ABSORB GOOD FROM OTHERS

ABSORB GOOD FROM OTHERS

The scientific world has led us to influence others to follow. Social media has become such an aggressive tool that we blindly follow celebrities, influencers, politicians, models, and perhaps a few high-profile relatives and friends. While it’s good to follow people, we also need to differentiate between what is good and what is bad for us. Every individual in this universe is unique, with their own mind, body, and soul. I see ordinary individuals as well as specially challenged children, including those who are hearing impaired. There is a tremendous difference in their capacity to absorb information. Recently, we went with friends and family to the theater to watch a movie. We all had popcorn, cold drinks, and samosas. A lot of things were dropped on the floor, and it was noticeable that we were not disciplined at all when it came to maintaining cleanliness.

A few days later, I took more than 200 hearing-impaired underprivileged kids to watch a movie in a similar theater. They sat in their seats and were served food right there by all of us. There were 15 seats in each row, and although they were from different schools, they passed food to each other. I informed them through the mic that they shouldn’t drop anything and should maintain discipline. Remarkably, they didn’t drop a single piece of popcorn on the floor; they kept everything so clean. In fact, when they received their food, they were asked if they needed more, and they said, “No, we have enough; please give it to others.” After finishing their samosas, they passed their empty plates back to us to throw away. Do normal, well-educated people also do such things? We need to learn from them and absorb the good qualities they demonstrate.

The gopis, who were the sakhis of Lord Krishna and Radha, absorbed so many beautiful qualities from their dresses, leelas, and their nature of love, always smiling for others. They described their beauty as so powerful that education, strength, discipline, and wealth held no value in comparison. People’s hearts would be captivated by merely witnessing their beauty. Lord Krishna’s body seemed to contain an immense ocean of love, and his cloth, Pitamber, resembled the waves of that ocean. His eyes felt like the powerful flow of water, embodying the beauty of love. His crown and ornaments spread an ocean of charm. In those ancient times, people were encouraged to absorb good qualities and truly appreciate the depth of nature. What do we do now?

Those who have a lot—mentally, physically, and financially—often fail to value or make an effort to absorb good qualities from others. Those in the middle strata of financial status tend to value things but often look to higher-status individuals for inspiration, striving to reach that level with significant effort. In the process, they sometimes forget to differentiate between what is good and what is bad. On the other hand, those who are less privileged and may not be as efficient mentally, physically, or financially do value time, money, and kindness from others. However, it is not always the case that they absorb good qualities from others, as they may feel they have nothing to lose. I believe that in today’s world, only special individuals truly learn how to absorb good things from others, as they are determined to grow regardless of their circumstances.

Recently, I visited two schools for the hearing impaired. At one of them, we celebrated 60 years of the school and also World Deaf Day. There were so many kids, including students from different schools. They watched a magic show, observing every trick performed by the magician with great attention. The kids also participated in doing some magic tricks themselves. Seeing their teachers and me getting involved in the activities of the magic show boosted their confidence, and they started engaging with each other, even though they were from different schools. An alumnus from that school also made a documentary for the event. I truly admire their ability to absorb and learn good things.  

Literature suggests that when you engage in spiritual self-care through reading the Bhagavad Gita, you open yourself to a world of possibilities. You tap into your inner wisdom, which helps you heal, grow, and transform your life. This practice also aids in finding meaning and purpose in life, making us feel good, happier, and more successful. When I see children who are fully capable but struggle with slight communication issues, like stammering, I notice they often have more fear about surviving in the world. In contrast, hearing-impaired children, despite having one sense not functioning well, bravely confront their challenges and absorb positivity from others, demonstrating greater confidence in their survival. I often encourage my stammering patients to learn from these resilient children.

Spiritual self-care emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature to absorb positive energies. Nature helps you connect with a higher power, providing peace and serenity. Enjoying nature and its music, along with fresh air, fills your lungs and relaxes your mind. Each day spent absorbing spirituality and connecting with a higher power brings you peace and calmness. It’s essential to surround yourself with good people who deepen your faith and provide support and encouragement. Additionally, indulging in books and articles can help you remain consistent, positive, and inspired, offering uplifting thoughts.

The best thing to absorb is kindness, which allows you to help others. Donating or assisting others not only makes them feel good, but it also brings you joy. However, it’s important to offer help in a way that empowers them to stand on their own, so they won’t need to ask for assistance again in the future. Embrace the good aspects of technology, but don’t forget to appreciate the positive experiences around you. Taking care of your body while understanding its needs, learning to forgive, and practicing gratitude are all valuable lessons to absorb. Through spiritual self-care and gaining a deeper understanding of myself, others, and the universe, I have become a better human being, filled with consistent, productive, positive thoughts. What about all of you?