Training In Nonviolence - Theory & Practice: Development Of Our Dharma Sangh (iv) Non-Absolutist Lifestyle

Gurudeva Tulsi used to say that Mahapragya knows the art of living and this art of living is non-absolutist lifestyle. I have had great faith in the Jain principle of non-absolutism (anekant darshan) and I have all along made it my lifestyle too. I am of the view that he who has embraced a lifestyle based on anekant darshan (manifoldness of truth) will never be entangled in any problem. If there is impeccable way of solving problems, it is the anekant lifestyle. I have adopted this lifestyle. I am the head of our Dharma Sangha. There is a tradition of just one Acharya in the Terapanth Religious Order and the Acharya is vested with all the powers. I am, therefore, independent. But on account of my anekant lifestyle I also see whether there is anyone else who is as dependent as me. If there is one, it is good. Watch binds my schedule. I go by it. I am dependent on it. My daily routine from 4 am to 10 am is strictly regulated by a timetable. I sit for work at 2.30 pm in the afternoon and continue it till 3 pm. Another work begins at 3 pm, which lasts till 4 pm. Thus my entire routine of the day is packed with different types of spiritual pursuits. How can a person can be independent whose daily routine is governed by the watch? He is dependent on watch. I also feel that I am not free. All the monks and nuns know it well that my time is regulated by means of a schedule. I do not have free time at all. If someone wants to meet us in connection with an important task, we have to suspend one or the other activity to accommodate his request. As a matter of fact I have no free time. I warn shravaks and shravikas (votaries) not to think that I am free. You will never find me sitting idle or relaxing. If they bring someone for a meeting with me, they must do so by a prior appointment.