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Happy Diwali - Oshwal News
Our daily life is so much centred
on dealing with the demands of a
busy schedule and making plans
about the future that it never
occurs to us to take a moment to
reflect on what this life is all
about. Thiruvalluvar, a famous
poet once quoted “Innumerable
millions of thoughts occupy the
mind of (the unwise) who know
not that they shall live another
moment”.
Of course, one cannot plan for the
future and have ambitions of
grandeur if one does not believe
that everything will work out the
way we want it. However, it is wise to accept, occasionally
at least, that life is impermanent and that the only
permanent state is “Moksha” (attaining Liberation)
It is common belief that attainment of Moksha is
rendered difficult because of the illusions we have about
this life which is manifested in the attachment we develop
to material things. The impermanence of wealth is well
known to all of us yet it never figures in our daily plans
and activities. Otherwise how can we explain the display
of naked greed and the single minded pursuit of material
wealth and power that is widely prevalent in our society
Our wealth can be taken away from us in a matter of
hours if not minutes and we watch it unfolding in front of
our eyes everyday due to war, natural catastrophes, and
other calamities. We still place a great deal of value on our
material things.
Although we need material wealth to lead a comfortable
life in this world, it is imperative that we use this wealth
also to practice virtues that are imperishable. To quote
Thiruvalluvar, again: “Wealth is perishable; let those who
obtain it immediately practice those virtues which are
imperishable”.
Hindus believe that it is not necessary to renounce the
world to attain “Moksha” i.e liberate our selves from cycle
of birth. This permanent state of bliss is within the grasp
IMPERMANENCE &
MORAL VALUES
of people who are in a family life too, provided they
practice certain virtues and their life is governed by moral
values.
There are several moral values of which five are essential
to adopt in one’s daily lives: Dharma (Right Conduct),
Shanthi (Peace), Sathya (Truth), Prema (Love) and
Ahimsa (Non-Violence).
The right conduct involves ethical behaviour and high
moral standards. It also implies the absence of greed,
anger, jealousy and hatred that are the basic cause for so
much conflict and destruction in this world. If we set our
lives on the bedrock of right conduct, then we can make
this world a better place for all, the proverbial heaven on
earth!
Peace is defined as the ability to maintain calm and
serenity in the face of crisis and adversity. It is also the
ability to deal with others in a respectful and endearing
manner. When there is peace within an individual, there
will be peace in the family and when there is peace in the
family there is peace in the community.
Truth as a virtue has been emphasised by many saints and
world leaders. Truthfulness is the most important
component of a spiritual life.
Love and Non-violence go together. If there is love in our
hearts then we cannot resort to violent acts. Non-violence
can be described as universal love. Love is pure only when
it is unselfish and unconditional. Love is the foundation
of all other values and conduct.
These core values should ultimately lead us to a life of
selfless service. Many of the rishis and great saints have
taught us that the real purpose of this life should be
considered as one of service. Therefore, it is only through
following the righteous path and dedicating our life to the
service of all living beings that we can truly attain Moksha,
a state of permanent bliss.
By V Nallainayagam, Canada
Don't let your parents down
They brought you up
Be humble enough to obey
You may give orders someday
Choose companions with care
You become what they are
Guard your thoughts
T
E
E
N
What you think, you are
Be master of your habits
Or they will master you
Don't be a show off when you drive,
Drive with safety and arrive
Don't let the crowd pressure you,
Stand for something
or you'll fall for anything
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