12 Things to Always Remember: Wisdom Through the Lens of Indian Thought.
By Dr Sunil S Rana
Life is a journey filled with lessons, challenges, and transformations. In our pursuit of growth and happiness, certain truths remain timeless. These truths resonate with universal values and have been echoed by Indian philosophers and thinkers across centuries. Below, I delve into twelve such principles, enriching them with idioms, phrases, sayings, and insights inspired by Indian philosophy.
1. The Past Cannot Be Changed
The past is a closed chapter, unalterable but always teaching. Dwelling on it is like "crying over spilled milk." As Mahatma Gandhi said, "The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong." Let go of regrets and embrace forgiveness—not just for others, but for yourself.
Indian wisdom teaches us through the Bhagavad Gita: "You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of work." This reminds us to focus on actions rather than outcomes, leaving past mistakes behind.
2. Opinions Don’t Define Your Reality
People's perceptions are like clouds—ever-changing and often misleading. "One man’s meat is another man’s poison" perfectly encapsulates the subjectivity of opinions. Swami Vivekananda rightly said, "You cannot believe in God until you believe in yourself."
Define your reality with self-belief, not external judgments. Like the lotus that blooms untouched by the mud around it, thrive regardless of others’ views.
3. Everyone’s Journey Is Different
“A tree that is cut down will sprout again if its roots remain intact” is a Kannada proverb that illustrates resilience. Each person’s life unfolds uniquely. While some paths are rocky, others are smooth—but no path is inherently better.
In the Panchatantra, a famous line teaches: "Wisdom, courage, and patience are essential for success." Comparing journeys is futile. Instead, walk your path with focus and grace.
4. Things Always Get Better with Time
"Time and tide wait for no man," and Indian philosophy recognizes time as the ultimate healer. Kabir said, "Dheere dheere re mana, dheere sab kuch hoye; maali seenche sau ghara, ritu aaye phal hoye," meaning everything happens at its own pace.
Patience allows life’s natural rhythms to restore balance. Even the darkest nights give way to the dawn.
5. Judgments Aren’t About You
People’s judgments often reflect their inner world more than reality. In Tamil literature, there’s a saying: "Even if a thousand people blame, a good deed does not become bad."
Krishna’s discourse in the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes detachment: "One who does not care for praise or blame, but remains steadfast, is truly wise." Keep walking your path, unshaken by criticism.
6. Overthinking Will Lead to Sadness
“Don’t cross the bridge until you come to it” is a Western adage, but its spirit aligns with Indian teachings. Overthinking creates suffering that doesn’t exist.
Buddha’s teachings remind us: "You will not be punished for your anger; you will be punished by your anger." Similarly, dwelling excessively on ‘what ifs’ is self-punishment. Let thoughts flow freely, unburdened by imaginary scenarios.
7. Happiness Is Found Within
"Happiness is an inside job." The Upanishads teach us that "True happiness comes from the self, not from external possessions."
Contentment arises when you shift focus inward, realizing that material wealth is fleeting. As Rabindranath Tagore beautifully expressed: "I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted and behold, service was joy."
8. Your Thoughts Affect Your Mood
"An idle mind is the devil’s workshop" is a widely known phrase that underscores the power of thoughts. Ancient Indian texts highlight the importance of positive thinking, with the Chandogya Upanishad stating: "You are what your deep, driving desire is."
By nurturing optimistic thoughts, you shape a reality filled with joy and purpose. The quality of your thoughts determines the quality of your life.
9. Smiles Are Contagious
“A smile is the universal welcome,” and its infectious nature is celebrated across cultures. Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti said, "The ability to observe without evaluating is the highest form of intelligence." Smiling opens hearts and builds connections without judgment.
The Tamil saying, "Cheerfulness is the best medicine," highlights the transformative power of joy.
10. Kindness Is Free
In Indian culture, kindness is considered dharma (duty). "What goes around comes around" aligns with the concept of karma. Chanakya said, "Before you start some work, ask yourself three questions: Why am I doing it? What the results might be? Will I be successful? Only when you think deeply and find satisfactory answers, go ahead."
Kindness, though simple, has a ripple effect, touching lives beyond measure.
11. It’s Okay to Let Go and Move On
Letting go is a mark of inner strength. The Bhagavad Gita advises: "Renounce the fruits of action." Holding onto grudges or failures hinders growth.
As Kabir eloquently put it: "Jo beet gayi so baat gayi" (What’s done is done). Letting go allows new opportunities to blossom.
12. What Goes Around Comes Around
The law of karma is central to Indian philosophy. It mirrors the saying, "As you sow, so shall you reap." This principle encourages integrity and compassion in all actions.
Swami Sivananda emphasized, "Put your heart, mind, and soul into even your smallest acts. This is the secret of success." Actions done with sincerity and goodwill always come back manifold.
Conclusion
These twelve truths, enriched by the wisdom of Indian thinkers and age-old philosophies, are like guiding stars on the journey of life. Embracing them can help navigate life’s challenges with grace, resilience, and a sense of purpose. As you reflect on these lessons, remember the words of Buddha: "Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without." Let these principles anchor you in positivity and inspire you to live a fulfilled, meaningful life.
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