Rising above Afflictions

                There are instances, where Deepavali, with its external illuminations, has a darkening note for some. There can be no graver conflict or dwandwa. It is natural for human hearts to reminisce on their fond associations and memories. In fact, this is a facet not available to the other creatures on earth. Our mind has a dual function - of thinking about the present, which brings concern for future; then to reflect on the past, which, in a way, is inseparable from the mind-processes. This course is what keeps mankind on their track. None can escape the influence of his past, nor can he be indifferent to the present and future.

This inescapability is what verily turns man a seeker and even Knower in the end. A parental heart thrives on its child-associations. When separation has been thrust on it, it cannot but awake now and then with its impact, however, old and remote the instance may be, every time. This makes me also feel how deep is the parent's pang with regard to a child. The entire world teaches directly and indirectly. Both sides absorbed well, will alone enrich and fulfil our hearts.

Many people question and wonder why grief or affliction should be the cause of spiritual seeking, in many cases. Nature's intention is to lead mankind to its own inner and hidden glories through joy and smiles. But she fails, because mankind gets lost in these, unable to generate any deeper insight. One shares his smiles and joys in the presence of others. It becomes a routine external sensory display. But when grief overtakes the mind, a shrinking or recession results. Mind turns inward. While joy takes the mind out, grief throws it inward. Naturally this inward process is the beginning of the inner pilgrimage, where the deity to be glimpsed is the Inner Lord Himself!

Affliction is thus very natural to gain proximity of the Soul, because of the very nature of the emotion. But, unfortunately, most victims cry, weep, lament for a few days or months, and feel that time has healed their wounds.

Actually this should not be so. One has to be sincere in his loss, as he is in gains.

                            
                      Uddhava said he was unable to keep away from Krishna's lotus feet even for half a minute. He clung to his position. Krishna was equally hearty. Thus followed His last gospel, at the end of which Uddhava was able to leave Krishna before He left the world Himself. The unwilling servant got the wisdom and strength to keep away from the master, while the master was yet alive. Does not our mind then have the capacity to bridge any gap it suffers from?

God is the creator, sustainer and finally owner of everything in the world. He is the Lord to please who must be every one's aim. When He is pleased, he who strives to achieve His pleasure also gets fulfilled.

Harih Om Tat Sat. Jai Guru.

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