him. By helping him we are supporting a wrong cause, which is sin.

 

Ashok Goenka

----------------------------

Dear Mahendra ji

 

" As human beings we are supposed to react to situations " - - this

statement by itself may be debatable.

 

However, taking the thought ahead in its spirit - - - - verse 27

Chapter 3 says " All action is caused by the properties of nature " ,

and " the mind presumes that he himself is the doer " . Further verse

28 refers to the gunas - sattwa, rajas, tamas.

 

If you have to react or " act in reply " to someone else's action,

perhaps that is your nature but if you make yourself aware that your

reaction is of the sattwik guna, not the tamsic then you are the

winner.

 

If you decide to be silent - that too is an action . . . of being

silent ; hence you cannot say that being silent is being passive.

 

There will be unending times in one's life when one may actually be

the aggrieved party, other than the example mentoned in your message.

But isn't the Gita teaching us to temper our reactions at ALL such

times ? For you it may have been the betrayal of a friend, for some

one else, or even for you at some other time, it may be some other

situation. If you allow yourself to react with " mental stress, anger,

or even fear of being called " coward " then your reaction is of

tamasic nature.

 

Hope this helps.

 

Regards / Sailesh Kumar Mohta

---------------------------

Hari Om

 

Mahendraji - If what you have stated echoes from within then you are

doing nothing wrong in being compassionate. You are renouncing inert

by any logic, by listening to your heart or by succumbing to

the " svabhav " , it really does not matter. You are bound to get peace

as a result of every renunciation. Unfortunately, most of us in

these situations are still not reconciled with our desire to get

something in return. We in fact are ourselves creating obstacles to

the manifestation of peace to arise in us - by developing this

feeling that we are getting cheated. Where is the question of us

getting cheated, when one repeatedly has proven to dishonour his

agreement? Once we know it, where is it his fault? We know, he

knows - what is then dilemma. Dilemma in fact is internal - the

pride of being good, and an eye on result. Both are not daivi

sampadas (divine properties). We should thank our heart (I call

it " conscience " ) - for it's guidance on the right path.

 

By simply trying to do the good work as a matter of " bhava " , without

expect ANYTHING in return, we will be living life as a sincere

sadhak of karma yoga. Merely by continuing what we are doing,

retaining compassion and throwing away ego of being good and seeing

the other person as not bad. Yes! That is Karma Yoga. Every

renunciation will INSTANTLY generate peace within us. We will never

be short of what we are parting with. NEVER!

 

Jai Shree Krishna

Vyas N B

 

----------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Who told you Mahendra Bhaiyya that as a human being we are supposed

to react to situations? How then you will realise God? What is the

difference then between a sadhak and ordinary person, between an

ordinary person and an animal? Animals react ! Daddy comes to you

by " inaction " Bhaiyya! Not by " reaction " ! Who can break this chain

of action-reaction? A Sadhak Bhaiyya!! How? By " inaction " !!

 

Those who hurt you will regret and rue of their own. Keep a wound

healing medicine - called by Mike Bhaiyya as " compassion " - always in

your cupboard. You might need it in future for applying lovingly,

understandingly on his wounds or on the wounds of some soul similar

to him.( Vasudevah Sarvam) It is always a fresh karma as far as he

is concerned ! It is always pursuant to an old karma of yours- as

far as you are concerned.!! Neither you remember, nor he remembers

the prior lives.(Vasudevah Sarvam) Daddy knows. Is Daddy that

ignorant?

 

For you reaction is over. No new action is needed. Move ahead! Why

do you look at your friend, his deeds, his ways? Why don't you look

at God who sent pesticides for removing dirt gathered inside of you?

Father sending medicines to cure fever!! Where is the question of

retaliation? Should not you become happy? Daddy remembered you

Bhaiyya! Damn care that friend. Next time when you meet with him,

whose eyes will be towards south ? Whose face will exhibit

radiance ? Smile it out! " Taans tititkshva Bharat " ( O Arjuna -

forbear that).

 

Don't fall prey to your ego. Don't think he cheated you. Don't think

he proved you to be an idiot and don't now try to prove that you

were not an idiot. You were good then, you are good now and you

should try to remain always good in future. Thinking about him ,

however, certainly is latest and fresh stupidity.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

 

-----------------------------

 

Belief in the theory of Karma does not preclude one to be passive,

tolerant and indifferent. Karma will follow everyone. That does not

mean than one has to escape and hide behind fatalism, indifference

and apathy. Our scripture teaches that we should not tolerate

intolerant ideology and Asuras in the name of tolerance. Our wise

men and Gods have shown the courage to wipe out deviant people. We

should be active in wiping out our disease and enemies. If we

tolerate our enemies and disease in the name of tolerance, we will

be wiped out. Tolerance of intolerant ideologies and intolerant

people is not a positive virtue. It is pathology. Hindu scriptures

remind us that Shanti Comes only from Shakti.

 

Kannan Devan

------------------------------

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

 

Swamiji always says - " Karne mein Saavdhaan, Hone mein prasanna "

In doing we must be careful, but in the situations and circumstances

that come to us, remain ever happy. Whatever situations that

present themselves, we have little control over, we can only control

our actions / reactions and thereby remain ever ALERT " Saavdhaan " ,

particularly in unfavourable situations. We are not encouraged to

be passive therefore do the needful. Swamiji gives example of a

thief that comes into the house to steal, we are supposed to report

him to the authorities, so that he receives the appropriate

punishment.

 

Unfavourable situations and circumstances are sent by God's Grace.

It makes us more careful. If we utilise the situations properly then

they are very useful in our spiritual progress. When we want

something other than the unfavorable situations that have come to

us, it is a misutilisation of the circumstance that we are placed

in. We judge every situation with reference to worldly happiness

only. The worldly happiness only effects the outside - they do not

effect us inside. Therefore Swamiji says to renounce desire for

happiness and pleasure - this is proper utilisation of the

unfavourable situations that have presented themselves. Move towards

God - utilise your independence.

 

Meera Das

------------------------------

 

Mahendra ji gave his money to his now so called friend. It may have

been done in good faith. Money may have been given as A Loan. If

this assumption is true, then if Mahendraji is thinking of blaming

his friend for Not returning back his money, then in that case , I

feel that Mahendraji is not being Responsible. By Taking

Responsibility of the situation, Mahendra ji can do what he feels is

correct , without being attached to the Outcome. If he can do that,

he is living in Freedom and not building any Karmas. He may feel

like accepting the situation and Not acting up on it . He may feel

like taking his friend to Court and Yet not building Karma. He is

free to do as long as he is not attached to the Outcome , but Enjoys

the very process of his action . His is Inaction, thus a state of

One ness .

 

This is how i understand the BHAGWAT GITA.

 

love and light ,

Gokul

(Gokul Mehta)

-------------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

-Shree Hari-

 

Mahendraji,

There are a few issues here. Realise that it the person who destroyed

your trust that is the foolish one, not you, that person is looking

away from God, how much harder for that person to break the cycle of

birth and death, with such betrayals. This person needs your

compassion if you can raise yourself to that level, then your healing

has begun. Also remember if that person can make you feel anger and

resentment, then this ex friend is controlling you, but if he/she

cannot, with Bhagwans help, then you are controlling you. I do not

see this as passive, looking to God is never passive.

This article you are asking about is one of the most profound

articles I have ever read, I advise you to read and read it and

think very deeply upon Swamijis words.

 

With Respect and Divine Love,

Mike Keenor

-

 

Hari Om

 

A beautiful question, drawn from real life itself. I am sure

Sadhak's shall rise to the occassion in addressing this real dilemma

for even those who strive and want to be calm and serene.

 

Mahendra Rajji is advised to carefully follow the deliberations of

sadhaks. Sure we have people who experienced similar dilemmas and

conquered over them.

 

In my personal view EVERY SADHAK experiences this dilemma.

 

One thing is quite clear. Silence is infinite times more powerful.

It hurts the sinner more than the sword in hand. Sinner can never

forget his sin. Never !! He always knows he sinned against you. In

reality, already a line of demarcation between you and him has been

drawn. You have already gained , he has already lost ! Why now

confrontation? To show him bad before others? To tell him, he is

wrong! Does he not know it?

 

To get him to " acknowledge " his wrongness? That is not in your

control, however powerful you may be. That only God through nature

can accomplish. Never you can. Try it. You will only end up

incurring more sins.

 

Secondly whether it is fresh karma of the sinful or reaction to old

karma of the aggrieved- whether the aggrieved has not already become

purer? Yes! Yes!

 

Has the aggrieved already not learnt that - Nothing is mine? Yes!

Yes!!

 

Even if aggrieved has power to retaliate, is he not running the

risk of incurring a new sin- if he takes the sword in the hand ?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will the bad karma of friend not leave imprints of darkness over

his soul and give him results- multiplied in intensity and volume?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will not the aggrieved party become wiser and will not the aggrieved

party be ever careful in future ? Yes! Yes!!

 

We shall deliberate it further- we have to be conforming to

Moderators' guidelines..

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

 

This is not past karma but swabhaav of your and swabhaav of other

person with whom you are in a state of reaction. If you drink water

and you drink alcohol, would not there be a difference in you? This

rule applies to every inter-action even between humans, and it is

not past karma but instant karma. Gita never said passive search of

the god, but it was indeed a teaching in midst of war, and passivity

of Arjun was removed. How you concluded the reverse? War is fighting

or karma without concern for results because, the war is chosen so

carefully. If you think the cheating is not a big problem, do not

go for war, only change your way of life to avoid it as did Krishna

leave Mathura for Dwarka. He is thus called RanChod

 

Where did you find references of past karma in Bhagwat Gita? Karma

is a movement of the swabhaav or continuety of transformation. The

swabhaav changes itself by karma, and new swabhaav is sum of old

swabhaav and karma plus direction. Thus, you being cheated or some

one betraying trust is a matter of result of intraction between two

Dharma or two swabhaav like the Mahabharata.

regards

K G

Krishna Gopal

 

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

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Ram Ram

[Guest guest]

FOLLOW-UP CLARIFYING QUESTION:

 

Thanks a lot for the respective explanations and interpretations. I

can see the situation in a slightly better perspective now. Sorry,

if I had wrongly quoted the Gita in my quest. But herein I must

clarify that it was nothing to do with any monetary matters. I was

just posing a query as to how to draw a line when a person who takes

advantage of your soft nature by repeatedly ( I repeat, REPEATEDLY)

asking for favours but is not sincere i.e. not honouring his

assurances of repaying in kind. Can we still entertain him knowing

his character? How do one equate this with the Divine's cleansing

process? At times an inner feeling tells that you are being cheated

but compassion in the heart often overrules it. This is where the

real dilemma lies. God has given us the knowledge and experience to

discern the right from the wrong but in such cases often we overlook

it and give in in the name of compassion. By not granting the

favours asked for we feel the guilt. Would that be wrong in the eyes

of the Divine for not utilising his gift of the intuition? However,

I am deeply impressed with the reply that one has to leave

everything to Him and I am going to do just that even if it means

getting 'cheated' repeatedly. Once again thanks a lot for all those

diverse explanations. Mahendra Raj

 

--------------------------------

 

ORIGINAL QUESTION: By being a silent witness to negative happenings

are we not creating more karma, that is, not reacting when we have

the means to? An example - a close friend cheats you after he takes

you into his confidence. You come to know of his ulterior motive

later and you have all the means to react by confronting him. But

instead you just let it pass with the impression that it is all part

of the cleansing process by God for clearing past karmas. Herein lies

the dilemma. QUESTION: How are we to know this is due to a past karma

and what is the assurance it is not a fresh one in this birth? The

Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by being passive it will not help our

pursuit in search of God. By remaining silent to the above situation

the aggrieved person will undergo mental stress and anger and may

also be labeled as a coward for not confronting the person

concerned. If he reacts then he is deemed as going against the

Divine's plans. QUESTION: How does one draw a line in situations

like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind enough to elaborate on this

dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards. mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Please review as well similiar Gita Talk discussions at:

/message/1453

From Gita Talk Moderator, Ram Ram

 

-----------------------------

NEW POSTING

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

IN ENGLISH

Friends, According to Swamiji's discourses, inaction, is also " to do " .

Therefore one cannot remain in inaction (passive). No arguement therefore

remains in the least bit. Even Paramatma says - " Te karmani sangaha maa astu "

" Let there be no desirability towards inaction " (Gita 2:47). Oh! It is not

possible to remain in inaction (passive) and Paramatma also desires that one

does not have desirability to remain passive. Then what remains? Do as per

your duties and continue to offer these to Paramatma. This itself is the

essence according to Swamiji's teachings.

 

Ram Ram

Sarvottam

 

IN HINDI

Bandhuvar, Swamiji ke kathanaanusaar, nishkriya ho jaanaa

bhi " kriya " hai. Ataha, passive aap rah hi nahin sakte. Jhagadaa

fir kuch rahaa hi nahin. Paramatma bhi kahate hai - " Te karmani

sangaha maa astu " " Teri karnamein aasakti na ho " (Gita 2:47).

Arey, passive rehenaa bhi sambhav nahin aur Paramatma bhi chaahate

hai ki passive hone mein aasakti ne ho, toh kyaa bacchaa ? Karma

kartavya anusaar karke, Paramatmaa ko arpan karte jai, Bas yahin hai

saar baat, Swamiji ke nirdeshaanusaar.

Ram Ram

Sarvottam

---------------------------

 

Dear sadhaks,

It is spontanuous process. If u contemplate our body system same

thing is happening.

Whatever we eat drink or just breathe in negative & positive matter

goes in AND then start of regular warbetween these two.

That doesnt mean we stop eating drinking or breathing for these

subjects are not available in pure form.

In MANAS goswamiji says, VIDHI PRAPANCH GUN AWGUN SANA. (All the

creation of brahma is mixuture of good & bad). It is individual

swabhava how much one can bear with bad & tries one to take the path

of rightfull. How many times we have knowingly or unknowingly

committed sins and took refuge in god, asked for his help to solve

the situations? Even then how many of us have kept ourselves from

repeating the mistakes? Had god been thinking to leave us what would

happen?

Raja Gurdasani

-----------------------------

Hare Krishna!! That is a beautiful question and in your question

lies the answer.... See as humans 'we react'.... it is not that we

are supposed to react.. Bhagwaad Gita talks about action, proactive

action and not reaction... ... Taking your own particular

situation.. if your friend takes you into confidence makes u reveal

the secrets then what do you do?.... Take the corrective measure

which means how can you do the damage control.. then make sure that

you do not trust him again.... but yes, do not react which means do

not fill your heart with jealousy envy anger...... so that is the

difference!!! see you acted but never reacted!!!!

kalpana tyagi

 

Dear Mahendraji

 

How to act is up to you. Please inform me where has Lord Krishna

said " do not act and leave it all to God "

 

Thank you and best regards,

 

Gokul Mehta

----------------------------

 

PRIOR POSTING

Jai Hanuman

 

Bhaiyyaji - very good decision jee by you in the end! That is

victory of self - bhava (inner expression) of self conquering logic

of mind. Up to there perfect jee. Divine jee. But on the ladder

there is one more creature residing called ego/pride/ ahankaar /

doership - existence in ego of raag and dvesha (likings and

disliking) and dense ignorance and stupidity is lying to be

conquered. There you are a complete failure. Pride of goodness is

that total failure and ignorance. What do you think goodness is your

personal trait only? Does it not exist in every thing created by

nature, every atom has its own importance, every creature, every

tree has its own utility. Every thing has been made for others only.

Trees do not themselves eat the fruits. They are for others.

Mother's Milk is not for her consumption, it is for the baby. Rivers

flow for others, Sun shines for others. Every thing which you claim

to be yours has been received by you from others. You can only use

them for others. Your body also has been given to you by others and

it for others. To give others - is the goal of every thing which has

been made by Mother Nature and Daddy. What is then so important

about your goodness? How can you call a target of your sadhana, your

testing goal to be cheat? On what right. You are giver. He is taker,

now where is confusion?

 

Simply relinquish " desire for happiness " from your target of

compassion and keep doing good, that taker of happiness through you

will become " Bhagvat svaroop " (the very form of God) for you. There

is God inside him also, you are looking at him as if he is a cheat,

how God will be visible to you? Mind it Bhaiyya - if you expect

something from world it is " dukhalayam " . The moment you relinquish

fruits/expectation - this world becomes - Vasudevah Sarvam.

 

Right decision, right path, right acceptance of viveka, right

reliance over bhava, but sold out to false pride of goodness and

sold out to ignorance of considering target of sadhana itself to be

bad unless it provides immediate reciprocation in kind. No Bhaiyya.

Bhavas are not meant to be used for business deals - I give you

compassion, you give me agreed reciprocation in kind. There is no

deal. It is clear he is taker. It is clear you are renouncer. You

become entitled to get Daddy, if you selflessly do as a matter of

duty, and you are settling down to getting that regular habitual

defaulter's reciprocation in kind - can you see the difference

Bhaiyya in results? Hence give him happiness feeling obliged to him

because he is getting as per his destiny only, but he has kindly

made you as " medium " .

 

Says Lord Krishna in Gita to Arjuna - nimitmatra bhav Savyasachin- O

Arjuna ( Savyasachin) become merely a medium.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

-----------------------------

Ram Ram,

No where in Gita, Krishna favored passiveness. In fact it's the

other way. Had Krishna supported passiveness, there wouldn't have

been any Mahabharat. The message is very clear. The problem is with

us, we have misinterpreted it in the past and still doing the same.

For the same purpose of selfishness, few people (few but powerful)

had misinterpreted our Sanatan Dharma also. Today the Sanatan (a

thing which can't change with time) Dharma has become a Glass

Dharma, which can change/break very easily (due to

misinterpretation). Krishna wanted Arjuna to fight for his rights

and that was his Dharma too. Gita says to work as hard as possible,

but without expecting any thing for self. Leave the result to Him,

our duty is to work. If someone tries to misuse us, we should oppose

him. By helping him we are supporting a wrong cause, which is sin.

 

Ashok Goenka

----------------------------

Dear Mahendra ji

 

" As human beings we are supposed to react to situations " - - this

statement by itself may be debatable.

 

However, taking the thought ahead in its spirit - - - - verse 27

Chapter 3 says " All action is caused by the properties of nature " ,

and " the mind presumes that he himself is the doer " . Further verse

28 refers to the gunas - sattwa, rajas, tamas.

 

If you have to react or " act in reply " to someone else's action,

perhaps that is your nature but if you make yourself aware that your

reaction is of the sattwik guna, not the tamsic then you are the

winner.

 

If you decide to be silent - that too is an action . . . of being

silent ; hence you cannot say that being silent is being passive.

 

There will be unending times in one's life when one may actually be

the aggrieved party, other than the example mentoned in your message.

But isn't the Gita teaching us to temper our reactions at ALL such

times ? For you it may have been the betrayal of a friend, for some

one else, or even for you at some other time, it may be some other

situation. If you allow yourself to react with " mental stress, anger,

or even fear of being called " coward " then your reaction is of

tamasic nature.

 

Hope this helps.

 

Regards / Sailesh Kumar Mohta

---------------------------

Hari Om

 

Mahendraji - If what you have stated echoes from within then you are

doing nothing wrong in being compassionate. You are renouncing inert

by any logic, by listening to your heart or by succumbing to

the " svabhav " , it really does not matter. You are bound to get peace

as a result of every renunciation. Unfortunately, most of us in

these situations are still not reconciled with our desire to get

something in return. We in fact are ourselves creating obstacles to

the manifestation of peace to arise in us - by developing this

feeling that we are getting cheated. Where is the question of us

getting cheated, when one repeatedly has proven to dishonour his

agreement? Once we know it, where is it his fault? We know, he

knows - what is then dilemma. Dilemma in fact is internal - the

pride of being good, and an eye on result. Both are not daivi

sampadas (divine properties). We should thank our heart (I call

it " conscience " ) - for it's guidance on the right path.

 

By simply trying to do the good work as a matter of " bhava " , without

expect ANYTHING in return, we will be living life as a sincere

sadhak of karma yoga. Merely by continuing what we are doing,

retaining compassion and throwing away ego of being good and seeing

the other person as not bad. Yes! That is Karma Yoga. Every

renunciation will INSTANTLY generate peace within us. We will never

be short of what we are parting with. NEVER!

 

Jai Shree Krishna

Vyas N B

 

----------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Who told you Mahendra Bhaiyya that as a human being we are supposed

to react to situations? How then you will realise God? What is the

difference then between a sadhak and ordinary person, between an

ordinary person and an animal? Animals react ! Daddy comes to you

by " inaction " Bhaiyya! Not by " reaction " ! Who can break this chain

of action-reaction? A Sadhak Bhaiyya!! How? By " inaction " !!

 

Those who hurt you will regret and rue of their own. Keep a wound

healing medicine - called by Mike Bhaiyya as " compassion " - always in

your cupboard. You might need it in future for applying lovingly,

understandingly on his wounds or on the wounds of some soul similar

to him.( Vasudevah Sarvam) It is always a fresh karma as far as he

is concerned ! It is always pursuant to an old karma of yours- as

far as you are concerned.!! Neither you remember, nor he remembers

the prior lives.(Vasudevah Sarvam) Daddy knows. Is Daddy that

ignorant?

 

For you reaction is over. No new action is needed. Move ahead! Why

do you look at your friend, his deeds, his ways? Why don't you look

at God who sent pesticides for removing dirt gathered inside of you?

Father sending medicines to cure fever!! Where is the question of

retaliation? Should not you become happy? Daddy remembered you

Bhaiyya! Damn care that friend. Next time when you meet with him,

whose eyes will be towards south ? Whose face will exhibit

radiance ? Smile it out! " Taans tititkshva Bharat " ( O Arjuna -

forbear that).

 

Don't fall prey to your ego. Don't think he cheated you. Don't think

he proved you to be an idiot and don't now try to prove that you

were not an idiot. You were good then, you are good now and you

should try to remain always good in future. Thinking about him ,

however, certainly is latest and fresh stupidity.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

 

-----------------------------

 

Belief in the theory of Karma does not preclude one to be passive,

tolerant and indifferent. Karma will follow everyone. That does not

mean than one has to escape and hide behind fatalism, indifference

and apathy. Our scripture teaches that we should not tolerate

intolerant ideology and Asuras in the name of tolerance. Our wise

men and Gods have shown the courage to wipe out deviant people. We

should be active in wiping out our disease and enemies. If we

tolerate our enemies and disease in the name of tolerance, we will

be wiped out. Tolerance of intolerant ideologies and intolerant

people is not a positive virtue. It is pathology. Hindu scriptures

remind us that Shanti Comes only from Shakti.

 

Kannan Devan

------------------------------

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

 

Swamiji always says - " Karne mein Saavdhaan, Hone mein prasanna "

In doing we must be careful, but in the situations and circumstances

that come to us, remain ever happy. Whatever situations that

present themselves, we have little control over, we can only control

our actions / reactions and thereby remain ever ALERT " Saavdhaan " ,

particularly in unfavourable situations. We are not encouraged to

be passive therefore do the needful. Swamiji gives example of a

thief that comes into the house to steal, we are supposed to report

him to the authorities, so that he receives the appropriate

punishment.

 

Unfavourable situations and circumstances are sent by God's Grace.

It makes us more careful. If we utilise the situations properly then

they are very useful in our spiritual progress. When we want

something other than the unfavorable situations that have come to

us, it is a misutilisation of the circumstance that we are placed

in. We judge every situation with reference to worldly happiness

only. The worldly happiness only effects the outside - they do not

effect us inside. Therefore Swamiji says to renounce desire for

happiness and pleasure - this is proper utilisation of the

unfavourable situations that have presented themselves. Move towards

God - utilise your independence.

 

Meera Das

------------------------------

 

Mahendra ji gave his money to his now so called friend. It may have

been done in good faith. Money may have been given as A Loan. If

this assumption is true, then if Mahendraji is thinking of blaming

his friend for Not returning back his money, then in that case , I

feel that Mahendraji is not being Responsible. By Taking

Responsibility of the situation, Mahendra ji can do what he feels is

correct , without being attached to the Outcome. If he can do that,

he is living in Freedom and not building any Karmas. He may feel

like accepting the situation and Not acting up on it . He may feel

like taking his friend to Court and Yet not building Karma. He is

free to do as long as he is not attached to the Outcome , but Enjoys

the very process of his action . His is Inaction, thus a state of

One ness .

 

This is how i understand the BHAGWAT GITA.

 

love and light ,

Gokul

(Gokul Mehta)

-------------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

-Shree Hari-

 

Mahendraji,

There are a few issues here. Realise that it the person who destroyed

your trust that is the foolish one, not you, that person is looking

away from God, how much harder for that person to break the cycle of

birth and death, with such betrayals. This person needs your

compassion if you can raise yourself to that level, then your healing

has begun. Also remember if that person can make you feel anger and

resentment, then this ex friend is controlling you, but if he/she

cannot, with Bhagwans help, then you are controlling you. I do not

see this as passive, looking to God is never passive.

This article you are asking about is one of the most profound

articles I have ever read, I advise you to read and read it and

think very deeply upon Swamijis words.

 

With Respect and Divine Love,

Mike Keenor

-

 

Hari Om

 

A beautiful question, drawn from real life itself. I am sure

Sadhak's shall rise to the occassion in addressing this real dilemma

for even those who strive and want to be calm and serene.

 

Mahendra Rajji is advised to carefully follow the deliberations of

sadhaks. Sure we have people who experienced similar dilemmas and

conquered over them.

 

In my personal view EVERY SADHAK experiences this dilemma.

 

One thing is quite clear. Silence is infinite times more powerful.

It hurts the sinner more than the sword in hand. Sinner can never

forget his sin. Never !! He always knows he sinned against you. In

reality, already a line of demarcation between you and him has been

drawn. You have already gained , he has already lost ! Why now

confrontation? To show him bad before others? To tell him, he is

wrong! Does he not know it?

 

To get him to " acknowledge " his wrongness? That is not in your

control, however powerful you may be. That only God through nature

can accomplish. Never you can. Try it. You will only end up

incurring more sins.

 

Secondly whether it is fresh karma of the sinful or reaction to old

karma of the aggrieved- whether the aggrieved has not already become

purer? Yes! Yes!

 

Has the aggrieved already not learnt that - Nothing is mine? Yes!

Yes!!

 

Even if aggrieved has power to retaliate, is he not running the

risk of incurring a new sin- if he takes the sword in the hand ?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will the bad karma of friend not leave imprints of darkness over

his soul and give him results- multiplied in intensity and volume?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will not the aggrieved party become wiser and will not the aggrieved

party be ever careful in future ? Yes! Yes!!

 

We shall deliberate it further- we have to be conforming to

Moderators' guidelines..

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

 

This is not past karma but swabhaav of your and swabhaav of other

person with whom you are in a state of reaction. If you drink water

and you drink alcohol, would not there be a difference in you? This

rule applies to every inter-action even between humans, and it is

not past karma but instant karma. Gita never said passive search of

the god, but it was indeed a teaching in midst of war, and passivity

of Arjun was removed. How you concluded the reverse? War is fighting

or karma without concern for results because, the war is chosen so

carefully. If you think the cheating is not a big problem, do not

go for war, only change your way of life to avoid it as did Krishna

leave Mathura for Dwarka. He is thus called RanChod

 

Where did you find references of past karma in Bhagwat Gita? Karma

is a movement of the swabhaav or continuety of transformation. The

swabhaav changes itself by karma, and new swabhaav is sum of old

swabhaav and karma plus direction. Thus, you being cheated or some

one betraying trust is a matter of result of intraction between two

Dharma or two swabhaav like the Mahabharata.

regards

K G

Krishna Gopal

 

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

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Ram Ram

[Guest guest]

FOLLOW-UP CLARIFYING QUESTION:

 

Thanks a lot for the respective explanations and interpretations. I

can see the situation in a slightly better perspective now. Sorry,

if I had wrongly quoted the Gita in my quest. But herein I must

clarify that it was nothing to do with any monetary matters. I was

just posing a query as to how to draw a line when a person who takes

advantage of your soft nature by repeatedly ( I repeat, REPEATEDLY)

asking for favours but is not sincere i.e. not honouring his

assurances of repaying in kind. Can we still entertain him knowing

his character? How do one equate this with the Divine's cleansing

process? At times an inner feeling tells that you are being cheated

but compassion in the heart often overrules it. This is where the

real dilemma lies. God has given us the knowledge and experience to

discern the right from the wrong but in such cases often we overlook

it and give in in the name of compassion. By not granting the

favours asked for we feel the guilt. Would that be wrong in the eyes

of the Divine for not utilising his gift of the intuition? However,

I am deeply impressed with the reply that one has to leave

everything to Him and I am going to do just that even if it means

getting 'cheated' repeatedly. Once again thanks a lot for all those

diverse explanations. Mahendra Raj

 

--------------------------------

NEW POSTING:

 

Thanks a lot again for all the various insights and explanations

givene to my follow-up query. What I have learnt from all of you

is to be oblivious of ulterior motives of others and without

hesitation continue to meet their demand of favours and leave the

consequences to the Good Lord. Before I sign out, just wanted to

emphasise an equation to the query raised earlier. During our life

times we have met countless beggars and are still continuing to come

across them. Going by your explanations we are the givers and they,

takers. We' ve also come across certain so-called beggars who are

actually well-off but continue to deceive the general public with

their shabby appearances. Now, we know their true self, but in the

midst of company in a restaurant they approach us for alms. They

take more advantange especially when one is seen with female

companions. Knowing their true identities we are at cross roads.?

Some devotees say the beggars are paying for their past life karmas

and we should not bother them. This was the essence of my query and

what does our scriptures say on this i.e. whether to give or not.

However, I must indeed thank all of you for giving value-added

insights into the Gita whilst replying. Thanks once again and May

Lord Krishna continue to guide us in our spiritual pursuits.

 

Mahendra Raj

 

--------------------------------

Narayan Narayan

 

IN ENGLISH

The relationship we have with the world is a make believe one (not

genuine). Whereas our relationship with Paramatma (God) is innate,

natural. That which is a make believe relation, we must serve it.

Whereas that which is natural and innate, we must love it. We must

desire neither from the world, nor from Bhagwaan. It is sadhak's

characteristic to serve and to love. When the sadhak looks at the

world, he serves, whereas when he see Paramatma (God) in Parmatma's

essential from and as the Supreme Being, then He loves. But when

the sadhak accepts this Truth that Bhagwaan is mine, then what is

there to be done? Only the mistake is to be corrected. (You must

have understood the inner sentiments of - to serve and to love).

Ramchandra

 

IN HINDI

Sansaar ke sath hamara shambdh mana hua hai(banavati)hai

Or Paramatma ke sath hamara shambdh vastvik hai.

Jiske sath mana hua hai uski seva karni hai.

Vastavik ke sath prem karna hai. Na toh sansaar se kuch

Chahna hai or na bhagwan se kuch chahna hai,seva or prem

Sadhak ka swaroop hai. Jab sadhak sansaar mein dekhta tab

Vo seva karta hai or parmatma ko parmatmaroop mein dekhta hai

Tho prem kartha hai, parantu sadhak jab e s satya ko swikar karle

Ki bhagwan mere hai karna kya hai? khali bhool sudhar ni hai

(seva or prem ka bhavarth aap samaz gaye honge)

(ramchandra)

 

 

 

Dear Sadaks,

Bagavan asked Arjuna to wage war though Arjuna refused. Arjuna

thought that he is going to kill his Guru/relatives/friends etc. But

Bhagavan imparted knowledge that Arjuna should upkeep Dharma as a he

was king to punish unrightious people. Ex: Dronachari (Guru) was not

in his dharma. Brahmin dharma not to lift arms. So also all the

persons on the side of Duryodhan. To act against a friend who

betrayed. Now Pandavas were tricked into Wax house by Duryodhan and

set fire. Pandavas escaped but never immediately revenged. But later

took it as act of Karma not as revenge by listening to Bhagavan and

waged war. One can avoid contact of such friend. Your over

confidence made your friend cheat you.

B.Sathyanarayan

--------------------------------

PREVIOUS POSTING:

ORIGINAL QUESTION: By being a silent witness to negative happenings

are we not creating more karma, that is, not reacting when we have

the means to? An example - a close friend cheats you after he takes

you into his confidence. You come to know of his ulterior motive

later and you have all the means to react by confronting him. But

instead you just let it pass with the impression that it is all part

of the cleansing process by God for clearing past karmas. Herein lies

the dilemma. QUESTION: How are we to know this is due to a past karma

and what is the assurance it is not a fresh one in this birth? The

Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by being passive it will not help our

pursuit in search of God. By remaining silent to the above situation

the aggrieved person will undergo mental stress and anger and may

also be labeled as a coward for not confronting the person

concerned. If he reacts then he is deemed as going against the

Divine's plans. QUESTION: How does one draw a line in situations

like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind enough to elaborate on this

dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards. mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Please review as well similiar Gita Talk discussions at:

/message/1453

From Gita Talk Moderator, Ram Ram

 

-----------------------------

NEW POSTING

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

IN ENGLISH

Friends, According to Swamiji's discourses, inaction, is also " to

do " .

Therefore one cannot remain in inaction (passive). No arguement

therefore

remains in the least bit. Even Paramatma says - " Te karmani sangaha

maa astu "

" Let there be no desirability towards inaction " (Gita 2:47). Oh! It

is not

possible to remain in inaction (passive) and Paramatma also desires

that one

does not have desirability to remain passive. Then what remains? Do

as per

your duties and continue to offer these to Paramatma. This itself is

the

essence according to Swamiji's teachings.

 

Ram Ram

Sarvottam

 

IN HINDI

Bandhuvar, Swamiji ke kathanaanusaar, nishkriya ho jaanaa

bhi " kriya " hai. Ataha, passive aap rah hi nahin sakte. Jhagadaa

fir kuch rahaa hi nahin. Paramatma bhi kahate hai - " Te karmani

sangaha maa astu " " Teri karnamein aasakti na ho " (Gita 2:47).

Arey, passive rehenaa bhi sambhav nahin aur Paramatma bhi chaahate

hai ki passive hone mein aasakti ne ho, toh kyaa bacchaa ? Karma

kartavya anusaar karke, Paramatmaa ko arpan karte jai, Bas yahin hai

saar baat, Swamiji ke nirdeshaanusaar.

Ram Ram

Sarvottam

---------------------------

 

Dear sadhaks,

It is spontanuous process. If u contemplate our body system same

thing is happening.

Whatever we eat drink or just breathe in negative & positive matter

goes in AND then start of regular warbetween these two.

That doesnt mean we stop eating drinking or breathing for these

subjects are not available in pure form.

In MANAS goswamiji says, VIDHI PRAPANCH GUN AWGUN SANA. (All the

creation of brahma is mixuture of good & bad). It is individual

swabhava how much one can bear with bad & tries one to take the path

of rightfull. How many times we have knowingly or unknowingly

committed sins and took refuge in god, asked for his help to solve

the situations? Even then how many of us have kept ourselves from

repeating the mistakes? Had god been thinking to leave us what would

happen?

Raja Gurdasani

-----------------------------

Hare Krishna!! That is a beautiful question and in your question

lies the answer.... See as humans 'we react'.... it is not that we

are supposed to react.. Bhagwaad Gita talks about action, proactive

action and not reaction... ... Taking your own particular

situation.. if your friend takes you into confidence makes u reveal

the secrets then what do you do?.... Take the corrective measure

which means how can you do the damage control.. then make sure that

you do not trust him again.... but yes, do not react which means do

not fill your heart with jealousy envy anger...... so that is the

difference!!! see you acted but never reacted!!!!

kalpana tyagi

 

Dear Mahendraji

 

How to act is up to you. Please inform me where has Lord Krishna

said " do not act and leave it all to God "

 

Thank you and best regards,

 

Gokul Mehta

----------------------------

 

PRIOR POSTING

Jai Hanuman

 

Bhaiyyaji - very good decision jee by you in the end! That is

victory of self - bhava (inner expression) of self conquering logic

of mind. Up to there perfect jee. Divine jee. But on the ladder

there is one more creature residing called ego/pride/ ahankaar /

doership - existence in ego of raag and dvesha (likings and

disliking) and dense ignorance and stupidity is lying to be

conquered. There you are a complete failure. Pride of goodness is

that total failure and ignorance. What do you think goodness is your

personal trait only? Does it not exist in every thing created by

nature, every atom has its own importance, every creature, every

tree has its own utility. Every thing has been made for others only.

Trees do not themselves eat the fruits. They are for others.

Mother's Milk is not for her consumption, it is for the baby. Rivers

flow for others, Sun shines for others. Every thing which you claim

to be yours has been received by you from others. You can only use

them for others. Your body also has been given to you by others and

it for others. To give others - is the goal of every thing which has

been made by Mother Nature and Daddy. What is then so important

about your goodness? How can you call a target of your sadhana, your

testing goal to be cheat? On what right. You are giver. He is taker,

now where is confusion?

 

Simply relinquish " desire for happiness " from your target of

compassion and keep doing good, that taker of happiness through you

will become " Bhagvat svaroop " (the very form of God) for you. There

is God inside him also, you are looking at him as if he is a cheat,

how God will be visible to you? Mind it Bhaiyya - if you expect

something from world it is " dukhalayam " . The moment you relinquish

fruits/expectation - this world becomes - Vasudevah Sarvam.

 

Right decision, right path, right acceptance of viveka, right

reliance over bhava, but sold out to false pride of goodness and

sold out to ignorance of considering target of sadhana itself to be

bad unless it provides immediate reciprocation in kind. No Bhaiyya.

Bhavas are not meant to be used for business deals - I give you

compassion, you give me agreed reciprocation in kind. There is no

deal. It is clear he is taker. It is clear you are renouncer. You

become entitled to get Daddy, if you selflessly do as a matter of

duty, and you are settling down to getting that regular habitual

defaulter's reciprocation in kind - can you see the difference

Bhaiyya in results? Hence give him happiness feeling obliged to him

because he is getting as per his destiny only, but he has kindly

made you as " medium " .

 

Says Lord Krishna in Gita to Arjuna - nimitmatra bhav Savyasachin- O

Arjuna ( Savyasachin) become merely a medium.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

-----------------------------

Ram Ram,

No where in Gita, Krishna favored passiveness. In fact it's the

other way. Had Krishna supported passiveness, there wouldn't have

been any Mahabharat. The message is very clear. The problem is with

us, we have misinterpreted it in the past and still doing the same.

For the same purpose of selfishness, few people (few but powerful)

had misinterpreted our Sanatan Dharma also. Today the Sanatan (a

thing which can't change with time) Dharma has become a Glass

Dharma, which can change/break very easily (due to

misinterpretation). Krishna wanted Arjuna to fight for his rights

and that was his Dharma too. Gita says to work as hard as possible,

but without expecting any thing for self. Leave the result to Him,

our duty is to work. If someone tries to misuse us, we should oppose

him. By helping him we are supporting a wrong cause, which is sin.

 

Ashok Goenka

----------------------------

Dear Mahendra ji

 

" As human beings we are supposed to react to situations " - - this

statement by itself may be debatable.

 

However, taking the thought ahead in its spirit - - - - verse 27

Chapter 3 says " All action is caused by the properties of nature " ,

and " the mind presumes that he himself is the doer " . Further verse

28 refers to the gunas - sattwa, rajas, tamas.

 

If you have to react or " act in reply " to someone else's action,

perhaps that is your nature but if you make yourself aware that your

reaction is of the sattwik guna, not the tamsic then you are the

winner.

 

If you decide to be silent - that too is an action . . . of being

silent ; hence you cannot say that being silent is being passive.

 

There will be unending times in one's life when one may actually be

the aggrieved party, other than the example mentoned in your message.

But isn't the Gita teaching us to temper our reactions at ALL such

times ? For you it may have been the betrayal of a friend, for some

one else, or even for you at some other time, it may be some other

situation. If you allow yourself to react with " mental stress, anger,

or even fear of being called " coward " then your reaction is of

tamasic nature.

 

Hope this helps.

 

Regards / Sailesh Kumar Mohta

---------------------------

Hari Om

 

Mahendraji - If what you have stated echoes from within then you are

doing nothing wrong in being compassionate. You are renouncing inert

by any logic, by listening to your heart or by succumbing to

the " svabhav " , it really does not matter. You are bound to get peace

as a result of every renunciation. Unfortunately, most of us in

these situations are still not reconciled with our desire to get

something in return. We in fact are ourselves creating obstacles to

the manifestation of peace to arise in us - by developing this

feeling that we are getting cheated. Where is the question of us

getting cheated, when one repeatedly has proven to dishonour his

agreement? Once we know it, where is it his fault? We know, he

knows - what is then dilemma. Dilemma in fact is internal - the

pride of being good, and an eye on result. Both are not daivi

sampadas (divine properties). We should thank our heart (I call

it " conscience " ) - for it's guidance on the right path.

 

By simply trying to do the good work as a matter of " bhava " , without

expect ANYTHING in return, we will be living life as a sincere

sadhak of karma yoga. Merely by continuing what we are doing,

retaining compassion and throwing away ego of being good and seeing

the other person as not bad. Yes! That is Karma Yoga. Every

renunciation will INSTANTLY generate peace within us. We will never

be short of what we are parting with. NEVER!

 

Jai Shree Krishna

Vyas N B

 

----------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Who told you Mahendra Bhaiyya that as a human being we are supposed

to react to situations? How then you will realise God? What is the

difference then between a sadhak and ordinary person, between an

ordinary person and an animal? Animals react ! Daddy comes to you

by " inaction " Bhaiyya! Not by " reaction " ! Who can break this chain

of action-reaction? A Sadhak Bhaiyya!! How? By " inaction " !!

 

Those who hurt you will regret and rue of their own. Keep a wound

healing medicine - called by Mike Bhaiyya as " compassion " - always in

your cupboard. You might need it in future for applying lovingly,

understandingly on his wounds or on the wounds of some soul similar

to him.( Vasudevah Sarvam) It is always a fresh karma as far as he

is concerned ! It is always pursuant to an old karma of yours- as

far as you are concerned.!! Neither you remember, nor he remembers

the prior lives.(Vasudevah Sarvam) Daddy knows. Is Daddy that

ignorant?

 

For you reaction is over. No new action is needed. Move ahead! Why

do you look at your friend, his deeds, his ways? Why don't you look

at God who sent pesticides for removing dirt gathered inside of you?

Father sending medicines to cure fever!! Where is the question of

retaliation? Should not you become happy? Daddy remembered you

Bhaiyya! Damn care that friend. Next time when you meet with him,

whose eyes will be towards south ? Whose face will exhibit

radiance ? Smile it out! " Taans tititkshva Bharat " ( O Arjuna -

forbear that).

 

Don't fall prey to your ego. Don't think he cheated you. Don't think

he proved you to be an idiot and don't now try to prove that you

were not an idiot. You were good then, you are good now and you

should try to remain always good in future. Thinking about him ,

however, certainly is latest and fresh stupidity.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

 

-----------------------------

 

Belief in the theory of Karma does not preclude one to be passive,

tolerant and indifferent. Karma will follow everyone. That does not

mean than one has to escape and hide behind fatalism, indifference

and apathy. Our scripture teaches that we should not tolerate

intolerant ideology and Asuras in the name of tolerance. Our wise

men and Gods have shown the courage to wipe out deviant people. We

should be active in wiping out our disease and enemies. If we

tolerate our enemies and disease in the name of tolerance, we will

be wiped out. Tolerance of intolerant ideologies and intolerant

people is not a positive virtue. It is pathology. Hindu scriptures

remind us that Shanti Comes only from Shakti.

 

Kannan Devan

------------------------------

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

 

Swamiji always says - " Karne mein Saavdhaan, Hone mein prasanna "

In doing we must be careful, but in the situations and circumstances

that come to us, remain ever happy. Whatever situations that

present themselves, we have little control over, we can only control

our actions / reactions and thereby remain ever ALERT " Saavdhaan " ,

particularly in unfavourable situations. We are not encouraged to

be passive therefore do the needful. Swamiji gives example of a

thief that comes into the house to steal, we are supposed to report

him to the authorities, so that he receives the appropriate

punishment.

 

Unfavourable situations and circumstances are sent by God's Grace.

It makes us more careful. If we utilise the situations properly then

they are very useful in our spiritual progress. When we want

something other than the unfavorable situations that have come to

us, it is a misutilisation of the circumstance that we are placed

in. We judge every situation with reference to worldly happiness

only. The worldly happiness only effects the outside - they do not

effect us inside. Therefore Swamiji says to renounce desire for

happiness and pleasure - this is proper utilisation of the

unfavourable situations that have presented themselves. Move towards

God - utilise your independence.

 

Meera Das

------------------------------

 

Mahendra ji gave his money to his now so called friend. It may have

been done in good faith. Money may have been given as A Loan. If

this assumption is true, then if Mahendraji is thinking of blaming

his friend for Not returning back his money, then in that case , I

feel that Mahendraji is not being Responsible. By Taking

Responsibility of the situation, Mahendra ji can do what he feels is

correct , without being attached to the Outcome. If he can do that,

he is living in Freedom and not building any Karmas. He may feel

like accepting the situation and Not acting up on it . He may feel

like taking his friend to Court and Yet not building Karma. He is

free to do as long as he is not attached to the Outcome , but Enjoys

the very process of his action . His is Inaction, thus a state of

One ness .

 

This is how i understand the BHAGWAT GITA.

 

love and light ,

Gokul

(Gokul Mehta)

-------------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

-Shree Hari-

 

Mahendraji,

There are a few issues here. Realise that it the person who destroyed

your trust that is the foolish one, not you, that person is looking

away from God, how much harder for that person to break the cycle of

birth and death, with such betrayals. This person needs your

compassion if you can raise yourself to that level, then your healing

has begun. Also remember if that person can make you feel anger and

resentment, then this ex friend is controlling you, but if he/she

cannot, with Bhagwans help, then you are controlling you. I do not

see this as passive, looking to God is never passive.

This article you are asking about is one of the most profound

articles I have ever read, I advise you to read and read it and

think very deeply upon Swamijis words.

 

With Respect and Divine Love,

Mike Keenor

-

 

Hari Om

 

A beautiful question, drawn from real life itself. I am sure

Sadhak's shall rise to the occassion in addressing this real dilemma

for even those who strive and want to be calm and serene.

 

Mahendra Rajji is advised to carefully follow the deliberations of

sadhaks. Sure we have people who experienced similar dilemmas and

conquered over them.

 

In my personal view EVERY SADHAK experiences this dilemma.

 

One thing is quite clear. Silence is infinite times more powerful.

It hurts the sinner more than the sword in hand. Sinner can never

forget his sin. Never !! He always knows he sinned against you. In

reality, already a line of demarcation between you and him has been

drawn. You have already gained , he has already lost ! Why now

confrontation? To show him bad before others? To tell him, he is

wrong! Does he not know it?

 

To get him to " acknowledge " his wrongness? That is not in your

control, however powerful you may be. That only God through nature

can accomplish. Never you can. Try it. You will only end up

incurring more sins.

 

Secondly whether it is fresh karma of the sinful or reaction to old

karma of the aggrieved- whether the aggrieved has not already become

purer? Yes! Yes!

 

Has the aggrieved already not learnt that - Nothing is mine? Yes!

Yes!!

 

Even if aggrieved has power to retaliate, is he not running the

risk of incurring a new sin- if he takes the sword in the hand ?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will the bad karma of friend not leave imprints of darkness over

his soul and give him results- multiplied in intensity and volume?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will not the aggrieved party become wiser and will not the aggrieved

party be ever careful in future ? Yes! Yes!!

 

We shall deliberate it further- we have to be conforming to

Moderators' guidelines..

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

 

This is not past karma but swabhaav of your and swabhaav of other

person with whom you are in a state of reaction. If you drink water

and you drink alcohol, would not there be a difference in you? This

rule applies to every inter-action even between humans, and it is

not past karma but instant karma. Gita never said passive search of

the god, but it was indeed a teaching in midst of war, and passivity

of Arjun was removed. How you concluded the reverse? War is fighting

or karma without concern for results because, the war is chosen so

carefully. If you think the cheating is not a big problem, do not

go for war, only change your way of life to avoid it as did Krishna

leave Mathura for Dwarka. He is thus called RanChod

 

Where did you find references of past karma in Bhagwat Gita? Karma

is a movement of the swabhaav or continuety of transformation. The

swabhaav changes itself by karma, and new swabhaav is sum of old

swabhaav and karma plus direction. Thus, you being cheated or some

one betraying trust is a matter of result of intraction between two

Dharma or two swabhaav like the Mahabharata.

regards

K G

Krishna Gopal

 

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

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Ram Ram

[Guest guest]

FOLLOW-UP CLARIFYING QUESTION:

 

Thanks a lot for the respective explanations and interpretations. I

can see the situation in a slightly better perspective now. Sorry,

if I had wrongly quoted the Gita in my quest. But herein I must

clarify that it was nothing to do with any monetary matters. I was

just posing a query as to how to draw a line when a person who takes

advantage of your soft nature by repeatedly ( I repeat, REPEATEDLY)

asking for favours but is not sincere i.e. not honouring his

assurances of repaying in kind. Can we still entertain him knowing

his character? How do one equate this with the Divine's cleansing

process? At times an inner feeling tells that you are being cheated

but compassion in the heart often overrules it. This is where the

real dilemma lies. God has given us the knowledge and experience to

discern the right from the wrong but in such cases often we overlook

it and give in in the name of compassion. By not granting the

favours asked for we feel the guilt. Would that be wrong in the eyes

of the Divine for not utilising his gift of the intuition? However,

I am deeply impressed with the reply that one has to leave

everything to Him and I am going to do just that even if it means

getting 'cheated' repeatedly. Once again thanks a lot for all those

diverse explanations. Mahendra Raj

 

--------------------------------

FOLLOW-UP CLARIFYING QUESTION - 2:

 

Thanks a lot again for all the various insights and explanations

givene to my follow-up query. What I have learnt from all of you

is to be oblivious of ulterior motives of others and without

hesitation continue to meet their demand of favours and leave the

consequences to the Good Lord. Before I sign out, just wanted to

emphasise an equation to the query raised earlier. During our life

times we have met countless beggars and are still continuing to come

across them. Going by your explanations we are the givers and they,

takers. We' ve also come across certain so-called beggars who are

actually well-off but continue to deceive the general public with

their shabby appearances. Now, we know their true self, but in the

midst of company in a restaurant they approach us for alms. They

take more advantange especially when one is seen with female

companions. Knowing their true identities we are at cross roads.?

Some devotees say the beggars are paying for their past life karmas

and we should not bother them. This was the essence of my query and

what does our scriptures say on this i.e. whether to give or not.

However, I must indeed thank all of you for giving value-added

insights into the Gita whilst replying. Thanks once again and May

Lord Krishna continue to guide us in our spiritual pursuits.

 

Mahendra Raj

 

-------------------------------

NEW POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Says Goswamiji in Ramayana

 

" HETU RAHIT JAG, JUG UPKAARI ! TUM TUMHAR SEVAK ASURAARI !! "

 

Only two kinds of people are real renouncers (givers) - one God

Himself , two - the devotees of God (Sadhaks), Jee. When one starts

giving to the world, he is called sadhak.

 

Gita Jee Says - for sattwik charity-

 

" Datavyamiti yaddanam, deeyate nupkaarine " . (17:20)

 

A donation which is given thinking that " to donate is my duty " ,

without expecting any reciprocation - and considering the time,

place and quality of receiver is sattvik donation.

 

Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaj however does not give much importance

to the credentials of receiver for at least donation of water, food

and medicines. He states that we should never look how the beggar

actually is, what is his duty etc. What is the giver's intention is

of more importance. One should give as duty and forget.

 

A donation given unrespectfully, keeping results in mind, taking

troubles or regretfully etc does not give " sat " results as per Gita

Jee.

 

That is all is summing up of Ramayan and Gita on the subject, Jee.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

-------------------------------

Hari Om

 

The beauty about the creation of God , this world, is that it

appears to us based on our perception of it. When we desire

something out of it ( i e when we are takers)_ it is

always " dukhalayam " for us. When we start " giving " , when we stop

desiring happiness out of it , then the same world/people starts

appearing " Bhagwatswaroop " ( the form of God) to us.

 

While it is true that Gita has stated that charities/donations

should be based on certain standards reg: time, the receiver,

purpose etc,( Chapter 17) but in Kaliyuga you may- as per Swamiji-

ignore all such considerations and just keep giving, giving and

giving. So that a habit may form in you of giving. Once you give in

all circumstances, in due course , the focus shall shift from the

results.

 

The renunciation of money -immediately creates a " destiny " for more

money into your hands- as per Swamiji. Give gracefully. Give with

respect. There are no beggars or no non beggars in this world. Some

body is a beggar of money, somebody of fame, somebody of position,

somebody of respect. All are beggars only. All are children of God

only on the other hand - Sons of the King of all Kings.

 

Vasudevah Sarvam- is the ultimate truth. One should never forget

that while " giving " .

 

Swamiji once said in one of his discourses that - " You get God by

giving ( Gita 12:4) , Sure, but if there are no takers, then what

will happen to you?. " You can give or you can get God only by

giving, but somebody should be willing to oblige you ! Isn't it?

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

--------------------------------

Narayan Narayan

 

IN ENGLISH

The relationship we have with the world is a make believe one (not

genuine). Whereas our relationship with Paramatma (God) is innate,

natural. That which is a make believe relation, we must serve it.

Whereas that which is natural and innate, we must love it. We must

desire neither from the world, nor from Bhagwaan. It is sadhak's

characteristic to serve and to love. When the sadhak looks at the

world, he serves, whereas when he see Paramatma (God) in Parmatma's

essential from and as the Supreme Being, then He loves. But when

the sadhak accepts this Truth that Bhagwaan is mine, then what is

there to be done? Only the mistake is to be corrected. (You must

have understood the inner sentiments of - to serve and to love).

Ramchandra

 

IN HINDI

Sansaar ke sath hamara shambdh mana hua hai(banavati)hai

Or Paramatma ke sath hamara shambdh vastvik hai.

Jiske sath mana hua hai uski seva karni hai.

Vastavik ke sath prem karna hai. Na toh sansaar se kuch

Chahna hai or na bhagwan se kuch chahna hai,seva or prem

Sadhak ka swaroop hai. Jab sadhak sansaar mein dekhta tab

Vo seva karta hai or parmatma ko parmatmaroop mein dekhta hai

Tho prem kartha hai, parantu sadhak jab e s satya ko swikar karle

Ki bhagwan mere hai karna kya hai? khali bhool sudhar ni hai

(seva or prem ka bhavarth aap samaz gaye honge)

(ramchandra)

 

 

 

Dear Sadaks,

Bagavan asked Arjuna to wage war though Arjuna refused. Arjuna

thought that he is going to kill his Guru/relatives/friends etc. But

Bhagavan imparted knowledge that Arjuna should upkeep Dharma as a he

was king to punish unrightious people. Ex: Dronachari (Guru) was not

in his dharma. Brahmin dharma not to lift arms. So also all the

persons on the side of Duryodhan. To act against a friend who

betrayed. Now Pandavas were tricked into Wax house by Duryodhan and

set fire. Pandavas escaped but never immediately revenged. But later

took it as act of Karma not as revenge by listening to Bhagavan and

waged war. One can avoid contact of such friend. Your over

confidence made your friend cheat you.

B.Sathyanarayan

--------------------------------

PREVIOUS POSTING:

ORIGINAL QUESTION: By being a silent witness to negative happenings

are we not creating more karma, that is, not reacting when we have

the means to? An example - a close friend cheats you after he takes

you into his confidence. You come to know of his ulterior motive

later and you have all the means to react by confronting him. But

instead you just let it pass with the impression that it is all part

of the cleansing process by God for clearing past karmas. Herein lies

the dilemma. QUESTION: How are we to know this is due to a past karma

and what is the assurance it is not a fresh one in this birth? The

Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by being passive it will not help our

pursuit in search of God. By remaining silent to the above situation

the aggrieved person will undergo mental stress and anger and may

also be labeled as a coward for not confronting the person

concerned. If he reacts then he is deemed as going against the

Divine's plans. QUESTION: How does one draw a line in situations

like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind enough to elaborate on this

dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards. mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Please review as well similiar Gita Talk discussions at:

/message/1453

From Gita Talk Moderator, Ram Ram

 

-----------------------------

NEW POSTING

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

IN ENGLISH

Friends, According to Swamiji's discourses, inaction, is also " to

do " .

Therefore one cannot remain in inaction (passive). No arguement

therefore

remains in the least bit. Even Paramatma says - " Te karmani sangaha

maa astu "

" Let there be no desirability towards inaction " (Gita 2:47). Oh! It

is not

possible to remain in inaction (passive) and Paramatma also desires

that one

does not have desirability to remain passive. Then what remains? Do

as per

your duties and continue to offer these to Paramatma. This itself is

the

essence according to Swamiji's teachings.

 

Ram Ram

Sarvottam

 

IN HINDI

Bandhuvar, Swamiji ke kathanaanusaar, nishkriya ho jaanaa

bhi " kriya " hai. Ataha, passive aap rah hi nahin sakte. Jhagadaa

fir kuch rahaa hi nahin. Paramatma bhi kahate hai - " Te karmani

sangaha maa astu " " Teri karnamein aasakti na ho " (Gita 2:47).

Arey, passive rehenaa bhi sambhav nahin aur Paramatma bhi chaahate

hai ki passive hone mein aasakti ne ho, toh kyaa bacchaa ? Karma

kartavya anusaar karke, Paramatmaa ko arpan karte jai, Bas yahin hai

saar baat, Swamiji ke nirdeshaanusaar.

Ram Ram

Sarvottam

---------------------------

 

Dear sadhaks,

It is spontanuous process. If u contemplate our body system same

thing is happening.

Whatever we eat drink or just breathe in negative & positive matter

goes in AND then start of regular warbetween these two.

That doesnt mean we stop eating drinking or breathing for these

subjects are not available in pure form.

In MANAS goswamiji says, VIDHI PRAPANCH GUN AWGUN SANA. (All the

creation of brahma is mixuture of good & bad). It is individual

swabhava how much one can bear with bad & tries one to take the path

of rightfull. How many times we have knowingly or unknowingly

committed sins and took refuge in god, asked for his help to solve

the situations? Even then how many of us have kept ourselves from

repeating the mistakes? Had god been thinking to leave us what would

happen?

Raja Gurdasani

-----------------------------

Hare Krishna!! That is a beautiful question and in your question

lies the answer.... See as humans 'we react'.... it is not that we

are supposed to react.. Bhagwaad Gita talks about action, proactive

action and not reaction... ... Taking your own particular

situation.. if your friend takes you into confidence makes u reveal

the secrets then what do you do?.... Take the corrective measure

which means how can you do the damage control.. then make sure that

you do not trust him again.... but yes, do not react which means do

not fill your heart with jealousy envy anger...... so that is the

difference!!! see you acted but never reacted!!!!

kalpana tyagi

 

Dear Mahendraji

 

How to act is up to you. Please inform me where has Lord Krishna

said " do not act and leave it all to God "

 

Thank you and best regards,

 

Gokul Mehta

----------------------------

 

PRIOR POSTING

Jai Hanuman

 

Bhaiyyaji - very good decision jee by you in the end! That is

victory of self - bhava (inner expression) of self conquering logic

of mind. Up to there perfect jee. Divine jee. But on the ladder

there is one more creature residing called ego/pride/ ahankaar /

doership - existence in ego of raag and dvesha (likings and

disliking) and dense ignorance and stupidity is lying to be

conquered. There you are a complete failure. Pride of goodness is

that total failure and ignorance. What do you think goodness is your

personal trait only? Does it not exist in every thing created by

nature, every atom has its own importance, every creature, every

tree has its own utility. Every thing has been made for others only.

Trees do not themselves eat the fruits. They are for others.

Mother's Milk is not for her consumption, it is for the baby. Rivers

flow for others, Sun shines for others. Every thing which you claim

to be yours has been received by you from others. You can only use

them for others. Your body also has been given to you by others and

it for others. To give others - is the goal of every thing which has

been made by Mother Nature and Daddy. What is then so important

about your goodness? How can you call a target of your sadhana, your

testing goal to be cheat? On what right. You are giver. He is taker,

now where is confusion?

 

Simply relinquish " desire for happiness " from your target of

compassion and keep doing good, that taker of happiness through you

will become " Bhagvat svaroop " (the very form of God) for you. There

is God inside him also, you are looking at him as if he is a cheat,

how God will be visible to you? Mind it Bhaiyya - if you expect

something from world it is " dukhalayam " . The moment you relinquish

fruits/expectation - this world becomes - Vasudevah Sarvam.

 

Right decision, right path, right acceptance of viveka, right

reliance over bhava, but sold out to false pride of goodness and

sold out to ignorance of considering target of sadhana itself to be

bad unless it provides immediate reciprocation in kind. No Bhaiyya.

Bhavas are not meant to be used for business deals - I give you

compassion, you give me agreed reciprocation in kind. There is no

deal. It is clear he is taker. It is clear you are renouncer. You

become entitled to get Daddy, if you selflessly do as a matter of

duty, and you are settling down to getting that regular habitual

defaulter's reciprocation in kind - can you see the difference

Bhaiyya in results? Hence give him happiness feeling obliged to him

because he is getting as per his destiny only, but he has kindly

made you as " medium " .

 

Says Lord Krishna in Gita to Arjuna - nimitmatra bhav Savyasachin- O

Arjuna ( Savyasachin) become merely a medium.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

-----------------------------

Ram Ram,

No where in Gita, Krishna favored passiveness. In fact it's the

other way. Had Krishna supported passiveness, there wouldn't have

been any Mahabharat. The message is very clear. The problem is with

us, we have misinterpreted it in the past and still doing the same.

For the same purpose of selfishness, few people (few but powerful)

had misinterpreted our Sanatan Dharma also. Today the Sanatan (a

thing which can't change with time) Dharma has become a Glass

Dharma, which can change/break very easily (due to

misinterpretation). Krishna wanted Arjuna to fight for his rights

and that was his Dharma too. Gita says to work as hard as possible,

but without expecting any thing for self. Leave the result to Him,

our duty is to work. If someone tries to misuse us, we should oppose

him. By helping him we are supporting a wrong cause, which is sin.

 

Ashok Goenka

----------------------------

Dear Mahendra ji

 

" As human beings we are supposed to react to situations " - - this

statement by itself may be debatable.

 

However, taking the thought ahead in its spirit - - - - verse 27

Chapter 3 says " All action is caused by the properties of nature " ,

and " the mind presumes that he himself is the doer " . Further verse

28 refers to the gunas - sattwa, rajas, tamas.

 

If you have to react or " act in reply " to someone else's action,

perhaps that is your nature but if you make yourself aware that your

reaction is of the sattwik guna, not the tamsic then you are the

winner.

 

If you decide to be silent - that too is an action . . . of being

silent ; hence you cannot say that being silent is being passive.

 

There will be unending times in one's life when one may actually be

the aggrieved party, other than the example mentoned in your message.

But isn't the Gita teaching us to temper our reactions at ALL such

times ? For you it may have been the betrayal of a friend, for some

one else, or even for you at some other time, it may be some other

situation. If you allow yourself to react with " mental stress, anger,

or even fear of being called " coward " then your reaction is of

tamasic nature.

 

Hope this helps.

 

Regards / Sailesh Kumar Mohta

---------------------------

Hari Om

 

Mahendraji - If what you have stated echoes from within then you are

doing nothing wrong in being compassionate. You are renouncing inert

by any logic, by listening to your heart or by succumbing to

the " svabhav " , it really does not matter. You are bound to get peace

as a result of every renunciation. Unfortunately, most of us in

these situations are still not reconciled with our desire to get

something in return. We in fact are ourselves creating obstacles to

the manifestation of peace to arise in us - by developing this

feeling that we are getting cheated. Where is the question of us

getting cheated, when one repeatedly has proven to dishonour his

agreement? Once we know it, where is it his fault? We know, he

knows - what is then dilemma. Dilemma in fact is internal - the

pride of being good, and an eye on result. Both are not daivi

sampadas (divine properties). We should thank our heart (I call

it " conscience " ) - for it's guidance on the right path.

 

By simply trying to do the good work as a matter of " bhava " , without

expect ANYTHING in return, we will be living life as a sincere

sadhak of karma yoga. Merely by continuing what we are doing,

retaining compassion and throwing away ego of being good and seeing

the other person as not bad. Yes! That is Karma Yoga. Every

renunciation will INSTANTLY generate peace within us. We will never

be short of what we are parting with. NEVER!

 

Jai Shree Krishna

Vyas N B

 

----------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Who told you Mahendra Bhaiyya that as a human being we are supposed

to react to situations? How then you will realise God? What is the

difference then between a sadhak and ordinary person, between an

ordinary person and an animal? Animals react ! Daddy comes to you

by " inaction " Bhaiyya! Not by " reaction " ! Who can break this chain

of action-reaction? A Sadhak Bhaiyya!! How? By " inaction " !!

 

Those who hurt you will regret and rue of their own. Keep a wound

healing medicine - called by Mike Bhaiyya as " compassion " - always in

your cupboard. You might need it in future for applying lovingly,

understandingly on his wounds or on the wounds of some soul similar

to him.( Vasudevah Sarvam) It is always a fresh karma as far as he

is concerned ! It is always pursuant to an old karma of yours- as

far as you are concerned.!! Neither you remember, nor he remembers

the prior lives.(Vasudevah Sarvam) Daddy knows. Is Daddy that

ignorant?

 

For you reaction is over. No new action is needed. Move ahead! Why

do you look at your friend, his deeds, his ways? Why don't you look

at God who sent pesticides for removing dirt gathered inside of you?

Father sending medicines to cure fever!! Where is the question of

retaliation? Should not you become happy? Daddy remembered you

Bhaiyya! Damn care that friend. Next time when you meet with him,

whose eyes will be towards south ? Whose face will exhibit

radiance ? Smile it out! " Taans tititkshva Bharat " ( O Arjuna -

forbear that).

 

Don't fall prey to your ego. Don't think he cheated you. Don't think

he proved you to be an idiot and don't now try to prove that you

were not an idiot. You were good then, you are good now and you

should try to remain always good in future. Thinking about him ,

however, certainly is latest and fresh stupidity.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

 

-----------------------------

 

Belief in the theory of Karma does not preclude one to be passive,

tolerant and indifferent. Karma will follow everyone. That does not

mean than one has to escape and hide behind fatalism, indifference

and apathy. Our scripture teaches that we should not tolerate

intolerant ideology and Asuras in the name of tolerance. Our wise

men and Gods have shown the courage to wipe out deviant people. We

should be active in wiping out our disease and enemies. If we

tolerate our enemies and disease in the name of tolerance, we will

be wiped out. Tolerance of intolerant ideologies and intolerant

people is not a positive virtue. It is pathology. Hindu scriptures

remind us that Shanti Comes only from Shakti.

 

Kannan Devan

------------------------------

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

 

Swamiji always says - " Karne mein Saavdhaan, Hone mein prasanna "

In doing we must be careful, but in the situations and circumstances

that come to us, remain ever happy. Whatever situations that

present themselves, we have little control over, we can only control

our actions / reactions and thereby remain ever ALERT " Saavdhaan " ,

particularly in unfavourable situations. We are not encouraged to

be passive therefore do the needful. Swamiji gives example of a

thief that comes into the house to steal, we are supposed to report

him to the authorities, so that he receives the appropriate

punishment.

 

Unfavourable situations and circumstances are sent by God's Grace.

It makes us more careful. If we utilise the situations properly then

they are very useful in our spiritual progress. When we want

something other than the unfavorable situations that have come to

us, it is a misutilisation of the circumstance that we are placed

in. We judge every situation with reference to worldly happiness

only. The worldly happiness only effects the outside - they do not

effect us inside. Therefore Swamiji says to renounce desire for

happiness and pleasure - this is proper utilisation of the

unfavourable situations that have presented themselves. Move towards

God - utilise your independence.

 

Meera Das

------------------------------

 

Mahendra ji gave his money to his now so called friend. It may have

been done in good faith. Money may have been given as A Loan. If

this assumption is true, then if Mahendraji is thinking of blaming

his friend for Not returning back his money, then in that case , I

feel that Mahendraji is not being Responsible. By Taking

Responsibility of the situation, Mahendra ji can do what he feels is

correct , without being attached to the Outcome. If he can do that,

he is living in Freedom and not building any Karmas. He may feel

like accepting the situation and Not acting up on it . He may feel

like taking his friend to Court and Yet not building Karma. He is

free to do as long as he is not attached to the Outcome , but Enjoys

the very process of his action . His is Inaction, thus a state of

One ness .

 

This is how i understand the BHAGWAT GITA.

 

love and light ,

Gokul

(Gokul Mehta)

-------------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

-Shree Hari-

 

Mahendraji,

There are a few issues here. Realise that it the person who destroyed

your trust that is the foolish one, not you, that person is looking

away from God, how much harder for that person to break the cycle of

birth and death, with such betrayals. This person needs your

compassion if you can raise yourself to that level, then your healing

has begun. Also remember if that person can make you feel anger and

resentment, then this ex friend is controlling you, but if he/she

cannot, with Bhagwans help, then you are controlling you. I do not

see this as passive, looking to God is never passive.

This article you are asking about is one of the most profound

articles I have ever read, I advise you to read and read it and

think very deeply upon Swamijis words.

 

With Respect and Divine Love,

Mike Keenor

-

 

Hari Om

 

A beautiful question, drawn from real life itself. I am sure

Sadhak's shall rise to the occassion in addressing this real dilemma

for even those who strive and want to be calm and serene.

 

Mahendra Rajji is advised to carefully follow the deliberations of

sadhaks. Sure we have people who experienced similar dilemmas and

conquered over them.

 

In my personal view EVERY SADHAK experiences this dilemma.

 

One thing is quite clear. Silence is infinite times more powerful.

It hurts the sinner more than the sword in hand. Sinner can never

forget his sin. Never !! He always knows he sinned against you. In

reality, already a line of demarcation between you and him has been

drawn. You have already gained , he has already lost ! Why now

confrontation? To show him bad before others? To tell him, he is

wrong! Does he not know it?

 

To get him to " acknowledge " his wrongness? That is not in your

control, however powerful you may be. That only God through nature

can accomplish. Never you can. Try it. You will only end up

incurring more sins.

 

Secondly whether it is fresh karma of the sinful or reaction to old

karma of the aggrieved- whether the aggrieved has not already become

purer? Yes! Yes!

 

Has the aggrieved already not learnt that - Nothing is mine? Yes!

Yes!!

 

Even if aggrieved has power to retaliate, is he not running the

risk of incurring a new sin- if he takes the sword in the hand ?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will the bad karma of friend not leave imprints of darkness over

his soul and give him results- multiplied in intensity and volume?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will not the aggrieved party become wiser and will not the aggrieved

party be ever careful in future ? Yes! Yes!!

 

We shall deliberate it further- we have to be conforming to

Moderators' guidelines..

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

 

This is not past karma but swabhaav of your and swabhaav of other

person with whom you are in a state of reaction. If you drink water

and you drink alcohol, would not there be a difference in you? This

rule applies to every inter-action even between humans, and it is

not past karma but instant karma. Gita never said passive search of

the god, but it was indeed a teaching in midst of war, and passivity

of Arjun was removed. How you concluded the reverse? War is fighting

or karma without concern for results because, the war is chosen so

carefully. If you think the cheating is not a big problem, do not

go for war, only change your way of life to avoid it as did Krishna

leave Mathura for Dwarka. He is thus called RanChod

 

Where did you find references of past karma in Bhagwat Gita? Karma

is a movement of the swabhaav or continuety of transformation. The

swabhaav changes itself by karma, and new swabhaav is sum of old

swabhaav and karma plus direction. Thus, you being cheated or some

one betraying trust is a matter of result of intraction between two

Dharma or two swabhaav like the Mahabharata.

regards

K G

Krishna Gopal

 

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

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Ram Ram

[Guest guest]

FOLLOW-UP CLARIFYING QUESTION:

 

Thanks a lot for the respective explanations and interpretations. I

can see the situation in a slightly better perspective now. Sorry,

if I had wrongly quoted the Gita in my quest. But herein I must

clarify that it was nothing to do with any monetary matters. I was

just posing a query as to how to draw a line when a person who takes

advantage of your soft nature by repeatedly ( I repeat, REPEATEDLY)

asking for favours but is not sincere i.e. not honouring his

assurances of repaying in kind. Can we still entertain him knowing

his character? How do one equate this with the Divine's cleansing

process? At times an inner feeling tells that you are being cheated

but compassion in the heart often overrules it. This is where the

real dilemma lies. God has given us the knowledge and experience to

discern the right from the wrong but in such cases often we overlook

it and give in in the name of compassion. By not granting the

favours asked for we feel the guilt. Would that be wrong in the eyes

of the Divine for not utilising his gift of the intuition? However,

I am deeply impressed with the reply that one has to leave

everything to Him and I am going to do just that even if it means

getting 'cheated' repeatedly. Once again thanks a lot for all those

diverse explanations. Mahendra Raj

 

--------------------------------

FOLLOW-UP CLARIFYING QUESTION - 2:

 

Thanks a lot again for all the various insights and explanations

givene to my follow-up query. What I have learnt from all of you

is to be oblivious of ulterior motives of others and without

hesitation continue to meet their demand of favours and leave the

consequences to the Good Lord. Before I sign out, just wanted to

emphasise an equation to the query raised earlier. During our life

times we have met countless beggars and are still continuing to come

across them. Going by your explanations we are the givers and they,

takers. We' ve also come across certain so-called beggars who are

actually well-off but continue to deceive the general public with

their shabby appearances. Now, we know their true self, but in the

midst of company in a restaurant they approach us for alms. They

take more advantange especially when one is seen with female

companions. Knowing their true identities we are at cross roads.?

Some devotees say the beggars are paying for their past life karmas

and we should not bother them. This was the essence of my query and

what does our scriptures say on this i.e. whether to give or not.

However, I must indeed thank all of you for giving value-added

insights into the Gita whilst replying. Thanks once again and May

Lord Krishna continue to guide us in our spiritual pursuits.

 

Mahendra Raj

 

-------------------------------

NEW POSTING

 

Thanks once again! My perception is now very, very clear after

reading all the explanations from the various realised souls.

Hereafter, I will continue giving just by closing both eyes and mind

and leaving everything to Him.Perhaps I will not be carrying the

sense of guilt after this. Mahendra Raj

-------------------------------

Summary of Responses

 

 

Whether to give or not?

 

There are different scenarios …

 

Why should I give when I hardly get anything?

 

It is OK to give some if I get a lot in return!

 

At least I should get back what I give!

 

If I give this fellow … may be … some body would give some other day

in some other way …

 

What will others think of me if I don't give …

 

I should give because I am told that is the best thing to do …

 

I should give because I can't stand people's suffering … I feel

guilty while others are suffering …

 

I should give because I feel good about it … I can improve

somebody's life …

 

Who am I to give when HE alone is the giver … we are all just the

recievers …

 

I give to realize that my dependence on what was given was just an

illusion … Thanks to the receiver, I could realize my freedom …

 

What giving? Who gives? And to whom? … The notion is absurd when HE

is the the giver as well as the receiver.

 

People act according to their understanding of the life and to their

dependence on the world. Where do we stand determines our percieved

actions as well as notions …

 

Yathodakam durge vrishtam parvateshu vidhaavati |

Evam dharmaan prithak pashyanstaanevaanuvidhaavati ||

 

Everyone acts what they think is right for them ... yet one wonders

whether what was done was right or not. Whatever we do remains wrong

till we doubt about its rightfulness ... because, we cannot be happy

with ourselves till such doubts hover in us. Saadhana is to attain

the state which has no room for such doubts ever so as to establish

oneself in THAT, THE ETERNITY, THE ABSOLUTE PEACE ... you choose

what it is ... and for yourself.

 

Respects.

 

Naga Narayana

 

-------------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Says Goswamiji in Ramayana

 

" HETU RAHIT JAG, JUG UPKAARI ! TUM TUMHAR SEVAK ASURAARI !! "

 

Only two kinds of people are real renouncers (givers) - one God

Himself , two - the devotees of God (Sadhaks), Jee. When one starts

giving to the world, he is called sadhak.

 

Gita Jee Says - for sattwik charity-

 

" Datavyamiti yaddanam, deeyate nupkaarine " . (17:20)

 

A donation which is given thinking that " to donate is my duty " ,

without expecting any reciprocation - and considering the time,

place and quality of receiver is sattvik donation.

 

Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaj however does not give much importance

to the credentials of receiver for at least donation of water, food

and medicines. He states that we should never look how the beggar

actually is, what is his duty etc. What is the giver's intention is

of more importance. One should give as duty and forget.

 

A donation given unrespectfully, keeping results in mind, taking

troubles or regretfully etc does not give " sat " results as per Gita

Jee.

 

That is all is summing up of Ramayan and Gita on the subject, Jee.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

-------------------------------

Hari Om

 

The beauty about the creation of God , this world, is that it

appears to us based on our perception of it. When we desire

something out of it ( i e when we are takers)_ it is

always " dukhalayam " for us. When we start " giving " , when we stop

desiring happiness out of it , then the same world/people starts

appearing " Bhagwatswaroop " ( the form of God) to us.

 

While it is true that Gita has stated that charities/donations

should be based on certain standards reg: time, the receiver,

purpose etc,( Chapter 17) but in Kaliyuga you may- as per Swamiji-

ignore all such considerations and just keep giving, giving and

giving. So that a habit may form in you of giving. Once you give in

all circumstances, in due course , the focus shall shift from the

results.

 

The renunciation of money -immediately creates a " destiny " for more

money into your hands- as per Swamiji. Give gracefully. Give with

respect. There are no beggars or no non beggars in this world. Some

body is a beggar of money, somebody of fame, somebody of position,

somebody of respect. All are beggars only. All are children of God

only on the other hand - Sons of the King of all Kings.

 

Vasudevah Sarvam- is the ultimate truth. One should never forget

that while " giving " .

 

Swamiji once said in one of his discourses that - " You get God by

giving ( Gita 12:4) , Sure, but if there are no takers, then what

will happen to you?. " You can give or you can get God only by

giving, but somebody should be willing to oblige you ! Isn't it?

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

--------------------------------

Narayan Narayan

 

IN ENGLISH

The relationship we have with the world is a make believe one (not

genuine). Whereas our relationship with Paramatma (God) is innate,

natural. That which is a make believe relation, we must serve it.

Whereas that which is natural and innate, we must love it. We must

desire neither from the world, nor from Bhagwaan. It is sadhak's

characteristic to serve and to love. When the sadhak looks at the

world, he serves, whereas when he see Paramatma (God) in Parmatma's

essential form and as the Supreme Being, then He loves. But when

the sadhak accepts this Truth that Bhagwaan is mine, then what is

there to be done? Only the mistake is to be corrected. (You must

have understood the inner sentiments of - to serve and to love).

Ramchandra

 

IN HINDI

Sansaar ke sath hamara shambdh mana hua hai(banavati)hai

Or Paramatma ke sath hamara shambdh vastvik hai.

Jiske sath mana hua hai uski seva karni hai.

Vastavik ke sath prem karna hai. Na toh sansaar se kuch

Chahna hai or na bhagwan se kuch chahna hai,seva or prem

Sadhak ka swaroop hai. Jab sadhak sansaar mein dekhta tab

Vo seva karta hai or parmatma ko parmatmaroop mein dekhta hai

Tho prem kartha hai, parantu sadhak jab e s satya ko swikar karle

Ki bhagwan mere hai karna kya hai? khali bhool sudhar ni hai

(seva or prem ka bhavarth aap samaz gaye honge)

(ramchandra)

 

 

Dear Sadaks,

Bagavan asked Arjuna to wage war though Arjuna refused. Arjuna

thought that he is going to kill his Guru/relatives/friends etc. But

Bhagavan imparted knowledge that Arjuna should upkeep Dharma as a he

was king to punish unrighteous people. Ex: Dronacharya (Guru) was not

in his dharma. Brahmin dharma not to lift alms. So also all the

persons on the side of Duryodhan. To act against a friend who

betrayed. Now Pandavas were tricked into Wax house by Duryodhan and

set fire. Pandavas escaped but never immediately revenged. But later

took it as act of Karma not as revenge by listening to Bhagavan and

waged war. One can avoid contact of such friend. Your over

confidence made your friend cheat you.

B.Sathyanarayan

--------------------------------

PREVIOUS POSTING:

ORIGINAL QUESTION: By being a silent witness to negative happenings

are we not creating more karma, that is, not reacting when we have

the means to? An example - a close friend cheats you after he takes

you into his confidence. You come to know of his ulterior motive

later and you have all the means to react by confronting him. But

instead you just let it pass with the impression that it is all part

of the cleansing process by God for clearing past karmas. Herein lies

the dilemma. QUESTION: How are we to know this is due to a past karma

and what is the assurance it is not a fresh one in this birth? The

Bhagwad Gita clearly says that by being passive it will not help our

pursuit in search of God. By remaining silent to the above situation

the aggrieved person will undergo mental stress and anger and may

also be labeled as a coward for not confronting the person

concerned. If he reacts then he is deemed as going against the

Divine's plans. QUESTION: How does one draw a line in situations

like this? Hope Swamiji will be kind enough to elaborate on this

dilemma. Thanks and with warm regards. mahendra raj

-----------------------------

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

Please review as well similiar Gita Talk discussions at:

/message/1453

From Gita Talk Moderator, Ram Ram

 

---------------------------

 

Dear sadhaks,

It is spontanuous process. If u contemplate our body system same

thing is happening.

Whatever we eat drink or just breathe in negative & positive matter

goes in AND then start of regular warbetween these two.

That doesnt mean we stop eating drinking or breathing for these

subjects are not available in pure form.

In MANAS goswamiji says, VIDHI PRAPANCH GUN AWGUN SANA. (All the

creation of brahma is mixuture of good & bad). It is individual

swabhava how much one can bear with bad & tries one to take the path

of rightfull. How many times we have knowingly or unknowingly

committed sins and took refuge in god, asked for his help to solve

the situations? Even then how many of us have kept ourselves from

repeating the mistakes? Had god been thinking to leave us what would

happen?

Raja Gurdasani

-----------------------------

Hare Krishna!! That is a beautiful question and in your question

lies the answer.... See as humans 'we react'.... it is not that we

are supposed to react.. Bhagwaad Gita talks about action, proactive

action and not reaction... ... Taking your own particular

situation.. if your friend takes you into confidence makes u reveal

the secrets then what do you do?.... Take the corrective measure

which means how can you do the damage control.. then make sure that

you do not trust him again.... but yes, do not react which means do

not fill your heart with jealousy envy anger...... so that is the

difference!!! see you acted but never reacted!!!!

kalpana tyagi

 

Dear Mahendraji

 

How to act is up to you. Please inform me where has Lord Krishna

said " do not act and leave it all to God "

 

Thank you and best regards,

 

Gokul Mehta

----------------------------

 

PRIOR POSTING

Jai Hanuman

 

Bhaiyyaji - very good decision jee by you in the end! That is

victory of self - bhava (inner expression) of self conquering logic

of mind. Up to there perfect jee. Divine jee. But on the ladder

there is one more creature residing called ego/pride/ ahankaar /

doership - existence in ego of raag and dvesha (likings and

disliking) and dense ignorance and stupidity is lying to be

conquered. There you are a complete failure. Pride of goodness is

that total failure and ignorance. What do you think goodness is your

personal trait only? Does it not exist in every thing created by

nature, every atom has its own importance, every creature, every

tree has its own utility. Every thing has been made for others only.

Trees do not themselves eat the fruits. They are for others.

Mother's Milk is not for her consumption, it is for the baby. Rivers

flow for others, Sun shines for others. Every thing which you claim

to be yours has been received by you from others. You can only use

them for others. Your body also has been given to you by others and

it for others. To give others - is the goal of every thing which has

been made by Mother Nature and Daddy. What is then so important

about your goodness? How can you call a target of your sadhana, your

testing goal to be cheat? On what right. You are giver. He is taker,

now where is confusion?

 

Simply relinquish " desire for happiness " from your target of

compassion and keep doing good, that taker of happiness through you

will become " Bhagvat svaroop " (the very form of God) for you. There

is God inside him also, you are looking at him as if he is a cheat,

how God will be visible to you? Mind it Bhaiyya - if you expect

something from world it is " dukhalayam " . The moment you relinquish

fruits/expectation - this world becomes - Vasudevah Sarvam.

 

Right decision, right path, right acceptance of viveka, right

reliance over bhava, but sold out to false pride of goodness and

sold out to ignorance of considering target of sadhana itself to be

bad unless it provides immediate reciprocation in kind. No Bhaiyya.

Bhavas are not meant to be used for business deals - I give you

compassion, you give me agreed reciprocation in kind. There is no

deal. It is clear he is taker. It is clear you are renouncer. You

become entitled to get Daddy, if you selflessly do as a matter of

duty, and you are settling down to getting that regular habitual

defaulter's reciprocation in kind - can you see the difference

Bhaiyya in results? Hence give him happiness feeling obliged to him

because he is getting as per his destiny only, but he has kindly

made you as " medium " .

 

Says Lord Krishna in Gita to Arjuna - nimitmatra bhav Savyasachin- O

Arjuna ( Savyasachin) become merely a medium.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

-----------------------------

Ram Ram,

No where in Gita, Krishna favored passiveness. In fact it's the

other way. Had Krishna supported passiveness, there wouldn't have

been any Mahabharat. The message is very clear. The problem is with

us, we have misinterpreted it in the past and still doing the same.

For the same purpose of selfishness, few people (few but powerful)

had misinterpreted our Sanatan Dharma also. Today the Sanatan (a

thing which can't change with time) Dharma has become a Glass

Dharma, which can change/break very easily (due to

misinterpretation). Krishna wanted Arjuna to fight for his rights

and that was his Dharma too. Gita says to work as hard as possible,

but without expecting any thing for self. Leave the result to Him,

our duty is to work. If someone tries to misuse us, we should oppose

him. By helping him we are supporting a wrong cause, which is sin.

 

Ashok Goenka

----------------------------

Dear Mahendra ji

 

" As human beings we are supposed to react to situations " - - this

statement by itself may be debatable.

 

However, taking the thought ahead in its spirit - - - - verse 27

Chapter 3 says " All action is caused by the properties of nature " ,

and " the mind presumes that he himself is the doer " . Further verse

28 refers to the gunas - sattwa, rajas, tamas.

 

If you have to react or " act in reply " to someone else's action,

perhaps that is your nature but if you make yourself aware that your

reaction is of the sattwik guna, not the tamsic then you are the

winner.

 

If you decide to be silent - that too is an action . . . of being

silent ; hence you cannot say that being silent is being passive.

 

There will be unending times in one's life when one may actually be

the aggrieved party, other than the example mentoned in your message.

But isn't the Gita teaching us to temper our reactions at ALL such

times ? For you it may have been the betrayal of a friend, for some

one else, or even for you at some other time, it may be some other

situation. If you allow yourself to react with " mental stress, anger,

or even fear of being called " coward " then your reaction is of

tamasic nature.

 

Hope this helps.

 

Regards / Sailesh Kumar Mohta

---------------------------

Hari Om

 

Mahendraji - If what you have stated echoes from within then you are

doing nothing wrong in being compassionate. You are renouncing inert

by any logic, by listening to your heart or by succumbing to

the " svabhav " , it really does not matter. You are bound to get peace

as a result of every renunciation. Unfortunately, most of us in

these situations are still not reconciled with our desire to get

something in return. We in fact are ourselves creating obstacles to

the manifestation of peace to arise in us - by developing this

feeling that we are getting cheated. Where is the question of us

getting cheated, when one repeatedly has proven to dishonour his

agreement? Once we know it, where is it his fault? We know, he

knows - what is then dilemma. Dilemma in fact is internal - the

pride of being good, and an eye on result. Both are not daivi

sampadas (divine properties). We should thank our heart (I call

it " conscience " ) - for it's guidance on the right path.

 

By simply trying to do the good work as a matter of " bhava " , without

expect ANYTHING in return, we will be living life as a sincere

sadhak of karma yoga. Merely by continuing what we are doing,

retaining compassion and throwing away ego of being good and seeing

the other person as not bad. Yes! That is Karma Yoga. Every

renunciation will INSTANTLY generate peace within us. We will never

be short of what we are parting with. NEVER!

 

Jai Shree Krishna

Vyas N B

 

----------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

 

Jai Hanuman

 

Who told you Mahendra Bhaiyya that as a human being we are supposed

to react to situations? How then you will realise God? What is the

difference then between a sadhak and ordinary person, between an

ordinary person and an animal? Animals react ! Daddy comes to you

by " inaction " Bhaiyya! Not by " reaction " ! Who can break this chain

of action-reaction? A Sadhak Bhaiyya!! How? By " inaction " !!

 

Those who hurt you will regret and rue of their own. Keep a wound

healing medicine - called by Mike Bhaiyya as " compassion " - always in

your cupboard. You might need it in future for applying lovingly,

understandingly on his wounds or on the wounds of some soul similar

to him.( Vasudevah Sarvam) It is always a fresh karma as far as he

is concerned ! It is always pursuant to an old karma of yours- as

far as you are concerned.!! Neither you remember, nor he remembers

the prior lives.(Vasudevah Sarvam) Daddy knows. Is Daddy that

ignorant?

 

For you reaction is over. No new action is needed. Move ahead! Why

do you look at your friend, his deeds, his ways? Why don't you look

at God who sent pesticides for removing dirt gathered inside of you?

Father sending medicines to cure fever!! Where is the question of

retaliation? Should not you become happy? Daddy remembered you

Bhaiyya! Damn care that friend. Next time when you meet with him,

whose eyes will be towards south ? Whose face will exhibit

radiance ? Smile it out! " Taans tititkshva Bharat " ( O Arjuna -

forbear that).

 

Don't fall prey to your ego. Don't think he cheated you. Don't think

he proved you to be an idiot and don't now try to prove that you

were not an idiot. You were good then, you are good now and you

should try to remain always good in future. Thinking about him ,

however, certainly is latest and fresh stupidity.

 

Namaste Jee

 

Jee Jee

Shashikala

 

-----------------------------

 

Belief in the theory of Karma does not preclude one to be passive,

tolerant and indifferent. Karma will follow everyone. That does not

mean than one has to escape and hide behind fatalism, indifference

and apathy. Our scripture teaches that we should not tolerate

intolerant ideology and Asuras in the name of tolerance. Our wise

men and Gods have shown the courage to wipe out deviant people. We

should be active in wiping out our disease and enemies. If we

tolerate our enemies and disease in the name of tolerance, we will

be wiped out. Tolerance of intolerant ideologies and intolerant

people is not a positive virtue. It is pathology. Hindu scriptures

remind us that Shanti Comes only from Shakti.

 

Kannan Devan

------------------------------

 

Shree Hari

Ram Ram

 

Swamiji always says - " Karne mein Saavdhaan, Hone mein prasanna "

In doing we must be careful, but in the situations and circumstances

that come to us, remain ever happy. Whatever situations that

present themselves, we have little control over, we can only control

our actions / reactions and thereby remain ever ALERT " Saavdhaan " ,

particularly in unfavourable situations. We are not encouraged to

be passive therefore do the needful. Swamiji gives example of a

thief that comes into the house to steal, we are supposed to report

him to the authorities, so that he receives the appropriate

punishment.

 

Unfavourable situations and circumstances are sent by God's Grace.

It makes us more careful. If we utilise the situations properly then

they are very useful in our spiritual progress. When we want

something other than the unfavorable situations that have come to

us, it is a misutilisation of the circumstance that we are placed

in. We judge every situation with reference to worldly happiness

only. The worldly happiness only effects the outside - they do not

effect us inside. Therefore Swamiji says to renounce desire for

happiness and pleasure - this is proper utilisation of the

unfavourable situations that have presented themselves. Move towards

God - utilise your independence.

 

Meera Das

------------------------------

 

Mahendra ji gave his money to his now so called friend. It may have

been done in good faith. Money may have been given as A Loan. If

this assumption is true, then if Mahendraji is thinking of blaming

his friend for Not returning back his money, then in that case , I

feel that Mahendraji is not being Responsible. By Taking

Responsibility of the situation, Mahendra ji can do what he feels is

correct , without being attached to the Outcome. If he can do that,

he is living in Freedom and not building any Karmas. He may feel

like accepting the situation and Not acting up on it . He may feel

like taking his friend to Court and Yet not building Karma. He is

free to do as long as he is not attached to the Outcome , but Enjoys

the very process of his action . His is Inaction, thus a state of

One ness .

 

This is how i understand the BHAGWAT GITA.

 

love and light ,

Gokul

(Gokul Mehta)

-------------------------------

PRIOR POSTING

-Shree Hari-

 

Mahendraji,

There are a few issues here. Realise that it the person who destroyed

your trust that is the foolish one, not you, that person is looking

away from God, how much harder for that person to break the cycle of

birth and death, with such betrayals. This person needs your

compassion if you can raise yourself to that level, then your healing

has begun. Also remember if that person can make you feel anger and

resentment, then this ex friend is controlling you, but if he/she

cannot, with Bhagwans help, then you are controlling you. I do not

see this as passive, looking to God is never passive.

This article you are asking about is one of the most profound

articles I have ever read, I advise you to read and read it and

think very deeply upon Swamijis words.

 

With Respect and Divine Love,

Mike Keenor

-

 

Hari Om

 

A beautiful question, drawn from real life itself. I am sure

Sadhak's shall rise to the occassion in addressing this real dilemma

for even those who strive and want to be calm and serene.

 

Mahendra Rajji is advised to carefully follow the deliberations of

sadhaks. Sure we have people who experienced similar dilemmas and

conquered over them.

 

In my personal view EVERY SADHAK experiences this dilemma.

 

One thing is quite clear. Silence is infinite times more powerful.

It hurts the sinner more than the sword in hand. Sinner can never

forget his sin. Never !! He always knows he sinned against you. In

reality, already a line of demarcation between you and him has been

drawn. You have already gained , he has already lost ! Why now

confrontation? To show him bad before others? To tell him, he is

wrong! Does he not know it?

 

To get him to " acknowledge " his wrongness? That is not in your

control, however powerful you may be. That only God through nature

can accomplish. Never you can. Try it. You will only end up

incurring more sins.

 

Secondly whether it is fresh karma of the sinful or reaction to old

karma of the aggrieved- whether the aggrieved has not already become

purer? Yes! Yes!

 

Has the aggrieved already not learnt that - Nothing is mine? Yes!

Yes!!

 

Even if aggrieved has power to retaliate, is he not running the

risk of incurring a new sin- if he takes the sword in the hand ?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will the bad karma of friend not leave imprints of darkness over

his soul and give him results- multiplied in intensity and volume?

Yes! Yes!!

 

Will not the aggrieved party become wiser and will not the aggrieved

party be ever careful in future ? Yes! Yes!!

 

We shall deliberate it further- we have to be conforming to

Moderators' guidelines..

 

Jai Shree Krishna

 

Vyas N B

 

 

 

This is not past karma but swabhaav of your and swabhaav of other

person with whom you are in a state of reaction. If you drink water

and you drink alcohol, would not there be a difference in you? This

rule applies to every inter-action even between humans, and it is

not past karma but instant karma. Gita never said passive search of

the god, but it was indeed a teaching in midst of war, and passivity

of Arjun was removed. How you concluded the reverse? War is fighting

or karma without concern for results because, the war is chosen so

carefully. If you think the cheating is not a big problem, do not

go for war, only change your way of life to avoid it as did Krishna

leave Mathura for Dwarka. He is thus called RanChod

 

Where did you find references of past karma in Bhagwat Gita? Karma

is a movement of the swabhaav or continuety of transformation. The

swabhaav changes itself by karma, and new swabhaav is sum of old

swabhaav and karma plus direction. Thus, you being cheated or some

one betraying trust is a matter of result of intraction between two

Dharma or two swabhaav like the Mahabharata.

regards

K G

Krishna Gopal

 

 

Shree Hari:

Ram Ram

 

10th September, 2008, Wednesday

Bhadrapad Shukla Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2065, Budhvar

 

Question: How does one cope with unfavorable situations?

 

Swamiji: In God's happiness is our happiness. When we follow His

directions, He becomes indebted to us. When a situation, a

circumstance, is sent to us by God, then why must we question? All

unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in wiping out our sins.

It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off.

 

It is only during trying times(unfavorable situations) in one's

life, that many devotees have become great Saints. When you read the

life stories of many great Saints, you will see that they have

experienced many hardships. In situations when you are harassed,

people do not listen to you, people scold you, they are mean to

you, your health is failing, you are unemployed etc., all of these

situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your

sins. There is lot to gain from unfavorable situations

(pratikultaa) .

 

In good times, our nature and our habits are likely to become bad.

For rich people, salvation is more difficult. Money and the

extravagant spending habits, the lifestyle of pleasure and gaining

happiness from wealth, all of this leads to spoiling one's nature.

 

Simply accept that unfavorable situations are God's grace. They are

His sent, for our upliftment. It may be difficult to bare

unfavorable situations, during the time that one is going through

it, but at all times know that there is immense gain in these

situations.

 

Have no desire of your own. What ever it is that God wishes, remain

happy in that, at all times. If there is any doubt about what I am

saying, then speak up.

 

Remember these two points at all times - During favorable times,

serve others. These favorable times have been given to you, only to

serve. And during unfavorable times, see His grace, see the

cleansing taking place and remain ever joyful.

 

From discourse by Swami Ramsukhdasji, in Hindi on Sept 2, 1992 at

5:00 pm

----------------------------

 

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