Four rules to move from imitation to inspiration
Sometimes you are so fired up reading about exalted people that you get carried away and start doing things exactly like them, not realizing you are not the ‘sun.’
At such times, remember four rules: Principle- Position- People-Practical application.
Principle – What’s the value that the Goswamis followed -Sacrifice, Absorption, and Compassion.
Position – What’s my situation- take stock of the present reality and an honest appraisal of one’s abilities. Can I give up my needs like the Goswamis? What’s my capacity to share the love? Or maybe I am a ‘matchstick’ or a ‘bulb’ in comparison to the sun like sages. Hence, my position demands me to stay humble.
People – List the different examples for the principle. Who lived by these virtues? Mentally, enter the space of their dedication and absorption- connect to the stalwart heroes that inspire you to stretch beyond your comfort zone.
Practical application – Now you are ready to translate these sterling human values in your life, with your unique challenges and needs. Maybe you could, to begin with, offer love to your family and friends. Or give up eating fatty and unhealthy food- you are now following the footsteps of the Goswamis in your distinctive condition of the twenty-first century.
This is far more effective than extreme abandon of your basic needs; remember what you give you away now in youthful passion could haunt you later, and even compel you to disproportionate gratification- it’s as if the mind wants to take back with interest what you deprived it in early life.
If you are generally happy and want to unleash the superman within you- your desire to perform stupendous service is welcome. Just remember the four steps and go ahead.
The truth is: pure men and women practiced empathy and helped thousands experience God’s love in their lives. But you may need to practice it with yourself first!
Srila Prabhupada was an effulgent ‘sun.’ He spread love and transformed a million lives. If that inspires you, but your capacity is that of a ‘matchstick,’ you could still contribute. Your family and neighborhood could benefit from the light of love you bring to the world that’s often darkened by hate and bigotry.
To be continued…
