As Arjuna faces his family on the other side of the battlefield, he expresses strong emotional reactions. Swamiji explains how we face similar Arjuna-situations in life and take to misplaced compassion. Through the wisdom of the Geeta we can grow to realise what true compassion really means. The entire Geeta Marathon by Swami Swaroopananda can be caught at https://clix.chinmayamission.com/product/geeta-marathon/
Swamiji summarises Krishna’s Powerful Instructions in this final talk. This series of talks have summarised the entirety of the Bhagawad Gita, guiding us in a practical and clear manner on how to strive to achieve that Infinite bliss. Reminding us that desire, lust, anger and greed are sure ways to suffering, Swamiji guides us on how to free ourselves from this bondage, through surrendering to the Lord and gaining knowledge. The knowledge we gain from the shastras will allow us to determine what is right and wrong. When we live life according to this scriptures, we become fit for the highest Truth. It is abidance in this Truth, that will lead us to Infinite bliss, to eternal happiness.
Often we experience difficulty reaching our goals. This practical talks shows us the means to integrate our minds and intellect, a key method by which we can achieve success. Our mind, because it is full of desires and distractions, often deters us from reaching our goals. However, when the mind and intellect are integrated and remain focused on the Truth, we recognise that we can achieve anything because we are not limited, but we are part of the Infinite. To bring about this integration, we need to focus on positive values and work on removing our pride, ignorance and ego. When all our actions are devoted to the Lord, the ego is dropped and integration can take place. With an integrated mind and intellect, anything is achievable!
Why worry? Shri Krishna reminds us time and time again that for His devotees there is no reason to worry. His devotees shall never perish. How do we keep reminding ourselves that we are always protected? Swamiji reminds us that even those who have committed multiple sins, when they turn their mind to the Divine, they are transformed. When that person experiences a sense of Oneness with the Lord, they experience eternal peace. Once one has surrendered completely to God, there is nothing to worry about.
As our mind, so is our experience of the world. As our mind, so our thoughts, our actions and our results. The entire world we experience is through the mind, so if our mind is miserable, everything appears miserable. Then how do we master this mind? Swamiji guides us clearly on developing a single pointed, meditative mind that can achieve magnificence. When our thoughts are scattered our energy is dissipated. Instead, if one’s thoughts are directed towards a Higher goal and focused on the Lord, revelling in positive thinking, one can manifest greatness.
Happiness is our true nature, our birth right yet why are we always searching for it? Swamiji takes us through a logical explanation, showing us how due to ignorance, we keep searching for happiness externally. When we do this, we often experience lust, anger, greed and as a result we deprive ourselves of peace and balance. Krishna’s Powerful Instructions in this talk demonstrates how best to manage anger and greed. Emphasis is placed on the need to calm our minds and discriminate between right and wrong. Most importantly, we are empowered to take control of our own happiness; as Shri Krishna clearly says “lift yourself by yourself” and make your mind one that is conducive to achieving happiness.
When a student is attuned to her Guru, even a spark of knowledge can lead to realisation of the Self. What qualities are needed to become a fit student? An attitude of humility, an enquiring mind and a willingness to serve are all prerequisites to gaining knowledge. This knowledge must come from a Guru. One that is versed in the science of this knowledge, who lives this knowledge, not merely one who has knowledge from books. This knowledge resulting in equanimity of mind, gives us the ability to perform our duties and stand up to challenges in life.
In our eternal quest for happiness, we look to objects to fulfil us. Yet, these temporary moments of joy we experience do not provide long term satisfaction. How do we rid ourselves of these struggles which only provide short term gains? Swamiji clearly articulates how we should remain in a sattvic frame of mind; by ensuring all actions are done as an offering to the Lord. With this attitude, we are not fixated on the result of the action. The moment we are fixated on the result of any particular action, it breeds in us anxiety. Instead, Krishna’s Powerful Instruction reminds us to act with an attitude of service and love, resulting in all our actions becoming inspiration and efficient. This is meditation in action!
How do we deal with the situations that life constantly throws at us? Krishna’s Powerful Instruction tells us to change what we can and have the strength and forbearance to deal with what we can’t change. With this simple but empowering instruction, we are given the tools to deal with any situation that arises. Keeping the attitude that this too shall pass away, no situation is too much to bear. As a result of this forbearance and strength, one experiences less sorrow and more joy, something we are eternally looking for!
Swami Swaroopananda starts this powerful series of talks by sharing the secret of happiness, which has been unfolded in the Upanishads. The first of Krishna’s Powerful Instructions reminds one that the choice to be happy is in our control. Despite the mind being full of emotions, anxieties and fears, Shri Krishna calls on us to choose happiness and not give in to despondency. Swamiji shares practical instructions on how to face life and awaken the ability in us to achieve greatness. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChinmayaChannel/