Acharya Tulsi
Life is a flow, unending. It is continuous movement. Whatever is static, without movement, cannot be called a flow. Movement is the symbol of cleanliness, whereas stagnancy implies filth. Flow is vital power, whereas stagnation marks the death of individuality. ln this situation, every individual would like to accelerate the movement of life.But what kind of life? That is the question.
According to the Indian tradition, a good life is characterised by tranquillity, contentment, purity and joy—these are the great blessings of life. These are not the result of material objects; rather they flow from an individual’s character, from his own urges and inclinations. An abundance of material goods does not necessarily bring peace. One may have all the pleasures and comforts of life, and yet may remain discontented.
Purity, is not at all related to the world of matter. In fact, the greater the attachment to material objects, the denser the cloud that masks purity. And without purity in life, how can there be joy, for joy resides in the purity of the heart. And in the absence of joy, the aspiration for a purposeful life is rendered meaningless.
The foregoing analysis does not imply that in this age of materialism, no man can live a meaningful life. In my opinion nothing less impossible. Still in order to arrive at one’s destination, it is essential to find the right path. There are certain ways which ensure successful living.
Peace originates from self—restraint. Those who live a self- disciplined life, experience extraordinary peace. Contentment flows from independence. A bird in the cage can never be really happy, notwithstanding the choicest delicacies fed to it. Dependence of any kind, whether outer or inner, can never. Weld real satisfaction. And purity can never descend upon one without the right means. The seed of the thorn-apple can never grow into a mango-tree. Similarly, wrong means can never lead to the right end. Only a healthy man can experience the joy of livin9- And what determines health? He who is established in himself, is completely self-sufficient, whose senses are all turned inwards, who is not led astray—only such a man may be deemed to be healthy.
It is this kind of living which is the gift of the Indian culture. Anyone can receive this gift, if he really aspires after a noble life. One, whose life is subject to frustration and despair, is incapable of making good the proffered opportunity. One who is disposed to swim with the current, which sees the generality of mankind leading a purpose—less existence and has not the strength or courage to move in the opposite direction can never achieve anything great.
It is this kind of living which is the gift of the Indian culture. Anyone can receive this gift, if he really aspires after a noble life. One whose life is subject to frustration and despair, is incapable of making good the proffered opportunity. One who is disposed to swim with the current, who sees the generality of mankind leading a purpose—less existence and has not the strength or courage to move in the opposite direction, can never achieve anything great.
