Substitute ego with compassion and equanimity - Part II
THIS IS A COLLECTED LIST OF INTERVIEWS AND TALKS BY THE SRINGERI ACHARYALS ON VARIOUS RELIGIOUS TOPICS DURING THE 1990’S. THEY WERE PUBLISHED IN “THE HINDU” NEWSPAPER.
Q: Advanced communication techniques have made the world a small place. Values can no longer be confined to a particular country. How to guard against the wrong type of influences?
A: However much the scenario changes in the world and it is bound to from time to time, we have to seriously think, analyse and absorb only what is good and beneficial to our interests from others. Even a scientist or an intellectual can never derive peace from his pursuits unless it is in tune with higher values.
Q: The modern pace of living does not give much time for parents to devote themselves to their children. They are at a loss as to how to guide them in the pursuit of values. The educational system also is unable to stress on value-based education. How are we to mould the future generations?
A: It is highly detrimental to the very purpose of life if parents do not give enough time for the welfare of their children. When there is concern for the child's future the necessary time can always be found to inculcate the right values in life. There is no point in regretting later when the children go astray.
We cannot help those who do not want to aspire for higher values and are satisfied with a materialistic existence. But those who want the best for their children will certainly consider it their duty to teach them the right values in life.
Q: Can you give some simple guidelines to be followed in day-to-day life?
A: The quality of compassion differentiates man from other beings. So to be humane is man's first commitment. He must make it a point to help others in life according to his capacity. If a person is well versed he can impart knowledge to others, if wealthy help others in need or if in a position of power, use that for the welfare of others in society.
The sense of ego proves detrimental to all higher pursuits and so one must never give room to it. We must always remember with gratitude that it is due to the grace of God that one enjoys all comforts and recognition. One can never go wrong in the company of the good.
Good and bad times come in everyone's life. So it is essential to remember that what we enjoy in this present birth is due to our own karma, hence we should not feel elated during good times and depressed in adversity. Life must be faced with equanimity of mind in constant remembrance of God.
SUDHAKSHINA RANGASWAMI