Instead of being judgemental about others, we should look within and reach out to God
We love to watch others and are ever ready to offer our opinion, judgement and even criticism of their conduct. Sadly, we ignore to watch ourselves. Our minds have a free run to think of anything and everything; we even get obsessed about so many things. But the freedom that our minds enjoy actually hurts. We all know how negative thoughts give us suffering. What we don’t realise is that thoughts are also karmas and they bear fruits. The suffering we get on account of negative thoughts is the instant result of harmful thinking. This karma and its resultant fruit is the karmaphala phenomenon. No one is exempt from it. Even scientists believe in this cause-and-effect theory.
We should, therefore, watch ourselves, instead of others. And this should be done both externally and internally. Most of us are particular about our outward appearance or people’s perception about us — in terms of our looks, demeanour, etc. However, when it comes to our inner side, we are generally careless. We allow all kinds of thoughts to come in. This is as bad as harbouring harmful thoughts. Some of us keep our focus on physical appearances and get anxious about them. Yes, it is not wise to ignore them, but to keep attention only on the body is counterproductive.
By watching ourselves, we mean to observe our thoughts and actions in a reasoned manner and then decide what is right and wrong. It’s important because one’s conscience is one’s biggest judge whom one can never deceive. If every person can be made to keep a watch on himself/herself, this entire creation will become a paradise. By observing oneself closely, one can realise in what direction his thoughts and actions are moving, and thus can check any negative development.
If we watch ourselves properly, we can reap many benefits. We will then be able to concentrate better, which will ensure that we do well whatever we take up. We will not speak foolishly, that is, we will weigh before we speak. We will not be forgetful and our awareness will surely go up. We will be able to correct our mistakes. We will not waste our precious time in negative thoughts or in getting obsessed with problems; and, most importantly, we will create good karmas by thinking positively. Yes, it is not always possible to stay positive due to adverse circumstances, but thinking about God or chanting His name can be done no matter what the situation is. Why not pray rather than being afflicted by negativityIJ This not only avoids suffering caused by dark thoughts, but also helps us to connect with God, and we become entitled to God’s help and guidance. And God knows what is best for us.
All attempts to connect with God create good karmas, which not only bring in instant inner fulfillment, but also give us vision and motivation. God is always with us and refuses to intervene unless we request for His intervention. As soon as He senses that we are surrendering to Him, He takes charge; and, who can help better than the omnipotent lordIJ
The writer is a spiritual commentator