(Acharya Pundrik Goswami or Sri Pundrik Goswami – Dharma Guru and Vedic Scholar*)
Growing in today’s world is associated with climbing the social ladder and generating materialistic things. These possessions place a person on the world’s platter to be consumed by covetousness and arrogance. This cupidity comes from the outside world – not our subtle nature. We are embedded with serenity, self-indulgent behavior and restrained calmness. Our souls are like clear, calm river beds, abundant for good actions. Problem starts when we pollute this river with worldly malice. A small part of our inner consciousness corresponds with our darker side. Conflict between good and bad always exists. It depends whom you feed more. Whosoever gets the better diet becomes more powerful.
There are certain social virtues to make life more blissful. These are characteristics, not rules – broad social and universal virtues for living with grace and equanimity. Let’s start.
Non violence
Non violence is the most noble principle. It means not hurting anybody to achieve anything. People practice it by not harming people, animals or environment. Insightfully, it is also not hurting yourself or causing mental hurt. Non violence means being calm and sympathetic towards all – mentally and physically. Importantly, being at peace with your inner self. When calm inside, your personality reflects non-violence.
Truth
Truth is the foundation of every association. What emerges from truth becomes a permanent source of bliss. The true genesis of bliss is truth. Truth is never bitter; we make it sour with jealousy, competition, violence and self-interest. Using truth as core disposition brings humbleness and respect. Being truthful is like being in love – serene and ecstatic.
Association
Association means connection, physical or mental. Our character and dispositions stem from associations. Our mind creates experiences from them for circumstances. We reap what we sow; personality exhibits associations. Paint life’s picture with available colors wisely for vibrancy and bliss. Association – social, structural or behavioral – guides us to our destination.
A man is known by the company he keeps. Association means good company and avoiding bad. Importantly, connecting with the inner world. It defines, binds and guides us. Association is union – aligning consciousness with self.
Fearlessness
Fearlessness is a state of mind to develop and practice. It is administered by mind, not just emotion. Fearlessness from arrogance is not a virtue. From love and diligence, it is purest. It means bravery, heroism and fortitude. Fear hinders growth, like a wall between ability and dreams. Be fearless to create joy, bliss and solace – especially when doing right. Follow inner consciousness for fearlessness and harmony. Fear only hurting others; actions should not be insensitive. Belief in morality and love makes us fearless.
Silence
Silence is golden. The most arrogant act to end a contest is silence. It is the most definitive emotion, evoking all feelings. It reckons every emotion. It can be sincere, love, affirmation or misconception. Some love silence; it echoes back. Some need it for tranquility, secrecy or reticence. Most use it to exit situations. It never goes wrong and allows regression. We define silence our way.
Use silence as a virtue, not exploit it. Being silent can be righteous, depending on the moment. Use this boon wisely. Create silence by choice, not coercion. Sitting in silence overcomes inhibitions and aids decisions. Use it to resolve inner muddles, not escape.
Stability
Stability is key for blissful life. Like other virtues, it is a state of mind. Mind is always moving, wavering and impermanent, even if body is still. Stability means balance, rationality, lucidity, sanity and constancy – all states of mind. Align mind with self for ideal poise and bliss.
Forgiveness
No bigger virtue than forgiveness. Other virtues are useless without it. Non-forgivers hold negative memories, depressing thoughts, outrage and uncertain emotions affecting present and future. Forgive others and seek forgiveness if wrong. Seeking absolution can be charity, fasting or introspection – realized, not just spoken. Forgiveness means letting go of harm, relieving guilt. In self-aware state, it becomes identity essence: unaffected, without resentment or victimhood. Forgiveness makes life calm and blissful.
Following these principles makes character a perfect stage for life’s story.
