Value: Non-violence - February 2025
Second Week: Speak only words of kindness
Avoid the exchange of harsh words, and replace them with true words of concern.
Words you utter carry intent, emotion, and your opinion. Even those words that you send as text messages or emails will carry emotions for those who know you. For, most people when they read, they actually hear those words in your voice.
Much more is the effect of the words when you speak in person. Remember, the words that are unpleasant to your ears are equally unpleasant to others as well.
Make your speech carry the emotion of concern and care. Even a smile accompanied by 'Hari Om' will make another person's heart happy. Perhaps he or she needed someone to acknowledge their presence!
Even when you are upset or angry, pause before you respond and think of replacing harsh words with appropriate words that will serve your intent.
Begin the day with Universal Prayers such as the following:
This prayer is universal because it transcends specific religions and is intended for all living beings. Each day should begin with a clear purpose, particularly the intention to avoid deliberately harming anyone.
Universal prayers serve two important purposes: first, they connect us to the powerful forces that govern the universe; second, they reach out to the deities that oversee both our inner and outer faculties.
Mentally repeat 'Shanti (peace)' three times at the end of your conversation.
In India, it is a tradition to end daily meals with sweets or mukhwas. Why is that? Even though eating is a routine activity, it should always conclude with a sense of contentment and joy.
This idea extends to our conversations with others, too. We often say “bye,” “see you,” or “have a nice day,” but do we truly mean it?
To show that we genuinely care about the other person, we should silently send a peaceful thought for their well-being. Even if there have been disagreements during the conversation, it’s important not to hold onto any grudges when we part ways. This practice is especially crucial for those we don’t meet often.
February Week 2 Guidance Audio:
Q & A
When people around me, whether relatives or colleagues are trying to cheat me or cause financial and emotional harm for their own reasons, it can be difficult to refrain from feeling vengeful. Although I try to hold back those feelings, I find it challenging to seek blessings for them. I also understand that the people in my life serve as instruments through which I experience my karma in this life. How can I find peace in this situation?
- Take one step at a time. Lord Krishna suggests endurance, equanimity and then forgiveness (तितिक्षा, समत्त्व, क्षमा). Endurance is not just holding back alone; it is the absence of instant reaction followed by substituting with appropriate action to express your concern about the situation. Do not remain passive.
- Equanimity is possible only when you do not feel victimized by the situation. Forgiveness is saintly which is the outcome of spiritual maturity.
