Narayanasramam

[Guest guest]

Naayam jano me sukha-dukha-hetur-na devataatmaa graham-karma-kaalaa

Manah param kaaranam-aamananati samsaarachakram parivartayed-yat ||

& #346;r & #299;mad Bh & #257;gavatam 11.23.43

 

Translation:

These men are not the cause of my happiness or distress. Neither any god, nor

the jeeva, nor even the planets, deeds, and time. They (the Wise and the

Scriptures) consider that the mind, which sets in motion the wheel of

worldliness, alone is the cause.

 

Points for Introspection:

In our lives, we always experience either happiness or unhappiness. Whether it

is happiness or misery, we relate the cause to some object, person or situation.

In happiness, we feel fortunate about the external situation that has apparently

brought about the happiness. In misery, we blame people or the external

situation for bringing about the misery to us. We blame everything, including

God, planets, time, or our own deeds.

 

The & #347;loka says that the Wise and the Scriptures consider that the real

cause of happiness and misery is our own mind, and no external situation or

anything else. Because, whatever be the external situation, the joy and sorrow

are creations of the mind itself, and our mind has enough potential to remain

unaffected under any circumstance.

 

One may think: " If I become rich, I shall be happy " . But, are the wealthy people

really happy? A contented mind is always happy. And it is for the mind to

generate contentment. Even a millionaire will not be happy if he craves for more

riches or if he is scared of losing his wealth.

 

Another may think: " I am not happy because nobody loves me. " He blames his

family or fate. But, he can easily become happy by loving others. It is for the

mind to generate love for others. We don't need any external support for loving

others. Contentment, joy, love, etc. are exclusive properties of our own mind.

Some may happily enjoy simple food sitting in a thatched cottage, while some

others may cry and lament even while taking kingly dinner. The mind alone is the

cause of joy and misery.

 

Whenever we are overwhelmed with elation or depression, we should remember the

message of this & #347;loka not to get overpowered by the external circumstances.

Chanting this & #347;loka helps especially when the mind is depressed or hurt by

others' behaviour or words. It empowers our mind to remain unaffected and hence

not to blame anybody.