Value: Simplicity - January 2025

Third Week: Reduce conversation time on cellphones and web browsing. Have daily phone-free hour(s). Stick to the important point while conversing. Avoid gossip!

Present-day communication tools such as mobile phones are highly effective for quickly conveying our thoughts and ideas. However, studies conducted by the National Institute of Health concluded that mobile device users may be at risk of hearing loss due to high ringtone volumes and loud listening habits. 

Additionally, extended web browsing can interfere with sleep patterns because of the blue light emitted by screens.

 

Despite these health risks, cell phones and computer monitors have become essential for children and adults to engage productively in their daily activities. Therefore, stay on the important points to convey and avoid lengthy discussions over the phone. Limit browsing time for personal pleasures.

Know that most unofficial phone calls are only requests for your attention, not emergencies! Mark a few hours of your daily life as phone-free hours. This will be effective by leaving the phone (and earbuds, too!) aside during that time in a room that is not very near you.

This week's practice will also focus on maintaining the discipline of speech as advised by Lord Krishna to Arjuna:

• Ensure that your words are true, not based on hearsay.
• Be mindful of how your words impact the listener, even if the words are true.
• Speak only about what is genuinely beneficial.
• Communicate with love and concern.

"Smart people speak from experience - smarter people from experience, don't speak!"

Here is a video explaining the practice for the third week:

January Week 3 Guidance Audio:  

 

Q & A

• How do we communicate a harsh truth that someone needs to hear to motivate them to get up and do their duty/be a better person? 
• We have previously stated that negative motivation does not have lasting effects. It is more effective to encourage individuals to focus on positive personal growth. It is important to understand that significant growth cannot occur unless the person genuinely desires it.
• How do we practice beneficial speech when disciplining children?
• Discipline is essential for a disciple. Without proper respect for their parents, children will not follow like a disciple. External discipline tends to be short-lived. It is said, from age 6 to 15 the parents should instruct the children, and beyond 15 they should give only friendly advice.