The courage that may not look like courage
We often associate courage with physically heroic deeds, such as running into a burning building to save a trapped child. While such courage is undoubtedly [...]
Authentic = Shameless?
When we strive to be authentic by aligning with our true nature, we may face the world’s disapproval or even censure. People around us may [...]
What does Krishna’s characterization of knowledge mean for Arjuna
In the Bhagavad-gita (13.08-12), Krishna characterizes knowledge in terms of twenty virtues that indicate the overall direction of one’s heart. Such characterization implies that the [...]
How to use down-time positively?
We all sometimes become frustrated when we are forced into downtime because the Internet or the power go off or because a pandemic forces us [...]
From outer news to inner news
In today’s digitally-connected world, our devices inform us instantaneously of news from all over the world. Additionally, we are socially expected to be aware of [...]
Transform depressing loneliness into nourishing solitude by seeking spiritual purpose
When we are placed in situations that distance us from others, we may naturally feel lonely. And that loneliness can drain and depress us. But [...]
More important than staying in touch with the world is staying in touch with ourselves
We often want to stay in touch with the world, ostensibly to be prepared in case something happens somewhere that is likely to impact us. [...]
Value those who value you and don’t overvalue those who devalue you
Suppose we are giving a talk. If the audience is responsive and appreciative, we feel enthused to speak. But if the audience starts frowning and [...]
Solutions that try to satisfy everyone usually sway no one and solve nothing
Whenever we face problems, different people suggest different solutions. Because everyone is irreducibly individual, people often have irreducibly different opinions. While deciding which solution to [...]
Be mindful of people’s perceptions, but don’t make your mind full of their perceptions
When we practice spiritual life, we go against the overall materialistic current of the world. The road less traveled is the road we choose to [...]
Let pleasing others be a decision, not a compulsion
We are social beings who thrive in happy relationships. To keep our interactions with others pleasant, we usually want to please them, or to at [...]
Happiness comes not by maximizing our possessions, but by minimizing our attachments
Today’s materialistic culture makes us believe that the more possessions we have, the happier we will be. However, such “happiness” lasts only as long as [...]
When we are alone, we are alone with our worst enemy
Suppose warriors at the end of a day of heavy fighting return to the security of their camp. Just as they relax, they are attacked [...]
Monumental triviality is still a triviality
Some sports fans become so manic that when their favorite team loses, they feel as if it is the end of the world. A few [...]
Better to be on the wrong side of history than on the wrong side of reality
Materialists sometimes accuse spiritualists, “You people are so old-fashioned, holding on to regressive ideas like sexual restraint. The whole world is giving up such ideas [...]
Don’t waste extra thought on people for whom you are extras
“If I do that, what will people think of me?” Such concern over the world’s opinion can sometimes protect us from unworthy actions but it [...]
Contemplating the gravity of our purpose exposes the frivolity of our pride
Suppose a doctor in an epidemic-hit area succeeds in saving a record number of patients. The feat is laudable, no doubt. But suppose the doctor [...]
Are we mistaking solitary to be lonely?
Some people fear, “If I become too spiritual, I won’t be able to relate with most people for they are materially-minded. Won’t I end up [...]