Guest guest Posted December 19, 2008 Report Share Posted December 19, 2008 Shree Hari Ram Ram Sadhaks, please respond providing guidance based on Gita's message, with reference to Gita shlokas (verses). KINDLY BE BRIEF AND TO THE POINT, due to consideration for everyone's time and increased participation / readership. Thank you to all! From Gita Talk ModeratorsRam Ram ------------------------------ Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar-----------------------------GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES:1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubtsrelated to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which furtherclarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted.2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures tosubstantiate your response.3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to theextent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respectingsadhaka's time.5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only.6. Please do not include links to the other sites or otherorganizations.7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phonenumber, address etc.8. Please do not address the response to a particular individualsince the message is going to the entire group.9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted.10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if contentis unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group.11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth,westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskritwords only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketedwherever possible.MODERATORRam Ram------------------------Post message: Subscribe: - Unsubscribe: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 20, 2008 Report Share Posted December 20, 2008 Shree Hari Ram Ram Sadhaks, please respond providing guidance based on Gita's message, with reference to Gita shlokas (verses). KINDLY BE BRIEF AND TO THE POINT, due to consideration for everyone's time and increased participation / readership. Thank you to all! From Gita Talk Moderators Ram Ram ------------------------------ Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 21, 2008 Report Share Posted December 21, 2008 Shree Hari Ram Ram Sadhaks, please respond providing guidance based on Gita's message, with reference to Gita shlokas (verses). KINDLY BE BRIEF AND TO THE POINT, due to consideration for everyone's time and increased participation / readership. Thank you to all! From Gita Talk Moderators Ram Ram ------------------------------ Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 25, 2008 Report Share Posted December 25, 2008 Shree Hari Ram Ram Sadhaks, please respond providing guidance based on Gita's message, with reference to Gita shlokas (verses). KINDLY BE BRIEF AND TO THE POINT, due to consideration for everyone's time and increased participation / readership. Thank you to all! From Gita Talk Moderators Ram Ram ------------------------------ Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 26, 2008 Report Share Posted December 26, 2008 Shree Hari Ram Ram A couple of extra emails today due to bi-monthly administration. Thank you to all! From Gita Talk Moderators Ram Ram ------------------------------ Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 28, 2008 Report Share Posted December 28, 2008 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ------------------------------ ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 29, 2008 Report Share Posted December 29, 2008 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 31, 2008 Report Share Posted December 31, 2008 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 31, 2008 Report Share Posted December 31, 2008 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 1, 2009 Report Share Posted January 1, 2009 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 2, 2009 Report Share Posted January 2, 2009 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 3, 2009 Report Share Posted January 3, 2009 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2009 Report Share Posted January 4, 2009 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 7, 2009 Report Share Posted January 7, 2009 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala's response is by and large an honest depiction. But highly debatable. Love can never be non existent. Let us deal para wise. He says Quote If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Unquote But my answer to him is that how this question of " taking additional responsibilty " arises at all ? How one determines what is others' responsibility/duty? How can bitterness come in the picture? Is expecting some one to do his/her duty not a " desire " of yourself ? Reply yes or no ! If it is your desire from others' conduct, however right or correct you may be , pain/sorrow will flow unto you ! Simply because it is not your duty to look/judge conduct of others. Simply because DESIRE OF WORLDLY THINGS/ FROM WORLDLY PEOPLE ultimately, as a law, produces only sorrow. Simply because only when you don't do your " duty " the sorrow can flow unto you !! Doing- what is " your duty and your own duty only and not looking at all at others' duties " - this can never produce sorrow- come what may ! Once you agree to that( argue if you want) - where is the reason for bitterness? Where is the question of helplessness? Where is the question of obliging the spouse? If your spouse is idiot/non cooperative - why you should take additional responsibility? If you must take that (alleged her/his) responsibility, how that is not your duty? If it is your duty or becomes your duty, where does the question of blame/bitterness/accomodation arise? By the way how does taking others' responsibilties ( service) upon your shoulders and fulfilling those responsibilities to be as your own responsibilty deters you from your spiritual pursuits? Is that not " selfless service " ? If yes, is that not your " duty " as a sadhak ? ( Comments limited to extracted para quoted above only) Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ---------------------------- Hari Om. We have totally mistaken the life process. when we enter a wed lock we should forgive and forget the others mistakes. There is no commitment in friendship, but there is commitment in our relationship. A woman has womb and so biologically she can show emotional behaviour positively. Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. With regards, Usha Sridhar ------------------------------ When 2 people marry, 2 families become one. It is the duty of each family to take part in the joys and sorrows of the other. So if you see things in this light then the issue resolves itself. But of course the husband and the wife must be open with each other, especially in financial matters. It is money which makes enemies. Hari Shanker Deo ------------------------------ ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 7, 2009 Report Share Posted January 7, 2009 COUNTER QUESTION: I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING -Shree Hari- Brother Vyas's comment was most timely, as my wife and I have to deal with added responsibilities as referred to in his response.(His comments are also support. Yes indeed! Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. Swamiji referred to in a recent post about the benefits of unfavorable situation. Looking at the really big picture, in a spiritual sense, try to understand, " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . One passing observation, 'dukhaalaya', can be transmuted by the spiritual 'philosophers stone', from the 'base metal' of sorrow, to the 'gold' of compassion. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ---------------------------- Jai Hanuman Ushaji is absolutely correct! More so when she concludes- Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. Undobtedly correct, Jee ! Bolo Balaji Maharaj !! Come On, Jee ! Gita has never advocated looking at the duties of others! NEVER !! Show me a single verse ! The example of young one departing or old one departing - to my mind- doesnot address the question ( Pardon me - Bhaiyya G K Balaji- Pls enlighten us all as to how it addresses the Q) ! KAUN JAANE RE BABA DUNIYA MAIN PEER PARAAI ! Alas! Who knows in this world the pain of others !! Namaste Jee ! Jee Jee Shashikala ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala's response is by and large an honest depiction. But highly debatable. Love can never be non existent. Let us deal para wise. He says Quote If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Unquote But my answer to him is that how this question of " taking additional responsibilty " arises at all ? How one determines what is others' responsibility/duty? How can bitterness come in the picture? Is expecting some one to do his/her duty not a " desire " of yourself ? Reply yes or no ! If it is your desire from others' conduct, however right or correct you may be , pain/sorrow will flow unto you ! Simply because it is not your duty to look/judge conduct of others. Simply because DESIRE OF WORLDLY THINGS/ FROM WORLDLY PEOPLE ultimately, as a law, produces only sorrow. Simply because only when you don't do your " duty " the sorrow can flow unto you !! Doing- what is " your duty and your own duty only and not looking at all at others' duties " - this can never produce sorrow- come what may ! Once you agree to that( argue if you want) - where is the reason for bitterness? Where is the question of helplessness? Where is the question of obliging the spouse? If your spouse is idiot/non cooperative - why you should take additional responsibility? If you must take that (alleged her/his) responsibility, how that is not your duty? If it is your duty or becomes your duty, where does the question of blame/bitterness/accomodation arise? By the way how does taking others' responsibilties ( service) upon your shoulders and fulfilling those responsibilities to be as your own responsibilty deters you from your spiritual pursuits? Is that not " selfless service " ? If yes, is that not your " duty " as a sadhak ? ( Comments limited to extracted para quoted above only) Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ---------------------------- Hari Om. We have totally mistaken the life process. when we enter a wed lock we should forgive and forget the others mistakes. There is no commitment in friendship, but there is commitment in our relationship. A woman has womb and so biologically she can show emotional behaviour positively. Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. With regards, Usha Sridhar ------------------------------ When 2 people marry, 2 families become one. It is the duty of each family to take part in the joys and sorrows of the other. So if you see things in this light then the issue resolves itself. But of course the husband and the wife must be open with each other, especially in financial matters. It is money which makes enemies. Hari Shanker Deo ------------------------------ ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 8, 2009 Report Share Posted January 8, 2009 I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Hari Om Yes Brother Mike ! " Dukhalayam " can be converted into " Vasudevah Sarvam " ! It is goal of each of us. Compassion is the other name of HIM. He is the kindest. Reverting to balance portion of Sadhak Bala's response ( I am after his response because I genuinely feel he represents majority ) . He concludes by (wrongly) relying upon an example given by Swamiji to establish perhaps – " Nothing is Yours " : QUOTE Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty,respect, deligence in duty. UNQUOTE Tell me , how can Swamiji's giving the aforesaid example proves that love is non existent in this world? If a child contracts an incurable disease and the mother of the child very well knows that- will she stop feeding the child ? What do you say Dear Sadhaks? Now Balaji asks a genuine question – Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? Answer is that first stop believing that love, compassion, trust are non existent. Don't see them in others. See them in yourself. Show them to others. Remember your duty is not to " expect from family members " – Your duty is to " fulfil expectations of family members from you " to the extent you CAN and you SHOULD ! That will surely free you from bitterness ! Krishna 's RAS is very well lying within you in the form of Love, Compassion and Care for all and sundry. You must thank your stars if some one needs that from you. My Mother, 75, often tells me – " Narottam, By " giving " to others you get God, but if some body refuses to " take " from you, then who is the loser ? " Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -- Jai Shri Ram I fully agree with the views of Hari Shankar Deo and Ushaji Shridhar. Who can disagree with Jee Jee Shashikalaji ever? In marital life two people dont gel but two families gel. What is the difference between father and father in law? If there is a difference then how there is an expectation from wife to treat mother in law as mother? However I agree with Vyasji that one should concentrate on one's duty alone. Brother Mike's observations are full of love . Brother Vyasji is absolutely on the side of truth. But he is too dry unlike Mike Keenor. He and Mike in fact are the symbols of what Balaji calls - Iron hand with rosy touch respectively. Vyasji is so straight forward, so conceptually clear and still his views and Mike Keenor' s views gel together. This in fact is ideal combination. Hence perhaps Balaji will have to concede in the end that Love exists. It is not explored. If God exists then Love also exists. No two opinions about the same! Love heals everything. Love is the answer to every problem of humanity. Love is the goal of every soul. All religions begin and end with LOVE only ! Draupadi A Sharma ------------------------------ Jai Shri Krishna I agree with all of you, particularly Mikeji and Ushaji and Shashikalaji's " Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. " " and not looking into the duties of another " Vyasji - I agree that I have no right looking into the duties of another, but sometimes the scale seems unfairly lopsided, where it is only give, give, give and bitterness that builds up. Mike - you said " Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. " I do agree it is poison and not beneficial at all, but over the years it seems to have become a pattern of behavior that I would like to root out. Mikeji, then you said - " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . May be I don't truly understand what Swamiji meant when he said " World is Dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow). Kindly address more the later part of my dilemma in detail, not talking about what should be, ought to be, advice such as I should read the Gita, but how to not see the world as " dukhaalaya " , and instead see it as " philosopher's stone. " I think Swamiji calls it " Vasudeva Sarvam " . My focus it more what I said earlier - How do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Where to begin in this transformation towards Krishna's RAS? Thank you all! I truely mean it! Bala GK ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING -Shree Hari- Brother Vyas's comment was most timely, as my wife and I have to deal with added responsibilities as referred to in his response.(His comments are also support. Yes indeed! Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. Swamiji referred to in a recent post about the benefits of unfavorable situation. Looking at the really big picture, in a spiritual sense, try to understand, " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . One passing observation, 'dukhaalaya', can be transmuted by the spiritual 'philosophers stone', from the 'base metal' of sorrow, to the 'gold' of compassion. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ---------------------------- Jai Hanuman Ushaji is absolutely correct! More so when she concludes- Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. Undobtedly correct, Jee ! Bolo Balaji Maharaj !! Come On, Jee ! Gita has never advocated looking at the duties of others! NEVER !! Show me a single verse ! The example of young one departing or old one departing - to my mind- doesnot address the question ( Pardon me - Bhaiyya G K Balaji- Pls enlighten us all as to how it addresses the Q) ! KAUN JAANE RE BABA DUNIYA MAIN PEER PARAAI ! Alas! Who knows in this world the pain of others !! Namaste Jee ! Jee Jee Shashikala ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala's response is by and large an honest depiction. But highly debatable. Love can never be non existent. Let us deal para wise. He says Quote If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Unquote But my answer to him is that how this question of " taking additional responsibilty " arises at all ? How one determines what is others' responsibility/duty? How can bitterness come in the picture? Is expecting some one to do his/her duty not a " desire " of yourself ? Reply yes or no ! If it is your desire from others' conduct, however right or correct you may be , pain/sorrow will flow unto you ! Simply because it is not your duty to look/judge conduct of others. Simply because DESIRE OF WORLDLY THINGS/ FROM WORLDLY PEOPLE ultimately, as a law, produces only sorrow. Simply because only when you don't do your " duty " the sorrow can flow unto you !! Doing- what is " your duty and your own duty only and not looking at all at others' duties " - this can never produce sorrow- come what may ! Once you agree to that( argue if you want) - where is the reason for bitterness? Where is the question of helplessness? Where is the question of obliging the spouse? If your spouse is idiot/non cooperative - why you should take additional responsibility? If you must take that (alleged her/his) responsibility, how that is not your duty? If it is your duty or becomes your duty, where does the question of blame/bitterness/accomodation arise? By the way how does taking others' responsibilties ( service) upon your shoulders and fulfilling those responsibilities to be as your own responsibilty deters you from your spiritual pursuits? Is that not " selfless service " ? If yes, is that not your " duty " as a sadhak ? ( Comments limited to extracted para quoted above only) Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ---------------------------- Hari Om. We have totally mistaken the life process. when we enter a wed lock we should forgive and forget the others mistakes. There is no commitment in friendship, but there is commitment in our relationship. A woman has womb and so biologically she can show emotional behaviour positively. Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. With regards, Usha Sridhar ------------------------------ When 2 people marry, 2 families become one. It is the duty of each family to take part in the joys and sorrows of the other. So if you see things in this light then the issue resolves itself. But of course the husband and the wife must be open with each other, especially in financial matters. It is money which makes enemies. Hari Shanker Deo ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 9, 2009 Report Share Posted January 9, 2009 I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! This is to emphasize more on what already has been said by Sadhakas on Balaji's and Lahiriji's issues, but from my experiences. As a reminder to us as I often do to myself, Loving/Giving is only one sided relation, not two sided like " give and take " people often say it is. Its only " give, give, give " from your side that works, not give and take. However, " give, give, give " becomes automatically " give and take " in relationship when both or all involved do it. I was profoundly touched when I understood deeply J. Krishnamurti's answer(paraphrasing). Q: Why do we expect to be loved by others always? A: Because we don't love! What a short but profound answer when you think about it! This is because if we are busy loving, where is the time to expect love in return?! Speaking from my experience, in any relationship, whenever problem/conflict/pain etc seem to arise, I remind myself, " Pratap, its a small price to pay for all God is giving/has given you through this relationship " , and believe me " Krishna's Ras " starts flowing soon. It doesn't matter anymore! Another point that helps me in the relationship is " never ever possess another human being, be that person your spouse, parents, children, siblings, friends. Give a person freedom first, by not letting her/him feel guilty or self pitying. With this inner attitude seemingly " your " actions and words speak louder! It takes off so much load of our shoulders trying to change others in the way we want for our happiness! Happiness lies in our own change, never in changing " others " (?) because there are truly no " others " . Apparant " others " in relationship are in our minds as images of those " others " outside. " I " and " others " are in the same mind in conflict fooling us not to allow us to see the reality of Oneness! " Being Grateful " all the time in our hearts is another effective point that works miracle for some reason! Overwhelm yourself (consciousness that " you " are, really) with idea that " God has placed Him/Herself disguised as 'me " in the best possible situation at this time because its what is needed now through this relationship. See/feel Krishna's ras flowing at this time! You can do it, really. Being Grateful is Krishna Consciousness! Now all of the above pointers are inner attitudes realized through understanding of what " I " and God are, such as, understanding is God, actions and spoken words are God, people in relationship are God, God is doing what God wants to do and to God herself only and to no one else! How does God do that? Because in fact, there is no one else besides Her/Him to relate to!!! No other, no conflict! Such Existence is LOVE of Self by Self for Self! Namaskar.............Pratap Bhatt ----------------------------- Jai Hanuman Sadhak Balaji's latest message is soul touching. Let us really address his dilemma with understanding.and let there be one more round of discussions on 1. Giving, Giving and Giving by some one 2. Bitterness 3. Krishna's RAS. 4 Expectation by family without any expression of gratitude/reciprocation. In the meantime let me sing this Bhajan with Sadhaks: DOOSARO KA DUKHADA DOOR KARANE WALE TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM ! KIYE JA TU JAG MAIN BHALAAI KA KAAM, TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM !! O Reliever of the pains of others ! Keep ( giving, giving and giving) doing good to others. Paramatma will remove your pains. KYA TUNE PAAYA, KYA TUNE KHOYA, KYA TERA LAABH HEY, KYA HAANI ! ISKA HISAAB KAREGA WO ISHWAR , TU KYUN FIKKAR KARE RE PRAANI !! TU BAS APNA KAAM KIYE JAA ! TERA BHANDAAR BHARENGE RAAM !! What did you get (by serving/doing good) , what did you lose, what is your, what is your loss ? This account is kept by Paramatma ! O Jeeva , why do you worry? You simply keep doing your duty ! Your treasury/ pockets will always be replenished by God. O Reliever of sorrows of others! Your sorrows will be removed by God !! Namaste Jee Jee Jee Shashikala ---------------------------- Jai Shree Krishna Dilemma of Sadhak Balaji is the dilemma of every good soul. One often gets tormented between duty , heartless beneficiaries and pains given by surroundings to whoever indulges into goodness. I dont know why it happens. But I am sure it happens. I request learned Sadhaks to deal with this real genuine dilemma of a person who is good by heart.He does good but does not see the end. He appears tired. I am really moved by his honest narration. I am looking forward to views of learned sadhaks of this unique satsanga forum on the subject. Regards Thakurlingam ---------------------------- There is an anguish , a genuine one, in the latest message of Balaji. I agree with Vyasji that his is an honest narration. Well ! The Qs are many. Bitterness arising after one labours for betterment of his/her near and dear ones is understandable- provided there is no acknowledgement from the other side . But that is how the world is. I wonder how one crosses / quells such bitterness. It naturally arises if there is constant disrespect to that person who serves. Religion may ask you to be tolerant. But one has to convince himself also - why ? Why with me? What is the answer? Prepetina Gonsalves ----------------------------- Sir Vyasji Maharaj My sincere pranams to Your Mataji and You. We all are indebted to you for joining this group. It is difficult to imagine how this group would have been without you. Sir, you have infused life it. Jay Shri Krishna Varun Prapunia ------------------------------ Hari Om Yes Brother Mike ! " Dukhalayam " can be converted into " Vasudevah Sarvam " ! It is goal of each of us. Compassion is the other name of HIM. He is the kindest. Reverting to balance portion of Sadhak Bala's response ( I am after his response because I genuinely feel he represents majority ) . He concludes by (wrongly) relying upon an example given by Swamiji to establish perhaps – " Nothing is Yours " : QUOTE Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty,respect, deligence in duty. UNQUOTE Tell me , how can Swamiji's giving the aforesaid example proves that love is non existent in this world? If a child contracts an incurable disease and the mother of the child very well knows that- will she stop feeding the child ? What do you say Dear Sadhaks? Now Balaji asks a genuine question – Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? Answer is that first stop believing that love, compassion, trust are non existent. Don't see them in others. See them in yourself. Show them to others. Remember your duty is not to " expect from family members " – Your duty is to " fulfil expectations of family members from you " to the extent you CAN and you SHOULD ! That will surely free you from bitterness ! Krishna 's RAS is very well lying within you in the form of Love, Compassion and Care for all and sundry. You must thank your stars if some one needs that from you. My Mother, 75, often tells me – " Narottam, By " giving " to others you get God, but if some body refuses to " take " from you, then who is the loser ? " Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -- Jai Shri Ram I fully agree with the views of Hari Shankar Deo and Ushaji Shridhar. Who can disagree with Jee Jee Shashikalaji ever? In marital life two people dont gel but two families gel. What is the difference between father and father in law? If there is a difference then how there is an expectation from wife to treat mother in law as mother? However I agree with Vyasji that one should concentrate on one's duty alone. Brother Mike's observations are full of love . Brother Vyasji is absolutely on the side of truth. But he is too dry unlike Mike Keenor. He and Mike in fact are the symbols of what Balaji calls - Iron hand with rosy touch respectively. Vyasji is so straight forward, so conceptually clear and still his views and Mike Keenor' s views gel together. This in fact is ideal combination. Hence perhaps Balaji will have to concede in the end that Love exists. It is not explored. If God exists then Love also exists. No two opinions about the same! Love heals everything. Love is the answer to every problem of humanity. Love is the goal of every soul. All religions begin and end with LOVE only ! Draupadi A Sharma ------------------------------ Jai Shri Krishna I agree with all of you, particularly Mikeji and Ushaji and Shashikalaji's " Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. " " and not looking into the duties of another " Vyasji - I agree that I have no right looking into the duties of another, but sometimes the scale seems unfairly lopsided, where it is only give, give, give and bitterness that builds up. Mike - you said " Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. " I do agree it is poison and not beneficial at all, but over the years it seems to have become a pattern of behavior that I would like to root out. Mikeji, then you said - " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . May be I don't truly understand what Swamiji meant when he said " World is Dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow). Kindly address more the later part of my dilemma in detail, not talking about what should be, ought to be, advice such as I should read the Gita, but how to not see the world as " dukhaalaya " , and instead see it as " philosopher's stone. " I think Swamiji calls it " Vasudeva Sarvam " . My focus it more what I said earlier - How do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Where to begin in this transformation towards Krishna's RAS? Thank you all! I truely mean it! Bala GK ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING -Shree Hari- Brother Vyas's comment was most timely, as my wife and I have to deal with added responsibilities as referred to in his response.(His comments are also support. Yes indeed! Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. Swamiji referred to in a recent post about the benefits of unfavorable situation. Looking at the really big picture, in a spiritual sense, try to understand, " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . One passing observation, 'dukhaalaya', can be transmuted by the spiritual 'philosophers stone', from the 'base metal' of sorrow, to the 'gold' of compassion. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ---------------------------- Jai Hanuman Ushaji is absolutely correct! More so when she concludes- Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. Undobtedly correct, Jee ! Bolo Balaji Maharaj !! Come On, Jee ! Gita has never advocated looking at the duties of others! NEVER !! Show me a single verse ! The example of young one departing or old one departing - to my mind- doesnot address the question ( Pardon me - Bhaiyya G K Balaji- Pls enlighten us all as to how it addresses the Q) ! KAUN JAANE RE BABA DUNIYA MAIN PEER PARAAI ! Alas! Who knows in this world the pain of others !! Namaste Jee ! Jee Jee Shashikala ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala's response is by and large an honest depiction. But highly debatable. Love can never be non existent. Let us deal para wise. He says Quote If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Unquote But my answer to him is that how this question of " taking additional responsibilty " arises at all ? How one determines what is others' responsibility/duty? How can bitterness come in the picture? Is expecting some one to do his/her duty not a " desire " of yourself ? Reply yes or no ! If it is your desire from others' conduct, however right or correct you may be , pain/sorrow will flow unto you ! Simply because it is not your duty to look/judge conduct of others. Simply because DESIRE OF WORLDLY THINGS/ FROM WORLDLY PEOPLE ultimately, as a law, produces only sorrow. Simply because only when you don't do your " duty " the sorrow can flow unto you !! Doing- what is " your duty and your own duty only and not looking at all at others' duties " - this can never produce sorrow- come what may ! Once you agree to that( argue if you want) - where is the reason for bitterness? Where is the question of helplessness? Where is the question of obliging the spouse? If your spouse is idiot/non cooperative - why you should take additional responsibility? If you must take that (alleged her/his) responsibility, how that is not your duty? If it is your duty or becomes your duty, where does the question of blame/bitterness/accomodation arise? By the way how does taking others' responsibilties ( service) upon your shoulders and fulfilling those responsibilities to be as your own responsibilty deters you from your spiritual pursuits? Is that not " selfless service " ? If yes, is that not your " duty " as a sadhak ? ( Comments limited to extracted para quoted above only) Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ---------------------------- Hari Om. We have totally mistaken the life process. when we enter a wed lock we should forgive and forget the others mistakes. There is no commitment in friendship, but there is commitment in our relationship. A woman has womb and so biologically she can show emotional behaviour positively. Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. With regards, Usha Sridhar ------------------------------ When 2 people marry, 2 families become one. It is the duty of each family to take part in the joys and sorrows of the other. So if you see things in this light then the issue resolves itself. But of course the husband and the wife must be open with each other, especially in financial matters. It is money which makes enemies. Hari Shanker Deo ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 10, 2009 Report Share Posted January 10, 2009 I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Balaji's response has elicited a wave of sympathies from sadhaks, including even from Shashikalaji. A good soul in dilemma. But I must state that this human life is not some sort of pleasure giving movie. It is an examination hall. Here you can't seek what suits your mind/intellect/ego ! This world is a laboratory run by Mother Nature. Here you are seen, vetted, examined, analysed, cleaned, washed, disinfected ... Put into fire, straightened out, by Mother Nature so that she may put you into the ever waiting loving arms of your Eternal Father- Paramatma. Hence there is no relief possible for a Karma Yogi. He must tirelessly give, give and give. He must understand that even the slightest expectation from the world, from the receipient of favours from you- will be denied to him by Paramatma. This is " kripa " (benevolence) of God. It is denied by God to only those sadhaks whom He loves, whom He wants. What will happen if the receipient acknowledges/thanks/respects/reciprocates your gestures? What can happen except your again getting " attached " to them? But as a law - Service destroys Mineness ! How can mineness be destroyed if the other party behaves with you amicably? If other party is cold hearted even disrespectful to your good gestures- then only " mineness " will get destroyed. Hence all Scriptures advice you not to expect anything in return for any of your karmas. As simple as that ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -------------------------------- Jai Hanuman Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaj would often say that this world is an examination hall for the human beings- where you are given problems based on your past performances - to be solved. This world is an acid test for all of us. You can't run away from examination hall ! Continuing the Bhajan: BADA KATHIN SACH KA YE PATH RE , SAMBHAL SAMBHAL CHALANA PRAANI ! Very very difficult and testing is the PATH OF TRUTH ( Duty ) . Be very cautious O Jeeva in walking on this path. PAG PAG PAR HAI YAHAN RE KASAUTI, KADAM KADAM PAR KURBAANI !! On every step there is an acid test, on every step there is sacrifice. MAGAT TU DAAVADOL NA HONA, TERI SAB PEER HARENGE RAAM! PONCHH LE TU APNE AANSOO TAMAM, TERI SAB PEER HARENGE RAAM !! (O Jeeva) But you don't get perturbed . Paramatma will remove all your pains and sufferings . Wipe out all your tears, O Jeeva !! O Reliever of Pains of others in this world ! Your pains will be removed by Paramatma. Namaste Jee Jee Jee Shashikala ---------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! This is to emphasize more on what already has been said by Sadhakas on Balaji's and Lahiriji's issues, but from my experiences. As a reminder to us as I often do to myself, Loving/Giving is only one sided relation, not two sided like " give and take " people often say it is. Its only " give, give, give " from your side that works, not give and take. However, " give, give, give " becomes automatically " give and take " in relationship when both or all involved do it. I was profoundly touched when I understood deeply J. Krishnamurti's answer(paraphrasing). Q: Why do we expect to be loved by others always? A: Because we don't love! What a short but profound answer when you think about it! This is because if we are busy loving, where is the time to expect love in return?! Speaking from my experience, in any relationship, whenever problem/conflict/pain etc seem to arise, I remind myself, " Pratap, its a small price to pay for all God is giving/has given you through this relationship " , and believe me " Krishna's Ras " starts flowing soon. It doesn't matter anymore! Another point that helps me in the relationship is " never ever possess another human being, be that person your spouse, parents, children, siblings, friends. Give a person freedom first, by not letting her/him feel guilty or self pitying. With this inner attitude seemingly " your " actions and words speak louder! It takes off so much load of our shoulders trying to change others in the way we want for our happiness! Happiness lies in our own change, never in changing " others " (?) because there are truly no " others " . Apparant " others " in relationship are in our minds as images of those " others " outside. " I " and " others " are in the same mind in conflict fooling us not to allow us to see the reality of Oneness! " Being Grateful " all the time in our hearts is another effective point that works miracle for some reason! Overwhelm yourself (consciousness that " you " are, really) with idea that " God has placed Him/Herself disguised as 'me " in the best possible situation at this time because its what is needed now through this relationship. See/feel Krishna's ras flowing at this time! You can do it, really. Being Grateful is Krishna Consciousness! Now all of the above pointers are inner attitudes realized through understanding of what " I " and God are, such as, understanding is God, actions and spoken words are God, people in relationship are God, God is doing what God wants to do and to God herself only and to no one else! How does God do that? Because in fact, there is no one else besides Her/Him to relate to!!! No other, no conflict! Such Existence is LOVE of Self by Self for Self! Namaskar.............Pratap Bhatt ----------------------------- Jai Hanuman Sadhak Balaji's latest message is soul touching. Let us really address his dilemma with understanding.and let there be one more round of discussions on 1. Giving, Giving and Giving by some one 2. Bitterness 3. Krishna's RAS. 4 Expectation by family without any expression of gratitude/reciprocation. In the meantime let me sing this Bhajan with Sadhaks: DOOSARO KA DUKHADA DOOR KARANE WALE TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM ! KIYE JA TU JAG MAIN BHALAAI KA KAAM, TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM !! O Reliever of the pains of others ! Keep ( giving, giving and giving) doing good to others. Paramatma will remove your pains. KYA TUNE PAAYA, KYA TUNE KHOYA, KYA TERA LAABH HEY, KYA HAANI ! ISKA HISAAB KAREGA WO ISHWAR , TU KYUN FIKKAR KARE RE PRAANI !! TU BAS APNA KAAM KIYE JAA ! TERA BHANDAAR BHARENGE RAAM !! What did you get (by serving/doing good) , what did you lose, what is your, what is your loss ? This account is kept by Paramatma ! O Jeeva , why do you worry? You simply keep doing your duty ! Your treasury/ pockets will always be replenished by God. O Reliever of sorrows of others! Your sorrows will be removed by God !! Namaste Jee Jee Jee Shashikala ---------------------------- Jai Shree Krishna Dilemma of Sadhak Balaji is the dilemma of every good soul. One often gets tormented between duty , heartless beneficiaries and pains given by surroundings to whoever indulges into goodness. I dont know why it happens. But I am sure it happens. I request learned Sadhaks to deal with this real genuine dilemma of a person who is good by heart.He does good but does not see the end. He appears tired. I am really moved by his honest narration. I am looking forward to views of learned sadhaks of this unique satsanga forum on the subject. Regards Thakurlingam ---------------------------- There is an anguish , a genuine one, in the latest message of Balaji. I agree with Vyasji that his is an honest narration. Well ! The Qs are many. Bitterness arising after one labours for betterment of his/her near and dear ones is understandable- provided there is no acknowledgement from the other side . But that is how the world is. I wonder how one crosses / quells such bitterness. It naturally arises if there is constant disrespect to that person who serves. Religion may ask you to be tolerant. But one has to convince himself also - why ? Why with me? What is the answer? Prepetina Gonsalves ----------------------------- Sir Vyasji Maharaj My sincere pranams to Your Mataji and You. We all are indebted to you for joining this group. It is difficult to imagine how this group would have been without you. Sir, you have infused life it. Jay Shri Krishna Varun Prapunia ------------------------------ Hari Om Yes Brother Mike ! " Dukhalayam " can be converted into " Vasudevah Sarvam " ! It is goal of each of us. Compassion is the other name of HIM. He is the kindest. Reverting to balance portion of Sadhak Bala's response ( I am after his response because I genuinely feel he represents majority ) . He concludes by (wrongly) relying upon an example given by Swamiji to establish perhaps – " Nothing is Yours " : QUOTE Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty,respect, deligence in duty. UNQUOTE Tell me , how can Swamiji's giving the aforesaid example proves that love is non existent in this world? If a child contracts an incurable disease and the mother of the child very well knows that- will she stop feeding the child ? What do you say Dear Sadhaks? Now Balaji asks a genuine question – Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? Answer is that first stop believing that love, compassion, trust are non existent. Don't see them in others. See them in yourself. Show them to others. Remember your duty is not to " expect from family members " – Your duty is to " fulfil expectations of family members from you " to the extent you CAN and you SHOULD ! That will surely free you from bitterness ! Krishna 's RAS is very well lying within you in the form of Love, Compassion and Care for all and sundry. You must thank your stars if some one needs that from you. My Mother, 75, often tells me – " Narottam, By " giving " to others you get God, but if some body refuses to " take " from you, then who is the loser ? " Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -- Jai Shri Ram I fully agree with the views of Hari Shankar Deo and Ushaji Shridhar. Who can disagree with Jee Jee Shashikalaji ever? In marital life two people dont gel but two families gel. What is the difference between father and father in law? If there is a difference then how there is an expectation from wife to treat mother in law as mother? However I agree with Vyasji that one should concentrate on one's duty alone. Brother Mike's observations are full of love . Brother Vyasji is absolutely on the side of truth. But he is too dry unlike Mike Keenor. He and Mike in fact are the symbols of what Balaji calls - Iron hand with rosy touch respectively. Vyasji is so straight forward, so conceptually clear and still his views and Mike Keenor' s views gel together. This in fact is ideal combination. Hence perhaps Balaji will have to concede in the end that Love exists. It is not explored. If God exists then Love also exists. No two opinions about the same! Love heals everything. Love is the answer to every problem of humanity. Love is the goal of every soul. All religions begin and end with LOVE only ! Draupadi A Sharma ------------------------------ Jai Shri Krishna I agree with all of you, particularly Mikeji and Ushaji and Shashikalaji's " Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. " " and not looking into the duties of another " Vyasji - I agree that I have no right looking into the duties of another, but sometimes the scale seems unfairly lopsided, where it is only give, give, give and bitterness that builds up. Mike - you said " Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. " I do agree it is poison and not beneficial at all, but over the years it seems to have become a pattern of behavior that I would like to root out. Mikeji, then you said - " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . May be I don't truly understand what Swamiji meant when he said " World is Dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow). Kindly address more the later part of my dilemma in detail, not talking about what should be, ought to be, advice such as I should read the Gita, but how to not see the world as " dukhaalaya " , and instead see it as " philosopher's stone. " I think Swamiji calls it " Vasudeva Sarvam " . My focus it more what I said earlier - How do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Where to begin in this transformation towards Krishna's RAS? Thank you all! I truely mean it! Bala GK ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING -Shree Hari- Brother Vyas's comment was most timely, as my wife and I have to deal with added responsibilities as referred to in his response.(His comments are also support. Yes indeed! Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. Swamiji referred to in a recent post about the benefits of unfavorable situation. Looking at the really big picture, in a spiritual sense, try to understand, " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . One passing observation, 'dukhaalaya', can be transmuted by the spiritual 'philosophers stone', from the 'base metal' of sorrow, to the 'gold' of compassion. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ---------------------------- Jai Hanuman Ushaji is absolutely correct! More so when she concludes- Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. Undobtedly correct, Jee ! Bolo Balaji Maharaj !! Come On, Jee ! Gita has never advocated looking at the duties of others! NEVER !! Show me a single verse ! The example of young one departing or old one departing - to my mind- doesnot address the question ( Pardon me - Bhaiyya G K Balaji- Pls enlighten us all as to how it addresses the Q) ! KAUN JAANE RE BABA DUNIYA MAIN PEER PARAAI ! Alas! Who knows in this world the pain of others !! Namaste Jee ! Jee Jee Shashikala ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala's response is by and large an honest depiction. But highly debatable. Love can never be non existent. Let us deal para wise. He says Quote If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Unquote But my answer to him is that how this question of " taking additional responsibilty " arises at all ? How one determines what is others' responsibility/duty? How can bitterness come in the picture? Is expecting some one to do his/her duty not a " desire " of yourself ? Reply yes or no ! If it is your desire from others' conduct, however right or correct you may be , pain/sorrow will flow unto you ! Simply because it is not your duty to look/judge conduct of others. Simply because DESIRE OF WORLDLY THINGS/ FROM WORLDLY PEOPLE ultimately, as a law, produces only sorrow. Simply because only when you don't do your " duty " the sorrow can flow unto you !! Doing- what is " your duty and your own duty only and not looking at all at others' duties " - this can never produce sorrow- come what may ! Once you agree to that( argue if you want) - where is the reason for bitterness? Where is the question of helplessness? Where is the question of obliging the spouse? If your spouse is idiot/non cooperative - why you should take additional responsibility? If you must take that (alleged her/his) responsibility, how that is not your duty? If it is your duty or becomes your duty, where does the question of blame/bitterness/accomodation arise? By the way how does taking others' responsibilties ( service) upon your shoulders and fulfilling those responsibilities to be as your own responsibilty deters you from your spiritual pursuits? Is that not " selfless service " ? If yes, is that not your " duty " as a sadhak ? ( Comments limited to extracted para quoted above only) Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ---------------------------- Hari Om. We have totally mistaken the life process. when we enter a wed lock we should forgive and forget the others mistakes. There is no commitment in friendship, but there is commitment in our relationship. A woman has womb and so biologically she can show emotional behaviour positively. Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. With regards, Usha Sridhar ------------------------------ When 2 people marry, 2 families become one. It is the duty of each family to take part in the joys and sorrows of the other. So if you see things in this light then the issue resolves itself. But of course the husband and the wife must be open with each other, especially in financial matters. It is money which makes enemies. Hari Shanker Deo ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 11, 2009 Report Share Posted January 11, 2009 I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala raised two good questions. 1 How to conquer bitterness 2 How to change " dukhalayam " into " Krishna's Ras " ! When your desire for reciprocation, your desire for a similar execution of duty by the other family member ( so that you don't have to take additional responsibilty) , or desire for even an acknowledgement- however genuine, natural or appropriate that be, will be denied to you. Why ? Because your father considers that to be harmful for you. Grant of this desire to you by God means increasing your " attachment " with inert. Says Yoga Vaasishtha- Attachment is the cause of objects or affairs. Attachment is the cause of worldly existence. Attachment is the cause of hopes or desires. Attachment is the cause of calamities (DUKHALAYAM ). Now through that family member, against whom you developed bitterness, your Beloved Father is breaking your attachment, Brother Bala ! Where is then the very question of bitterness arising in you ? Instead of bitterness in fact a sense of gratitude should arise in you for that family member. Is God not present in him/her? Love should arise in you for him/her !! Why not devotion? Compassion necessarily because he/she might not be knowing that he/she is being used by the God- thus accumulating enormous negative karmas for him/her self ! Love, compassion, understanding thus is the real, genuine answer !!! Why not? Why not Sister Prepetina ? Why not Sadhak Thakurlingam? So long as that does not arise, I am afraid, pain will continue . But develop love and compassion and IMMEDIATELY " Dukhalyam " will get converted into " KRISHNA's RAS " !! Sadhak Bala !! This is the " philosopher's stone " referred by Brother Mike Keenor- love, devotion, compassion !! Go ahead and convert " dukhalayam " into " Krishna's Ras " ! Go ahead fearlessly, O Brother !! Or tell me what do you lose in doing that !!! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -------------------------------- Ram Ram most of the interpersonal relationships, or for that matter, most world problems stems from agyaana. Agyaan (ignorance) is humanity's greatest predicament. In case of inlaws, i have seen mother inlaws dont treat daughter inlaw as his/her own child and vice versa. thus what we call " my " parents comes in. As students of Gita know it is EGO (sense of I-ness). Ego related attachment is a separation line between husband and wife's parents and hence only self knowledge can destroy this human weakness. Only few lucky families think of " family as one family " let alone " human race as one family. " thats why joint family is non-existence even in india. usually my advice to parents is to live separate from their children and grand children as long as possible and one of the spouses are alive. its children's duty to support their old-age parents financially with mutual agreement between the young couple. Hariom Roy -------------------------------- This is the general complaint amongst many families In this case husband and wife should understand that both parents are on equal footing.The wife should arrange her own money to sponsor her parents and no sooner they come arrange their separate town house. Exercise all your rights and be kind and compassionate with your husband and do not spoil any relation and silently be brave and take actions according to Law. I am a social worker helping people voluntarily. As per Gita husband and wife are together one person. This is a social problem and can be tackled with social laws. My best wishes Truly yours S S Bhatt -------------------------------- ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! This is to emphasize more on what already has been said by Sadhakas on Balaji's and Lahiriji's issues, but from my experiences. As a reminder to us as I often do to myself, Loving/Giving is only one sided relation, not two sided like " give and take " people often say it is. Its only " give, give, give " from your side that works, not give and take. However, " give, give, give " becomes automatically " give and take " in relationship when both or all involved do it. I was profoundly touched when I understood deeply J. Krishnamurti's answer(paraphrasing). Q: Why do we expect to be loved by others always? A: Because we don't love! What a short but profound answer when you think about it! This is because if we are busy loving, where is the time to expect love in return?! Speaking from my experience, in any relationship, whenever problem/conflict/pain etc seem to arise, I remind myself, " Pratap, its a small price to pay for all God is giving/has given you through this relationship " , and believe me " Krishna's Ras " starts flowing soon. It doesn't matter anymore! Another point that helps me in the relationship is " never ever possess another human being, be that person your spouse, parents, children, siblings, friends. Give a person freedom first, by not letting her/him feel guilty or self pitying. With this inner attitude seemingly " your " actions and words speak louder! It takes off so much load of our shoulders trying to change others in the way we want for our happiness! Happiness lies in our own change, never in changing " others " (?) because there are truly no " others " . Apparant " others " in relationship are in our minds as images of those " others " outside. " I " and " others " are in the same mind in conflict fooling us not to allow us to see the reality of Oneness! " Being Grateful " all the time in our hearts is another effective point that works miracle for some reason! Overwhelm yourself (consciousness that " you " are, really) with idea that " God has placed Him/Herself disguised as 'me " in the best possible situation at this time because its what is needed now through this relationship. See/feel Krishna's ras flowing at this time! You can do it, really. Being Grateful is Krishna Consciousness! Now all of the above pointers are inner attitudes realized through understanding of what " I " and God are, such as, understanding is God, actions and spoken words are God, people in relationship are God, God is doing what God wants to do and to God herself only and to no one else! How does God do that? Because in fact, there is no one else besides Her/Him to relate to!!! No other, no conflict! Such Existence is LOVE of Self by Self for Self! Namaskar.............Pratap Bhatt ----------------------------- Jai Hanuman Sadhak Balaji's latest message is soul touching. Let us really address his dilemma with understanding.and let there be one more round of discussions on 1. Giving, Giving and Giving by some one 2. Bitterness 3. Krishna's RAS. 4 Expectation by family without any expression of gratitude/reciprocation. In the meantime let me sing this Bhajan with Sadhaks: DOOSARO KA DUKHADA DOOR KARANE WALE TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM ! KIYE JA TU JAG MAIN BHALAAI KA KAAM, TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM !! O Reliever of the pains of others ! Keep ( giving, giving and giving) doing good to others. Paramatma will remove your pains. KYA TUNE PAAYA, KYA TUNE KHOYA, KYA TERA LAABH HEY, KYA HAANI ! ISKA HISAAB KAREGA WO ISHWAR , TU KYUN FIKKAR KARE RE PRAANI !! TU BAS APNA KAAM KIYE JAA ! TERA BHANDAAR BHARENGE RAAM !! What did you get (by serving/doing good) , what did you lose, what is your, what is your loss ? This account is kept by Paramatma ! O Jeeva , why do you worry? You simply keep doing your duty ! Your treasury/ pockets will always be replenished by God. O Reliever of sorrows of others! Your sorrows will be removed by God !! Namaste Jee Jee Jee Shashikala ---------------------------- Jai Shree Krishna Dilemma of Sadhak Balaji is the dilemma of every good soul. One often gets tormented between duty , heartless beneficiaries and pains given by surroundings to whoever indulges into goodness. I dont know why it happens. But I am sure it happens. I request learned Sadhaks to deal with this real genuine dilemma of a person who is good by heart.He does good but does not see the end. He appears tired. I am really moved by his honest narration. I am looking forward to views of learned sadhaks of this unique satsanga forum on the subject. Regards Thakurlingam ---------------------------- There is an anguish , a genuine one, in the latest message of Balaji. I agree with Vyasji that his is an honest narration. Well ! The Qs are many. Bitterness arising after one labours for betterment of his/her near and dear ones is understandable- provided there is no acknowledgement from the other side . But that is how the world is. I wonder how one crosses / quells such bitterness. It naturally arises if there is constant disrespect to that person who serves. Religion may ask you to be tolerant. But one has to convince himself also - why ? Why with me? What is the answer? Prepetina Gonsalves ----------------------------- Sir Vyasji Maharaj My sincere pranams to Your Mataji and You. We all are indebted to you for joining this group. It is difficult to imagine how this group would have been without you. Sir, you have infused life it. Jay Shri Krishna Varun Prapunia ------------------------------ Hari Om Yes Brother Mike ! " Dukhalayam " can be converted into " Vasudevah Sarvam " ! It is goal of each of us. Compassion is the other name of HIM. He is the kindest. Reverting to balance portion of Sadhak Bala's response ( I am after his response because I genuinely feel he represents majority ) . He concludes by (wrongly) relying upon an example given by Swamiji to establish perhaps – " Nothing is Yours " : QUOTE Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty,respect, deligence in duty. UNQUOTE Tell me , how can Swamiji's giving the aforesaid example proves that love is non existent in this world? If a child contracts an incurable disease and the mother of the child very well knows that- will she stop feeding the child ? What do you say Dear Sadhaks? Now Balaji asks a genuine question – Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? Answer is that first stop believing that love, compassion, trust are non existent. Don't see them in others. See them in yourself. Show them to others. Remember your duty is not to " expect from family members " – Your duty is to " fulfil expectations of family members from you " to the extent you CAN and you SHOULD ! That will surely free you from bitterness ! Krishna 's RAS is very well lying within you in the form of Love, Compassion and Care for all and sundry. You must thank your stars if some one needs that from you. My Mother, 75, often tells me – " Narottam, By " giving " to others you get God, but if some body refuses to " take " from you, then who is the loser ? " Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -- Jai Shri Ram I fully agree with the views of Hari Shankar Deo and Ushaji Shridhar. Who can disagree with Jee Jee Shashikalaji ever? In marital life two people dont gel but two families gel. What is the difference between father and father in law? If there is a difference then how there is an expectation from wife to treat mother in law as mother? However I agree with Vyasji that one should concentrate on one's duty alone. Brother Mike's observations are full of love . Brother Vyasji is absolutely on the side of truth. But he is too dry unlike Mike Keenor. He and Mike in fact are the symbols of what Balaji calls - Iron hand with rosy touch respectively. Vyasji is so straight forward, so conceptually clear and still his views and Mike Keenor' s views gel together. This in fact is ideal combination. Hence perhaps Balaji will have to concede in the end that Love exists. It is not explored. If God exists then Love also exists. No two opinions about the same! Love heals everything. Love is the answer to every problem of humanity. Love is the goal of every soul. All religions begin and end with LOVE only ! Draupadi A Sharma ------------------------------ Jai Shri Krishna I agree with all of you, particularly Mikeji and Ushaji and Shashikalaji's " Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. " " and not looking into the duties of another " Vyasji - I agree that I have no right looking into the duties of another, but sometimes the scale seems unfairly lopsided, where it is only give, give, give and bitterness that builds up. Mike - you said " Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. " I do agree it is poison and not beneficial at all, but over the years it seems to have become a pattern of behavior that I would like to root out. Mikeji, then you said - " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . May be I don't truly understand what Swamiji meant when he said " World is Dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow). Kindly address more the later part of my dilemma in detail, not talking about what should be, ought to be, advice such as I should read the Gita, but how to not see the world as " dukhaalaya " , and instead see it as " philosopher's stone. " I think Swamiji calls it " Vasudeva Sarvam " . My focus it more what I said earlier - How do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Where to begin in this transformation towards Krishna's RAS? Thank you all! I truely mean it! Bala GK ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING -Shree Hari- Brother Vyas's comment was most timely, as my wife and I have to deal with added responsibilities as referred to in his response.(His comments are also support. Yes indeed! Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. Swamiji referred to in a recent post about the benefits of unfavorable situation. Looking at the really big picture, in a spiritual sense, try to understand, " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . One passing observation, 'dukhaalaya', can be transmuted by the spiritual 'philosophers stone', from the 'base metal' of sorrow, to the 'gold' of compassion. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ---------------------------- Jai Hanuman Ushaji is absolutely correct! More so when she concludes- Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. Undobtedly correct, Jee ! Bolo Balaji Maharaj !! Come On, Jee ! Gita has never advocated looking at the duties of others! NEVER !! Show me a single verse ! The example of young one departing or old one departing - to my mind- doesnot address the question ( Pardon me - Bhaiyya G K Balaji- Pls enlighten us all as to how it addresses the Q) ! KAUN JAANE RE BABA DUNIYA MAIN PEER PARAAI ! Alas! Who knows in this world the pain of others !! Namaste Jee ! Jee Jee Shashikala ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala's response is by and large an honest depiction. But highly debatable. Love can never be non existent. Let us deal para wise. He says Quote If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Unquote But my answer to him is that how this question of " taking additional responsibilty " arises at all ? How one determines what is others' responsibility/duty? How can bitterness come in the picture? Is expecting some one to do his/her duty not a " desire " of yourself ? Reply yes or no ! If it is your desire from others' conduct, however right or correct you may be , pain/sorrow will flow unto you ! Simply because it is not your duty to look/judge conduct of others. Simply because DESIRE OF WORLDLY THINGS/ FROM WORLDLY PEOPLE ultimately, as a law, produces only sorrow. Simply because only when you don't do your " duty " the sorrow can flow unto you !! Doing- what is " your duty and your own duty only and not looking at all at others' duties " - this can never produce sorrow- come what may ! Once you agree to that( argue if you want) - where is the reason for bitterness? Where is the question of helplessness? Where is the question of obliging the spouse? If your spouse is idiot/non cooperative - why you should take additional responsibility? If you must take that (alleged her/his) responsibility, how that is not your duty? If it is your duty or becomes your duty, where does the question of blame/bitterness/accomodation arise? By the way how does taking others' responsibilties ( service) upon your shoulders and fulfilling those responsibilities to be as your own responsibilty deters you from your spiritual pursuits? Is that not " selfless service " ? If yes, is that not your " duty " as a sadhak ? ( Comments limited to extracted para quoted above only) Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ---------------------------- Hari Om. We have totally mistaken the life process. when we enter a wed lock we should forgive and forget the others mistakes. There is no commitment in friendship, but there is commitment in our relationship. A woman has womb and so biologically she can show emotional behaviour positively. Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. With regards, Usha Sridhar ------------------------------ When 2 people marry, 2 families become one. It is the duty of each family to take part in the joys and sorrows of the other. So if you see things in this light then the issue resolves itself. But of course the husband and the wife must be open with each other, especially in financial matters. It is money which makes enemies. Hari Shanker Deo ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 11, 2009 Report Share Posted January 11, 2009 I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Jai Shri Krishna In front of this divine group, I am personally committing to give up completely the following: - desire for reciprocation - desire for acknowledgement from others - desire that others may do per my wishes; - desire for possessing others(subtly) - desire to look at other's (perceived) duty No more Desires! No more Bitterness – NOTHING Toxic anymore! as I know that my Father considers these to be harmful for me. NO MORE ATTACHMENT. Let it be the END of agyaana (end of all SORROW, NO MORE DUKHAALAYA " End of EGO Father has removed, cut off this attachment forever. Let me start here first by my Father's grace. Let me completely understand the " Benefits of an Unfavorable Situation " . Let there be no more tiredness. Only ENTHUSIASM to carry out Father's work, and to do my duties to the extent that I can. Let me focus only on changing " me " first, as there is none other. Therefore where is the conflict? Truely NONE. Yes truely, it is a small thing, that can be easily done. Surely, for all that I have been blessed with. It truly does not matter anymore. Let me be nothing but grateful for the situation I am in. Only Forgive and Forget! Only Loving and Giving. Giving, Giving, Giving! Let me be busy loving, so there is no time to expect anything in return. And return to who? there is no one else! Love, compassion, trust are definitely existent. I can feel it in members of this group. There is God! There is Love! And Love heals everything! Love is the beginning, the middle and the end. Let there be only love, devotion and compassion. The Philosopher's stone. Thank you all from the depth of my heart and soul! Each and every one of you! I truely mean it! Mrs. Bala GK ------------------------------ -Shree Hari- Dear Balaji, You may not understand at the moment, but the cure you seek will come. Why do I say so? You are not sitting at home nursing your bitterness, but you are talking to the world, Bhagavan automatically is aware of your plight. To help you the best that I can, I will cast my mind back. Was I bitter oh yes, was I angry, yes indeed, did I hate, I don't remember hating. You see because of life's circumstance I did not think anyone loved me, for being just Michael, I forgot/was deluded. It was not in my nature to love, my heart was like a stone, I felt abandoned a forgotten island. You see my dear friend, one act of selfless love can tip the balance, start the roller coaster homeward to 'The Beloved'. There is so much love at this site. Try to absorb this love into your heart, then your mind will undergo a shift, it will transcend this painful place it dwells in. When you feel those bad old feelings, just try to imagine all your Sadhak brethren who have traveled down the same road as you. I learned something profound: one is never alone, one is loved. I just noted the latest posts by Jee Jee Shashikalaji and Brother Vyas, love is not just fairy floss and candy, it can also be a good dose of bitters. Vyasji reminds me of a headmaster I had in my youth, a very 'dewer' Scot, but all the same, a very fine and compassionate gentleman. Yes indeed God does test you, knowing that, is the trick. With Respect and Divine Love. Mike Keenor ----------------------------- I do not know how pertinent is this to the current thoughts and discussions but I suppose the frequency of this topic really is distracting from other areas and wonder such frequency and such issues being brought out will dilute the sadhaks participation I am not sure what Dinesh Patel --------------- Dear sadak rathindra prasad lahiri, There are counselor who deal with family problems effectively. They impart knowledge to accept ones mistakes and make them feel sorry for their behavior. This is purely family problem which need to be listened from both sides. So this site is for developing knowledge on the SELF, that is what I feel. Most of us have family problems. Even some bakthas underwent. This sort of problems are to be dealt by counselor trained only for this. Bagavan HIMSELF kept quite in not interfering family issues of Pandavas and Gowravas in many circumstances. The sadaks are themselves are striving hard in ones own realization and where there time to solve family quarrels. Extremely sorry if I am wrong. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala raised two good questions. 1 How to conquer bitterness 2 How to change " dukhalayam " into " Krishna's Ras " ! When your desire for reciprocation, your desire for a similar execution of duty by the other family member ( so that you don't have to take additional responsibilty) , or desire for even an acknowledgement- however genuine, natural or appropriate that be, will be denied to you. Why ? Because your father considers that to be harmful for you. Grant of this desire to you by God means increasing your " attachment " with inert. Says Yoga Vaasishtha- Attachment is the cause of objects or affairs. Attachment is the cause of worldly existence. Attachment is the cause of hopes or desires. Attachment is the cause of calamities (DUKHALAYAM ). Now through that family member, against whom you developed bitterness, your Beloved Father is breaking your attachment, Brother Bala ! Where is then the very question of bitterness arising in you ? Instead of bitterness in fact a sense of gratitude should arise in you for that family member. Is God not present in him/her? Love should arise in you for him/her !! Why not devotion? Compassion necessarily because he/she might not be knowing that he/she is being used by the God- thus accumulating enormous negative karmas for him/her self ! Love, compassion, understanding thus is the real, genuine answer !!! Why not? Why not Sister Prepetina ? Why not Sadhak Thakurlingam? So long as that does not arise, I am afraid, pain will continue . But develop love and compassion and IMMEDIATELY " Dukhalyam " will get converted into " KRISHNA's RAS " !! Sadhak Bala !! This is the " philosopher's stone " referred by Brother Mike Keenor- love, devotion, compassion !! Go ahead and convert " dukhalayam " into " Krishna's Ras " ! Go ahead fearlessly, O Brother !! Or tell me what do you lose in doing that !!! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -------------------------------- Ram Ram most of the interpersonal relationships, or for that matter, most world problems stems from agyaana. Agyaan (ignorance) is humanity's greatest predicament. In case of inlaws, i have seen mother inlaws dont treat daughter inlaw as his/her own child and vice versa. thus what we call " my " parents comes in. As students of Gita know it is EGO (sense of I-ness). Ego related attachment is a separation line between husband and wife's parents and hence only self knowledge can destroy this human weakness. Only few lucky families think of " family as one family " let alone " human race as one family. " thats why joint family is non-existence even in india. usually my advice to parents is to live separate from their children and grand children as long as possible and one of the spouses are alive. its children's duty to support their old-age parents financially with mutual agreement between the young couple. Hariom Roy -------------------------------- This is the general complaint amongst many families In this case husband and wife should understand that both parents are on equal footing.The wife should arrange her own money to sponsor her parents and no sooner they come arrange their separate town house. Exercise all your rights and be kind and compassionate with your husband and do not spoil any relation and silently be brave and take actions according to Law. I am a social worker helping people voluntarily. As per Gita husband and wife are together one person. This is a social problem and can be tackled with social laws. My best wishes Truly yours S S Bhatt -------------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! This is to emphasize more on what already has been said by Sadhakas on Balaji's and Lahiriji's issues, but from my experiences. As a reminder to us as I often do to myself, Loving/Giving is only one sided relation, not two sided like " give and take " people often say it is. Its only " give, give, give " from your side that works, not give and take. However, " give, give, give " becomes automatically " give and take " in relationship when both or all involved do it. I was profoundly touched when I understood deeply J. Krishnamurti's answer(paraphrasing). Q: Why do we expect to be loved by others always? A: Because we don't love! What a short but profound answer when you think about it! This is because if we are busy loving, where is the time to expect love in return?! Speaking from my experience, in any relationship, whenever problem/conflict/pain etc seem to arise, I remind myself, " Pratap, its a small price to pay for all God is giving/has given you through this relationship " , and believe me " Krishna's Ras " starts flowing soon. It doesn't matter anymore! Another point that helps me in the relationship is " never ever possess another human being, be that person your spouse, parents, children, siblings, friends. Give a person freedom first, by not letting her/him feel guilty or self pitying. With this inner attitude seemingly " your " actions and words speak louder! It takes off so much load of our shoulders trying to change others in the way we want for our happiness! Happiness lies in our own change, never in changing " others " (?) because there are truly no " others " . Apparant " others " in relationship are in our minds as images of those " others " outside. " I " and " others " are in the same mind in conflict fooling us not to allow us to see the reality of Oneness! " Being Grateful " all the time in our hearts is another effective point that works miracle for some reason! Overwhelm yourself (consciousness that " you " are, really) with idea that " God has placed Him/Herself disguised as 'me " in the best possible situation at this time because its what is needed now through this relationship. See/feel Krishna's ras flowing at this time! You can do it, really. Being Grateful is Krishna Consciousness! Now all of the above pointers are inner attitudes realized through understanding of what " I " and God are, such as, understanding is God, actions and spoken words are God, people in relationship are God, God is doing what God wants to do and to God herself only and to no one else! How does God do that? Because in fact, there is no one else besides Her/Him to relate to!!! No other, no conflict! Such Existence is LOVE of Self by Self for Self! Namaskar.............Pratap Bhatt ----------------------------- Jai Hanuman Sadhak Balaji's latest message is soul touching. Let us really address his dilemma with understanding.and let there be one more round of discussions on 1. Giving, Giving and Giving by some one 2. Bitterness 3. Krishna's RAS. 4 Expectation by family without any expression of gratitude/reciprocation. In the meantime let me sing this Bhajan with Sadhaks: DOOSARO KA DUKHADA DOOR KARANE WALE TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM ! KIYE JA TU JAG MAIN BHALAAI KA KAAM, TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM !! O Reliever of the pains of others ! Keep ( giving, giving and giving) doing good to others. Paramatma will remove your pains. KYA TUNE PAAYA, KYA TUNE KHOYA, KYA TERA LAABH HEY, KYA HAANI ! ISKA HISAAB KAREGA WO ISHWAR , TU KYUN FIKKAR KARE RE PRAANI !! TU BAS APNA KAAM KIYE JAA ! TERA BHANDAAR BHARENGE RAAM !! What did you get (by serving/doing good) , what did you lose, what is your, what is your loss ? This account is kept by Paramatma ! O Jeeva , why do you worry? You simply keep doing your duty ! Your treasury/ pockets will always be replenished by God. O Reliever of sorrows of others! Your sorrows will be removed by God !! Namaste Jee Jee Jee Shashikala ---------------------------- Jai Shree Krishna Dilemma of Sadhak Balaji is the dilemma of every good soul. One often gets tormented between duty , heartless beneficiaries and pains given by surroundings to whoever indulges into goodness. I dont know why it happens. But I am sure it happens. I request learned Sadhaks to deal with this real genuine dilemma of a person who is good by heart.He does good but does not see the end. He appears tired. I am really moved by his honest narration. I am looking forward to views of learned sadhaks of this unique satsanga forum on the subject. Regards Thakurlingam ---------------------------- There is an anguish , a genuine one, in the latest message of Balaji. I agree with Vyasji that his is an honest narration. Well ! The Qs are many. Bitterness arising after one labours for betterment of his/her near and dear ones is understandable- provided there is no acknowledgement from the other side . But that is how the world is. I wonder how one crosses / quells such bitterness. It naturally arises if there is constant disrespect to that person who serves. Religion may ask you to be tolerant. But one has to convince himself also - why ? Why with me? What is the answer? Prepetina Gonsalves ----------------------------- Sir Vyasji Maharaj My sincere pranams to Your Mataji and You. We all are indebted to you for joining this group. It is difficult to imagine how this group would have been without you. Sir, you have infused life it. Jay Shri Krishna Varun Prapunia ------------------------------ Hari Om Yes Brother Mike ! " Dukhalayam " can be converted into " Vasudevah Sarvam " ! It is goal of each of us. Compassion is the other name of HIM. He is the kindest. Reverting to balance portion of Sadhak Bala's response ( I am after his response because I genuinely feel he represents majority ) . He concludes by (wrongly) relying upon an example given by Swamiji to establish perhaps – " Nothing is Yours " : QUOTE Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty,respect, deligence in duty. UNQUOTE Tell me , how can Swamiji's giving the aforesaid example proves that love is non existent in this world? If a child contracts an incurable disease and the mother of the child very well knows that- will she stop feeding the child ? What do you say Dear Sadhaks? Now Balaji asks a genuine question – Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? Answer is that first stop believing that love, compassion, trust are non existent. Don't see them in others. See them in yourself. Show them to others. Remember your duty is not to " expect from family members " – Your duty is to " fulfil expectations of family members from you " to the extent you CAN and you SHOULD ! That will surely free you from bitterness ! Krishna 's RAS is very well lying within you in the form of Love, Compassion and Care for all and sundry. You must thank your stars if some one needs that from you. My Mother, 75, often tells me – " Narottam, By " giving " to others you get God, but if some body refuses to " take " from you, then who is the loser ? " Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -- Jai Shri Ram I fully agree with the views of Hari Shankar Deo and Ushaji Shridhar. Who can disagree with Jee Jee Shashikalaji ever? In marital life two people dont gel but two families gel. What is the difference between father and father in law? If there is a difference then how there is an expectation from wife to treat mother in law as mother? However I agree with Vyasji that one should concentrate on one's duty alone. Brother Mike's observations are full of love . Brother Vyasji is absolutely on the side of truth. But he is too dry unlike Mike Keenor. He and Mike in fact are the symbols of what Balaji calls - Iron hand with rosy touch respectively. Vyasji is so straight forward, so conceptually clear and still his views and Mike Keenor' s views gel together. This in fact is ideal combination. Hence perhaps Balaji will have to concede in the end that Love exists. It is not explored. If God exists then Love also exists. No two opinions about the same! Love heals everything. Love is the answer to every problem of humanity. Love is the goal of every soul. All religions begin and end with LOVE only ! Draupadi A Sharma ------------------------------ Jai Shri Krishna I agree with all of you, particularly Mikeji and Ushaji and Shashikalaji's " Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. " " and not looking into the duties of another " Vyasji - I agree that I have no right looking into the duties of another, but sometimes the scale seems unfairly lopsided, where it is only give, give, give and bitterness that builds up. Mike - you said " Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. " I do agree it is poison and not beneficial at all, but over the years it seems to have become a pattern of behavior that I would like to root out. Mikeji, then you said - " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . May be I don't truly understand what Swamiji meant when he said " World is Dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow). Kindly address more the later part of my dilemma in detail, not talking about what should be, ought to be, advice such as I should read the Gita, but how to not see the world as " dukhaalaya " , and instead see it as " philosopher's stone. " I think Swamiji calls it " Vasudeva Sarvam " . My focus it more what I said earlier - How do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Where to begin in this transformation towards Krishna's RAS? Thank you all! I truely mean it! Bala GK ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING -Shree Hari- Brother Vyas's comment was most timely, as my wife and I have to deal with added responsibilities as referred to in his response.(His comments are also support. Yes indeed! Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. Swamiji referred to in a recent post about the benefits of unfavorable situation. Looking at the really big picture, in a spiritual sense, try to understand, " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . One passing observation, 'dukhaalaya', can be transmuted by the spiritual 'philosophers stone', from the 'base metal' of sorrow, to the 'gold' of compassion. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ---------------------------- Jai Hanuman Ushaji is absolutely correct! More so when she concludes- Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. Undobtedly correct, Jee ! Bolo Balaji Maharaj !! Come On, Jee ! Gita has never advocated looking at the duties of others! NEVER !! Show me a single verse ! The example of young one departing or old one departing - to my mind- doesnot address the question ( Pardon me - Bhaiyya G K Balaji- Pls enlighten us all as to how it addresses the Q) ! KAUN JAANE RE BABA DUNIYA MAIN PEER PARAAI ! Alas! Who knows in this world the pain of others !! Namaste Jee ! Jee Jee Shashikala ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala's response is by and large an honest depiction. But highly debatable. Love can never be non existent. Let us deal para wise. He says Quote If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Unquote But my answer to him is that how this question of " taking additional responsibilty " arises at all ? How one determines what is others' responsibility/duty? How can bitterness come in the picture? Is expecting some one to do his/her duty not a " desire " of yourself ? Reply yes or no ! If it is your desire from others' conduct, however right or correct you may be , pain/sorrow will flow unto you ! Simply because it is not your duty to look/judge conduct of others. Simply because DESIRE OF WORLDLY THINGS/ FROM WORLDLY PEOPLE ultimately, as a law, produces only sorrow. Simply because only when you don't do your " duty " the sorrow can flow unto you !! Doing- what is " your duty and your own duty only and not looking at all at others' duties " - this can never produce sorrow- come what may ! Once you agree to that( argue if you want) - where is the reason for bitterness? Where is the question of helplessness? Where is the question of obliging the spouse? If your spouse is idiot/non cooperative - why you should take additional responsibility? If you must take that (alleged her/his) responsibility, how that is not your duty? If it is your duty or becomes your duty, where does the question of blame/bitterness/accomodation arise? By the way how does taking others' responsibilties ( service) upon your shoulders and fulfilling those responsibilities to be as your own responsibilty deters you from your spiritual pursuits? Is that not " selfless service " ? If yes, is that not your " duty " as a sadhak ? ( Comments limited to extracted para quoted above only) Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ---------------------------- Hari Om. We have totally mistaken the life process. when we enter a wed lock we should forgive and forget the others mistakes. There is no commitment in friendship, but there is commitment in our relationship. A woman has womb and so biologically she can show emotional behaviour positively. Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. With regards, Usha Sridhar ------------------------------ When 2 people marry, 2 families become one. It is the duty of each family to take part in the joys and sorrows of the other. So if you see things in this light then the issue resolves itself. But of course the husband and the wife must be open with each other, especially in financial matters. It is money which makes enemies. Hari Shanker Deo ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 15, 2009 Report Share Posted January 15, 2009 Shree Hari Ram Ram This posting wraps up discussion on this topic. Thank you all! THOSE INTERESTED IN RECEIVING MAILS IN HINDI, PLEASE LET US KNOW. WE WILL START A LIST AND AS TIME PERMITS, WE WILL SEND MAILS IN HINDI. From Gita Talk Moderators, Ram Ram ------------------------------- Jai Shri Ram I am getting daily massages from in English. Actually I fill some difficulties in understanding in english.So how I can get these massages in Hindi. Please do the needful Thanks & Regards Vimal Sarda ------------------------------- I , in the name of gender equality , I request the questioner (OR OTHERS) to reply to the following - How to deal with husband when he is absolutely pro his own parents and ignores parents of his wife or keeps fighting with them? Or when he is too attached to his parents and conceals from his wife certain financial supports which he keeps extending to his parents and behaves with his mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When he is too attached with his parents and ignores in-laws? What if he even indulges into dishonesty with wife to secretly pass on hard earned money of his or his wife to his parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted husband like that? What the daughter's parents should do? In every situation the duties of husband or wife should be the same and there should be no difference on the basis of gender disparity. The wife may be a working wife or a house wife , even when she is a house wife she has to do so much of family works and has to take so much of family responsibilities the financial equivalent is much more than what husband brings as his salary or earning . The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family rathindra prasad lahiri ----------------------------- NEW POSTING Dear Sadhika Balaji, So happy to read yr reply......wonderful commitment !!! This is how we spread LOVE...Peace and Bliss, by being Love, Peace and Bliss!!! When the heart is filled with Love, nothing else matter actually. If just in case, you feel slightest sign of bitterness, remember Lord Shiva, who drink poison to save this entire universe. May we all get strength to drink the bitterness of the worldly matters and spread sweet LOVE. with lots of Love, A sadhika Sadhna Karigar ---------------------------- " Lift up the self by the Self And do not let the self droop down. For the Self is the self's only friend And the self is the Self's only foe. " - Sri Krishna (from The Bhagavad Gita) Ben ----------------------------- How divine it is to see changes in the thoughts of Mrs G K Bala. Sadhaks Mike, Vyasji, Pratapji, Shashikalji, Usha Sridhar, Suresh Sharma, Varunji- all deserve compliments. Unbelievable transformation. So necessary. So Correct. So God sent. I am proud to be part of this forum Thakurlingam ----------------------------- Jai Shri Krishna In front of this divine group, I am personally committing to give up completely the following: - desire for reciprocation - desire for acknowledgement from others - desire that others may do per my wishes; - desire for possessing others(subtly) - desire to look at other's (perceived) duty No more Desires! No more Bitterness – NOTHING Toxic anymore! as I know that my Father considers these to be harmful for me. NO MORE ATTACHMENT. Let it be the END of agyaana (end of all SORROW, NO MORE DUKHAALAYA " End of EGO Father has removed, cut off this attachment forever. Let me start here first by my Father's grace. Let me completely understand the " Benefits of an Unfavorable Situation " . Let there be no more tiredness. Only ENTHUSIASM to carry out Father's work, and to do my duties to the extent that I can. Let me focus only on changing " me " first, as there is none other. Therefore where is the conflict? Truely NONE. Yes truely, it is a small thing, that can be easily done. Surely, for all that I have been blessed with. It truly does not matter anymore. Let me be nothing but grateful for the situation I am in. Only Forgive and Forget! Only Loving and Giving. Giving, Giving, Giving! Let me be busy loving, so there is no time to expect anything in return. And return to who? there is no one else! Love, compassion, trust are definitely existent. I can feel it in members of this group. There is God! There is Love! And Love heals everything! Love is the beginning, the middle and the end. Let there be only love, devotion and compassion. The Philosopher's stone. Thank you all from the depth of my heart and soul! Each and every one of you! I truely mean it! Mrs. Bala GK ------------------------------ -Shree Hari- Dear Balaji, You may not understand at the moment, but the cure you seek will come. Why do I say so? You are not sitting at home nursing your bitterness, but you are talking to the world, Bhagavan automatically is aware of your plight. To help you the best that I can, I will cast my mind back. Was I bitter oh yes, was I angry, yes indeed, did I hate, I don't remember hating. You see because of life's circumstance I did not think anyone loved me, for being just Michael, I forgot/was deluded. It was not in my nature to love, my heart was like a stone, I felt abandoned a forgotten island. You see my dear friend, one act of selfless love can tip the balance, start the roller coaster homeward to 'The Beloved'. There is so much love at this site. Try to absorb this love into your heart, then your mind will undergo a shift, it will transcend this painful place it dwells in. When you feel those bad old feelings, just try to imagine all your Sadhak brethren who have traveled down the same road as you. I learned something profound: one is never alone, one is loved. I just noted the latest posts by Jee Jee Shashikalaji and Brother Vyas, love is not just fairy floss and candy, it can also be a good dose of bitters. Vyasji reminds me of a headmaster I had in my youth, a very 'dewer' Scot, but all the same, a very fine and compassionate gentleman. Yes indeed God does test you, knowing that, is the trick. With Respect and Divine Love. Mike Keenor ----------------------------- I do not know how pertinent is this to the current thoughts and discussions but I suppose the frequency of this topic really is distracting from other areas and wonder such frequency and such issues being brought out will dilute the sadhaks participation I am not sure what Dinesh Patel --------------- Dear sadak rathindra prasad lahiri, There are counselor who deal with family problems effectively. They impart knowledge to accept ones mistakes and make them feel sorry for their behavior. This is purely family problem which need to be listened from both sides. So this site is for developing knowledge on the SELF, that is what I feel. Most of us have family problems. Even some bakthas underwent. This sort of problems are to be dealt by counselor trained only for this. Bagavan HIMSELF kept quite in not interfering family issues of Pandavas and Gowravas in many circumstances. The sadaks are themselves are striving hard in ones own realization and where there time to solve family quarrels. Extremely sorry if I am wrong. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala raised two good questions. 1 How to conquer bitterness 2 How to change " dukhalayam " into " Krishna's Ras " ! When your desire for reciprocation, your desire for a similar execution of duty by the other family member ( so that you don't have to take additional responsibilty) , or desire for even an acknowledgement- however genuine, natural or appropriate that be, will be denied to you. Why ? Because your father considers that to be harmful for you. Grant of this desire to you by God means increasing your " attachment " with inert. Says Yoga Vaasishtha- Attachment is the cause of objects or affairs. Attachment is the cause of worldly existence. Attachment is the cause of hopes or desires. Attachment is the cause of calamities (DUKHALAYAM ). Now through that family member, against whom you developed bitterness, your Beloved Father is breaking your attachment, Brother Bala ! Where is then the very question of bitterness arising in you ? Instead of bitterness in fact a sense of gratitude should arise in you for that family member. Is God not present in him/her? Love should arise in you for him/her !! Why not devotion? Compassion necessarily because he/she might not be knowing that he/she is being used by the God- thus accumulating enormous negative karmas for him/her self ! Love, compassion, understanding thus is the real, genuine answer !!! Why not? Why not Sister Prepetina ? Why not Sadhak Thakurlingam? So long as that does not arise, I am afraid, pain will continue . But develop love and compassion and IMMEDIATELY " Dukhalyam " will get converted into " KRISHNA's RAS " !! Sadhak Bala !! This is the " philosopher's stone " referred by Brother Mike Keenor- love, devotion, compassion !! Go ahead and convert " dukhalayam " into " Krishna's Ras " ! Go ahead fearlessly, O Brother !! Or tell me what do you lose in doing that !!! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -------------------------------- Ram Ram most of the interpersonal relationships, or for that matter, most world problems stems from agyaana. Agyaan (ignorance) is humanity's greatest predicament. In case of inlaws, i have seen mother inlaws dont treat daughter inlaw as his/her own child and vice versa. thus what we call " my " parents comes in. As students of Gita know it is EGO (sense of I-ness). Ego related attachment is a separation line between husband and wife's parents and hence only self knowledge can destroy this human weakness. Only few lucky families think of " family as one family " let alone " human race as one family. " thats why joint family is non-existence even in india. usually my advice to parents is to live separate from their children and grand children as long as possible and one of the spouses are alive. its children's duty to support their old-age parents financially with mutual agreement between the young couple. Hariom Roy -------------------------------- This is the general complaint amongst many families In this case husband and wife should understand that both parents are on equal footing.The wife should arrange her own money to sponsor her parents and no sooner they come arrange their separate town house. Exercise all your rights and be kind and compassionate with your husband and do not spoil any relation and silently be brave and take actions according to Law. I am a social worker helping people voluntarily. As per Gita husband and wife are together one person. This is a social problem and can be tackled with social laws. My best wishes Truly yours S S Bhatt -------------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! This is to emphasize more on what already has been said by Sadhakas on Balaji's and Lahiriji's issues, but from my experiences. As a reminder to us as I often do to myself, Loving/Giving is only one sided relation, not two sided like " give and take " people often say it is. Its only " give, give, give " from your side that works, not give and take. However, " give, give, give " becomes automatically " give and take " in relationship when both or all involved do it. I was profoundly touched when I understood deeply J. Krishnamurti's answer(paraphrasing). Q: Why do we expect to be loved by others always? A: Because we don't love! What a short but profound answer when you think about it! This is because if we are busy loving, where is the time to expect love in return?! Speaking from my experience, in any relationship, whenever problem/conflict/pain etc seem to arise, I remind myself, " Pratap, its a small price to pay for all God is giving/has given you through this relationship " , and believe me " Krishna's Ras " starts flowing soon. It doesn't matter anymore! Another point that helps me in the relationship is " never ever possess another human being, be that person your spouse, parents, children, siblings, friends. Give a person freedom first, by not letting her/him feel guilty or self pitying. With this inner attitude seemingly " your " actions and words speak louder! It takes off so much load of our shoulders trying to change others in the way we want for our happiness! Happiness lies in our own change, never in changing " others " (?) because there are truly no " others " . Apparant " others " in relationship are in our minds as images of those " others " outside. " I " and " others " are in the same mind in conflict fooling us not to allow us to see the reality of Oneness! " Being Grateful " all the time in our hearts is another effective point that works miracle for some reason! Overwhelm yourself (consciousness that " you " are, really) with idea that " God has placed Him/Herself disguised as 'me " in the best possible situation at this time because its what is needed now through this relationship. See/feel Krishna's ras flowing at this time! You can do it, really. Being Grateful is Krishna Consciousness! Now all of the above pointers are inner attitudes realized through understanding of what " I " and God are, such as, understanding is God, actions and spoken words are God, people in relationship are God, God is doing what God wants to do and to God herself only and to no one else! How does God do that? Because in fact, there is no one else besides Her/Him to relate to!!! No other, no conflict! Such Existence is LOVE of Self by Self for Self! Namaskar.............Pratap Bhatt ----------------------------- Jai Hanuman Sadhak Balaji's latest message is soul touching. Let us really address his dilemma with understanding.and let there be one more round of discussions on 1. Giving, Giving and Giving by some one 2. Bitterness 3. Krishna's RAS. 4 Expectation by family without any expression of gratitude/reciprocation. In the meantime let me sing this Bhajan with Sadhaks: DOOSARO KA DUKHADA DOOR KARANE WALE TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM ! KIYE JA TU JAG MAIN BHALAAI KA KAAM, TERE DUKH DOOR KARENGE RAAM !! O Reliever of the pains of others ! Keep ( giving, giving and giving) doing good to others. Paramatma will remove your pains. KYA TUNE PAAYA, KYA TUNE KHOYA, KYA TERA LAABH HEY, KYA HAANI ! ISKA HISAAB KAREGA WO ISHWAR , TU KYUN FIKKAR KARE RE PRAANI !! TU BAS APNA KAAM KIYE JAA ! TERA BHANDAAR BHARENGE RAAM !! What did you get (by serving/doing good) , what did you lose, what is your, what is your loss ? This account is kept by Paramatma ! O Jeeva , why do you worry? You simply keep doing your duty ! Your treasury/ pockets will always be replenished by God. O Reliever of sorrows of others! Your sorrows will be removed by God !! Namaste Jee Jee Jee Shashikala ---------------------------- Jai Shree Krishna Dilemma of Sadhak Balaji is the dilemma of every good soul. One often gets tormented between duty , heartless beneficiaries and pains given by surroundings to whoever indulges into goodness. I dont know why it happens. But I am sure it happens. I request learned Sadhaks to deal with this real genuine dilemma of a person who is good by heart.He does good but does not see the end. He appears tired. I am really moved by his honest narration. I am looking forward to views of learned sadhaks of this unique satsanga forum on the subject. Regards Thakurlingam ---------------------------- There is an anguish , a genuine one, in the latest message of Balaji. I agree with Vyasji that his is an honest narration. Well ! The Qs are many. Bitterness arising after one labours for betterment of his/her near and dear ones is understandable- provided there is no acknowledgement from the other side . But that is how the world is. I wonder how one crosses / quells such bitterness. It naturally arises if there is constant disrespect to that person who serves. Religion may ask you to be tolerant. But one has to convince himself also - why ? Why with me? What is the answer? Prepetina Gonsalves ----------------------------- Sir Vyasji Maharaj My sincere pranams to Your Mataji and You. We all are indebted to you for joining this group. It is difficult to imagine how this group would have been without you. Sir, you have infused life it. Jay Shri Krishna Varun Prapunia ------------------------------ Hari Om Yes Brother Mike ! " Dukhalayam " can be converted into " Vasudevah Sarvam " ! It is goal of each of us. Compassion is the other name of HIM. He is the kindest. Reverting to balance portion of Sadhak Bala's response ( I am after his response because I genuinely feel he represents majority ) . He concludes by (wrongly) relying upon an example given by Swamiji to establish perhaps – " Nothing is Yours " : QUOTE Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty,respect, deligence in duty. UNQUOTE Tell me , how can Swamiji's giving the aforesaid example proves that love is non existent in this world? If a child contracts an incurable disease and the mother of the child very well knows that- will she stop feeding the child ? What do you say Dear Sadhaks? Now Balaji asks a genuine question – Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? Answer is that first stop believing that love, compassion, trust are non existent. Don't see them in others. See them in yourself. Show them to others. Remember your duty is not to " expect from family members " – Your duty is to " fulfil expectations of family members from you " to the extent you CAN and you SHOULD ! That will surely free you from bitterness ! Krishna 's RAS is very well lying within you in the form of Love, Compassion and Care for all and sundry. You must thank your stars if some one needs that from you. My Mother, 75, often tells me – " Narottam, By " giving " to others you get God, but if some body refuses to " take " from you, then who is the loser ? " Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B -- Jai Shri Ram I fully agree with the views of Hari Shankar Deo and Ushaji Shridhar. Who can disagree with Jee Jee Shashikalaji ever? In marital life two people dont gel but two families gel. What is the difference between father and father in law? If there is a difference then how there is an expectation from wife to treat mother in law as mother? However I agree with Vyasji that one should concentrate on one's duty alone. Brother Mike's observations are full of love . Brother Vyasji is absolutely on the side of truth. But he is too dry unlike Mike Keenor. He and Mike in fact are the symbols of what Balaji calls - Iron hand with rosy touch respectively. Vyasji is so straight forward, so conceptually clear and still his views and Mike Keenor' s views gel together. This in fact is ideal combination. Hence perhaps Balaji will have to concede in the end that Love exists. It is not explored. If God exists then Love also exists. No two opinions about the same! Love heals everything. Love is the answer to every problem of humanity. Love is the goal of every soul. All religions begin and end with LOVE only ! Draupadi A Sharma ------------------------------ Jai Shri Krishna I agree with all of you, particularly Mikeji and Ushaji and Shashikalaji's " Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. " " and not looking into the duties of another " Vyasji - I agree that I have no right looking into the duties of another, but sometimes the scale seems unfairly lopsided, where it is only give, give, give and bitterness that builds up. Mike - you said " Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. " I do agree it is poison and not beneficial at all, but over the years it seems to have become a pattern of behavior that I would like to root out. Mikeji, then you said - " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . May be I don't truly understand what Swamiji meant when he said " World is Dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow). Kindly address more the later part of my dilemma in detail, not talking about what should be, ought to be, advice such as I should read the Gita, but how to not see the world as " dukhaalaya " , and instead see it as " philosopher's stone. " I think Swamiji calls it " Vasudeva Sarvam " . My focus it more what I said earlier - How do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Where to begin in this transformation towards Krishna's RAS? Thank you all! I truely mean it! Bala GK ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING -Shree Hari- Brother Vyas's comment was most timely, as my wife and I have to deal with added responsibilities as referred to in his response.(His comments are also support. Yes indeed! Bitterness is poison, to you and every one around you, hatred is as toxic. Swamiji referred to in a recent post about the benefits of unfavorable situation. Looking at the really big picture, in a spiritual sense, try to understand, " that as one feeds the least among us,(even those you may consider unworthy), you are feeding HIM " . One passing observation, 'dukhaalaya', can be transmuted by the spiritual 'philosophers stone', from the 'base metal' of sorrow, to the 'gold' of compassion. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ---------------------------- Jai Hanuman Ushaji is absolutely correct! More so when she concludes- Everyone around us cannot act according to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. Undobtedly correct, Jee ! Bolo Balaji Maharaj !! Come On, Jee ! Gita has never advocated looking at the duties of others! NEVER !! Show me a single verse ! The example of young one departing or old one departing - to my mind- doesnot address the question ( Pardon me - Bhaiyya G K Balaji- Pls enlighten us all as to how it addresses the Q) ! KAUN JAANE RE BABA DUNIYA MAIN PEER PARAAI ! Alas! Who knows in this world the pain of others !! Namaste Jee ! Jee Jee Shashikala ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om Sadhak Bala's response is by and large an honest depiction. But highly debatable. Love can never be non existent. Let us deal para wise. He says Quote If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Unquote But my answer to him is that how this question of " taking additional responsibilty " arises at all ? How one determines what is others' responsibility/duty? How can bitterness come in the picture? Is expecting some one to do his/her duty not a " desire " of yourself ? Reply yes or no ! If it is your desire from others' conduct, however right or correct you may be , pain/sorrow will flow unto you ! Simply because it is not your duty to look/judge conduct of others. Simply because DESIRE OF WORLDLY THINGS/ FROM WORLDLY PEOPLE ultimately, as a law, produces only sorrow. Simply because only when you don't do your " duty " the sorrow can flow unto you !! Doing- what is " your duty and your own duty only and not looking at all at others' duties " - this can never produce sorrow- come what may ! Once you agree to that( argue if you want) - where is the reason for bitterness? Where is the question of helplessness? Where is the question of obliging the spouse? If your spouse is idiot/non cooperative - why you should take additional responsibility? If you must take that (alleged her/his) responsibility, how that is not your duty? If it is your duty or becomes your duty, where does the question of blame/bitterness/accomodation arise? By the way how does taking others' responsibilties ( service) upon your shoulders and fulfilling those responsibilities to be as your own responsibilty deters you from your spiritual pursuits? Is that not " selfless service " ? If yes, is that not your " duty " as a sadhak ? ( Comments limited to extracted para quoted above only) Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ---------------------------- Hari Om. We have totally mistaken the life process. when we enter a wed lock we should forgive and forget the others mistakes. There is no commitment in friendship, but there is commitment in our relationship. A woman has womb and so biologically she can show emotional behaviour positively. Everyone around us cannot act accoring to our wish. This is the base of individual difference. So for the mind management we should read Gita. GIta alone can save us from calamities. With regards, Usha Sridhar ------------------------------ When 2 people marry, 2 families become one. It is the duty of each family to take part in the joys and sorrows of the other. So if you see things in this light then the issue resolves itself. But of course the husband and the wife must be open with each other, especially in financial matters. It is money which makes enemies. Hari Shanker Deo ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Jai Shri Krishna Ushaji, I re-read your message. Thank you for the same! So how is one to have " an iron hand with a rosy touch? " If seems that sometimes ones experiences appear as " dukhaalaya " (filled with sorrow), a helpless feeling! and over time one accepts the situations as they are and does their duty, sewa (service) and sadhana, but being somewhat bitter. We are all highly inter- dependent, then isn't it natural to expect some basics such as honesty, fulfilling duties, respecting extended family from those we live with? Is it wrong to want relief from the burden of taking on additional responsibilities of doing their duties as well, not leaving any time for spiritual pursuits etc.? Why is this constant use of iron hand required and the diplomacy of rosy touch even with those that we live with? Lahiriji, you said " The moot question is love , sharing and caring among all relations selflessly and then and then only peace remains in family " . Is there truly such a thing existing? According to Swamiji's posting, he has indicated that in most worldly relationships - people only want service, want to gain something from the other party! We too are in the same boat. Swamiji gave example of a 25 year old healthy son if he were to die, we will be deeply tormented, because we had expectations of gaining something from that relationship, whereas a sick 25 year old, whose hospital bills were huge and caused extensive grief and required extensive caring, if he died, we would be relieved, as we had exhausted everything to be gained from that relationship. Therefore this leads me to believe that the love you speak of is practically non-existent in this world. Sorry for derailing and not staying with the subject being discussed. My personal observation so far has been that practically every household is missing this element - love, sharing caring (which Mr. Lahiri speaks off) along with mutual trust, honesty, respect, deligence in duty. Therefore, how do I get beyond these silly worldly matters, and become free from bitterness and expectations from family members? How can Krishna's " ras " penetrate through and through leaving no room for even the slightest whiff of " dukhaalaya " or bitterness no matter what the situation is? How can all unfavorable situations become Krishna's RAS. Bala GK -------------------------- -Shree Hari- I had an assistant in my last job who was a very spiritual soul, very gifted. One day after several years she saw my wife and I together for the first time. She commented, " It was very strange, it was like seeing two identical people " , I think I commented to the effect, that I was the one with the beard. You see observing the world through her eyes, she was looking past the gender, skin etc, using simple language, she was seeing soul to soul, (with acknowledgment to Vernon Kitabu Turner, Roshi). And of course in marriage roles change, my wife has been my nurse when I was ill and visa versa, I have even been cook when times were desperate! The point is love, good humour, and honesty, will ride over the mole hills before they become mountains. Has not Swamiji said many times, to the effect. " Only God is mine, and I am Gods " . Brother Vyas I have pasted in B.G. 17 through 19, it turns one away from mine, yours etc. Of them, the wise man, e'er steadfast, Devoted to the One, excels; Supremely dear am I to him, And he is dear to Me, as well. (17) All these indeed are exalted, But I see the man of wisdom As My Self. He, with mind steadfast, Abides in Me, the Supreme Goal. (18) At the end of his many births The wise man takes refuge in Me. He knows: " All is Vasudeva.3 " How very rare is that great soul! (19) I suppose the answer to the question is deal with the relationship with love, find love and understanding, to understand human frailty. With Respect and Divine Love, Mike Keenor ------------------------------ Hari Om. we are perfectly governed by Thri Gunas. The nature's Triguna timetable starts at 6 a.m. Every guna is present in the nature for 11/2(one and half hours). when sathvik acts right from a bee to a giant all living beings enjoy sathvik. Next comes Rajo Guna. During this period of one and half hour the whole world is in rajas-- involving in creation,fighting,anger,disputes etc. Next comes Thamo Guna for one and half hour, During this period the whole world tend to be lazy, cheating,lying ,involving in disgraceful acts etc. The only way to get away from cheating is to show non violence,tolerance and toleration towards them. The same way if the in laws are shown true love,sympathy, care,tolerance and toleration,they will surely change. We should do dedicated service like MOther THerasa To our family members. But we should have an iron hand with rosy touch. We should struggle to make them happy. Never hesitate to tell them that we are unhappy with their approach. Keep telling them in a friendly way. One day everything will change!!!! Keep Chanting Krushna's name to keep calm. With regards, usha sridhar. ----------------------------- thanks for ur mails they are really nice and helpful thanks tc.. (Gitanjali singh) ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Hari Om What a divine shape the deliberations are taking !! I agree entirely with you Dear Colline Crider ! And with Cheryl too ( Except reg possibility/feasibility of " pre planning " - .merely because in my view nothing can ALWAYS be pre- planned by the " doer " - " in-principle difference of opinion " ) ! Do you too agree with me Mr Lallubhai ? Mr Lahiri ?? You see , it is not a question of marital life alone. It is a question relating to duties of each and every " human being " . You come across " your personal/exclusive duties " time and again in present human life while playing " various roles " ( quite often " quite a few roles " - even in an any given 12/24 hour period) frankly that and that duties/roles alone - which duties/roles start from OWN body/ ego/ mind/ intellect and then keep extending to OWN parents, to better/worse half, to HER/HIS PARENTS/ to own children, to legacy members( kautumba/kula/ own family/extended family ) to caste/ creed/ colour/ culture to society to village to State to Country to Humanity at large , to all creatures , to all beings, to all things , ... And so on ! So what is the governing principle ? Says Taat Shree- Swamiji Ramsukhdasji Maharaaj- EITHER Nothing/No one / No body is YOURS ( including your own self/ body/ mind/ ego/ intellect etc) OR Every thing/ Every one/ Every body is YOURS( including of course your or some one else' Father / Father in law/ Mother/ Mother in law/ Daughter / Daughter in law etc etc etc - irrespective of any caste/ creed/culture/colour/civilisation/country/character/ code/conduct/co- relation/ concept etc etc) No in between status please. No " some are mine and some are not " , please ! EITHER/OR !! No inequality please!! No " Maamkah " ( mine) and No " Pandavaschaiv " (Others'). Please ( Gita- First Chapter, First Verse) !! " Mahabharata " will take place if you do so !!! " Kurukshetra " then shall be your home/mind/ego/intellect and all that who/which you consider to be " me " or " mine " ! Either none/ nothing is yours or all are yours ! What do you say, Brother Mike Keenor! Is not that a bare minimum honesty, Mike ? Raam! Raam!! Raam!!! EITHER All ( Mere to Girdhar Gopal) Or None ( Doosaro Na Koi) If " Doosara " means for any body - " Pandavaschaiva " (BG 1:1) - then " VASUDEV SARVAM " (BG 7:19) !! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ----------------------------- PRIOR POSTING When a couple marries, the in-laws must be regarded as extended family members.This is the only way there can be peace and harmony for the married couple.If either side has financial difficulties, then, those that can assist should do so.An open discussion is a must when dealing with financial matters.......household matters between a husband and a wife must be open and judgements made wisely.Both sets of parental in-laws should be welcomed at any time. If not there will be disharmany for the married couple which could place a big rift in the marriage. Colline Crider ------------------------------ My thoughts on this subject. .. what I believe to be true for me I think once a couple have married everything they acquire after belongs to both of them. anything earned before marriage is owned singularly but to be shared equally. meaning if marriage should end what was his before marriage is in no question and what was hers is in no question. What they acquired together is to be divided. Not because he bought it he owns it, cause I can say she cleaned it and took care of it. Or vice versa whoever is playing what role I believe nothing should be hidden from the other. Any and all decisions should be made together. No matter how big or small. But I feel those guidelines should have been made before marriage was established. For example. I would never ask a man for money to buy myself clothes or personal items. Finances should be discussed prior and budgets and limits established. One another should know their role and responsibilities whatever it be. Personally when it comes to family I see where there would be nothing to question when another family member were in debt and " we " were financially sound to be able to help. But it should be discussed and agreement reached. I feel never ever in a marriage is it ok to hide, sneak or lie. EVER And as far as equality. the only equality that should be important is that one anothers needs are being met equally not one more important than the other Sheryl Howland --------------------------- PRIOR POSTING Shree Hari: Ram Ram. QUESTION AND COUNTER QUESTION ENCOUNTERED BY ANSWER Bandhuvar! what is in our hands? nothing. we are neither the doer nor the enjoyer. once we surrender to God and if afterwards we feel we can change situations conforming to our wishes, it is great mistake. as regards duties and rights of wife and husband, the marriage vows tell us in full detail. either the two lied there or they didn't understand what they said there to each other. Ignorance is sin and sin is rewarded inevitably. that's all. Humbly, Sarvottam. ------------------------ Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Dealing with (alleged) dishonesty(?) in any relationship(let alone in-laws) is free of gender, and applies equally to all parties involved. What work in relationship are unconditional Love, patience, endurance, trust, impartiality, selflessness, all of which are gender-free! In short If we follow our dharma, karmas will take care of perceived problems! Look at it this way: We may be asking how to control " other " person in relationship without changing ourselves first. We may be dealing with the person based on our own image of the " person " in our mind built over the years of dealing, which is " past " mistakenly taken as present person. We have to clearly see that solution lies in changing ourselves first. The change in us changes everything regardless whether or not the " other " changes or not! Love and honest communications in the family hold the key to every solution. What holds us together is our Love for each other and nothing else. Such Love tells us how to resolve the problem. When God answers our sincere and impersonal prayers, God changes us first and then if needed the " other " (my experience). One thing for sure, when it is all done, it will be fair to all parties whether we realize or not at that time! Namaskara........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------- Hari Om Dear Mr Lahiri. Your counter questions should not be addressed logically IN THE NAME OF GENDER EQUALITY. There is no equality of duties for respective relationships. Each has a separate , unique and personal duty. Moreover, one's duty is rights/entitlement/prerogative (adhikaar) of another. As far as human birth is concerned it is given for performance of one's duties and for that only. Hence wife and husband or father and son or brother and sister or employer and employee etc etc - no two relations can be so casually equated. More so when one's duty is another's right/entitlement (adhikaar). Hence in my humble view your counter question though full of emotions, lacks in logic from my perspective. By the way, any talk of equating a female and a male is absolutely degrading and insulting to females !! They are so much greater than the males that a talk of equating them with males is an insult to them. Even Sanatana Dharma gives 1000 times more weightage to a Mother in comparison with a Father. Why then you should talk about gender equality. If you want to achieve that, address males to rise to the levels of females ! Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ From my point of view, wife has to surrender, and accept the misbehaviour of her husband as it is , as this is the decision of Almighty. If there is Almighty , it is also said that HE is omnipresent , definately there will be a solution to this problem. But what is required she has to accept her husband as it is . suresh goel ------------------------------ Love and patience - Unknown - ---------------------------- Dear Sadaks, Vedas and sastras are framed in such a manner that it is difficult for normal man to understand. It is very difficult. But they are framed fool proof and accurately. Even Devatas or God HIMSELF cannot bypass. Example: Sri Krishna at tender age, stoned Gopi's pots full of butter while they were carrying on their head. Result HE was stoned by the woman guardians of Mother Padmavathi (whose temple is at Tiruchanur at foot of Thirupathi- Wife of Sri Venkateswara) when Sri Vishnu as Srinivasa came in search of Mother Padmavathi daughter of Askash Raj. Woman guardians were Gopis in earlier birth and Bagavan Srinivasa was Sri Krishna then. In similar manner Bagavan Shiva (in disguise of a laborer)was beaten by Chola king for rescueing old lady called Pittu. In Rama Prabavam script it is said: A woman who sins those sins are bourne by the husband. But if Husband sins, it does not affect his wife. Since woman are dependent, the acts of men does not affect women. This is Vedic Sastra- Ref: Yoga Vasista script. Women are to be silent spectators, by which they become so powerful that they can stop solar system. Besides after their death, they are never born again. They are liberated. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING ORIGINAL Question: How to deal with wife when she is absolutely pro her own parents and ignores parents of her husband or keeps fighting with them? Or when she is too attached to her parents and conceals from her husband certain finacial supports which she keeps extending to her parents and behaves with her mother in law in an opposing and fighting manner only. When she is too attached with her parents and ignores in-laws? What if she even indulges into dishonesty with husband to secretly pass on hard earned money of her husband to her parents ? What are the duties of husband in this regard? How to control a cold hearted wife like that? What the son's parents should do? Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- NEW POSTING To Respected Vyasji and Dear Sadhaks I must express my gratitude to all of you and state that I am really moved by the kind of responses given to me. In retrospect, I have no hesitation in admitting that I might be overemphasising. I will not say now even that She also must have erred. I will definitely now try to see the other side. I got the message. I am not able to find any fault in the advices given to me. I have to mend my approach. I made your responses to be read by my parents also. We want peace in the home- definitely. Kids also want that perhaps more than us. I will start by unconditionally apologising to my wife, present all the responses to her, and then seek a common way out. Thanks . Thank you very much. You really opened my eyes. Pranaam Lallubhai Chirimar ----------------------------- Dear Mr Chirimar, From your email it appears that there is a communication gap between the two of you, and the reason is ego, perhaps on both sides. Since the question arises from you, would like to deal with your difficulties alone. Through the letter it appears that you a/feel your wife is too fond of her own parents b/is not fond of your parents c/has full charge of your earnings and misuses that power, d/ All this increases the tension and friction in your home, widening the gap in the marriage. I find strong elements of envy and jealousy form your post, please look inward, unless you do this, you will not get at the root. It appears that you belong to the old school which holds, " My parents are your responsibilities, your parents are nobody's responsibility. " Whe you come from that root, its a recipe for disaster. She can sense your double standards and therefore is concealing her gifts to her parents. First, show her by example, how much you love her parents, take gifts yourself there, and then see how she will care for your parents. You need to look within and root out old fashioned views and envy, jealousy and your life will be great. Meanwhile also observe if there are genuine problems that need your intervention at home between your parents and your wife. Lata Jagtiani ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadhakas, Namaste! Unconditional Love, honest communication within family, and treating wife/daughter-in-law as daughter can change such a person. Gita provides the platform to develop above qualities. To control wife/daughter is not really the solution as it seems to be implied in the question. Investigation into ones own motives, desires and ways to possess other human beings is what is required here. If we act from some authority, we need to change to act from understanding! If we understand where such drives originate in us thoroughly, we can be free from their grips over us, and only then we can be guided by wisdom. That's where Gita comes to help. Namaskar.........Pratap Bhatt ------------------------------ Hare Krishna Dear Lallubhaiji, I would suggest you to concentrate on fulfilling the role of husband dutifully. It is a husband's duty to educate her wife wherever she is crossing the line. Whatever you have said to us, you can also discuss the same with your wife. Make her aware of your problems. When you talk she might also reveal some reservations, problems she is facing with you and your mother, which you might not be aware of. After discussing the problem even she doesn't want to change then you can hardly do anything. Ultimately she will only suffer. We have all come alone and we will all depart alone. We cannot improve others’ nature, attitude etc. We can only purify our nature. Hare Krishna Varun P. Paprunia ------------------------- Hari Om As a law if you call some one to be dishonest, then some dishonesty definitely exists in you also ! It is a law. You can't see a trait in others, if it does not exist in you. What about that dishonesty? To be pro one's parents, to love one's parents, to serve one's parents, to help one's parents is a virtue not a vice. - First thing. Moreover, once you have children, her parents are entitled to accept even food of your house as per Hindu Sanatan Dharma. There is nothing wrong or unusual about that. Secondly, how can she pass on " your " money ? Once you give her money- it becomes " her " money. It ceases to be your money. Why can't she utilise money given to her the way she wants? Sure, she is doing a mistake by being secretive, but that may be because she fears your disapproval. What will you do, if your parents suffer? If you still feel that " your " money should be utilised only the way you want that to be spent, then keep money with yourself. Why do you give her money and then doubt her? Is it fair? Is it justice? You state she fights with your parents. That she should not. The best cure is that you don't fight with your parents. Talk with your parents, say you don't want her to fight with them. They will understand. Are you sure she is fighting generally or on specific issue concerning her own parents? If former is the case then you should firmly state to her that it is not correct and you should never fight with your parents. You should set the example. If latter is correct, then you should think in terms of loving her parents also as much you love your parents. What is wrong with that? Are they not your parents also? If you like your parents, then like her parents also! In all the cases, distrust and blaming your better half should cease. If she is not good enough, in accordance with your standards, stick to your standards by conduct. Talk sweetly to her and tell her that you don't want her to deal financially with her parents, secretly. If she has her savings , then she can always do that openly. But talk sweetly. Not in a blaming manner. You won't succeed if you force your powers directly. You will succeed only in worsening the situation. She is not your slave, bought in an auction. She is your wife.She got wedded with you , as per divine will , in the presence and approval of your parents. She is there to settle her prior contractual obligations with you, and the moment the account is properly settled, she will cease to be " yours " . As simple as that ! Hence if you are insistent upon her not loving her parents, then believe me you are accumulating negative karmas for yourself. Read advice of other sadhaks also. Jai Shree Krishna Vyas N B ------------------------------ PRIOR POSTING Dear Sadak Lallubhai Chirimar, The wife is given to you based on your previous Karmas. In fact she is taking away your cause and effect (sins done ealier or previous birth). She is designed so to behave. Your patience is your tool. You can hold your financial matters strictly with you secretly. You don't show hatred to her. Your unpleasent behaviour will only add more to your Karmas. The total family of your and her`s are on a stage to peform their dialogues, actions etc, based on your earlier misdeeds which you are now not aware off. To prove this, just approach any good astrologer, give your date of birth and time details, he will tell you the same what you are undergoing. You only remain witness to all. The great saint Swami Ramanujam had similar wife. He gave her warning three times. Then he never uttered any single word to displease her, but left her in her parents house for good and became saint. Sant Tukaram had similar wife. She even beat Tukaram with a sugarcane in his head hard enough that sugar cane split into two pieces. Sant smiled and said that Panduranga was kind enough to break two pieces one for him and other for her. These saints had knowledge about past present and future. In your case, remain silent and dont add more sins by harsh words, and by crude actions. Jai Sri Krishna baiya sathyanarayan --------------------------- Dear Friend Gita does not have any verse ,to my limited knowledge and understanding ,for remedy of specific situation refered by you. However ,it offers solution to basic/root/core problem. There is no problem which cannot be solved to entire satisfaction of all by understanding reading and understanding Gita All the characters or parts in Gita are within us and the fight is internal fight. Are you willing and prepared to go to war? Read Gita again and again till you locate solution. I can assure you that you will find an amicable solution. regards Ashok Jain --------------------------- Shree Hari Ram Ram If we understand the idea of " Vasudeva Sarvam " per Swamiji's teachings, it becomes clear that all situations that come to us are for our spiritual growth, benefit and upliftment as God Himself presents Himself in these various situations. Swamiji says when a situation comes to us (from God), then why must we question? A few rupees leaving your household for the care of in- laws, may be a much needed thing for your extended family, and at the same time can make your wife feel very helpful, useful, and happy. At least she did not spending it on jewellery/clothes/kitty parties with gambling, or other evil things. It is being used for helping your extended family. Ofcourse her bias to her own parents is not ideal. Also you may need to think deeply as to why she found it necessary to hide and give money? What prevented her from openly sharing with you her desire to give to her family? It may be worth introspecting. All unfavorable situations (pratikulataa) result in eradication of our sins. It is almost as if the debt is getting paid off. During low periods (unfavorable situations) in one's lives, many devotees have become great Saints. Therefore all of these situations are nothing but in your favor. They are cleansing your sins. Swamiji's book on " How to Lead a Householder Life " has tips for all members of the family. I will try to include some thoughts from that book in the next posting. All will be alright. Meera Das Ram Ram --------------------------- GITA TALK GROUP GUIDELINES: 1. Purpose of the group is to help Sadhakas clarify their doubts related to Gitaji shalokas. Therefore, responses which further clarify the understanding of Gitaji, will only be posted. 2. Wherever possible, please quote Gitaji or other scriptures to substantiate your response. 3. Kindly limit personal feelings, opinions, beliefs etc. to the extent that they further help in understanding the Gita shlokas 4. Please be as concise and to the point as possible, respecting sadhaka's time. 5. Kindly focus your writing to the subject at hand only. 6. Please do not include links to the other sites or other organizations. 7. Kindly do not include your personal information such as phone number, address etc. 8. Please do not address the response to a particular individual since the message is going to the entire group. 9. Due to the large readership, all responses may not be posted. 10. Moderator at his discretion, may modify the posting, if content is unclear or not appropriate for distribution to the group. 11. Please respond taking into consideration the novices, youth, westerners, non-sectarian audience. Kindly limit the use to Sanskrit words only, rather provide the English word with Sanskrit bracketed wherever possible. MODERATOR Ram Ram ------------------------ Post message: Subscribe: - Un: - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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