Be Kind To Yourself......

Being kind to others and yourself results in a significant physical, mental and emotional health benefits.

Here are some tips to go about pampering yourself and be Kind To Yourself:

• Take good care of your body, it's the only one you will every have. Eat well, exercise regularly, get enough sleep and don't forget to laugh. If you don't know how to take good care of your body, consult your doctor, a nutritionist, a personal trainer or a coach for help. Rule of thumb: when in doubt do what you will still feel good about tomorrow - that means forgo that second helping of ice cream! Good luck!

• Take time to smell the roses. Appreciate the little things in life as well as the big. It may sound cliched, however, being mindful of the small joys of life will elevate your mood, reduce stress and over time, will reorient your whole attitude to a more positive outlook. So, find at least one thing each day to be happy about. As an added bonus, this practice will save you money too!

• Keep telling yourself that you are as important as anyone else is. And, re mind yourself about this until you truly believe it. If you already believe it, still say it!

• Examine your feelings when you feel inferior or inadequate. Everyone has these feelings at one time or the other. Understanding why you feel this way will help you know what changes you need to make in your life and attitude to change these feelings. Being aware of your emotional ups and downs and recognising these are natural and generally transitory feelings, helps you to cut yourself some slack. If these feelings persist, get stronger, or you feel depressed, consult a doctor or therapist.

• Remember, it is perfectly natural not to be perfect at all times. More than that, it is perfectly acceptable not to be perfect all of the time. If you put your best efforts forward, you have not failed.

• Know your limitations and ask for assistance before you become overwhelmed. Strength comes from knowing when you need help and having the courage to ask for it. Surround yourself with a network of people whom you trust to support you and who can count on you in return.

• Give yourself credit for a job well done. Celebrate successes even when they seem small. One hundred little successes are a very big deal.
  




• Don't rush. We live in a busy world and it is easy to get caught up in the busyness around us. Give yourself peace of mind by 'padding' your schedule. Leave yourself more time to complete tasks, arrive at a meeting and prepare for a presentation than you think you will need. Rule of thumb: Decide how much time you will need and double it; triple it if it is something you've never done before or aren't sure of.
  




• Cultivate your sense of humor. It's pretty difficult to feel down while you're laughing.
  
  




• Take time every day to do the things you enjoy. Life is too short to live any other way!
  

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Be Kind To Yourself......

Being kind to others and yourself results in a significant physical, mental and emotional health benefits.

Here are some tips to go about pampering yourself and be Kind To Yourself:

• Take good care of your body, it's the only one you will every have. Eat well, exercise regularly, get enough sleep and don't forget to laugh. If you don't know how to take good care of your body, consult your doctor, a nutritionist, a personal trainer or a coach for help. Rule of thumb: when in doubt do what you will still feel good about tomorrow - that means forgo that second helping of ice cream! Good luck!

• Take time to smell the roses. Appreciate the little things in life as well as the big. It may sound cliched, however, being mindful of the small joys of life will elevate your mood, reduce stress and over time, will reorient your whole attitude to a more positive outlook. So, find at least one thing each day to be happy about. As an added bonus, this practice will save you money too!

• Keep telling yourself that you are as important as anyone else is. And, re mind yourself about this until you truly believe it. If you already believe it, still say it!

• Examine your feelings when you feel inferior or inadequate. Everyone has these feelings at one time or the other. Understanding why you feel this way will help you know what changes you need to make in your life and attitude to change these feelings. Being aware of your emotional ups and downs and recognising these are natural and generally transitory feelings, helps you to cut yourself some slack. If these feelings persist, get stronger, or you feel depressed, consult a doctor or therapist.

• Remember, it is perfectly natural not to be perfect at all times. More than that, it is perfectly acceptable not to be perfect all of the time. If you put your best efforts forward, you have not failed.

• Know your limitations and ask for assistance before you become overwhelmed. Strength comes from knowing when you need help and having the courage to ask for it. Surround yourself with a network of people whom you trust to support you and who can count on you in return.

• Give yourself credit for a job well done. Celebrate successes even when they seem small. One hundred little successes are a very big deal.
  




• Don't rush. We live in a busy world and it is easy to get caught up in the busyness around us. Give yourself peace of mind by 'padding' your schedule. Leave yourself more time to complete tasks, arrive at a meeting and prepare for a presentation than you think you will need. Rule of thumb: Decide how much time you will need and double it; triple it if it is something you've never done before or aren't sure of.
  




• Cultivate your sense of humor. It's pretty difficult to feel down while you're laughing.
  
  




• Take time every day to do the things you enjoy. Life is too short to live any other way!
  

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Tips for building self-esteem

Tips for building self-esteem

- Concentrate on positives- on what is good rather than what is bad, on what
one is capable of doing, rather than what one cannot do.

- Avoid people who are constantly negative- who pass snide remarks. They probably have issues of their own.

- Figure out your own strengths and weaknesses. Focus on your strengths and accept that there will be parts of you that you may not like.

- Spend some time everyday on yourself. Do something that makes you feel good, or that reinforces what you can/cannot do. Learn a new skill, hone up your old ones.

-Try to be more positive to others. Being good to others has a tendency for you to also feel good about yourself.

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Tips for building self-esteem

Tips for building self-esteem

- Concentrate on positives- on what is good rather than what is bad, on what
one is capable of doing, rather than what one cannot do.

- Avoid people who are constantly negative- who pass snide remarks. They probably have issues of their own.

- Figure out your own strengths and weaknesses. Focus on your strengths and accept that there will be parts of you that you may not like.

- Spend some time everyday on yourself. Do something that makes you feel good, or that reinforces what you can/cannot do. Learn a new skill, hone up your old ones.

-Try to be more positive to others. Being good to others has a tendency for you to also feel good about yourself.

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Letter to Grandfather

Often, during my morning walks in the park, I can see a man in his 80s walking with his grandchild. The sight reminds me of my grandfather, who used to walk me in the same park when I was a child. An ideal grandpa, his presence made my childhood beautiful.

Like any other child, I used to love listening to stories. And my constant refrain was for one 'that never ended'. Finally, one day he told me the story of a bird which picks up a grain of wheat a day from a granary in a village, adding that it would take years for the stock to finish and till then, the story would continue. That was the end of my persistence!

He had kept the child within him alive and every Saturday, when we visited the Hanuman temple, he would cajole me to have a plate at the panipuri stall. If I refused, he would tease me, "Oh, don't behave like an old lady!" At 86, when his health started to fail, I would go alone to the temple and, passing by, could see visions of both of us laughing over plates of panipuri.

He believed in doing his bit towards social work, which invited a fair amount of admiration, as well as criticism. Disturbed at the wagging tongues, I asked him once how he remained calm. He replied, "In every field, there are critics and admirers. But, if you are true to yourself, you needn't bother about these things."

He knew how to deal with children. While he never liked pets in the house, I loved puppies and when I was four years old, brought an abandoned pup back from the basketball ground. The next day, I fed him in our garden and left for school. When I returned, the pup was no longer there. When I asked grandpa, instead of scolding me, he simply answered that, "his father came to take him away".

He was extremely particular about his exercise and daily schedule. He woke up early and went for his walk at 5:30 am, following the same route and returning at exactly the same time everyday. The routine was kept up even in the monsoons, when he took an umbrella along for company. Often, I went along too on these walks, where he kept me involved by quizzing me on spellings, capitals of places, riddles, etc.

Once I reached second standard, I began writing a letter to grandpa every year on his birthday. He would read my letters with a smile. When I was in tenth standard, I gave him a gift, but he said he would prefer to receive a letter like each year. So, I continued. He, however, never commented and I sometimes wondered what he thought of my letter.

He died at the age of 87. When he left us, dad decided to open an old suitcase, which belonged to grandpa and occupied a pride of place on his table. Along with important documents, in the safest pouch, dad found an envelope. He opened it and called me to take a look. When I looked inside, I found all the letters I had ever written to grandpa kept in sequence and well-maintained. There wasn't a single fold on the pages and even the first letter, which was 15 years old, was intact.

Tears welled up in my eyes. For a long time, I was overwhelmed. Thanks, grandpa, for giving me memories I will cherish all my life.


Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Letter to Grandfather

Often, during my morning walks in the park, I can see a man in his 80s walking with his grandchild. The sight reminds me of my grandfather, who used to walk me in the same park when I was a child. An ideal grandpa, his presence made my childhood beautiful.

Like any other child, I used to love listening to stories. And my constant refrain was for one 'that never ended'. Finally, one day he told me the story of a bird which picks up a grain of wheat a day from a granary in a village, adding that it would take years for the stock to finish and till then, the story would continue. That was the end of my persistence!

He had kept the child within him alive and every Saturday, when we visited the Hanuman temple, he would cajole me to have a plate at the panipuri stall. If I refused, he would tease me, "Oh, don't behave like an old lady!" At 86, when his health started to fail, I would go alone to the temple and, passing by, could see visions of both of us laughing over plates of panipuri.

He believed in doing his bit towards social work, which invited a fair amount of admiration, as well as criticism. Disturbed at the wagging tongues, I asked him once how he remained calm. He replied, "In every field, there are critics and admirers. But, if you are true to yourself, you needn't bother about these things."

He knew how to deal with children. While he never liked pets in the house, I loved puppies and when I was four years old, brought an abandoned pup back from the basketball ground. The next day, I fed him in our garden and left for school. When I returned, the pup was no longer there. When I asked grandpa, instead of scolding me, he simply answered that, "his father came to take him away".

He was extremely particular about his exercise and daily schedule. He woke up early and went for his walk at 5:30 am, following the same route and returning at exactly the same time everyday. The routine was kept up even in the monsoons, when he took an umbrella along for company. Often, I went along too on these walks, where he kept me involved by quizzing me on spellings, capitals of places, riddles, etc.

Once I reached second standard, I began writing a letter to grandpa every year on his birthday. He would read my letters with a smile. When I was in tenth standard, I gave him a gift, but he said he would prefer to receive a letter like each year. So, I continued. He, however, never commented and I sometimes wondered what he thought of my letter.

He died at the age of 87. When he left us, dad decided to open an old suitcase, which belonged to grandpa and occupied a pride of place on his table. Along with important documents, in the safest pouch, dad found an envelope. He opened it and called me to take a look. When I looked inside, I found all the letters I had ever written to grandpa kept in sequence and well-maintained. There wasn't a single fold on the pages and even the first letter, which was 15 years old, was intact.

Tears welled up in my eyes. For a long time, I was overwhelmed. Thanks, grandpa, for giving me memories I will cherish all my life.


Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

No More stress

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

No More stress

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

How to be Happy Easy way

If you observe carefully, throughout nature you will find one common goal in everybody and everything—even in the atom. All are searching for happiness. In the case of human beings you see hundreds of efforts of various forms. The common purpose behind all these efforts is the search for happiness.

The goal is approached by many in different ways. Some people want to be happy quickly, so they take short cuts and get temporary happiness, but borrowed joy comes and goes. The happiness that we seem to be getting by our daily efforts is fleeting and mixed with a lot of troubles, worries, and unhappiness. Happiness cannot come without unhappiness before and after.

It's better to say, "I am happy," than, "I want to be happy." The minute you say, "I want to be happy," that very want disturbs the mind. And suppose the want is fulfilled? How many people go crazy over a small piece of paper, a stamp printed some one hundred years ago? They pay thousands of dollars to get that piece of paper. They give value to it and struggle to obtain it. If you are caught up in this, you'll say, "I can't be happy without the stamp." So you pay the price. Then you say, "Ah, I got it." It's simple enough. First you said, "I want it." After all the effort you say, "I got it." Where are you now? The same place you were before you wanted it. Happy.

You were happy before you wanted the stamp. The moment you wanted it, you became unhappy. And the moment you got it, you were happy again. Where did the happiness come from? The thing by itself didn't give you any happiness. You regained the happiness when you took the want back or when you fulfilled the cavity or depression created by the want.

When we finally tire of searching for happiness outside, we sit quietly and analyze and realize that true and lasting happiness can never come from outside. It can't come because it simply is. You are Happiness personified. You are that Supreme Bliss. You are that Joy. You are the image of happiness. God is the one who is always happy, and you are the image of God.

When you forget your true nature and look for happiness in external ways, that is the basic ignorance. The aim of all the Yoga practices is to stop anything from disturbing the mind so that it can reflect the Peace and Joy that is your true nature.

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

How to be Happy Easy way

If you observe carefully, throughout nature you will find one common goal in everybody and everything—even in the atom. All are searching for happiness. In the case of human beings you see hundreds of efforts of various forms. The common purpose behind all these efforts is the search for happiness.

The goal is approached by many in different ways. Some people want to be happy quickly, so they take short cuts and get temporary happiness, but borrowed joy comes and goes. The happiness that we seem to be getting by our daily efforts is fleeting and mixed with a lot of troubles, worries, and unhappiness. Happiness cannot come without unhappiness before and after.

It's better to say, "I am happy," than, "I want to be happy." The minute you say, "I want to be happy," that very want disturbs the mind. And suppose the want is fulfilled? How many people go crazy over a small piece of paper, a stamp printed some one hundred years ago? They pay thousands of dollars to get that piece of paper. They give value to it and struggle to obtain it. If you are caught up in this, you'll say, "I can't be happy without the stamp." So you pay the price. Then you say, "Ah, I got it." It's simple enough. First you said, "I want it." After all the effort you say, "I got it." Where are you now? The same place you were before you wanted it. Happy.

You were happy before you wanted the stamp. The moment you wanted it, you became unhappy. And the moment you got it, you were happy again. Where did the happiness come from? The thing by itself didn't give you any happiness. You regained the happiness when you took the want back or when you fulfilled the cavity or depression created by the want.

When we finally tire of searching for happiness outside, we sit quietly and analyze and realize that true and lasting happiness can never come from outside. It can't come because it simply is. You are Happiness personified. You are that Supreme Bliss. You are that Joy. You are the image of happiness. God is the one who is always happy, and you are the image of God.

When you forget your true nature and look for happiness in external ways, that is the basic ignorance. The aim of all the Yoga practices is to stop anything from disturbing the mind so that it can reflect the Peace and Joy that is your true nature.

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Sanctity of life

I look upon all creatures equally; none are less dear to me and none more dear.
Bhagavad Gita 9.29

*

The Law is that which leads to welfare and salvation. It forms conduct and character distinguished by the sense of equality among all beings.
Somadeva,
Nitivakyamrita 1.1

*

The creatures that inhabit this earth be they human beings or animals are here to contribute, each in its own particular way, to the beauty and prosperity of the world.
The Dalai Lama XIV

*

An original is a creation motivated by desire. Any reproduction of an original is motivated be necessity. It is marvellous that we are the only species that creates gratuitous forms. To create is divine, to reproduce is human.
Man Ray

*

Each species is a masterpiece, a creation assembled with extreme care and genius.
Edward O Wilson



Read more: Sanctity of Life - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Sanctity-of-Life/articleshow/6830349.cms#ixzz13jyEmPxR

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Sanctity of life

I look upon all creatures equally; none are less dear to me and none more dear.
Bhagavad Gita 9.29

*

The Law is that which leads to welfare and salvation. It forms conduct and character distinguished by the sense of equality among all beings.
Somadeva,
Nitivakyamrita 1.1

*

The creatures that inhabit this earth be they human beings or animals are here to contribute, each in its own particular way, to the beauty and prosperity of the world.
The Dalai Lama XIV

*

An original is a creation motivated by desire. Any reproduction of an original is motivated be necessity. It is marvellous that we are the only species that creates gratuitous forms. To create is divine, to reproduce is human.
Man Ray

*

Each species is a masterpiece, a creation assembled with extreme care and genius.
Edward O Wilson



Read more: Sanctity of Life - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Sanctity-of-Life/articleshow/6830349.cms#ixzz13jyEmPxR

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Searching for the true leader. What are his/her characteristics? Have I found one?

---

When I was a kid, I was often a kaam chhor who would escape from doing household work. Whenever my parents asked me to help them with any kind of work, I would show up disappointed. Seeing my sad face, they would get irritated and delegate those chores to my sister. Once in a while I too would do those household chores (even though grudgingly); like going to a nearby grocery shop and buying some groceries. My dad would often say "Buy from the store that has more number of customers as this indicates that their products are good". But I would look for the stores those have the least number of customers, and would prefer the one that was operated by older people. I used to think "If everyone buys from busy stores, how could these other businesses (especially those run by older people) become successful?". I was not good at bargaining either. When I reached home after buying, I would often lie to my parents that I bought those products from the busy stores. As a child, I often used to pray that everyone in the world should be rich and have Rs. 300,000 (equivalent to about $6000) in their banks. Somehow I thought that that much money would be enough for a person to live happily. Imagine a world full of love, mercy and forgiveness, where each person is gifted uniquely and is treated like a king; connected to each other by a feeling of universal family-hood. I was hoping that the world be like that. But I realized that the real world was very harsh, and was very different from the ideal world that I imagined. Added to this, I was disappointed when people changed the definitions of morality and God, according to their practicality and what works for them, by saying "It's all relative. There is no such thing like good or bad. It all depends on our perspectives". I used to think "Something is missing. This world is not meant to be working like this". I would often be pondering about what went wrong when I was alone. I think I was looking for two solutions mainly : the world operating close to my ideal world, and the right king/leader who can guide the world properly by serving people (and not by dominating), thus making kings out of everyone. These were some of the qualities that I thought one must have, to be a great leader for such an ideal world: - The leader must be a tremendous lover of people. - The leader must be spotless in character, and must have lived a life of perfect integrity and morality. - The leader must be trustworthy. - The leader must stand boldly against injustice and evil things of this world. The leader must be willing to suffer for mankind even to the point of death if it is required. - The leader must be male (not that I am a sexist; I wanted a man to be in the role of suffering rather than a woman). - The leader must possess power. Not the dominating power, but the transformational power. - The leader must be nice to women and kids. - The leader must not preach about karma or that we must be desire-less to reach God. This leader must be wholly living in the world, yet must not be a worldly person. - The leader must mingle around with the poorest of the poor. - The leader must be aggressive in his fight, yet non-violent. I was not trying to imagine my ideal self for the position of this leader. I was looking for at least one person who stood up to ( or exceeded) all of my high ideals and led a perfect life. It would give me great pleasure to find one. I often short-listed characters from myths or movies for my leader. Sometimes I picked my leader from celebrities, politicians or gods that I was aware of. I also picked social workers. In each case, I was disappointed that I could not find all the ideal qualities in him. All the people who I picked lasted only temporarily on my list. When I want to chose someone as my leader, I want to know more about this person from every possible perspective. I want to examine him closely. I want to put this leader to as much criticism as possible. Let any critic come up with his/her best to criticize him (but with sincere intentions). I like that. That would help me to find my leader quickly. It gives me tremendous joy to inform you that I found such a king/leader in Jesus Christ. In addition to the above points, I found some bonus features: - He promised grand scale resurrection of the dead. He claimed that he is the one who will judge the whole world when he comes back, and will choose the kings for his Kingdom. - He claimed to be dying for the sins of this whole world. - He claimed to be the only way to God. Having worshipped many gods in the past, this claim was very disturbing to me. There are only two possibilities here. Either he is or he is not. After studying him closely, I am convinced that he is. - He can cook good fish and make a nice wine. So get ready for the celebration of banquet :) I also found certain things in Jesus Christ which made me feel uncomfortable. Talking about adultery, he said that even looking lustfully at a woman is like committing adultery. About murder, he said that even getting angry at someone is like a murder. He also said that we must put him first even before our family members. I sometimes question "Why Jesus did not behave softly so that he did not have to stir up others' anger, which led to his crucifixion?" But who am I to tell how Jesus should behave? I should accept him for who he says he is; that he is 'the' way to God who died for me, and that he wants to be my Lord and Savior. His standards of morality are very high. If I do not understand him completely, who am I to twist him according to my convenience? Truth and righteousness should prevail, and I should not be stiff-necked changing Jesus according to my nice imaginations. I am joyful to know that the ideal world which I imagined in my childhood is real. I have this hope because Jesus Christ promised it. He called it as the "Kingdom of God". The present world is being shaped into that world. Sometimes the glory of Kingdom is reflected here in this world and within us, when we as followers of Christ represent him properly. This world will completely transform into the Kingdom of God with his second coming. That is when the Kingdom of God will be within us (spiritual) and we will also be in the Kingdom of God (physical). I am confident about this true leader because his sacrificial actions are perfectly aligned with his teachings and claims. I am very happy to find a leader who exceeded my ideals.

Searching for the true leader. What are his/her characteristics? Have I found one?

---

When I was a kid, I was often a kaam chhor who would escape from doing household work. Whenever my parents asked me to help them with any kind of work, I would show up disappointed. Seeing my sad face, they would get irritated and delegate those chores to my sister. Once in a while I too would do those household chores (even though grudgingly); like going to a nearby grocery shop and buying some groceries. My dad would often say "Buy from the store that has more number of customers as this indicates that their products are good". But I would look for the stores those have the least number of customers, and would prefer the one that was operated by older people. I used to think "If everyone buys from busy stores, how could these other businesses (especially those run by older people) become successful?". I was not good at bargaining either. When I reached home after buying, I would often lie to my parents that I bought those products from the busy stores. As a child, I often used to pray that everyone in the world should be rich and have Rs. 300,000 (equivalent to about $6000) in their banks. Somehow I thought that that much money would be enough for a person to live happily. Imagine a world full of love, mercy and forgiveness, where each person is gifted uniquely and is treated like a king; connected to each other by a feeling of universal family-hood. I was hoping that the world be like that. But I realized that the real world was very harsh, and was very different from the ideal world that I imagined. Added to this, I was disappointed when people changed the definitions of morality and God, according to their practicality and what works for them, by saying "It's all relative. There is no such thing like good or bad. It all depends on our perspectives". I used to think "Something is missing. This world is not meant to be working like this". I would often be pondering about what went wrong when I was alone. I think I was looking for two solutions mainly : the world operating close to my ideal world, and the right king/leader who can guide the world properly by serving people (and not by dominating), thus making kings out of everyone. These were some of the qualities that I thought one must have, to be a great leader for such an ideal world: - The leader must be a tremendous lover of people. - The leader must be spotless in character, and must have lived a life of perfect integrity and morality. - The leader must be trustworthy. - The leader must stand boldly against injustice and evil things of this world. The leader must be willing to suffer for mankind even to the point of death if it is required. - The leader must be male (not that I am a sexist; I wanted a man to be in the role of suffering rather than a woman). - The leader must possess power. Not the dominating power, but the transformational power. - The leader must be nice to women and kids. - The leader must not preach about karma or that we must be desire-less to reach God. This leader must be wholly living in the world, yet must not be a worldly person. - The leader must mingle around with the poorest of the poor. - The leader must be aggressive in his fight, yet non-violent. I was not trying to imagine my ideal self for the position of this leader. I was looking for at least one person who stood up to ( or exceeded) all of my high ideals and led a perfect life. It would give me great pleasure to find one. I often short-listed characters from myths or movies for my leader. Sometimes I picked my leader from celebrities, politicians or gods that I was aware of. I also picked social workers. In each case, I was disappointed that I could not find all the ideal qualities in him. All the people who I picked lasted only temporarily on my list. When I want to chose someone as my leader, I want to know more about this person from every possible perspective. I want to examine him closely. I want to put this leader to as much criticism as possible. Let any critic come up with his/her best to criticize him (but with sincere intentions). I like that. That would help me to find my leader quickly. It gives me tremendous joy to inform you that I found such a king/leader in Jesus Christ. In addition to the above points, I found some bonus features: - He promised grand scale resurrection of the dead. He claimed that he is the one who will judge the whole world when he comes back, and will choose the kings for his Kingdom. - He claimed to be dying for the sins of this whole world. - He claimed to be the only way to God. Having worshipped many gods in the past, this claim was very disturbing to me. There are only two possibilities here. Either he is or he is not. After studying him closely, I am convinced that he is. - He can cook good fish and make a nice wine. So get ready for the celebration of banquet :) I also found certain things in Jesus Christ which made me feel uncomfortable. Talking about adultery, he said that even looking lustfully at a woman is like committing adultery. About murder, he said that even getting angry at someone is like a murder. He also said that we must put him first even before our family members. I sometimes question "Why Jesus did not behave softly so that he did not have to stir up others' anger, which led to his crucifixion?" But who am I to tell how Jesus should behave? I should accept him for who he says he is; that he is 'the' way to God who died for me, and that he wants to be my Lord and Savior. His standards of morality are very high. If I do not understand him completely, who am I to twist him according to my convenience? Truth and righteousness should prevail, and I should not be stiff-necked changing Jesus according to my nice imaginations. I am joyful to know that the ideal world which I imagined in my childhood is real. I have this hope because Jesus Christ promised it. He called it as the "Kingdom of God". The present world is being shaped into that world. Sometimes the glory of Kingdom is reflected here in this world and within us, when we as followers of Christ represent him properly. This world will completely transform into the Kingdom of God with his second coming. That is when the Kingdom of God will be within us (spiritual) and we will also be in the Kingdom of God (physical). I am confident about this true leader because his sacrificial actions are perfectly aligned with his teachings and claims. I am very happy to find a leader who exceeded my ideals.

The Whatnot Tree

The Whatnot Tree (Prudence)
Once upon a time there was a caravan leader. He went from country to country selling various goods. His caravans usually had at least 500 bullock carts.

On one of these trips his path led through a very thick forest. Before entering it,he called together all the members of the caravan. He warned them, “My friends, when you go through this forest be careful to avoid the poisonous trees, poisonous fruits, poisonous leaves, poisonous flowers and even poisonous honeycombs.

“Therefore, whatever you have not eaten before — whether a fruit, leaf, flower or anything else — must not be eaten without asking me first.” They all said respectfully, “Yes, sir.”

There was a village in the forest. Just outside the village stood a tree called a “whatnot tree”. Its trunk, branches, leaves, flowers and fruits look very similar to a mango tree. Even the colour, shape, smell and taste are almost exactly the same as a mango tree. But unlike a mango, the whatnot fruit is a deadly poison!

Some went ahead of the caravan and came upon the whatnot tree. They were all hungry, and the whatnot fruits looked like delicious ripe mangoes. Some started eating the fruits mmediately, without thinking at all. They devoured them before anyone could say a word.

Others remembered the leader’s warning, but they thought this was just a different variety of mango tree. They thought they were lucky to find ripe mangoes right next to a village. So they decided to eat some of the fruits before they were all gone.

There were also some who were wiser than the rest. They decided it would be safer to obey the warning of the caravan leader. Although they didn’t know it, he just happened to be the enlightenment Being.

When the leader arrived at the tree, the ones who had been careful and not eaten asked, “Sir, what is this tree? Is it safe to eat these fruits?”

After investigating thoughtfully he replied, “No, no. This may look like a mango tree, but it isn’t. It is a poisonous whatnot tree. Don’t even touch it!”

The ones who had already eaten the whatnot fruit were terrified. The caravan leader told them to make themselves vomit as soon as possible. They did this, and then were given four sweet foods to eat — raisins, cane sugar paste, sweet yogurt and bee’s honey. In this way their taste buds were refreshed after throwing up the poisonous whatnot fruit.

Unfortunately, the greediest and most foolish ones could not be saved. They were the ones who had started eating the poisonous fruits immediately, without thinking at all. It was too late for them. The poison had already started doing its work, and it killed them.

In the past, when caravans had come to the whatnot tree, the people had eaten its poisonous fruits and died in their sleep during the night. The next morning the local villagers had come to the campsite. They had grabbed the dead bodies by the legs, dragged them to a secret hiding place, and buried them. Then they had taken for themselves all the merchandise and bullock carts of the caravan.

They expected to do the same thing this time. At dawn the next morning the villagers ran towards the whatnot tree. They said to each other, “The bullocks will be mine!” “I want the carts and wagons!” “I will take the loads of merchandise!”

But when they got to the whatnot tree they saw that most of the people in the caravan were alive and well. In surprise, they asked them, “How did you know this was not a mango tree?” They answered, “We did not know, but our leader had warned us ahead of time, and when he saw it he knew.”

Then the villagers asked the caravan leader, “Oh wise one, how did you know this was not a mango tree?”

He replied, “I knew it for two reasons. First, this tree is easy to climb. And second, it is right next to a village. If the fruits on such a tree remain unpicked, they cannot be safe to eat!”

Everyone was amazed that such lifesaving wisdom was based on such simple common sense. The caravan continued on its way safely.

The moral is: The wise are led by common sense; fools follow only hunger

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

The Whatnot Tree

The Whatnot Tree (Prudence)
Once upon a time there was a caravan leader. He went from country to country selling various goods. His caravans usually had at least 500 bullock carts.

On one of these trips his path led through a very thick forest. Before entering it,he called together all the members of the caravan. He warned them, “My friends, when you go through this forest be careful to avoid the poisonous trees, poisonous fruits, poisonous leaves, poisonous flowers and even poisonous honeycombs.

“Therefore, whatever you have not eaten before — whether a fruit, leaf, flower or anything else — must not be eaten without asking me first.” They all said respectfully, “Yes, sir.”

There was a village in the forest. Just outside the village stood a tree called a “whatnot tree”. Its trunk, branches, leaves, flowers and fruits look very similar to a mango tree. Even the colour, shape, smell and taste are almost exactly the same as a mango tree. But unlike a mango, the whatnot fruit is a deadly poison!

Some went ahead of the caravan and came upon the whatnot tree. They were all hungry, and the whatnot fruits looked like delicious ripe mangoes. Some started eating the fruits mmediately, without thinking at all. They devoured them before anyone could say a word.

Others remembered the leader’s warning, but they thought this was just a different variety of mango tree. They thought they were lucky to find ripe mangoes right next to a village. So they decided to eat some of the fruits before they were all gone.

There were also some who were wiser than the rest. They decided it would be safer to obey the warning of the caravan leader. Although they didn’t know it, he just happened to be the enlightenment Being.

When the leader arrived at the tree, the ones who had been careful and not eaten asked, “Sir, what is this tree? Is it safe to eat these fruits?”

After investigating thoughtfully he replied, “No, no. This may look like a mango tree, but it isn’t. It is a poisonous whatnot tree. Don’t even touch it!”

The ones who had already eaten the whatnot fruit were terrified. The caravan leader told them to make themselves vomit as soon as possible. They did this, and then were given four sweet foods to eat — raisins, cane sugar paste, sweet yogurt and bee’s honey. In this way their taste buds were refreshed after throwing up the poisonous whatnot fruit.

Unfortunately, the greediest and most foolish ones could not be saved. They were the ones who had started eating the poisonous fruits immediately, without thinking at all. It was too late for them. The poison had already started doing its work, and it killed them.

In the past, when caravans had come to the whatnot tree, the people had eaten its poisonous fruits and died in their sleep during the night. The next morning the local villagers had come to the campsite. They had grabbed the dead bodies by the legs, dragged them to a secret hiding place, and buried them. Then they had taken for themselves all the merchandise and bullock carts of the caravan.

They expected to do the same thing this time. At dawn the next morning the villagers ran towards the whatnot tree. They said to each other, “The bullocks will be mine!” “I want the carts and wagons!” “I will take the loads of merchandise!”

But when they got to the whatnot tree they saw that most of the people in the caravan were alive and well. In surprise, they asked them, “How did you know this was not a mango tree?” They answered, “We did not know, but our leader had warned us ahead of time, and when he saw it he knew.”

Then the villagers asked the caravan leader, “Oh wise one, how did you know this was not a mango tree?”

He replied, “I knew it for two reasons. First, this tree is easy to climb. And second, it is right next to a village. If the fruits on such a tree remain unpicked, they cannot be safe to eat!”

Everyone was amazed that such lifesaving wisdom was based on such simple common sense. The caravan continued on its way safely.

The moral is: The wise are led by common sense; fools follow only hunger

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

The King and the Peasant

A king and his courtiers set out on a winter hunting expedition, and strayed far from inhabited places. When night fell, the king spied the house of a peasant and declared, "We shall take shelter there tonight."

His vizier objected, stating that it was unworthy of the great dignity of the king to take refuge in a peasant's house; would it not be better to set up camp where they were?

The peasant overheard this discussion; nonetheless he prepared a meal and offered it to the king, kissed the ground at his feet, and said to him, "Your greatness will not be lessened; rather, it is my dignity that will increase."

The king was pleased with these words, moved into the man's house for the night, and honored him well the next morning. As the king departed, the peasant walked a few paces with him and said:

"The Sultan lost no power or splendor By accepting a peasant's hospitality.
This peasant's head was illumined When you overshadowed it with your greatness."



Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

The King and the Peasant

A king and his courtiers set out on a winter hunting expedition, and strayed far from inhabited places. When night fell, the king spied the house of a peasant and declared, "We shall take shelter there tonight."

His vizier objected, stating that it was unworthy of the great dignity of the king to take refuge in a peasant's house; would it not be better to set up camp where they were?

The peasant overheard this discussion; nonetheless he prepared a meal and offered it to the king, kissed the ground at his feet, and said to him, "Your greatness will not be lessened; rather, it is my dignity that will increase."

The king was pleased with these words, moved into the man's house for the night, and honored him well the next morning. As the king departed, the peasant walked a few paces with him and said:

"The Sultan lost no power or splendor By accepting a peasant's hospitality.
This peasant's head was illumined When you overshadowed it with your greatness."



Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

A Gang of Drunkards

A Gang of Drunkards [Sobriety]
Once upon a time, when Brahmadatta was king, the Enlightenment Being was born in a wealthy family. He became the richest man in Benares.

There also happened to be a gang of drunkards who roamed the streets. All they ever thought about was finding ways to get alcohol, the drug they thought they couldn’t live without.

One day, when they had run out of money as usual, they came up with a scheme to rob the richest man in Benares. But they didn’t realise that he was the reborn Bodhisatta, so he wouldn’t be so easy to fool!

They decided to make a “Mickey Finn”, which is a drink of liquor with a sleeping drug secretly added to it. Their plan was to get the rich man to drink the Mickey Finn. Then when he fell asleep they would rob all his money, jewellery, and even the rich clothes he wore. So they set up a temporary little roadside bar.

They put their last remaining liquor into a bottle, and mixed in some strong sleeping pills.
Later the rich man came by on his way to the palace. One of the alcoholics called out to him, “Honourable sir, why not start your day right — by having a drink with us? And the first one is on the house!” Then he poured a glass of the dishonest liquor.

But the Enlightenment Being did not drink any form of alcohol. Nevertheless, he wondered why these drunkards were being so generous with their favourite drug. It just wasn’t like them. He realised it must be some kind of trick. So he decided to teach them a lesson.

He said, “It would be an insult to appear before the king in a drunken state, or with even the slightest smell of liquor on my breath. But please be so kind as to wait for me here. I’ll see you again when I return from the palace.”

The drunkards were disappointed. They would not be able to drink again as soon as they wanted. But they decided to be patient and wait.

Later that day the rich man came back to the little roadside bar. The alcoholics were getting desperate for a drink. They called him over and said, “Honourable sir, why not celebrate your visit to the king? Have a drink of this fine liquor.

Remember, the first one is free!” But the rich man just kept looking at the liquor bottle and glass. He said, “I don’t trust you. That bottle and glass of liquor are exactly as they were this morning. If it were as good as you say it is, you would have tasted some yourselves by now.

In fact, you couldn’t help but drink it all! I’m no fool. You must have added another drug to the alcohol.” The richest man in Benares went on his way, and the gang of drunkards went back to their plotting and scheming.

The moral is: Keep sober — and keep your common sense.
Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

A Gang of Drunkards

A Gang of Drunkards [Sobriety]
Once upon a time, when Brahmadatta was king, the Enlightenment Being was born in a wealthy family. He became the richest man in Benares.

There also happened to be a gang of drunkards who roamed the streets. All they ever thought about was finding ways to get alcohol, the drug they thought they couldn’t live without.

One day, when they had run out of money as usual, they came up with a scheme to rob the richest man in Benares. But they didn’t realise that he was the reborn Bodhisatta, so he wouldn’t be so easy to fool!

They decided to make a “Mickey Finn”, which is a drink of liquor with a sleeping drug secretly added to it. Their plan was to get the rich man to drink the Mickey Finn. Then when he fell asleep they would rob all his money, jewellery, and even the rich clothes he wore. So they set up a temporary little roadside bar.

They put their last remaining liquor into a bottle, and mixed in some strong sleeping pills.
Later the rich man came by on his way to the palace. One of the alcoholics called out to him, “Honourable sir, why not start your day right — by having a drink with us? And the first one is on the house!” Then he poured a glass of the dishonest liquor.

But the Enlightenment Being did not drink any form of alcohol. Nevertheless, he wondered why these drunkards were being so generous with their favourite drug. It just wasn’t like them. He realised it must be some kind of trick. So he decided to teach them a lesson.

He said, “It would be an insult to appear before the king in a drunken state, or with even the slightest smell of liquor on my breath. But please be so kind as to wait for me here. I’ll see you again when I return from the palace.”

The drunkards were disappointed. They would not be able to drink again as soon as they wanted. But they decided to be patient and wait.

Later that day the rich man came back to the little roadside bar. The alcoholics were getting desperate for a drink. They called him over and said, “Honourable sir, why not celebrate your visit to the king? Have a drink of this fine liquor.

Remember, the first one is free!” But the rich man just kept looking at the liquor bottle and glass. He said, “I don’t trust you. That bottle and glass of liquor are exactly as they were this morning. If it were as good as you say it is, you would have tasted some yourselves by now.

In fact, you couldn’t help but drink it all! I’m no fool. You must have added another drug to the alcohol.” The richest man in Benares went on his way, and the gang of drunkards went back to their plotting and scheming.

The moral is: Keep sober — and keep your common sense.
Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

The dervish and the king

A dervish was once sitting alone, meditating in a patch of desert.

A king with his retinue passed by. The dervish neither lifted his head nor paid any attention. The king was furious and said: "These dervishes in their patched cloaks are no better than animals!"
His minister approached the dervish, "The great ruler of all the world passed by and you did not stand and bow: why were you so rude?"

The dervish replied: "Tell your king to expect those people to bow who hope for some reward from him. Tell him that rulers are there to protect their people, not just to exact obeisance from
them. The ruler is the watchman of the poor, though he has greater wealth and glory. The sheep are not made for the shepherd, rather the shepherd is there to serve the sheep.

"When the irresistible decrees of Fate are issued, neither king nor slave remain.
Open up the tomb and search these dusty bones: can you tell which was the rich man or which was the pauper?"

The ruler was struck by the words of the dervish. He said: "Ask me a favour!" The dervish replied: "I would ask you to never disturb me again."

The king begged: "Give me a word of advice!" The dervish replied: "Now that wealth is in your hands, realise before it is too late, that this wealth and this power pass from hand to hand."

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

The dervish and the king

A dervish was once sitting alone, meditating in a patch of desert.

A king with his retinue passed by. The dervish neither lifted his head nor paid any attention. The king was furious and said: "These dervishes in their patched cloaks are no better than animals!"
His minister approached the dervish, "The great ruler of all the world passed by and you did not stand and bow: why were you so rude?"

The dervish replied: "Tell your king to expect those people to bow who hope for some reward from him. Tell him that rulers are there to protect their people, not just to exact obeisance from
them. The ruler is the watchman of the poor, though he has greater wealth and glory. The sheep are not made for the shepherd, rather the shepherd is there to serve the sheep.

"When the irresistible decrees of Fate are issued, neither king nor slave remain.
Open up the tomb and search these dusty bones: can you tell which was the rich man or which was the pauper?"

The ruler was struck by the words of the dervish. He said: "Ask me a favour!" The dervish replied: "I would ask you to never disturb me again."

The king begged: "Give me a word of advice!" The dervish replied: "Now that wealth is in your hands, realise before it is too late, that this wealth and this power pass from hand to hand."

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Your Attitude..........

The basic thing is that everyone wants happiness, no one wants suffering. And happiness mainly comes from our own attitude, rather than from external factors. If your own mental attitude is correct, even if you remain in a hostile atmosphere, you feel happy.
Tenzin Gyatso,
The Dalai Lama XIV

*

There are really only two dimensions to the concept of attitude - you either behave as though you are a victim of circumstance, or you take full responsibility for your situation.
Richard Rudd

*

It isn't the things that happen to us in our lives that cause us to suffer, it's how we relate to the things that happen to us that causes us to suffer.
Pema Chodron

*

The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.
M Scott Peck

*

Nothing will work unless you do.
John Wooden


Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Your Attitude..........

The basic thing is that everyone wants happiness, no one wants suffering. And happiness mainly comes from our own attitude, rather than from external factors. If your own mental attitude is correct, even if you remain in a hostile atmosphere, you feel happy.
Tenzin Gyatso,
The Dalai Lama XIV

*

There are really only two dimensions to the concept of attitude - you either behave as though you are a victim of circumstance, or you take full responsibility for your situation.
Richard Rudd

*

It isn't the things that happen to us in our lives that cause us to suffer, it's how we relate to the things that happen to us that causes us to suffer.
Pema Chodron

*

The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.
M Scott Peck

*

Nothing will work unless you do.
John Wooden


Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

All time Happiness Quotes

"The purpose of our lives is to be happy."
Dalai Lama

"There are two ways to spread happiness; either be the light who shines it or be the mirror who reflects it."
Edith Wharton

"Remember happiness doesn't depend upon who you are or what you have; it depends solely on what you think."
Dale Carnegie

"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony."
Mahatma Gandhi

"Happiness, like unhappiness, is a proactive choice."
Stephen R. Covey

"Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realise there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you."
Lao Tsu

"It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves, and it is not possible to find it elsewhere."
Agnes Repplier

"Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action."
Benjamin Disraeli

"It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy that makes happiness."
Charles Sprugeon

"Look for a situation in which your work will give you as much happiness as your spare time."
Pable Picasso

"Happiness depends upon ourselves."
Aristotle

"The person born with a talent they are meant to use will find their greatest happiness in using it."
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"Most of us are just about as happy as we make up our minds to be."
Abraham Lincoln

"As a well spent day brings happy sleep, so a life well spent brings happy death."
Leonardo da Vinci

"Happiness is inward and not outward; and so it does not depend on what we have, but on what we are."
Henry Van Dyke

"Happiness is a choice that requires effort at times"
Aeschylus

"Happiness is found in doing, not merely possessing."
Napoleon Hill

"Many persons have the wrong idea about what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose."
Helen Keller
Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

All time Happiness Quotes

"The purpose of our lives is to be happy."
Dalai Lama

"There are two ways to spread happiness; either be the light who shines it or be the mirror who reflects it."
Edith Wharton

"Remember happiness doesn't depend upon who you are or what you have; it depends solely on what you think."
Dale Carnegie

"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony."
Mahatma Gandhi

"Happiness, like unhappiness, is a proactive choice."
Stephen R. Covey

"Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realise there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you."
Lao Tsu

"It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves, and it is not possible to find it elsewhere."
Agnes Repplier

"Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action."
Benjamin Disraeli

"It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy that makes happiness."
Charles Sprugeon

"Look for a situation in which your work will give you as much happiness as your spare time."
Pable Picasso

"Happiness depends upon ourselves."
Aristotle

"The person born with a talent they are meant to use will find their greatest happiness in using it."
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"Most of us are just about as happy as we make up our minds to be."
Abraham Lincoln

"As a well spent day brings happy sleep, so a life well spent brings happy death."
Leonardo da Vinci

"Happiness is inward and not outward; and so it does not depend on what we have, but on what we are."
Henry Van Dyke

"Happiness is a choice that requires effort at times"
Aeschylus

"Happiness is found in doing, not merely possessing."
Napoleon Hill

"Many persons have the wrong idea about what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose."
Helen Keller
Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Forgive Just Forgive To Be Happy Always

"If you do not forgive, you will continue to think of the offender and the unpleasant event," said pranic healing master Choa Koi Sui. "By forgiving and blessing, you achieve inner peace and freedom." Those who follow Vedantic tradition pray to God to grant happiness even to their enemies. They pray to Providence not only for their well-being, but also for the prosperity of their adversaries. Vedantic wisdom believes in a prenatal harmony, a link and celestial communion among all souls. Hence, when you hate another person, you only hate yourself, as all souls are linked.

"How often do you forgive one person? Up to seven times?" Jesus Christ was asked by his disciple Peter. Jesus replied: "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven." Jesus even asked God to forgive those who had crucified him: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." In The Lord's Prayer, Christians pray: "And forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us."

The message is clear: Only when you forgive others will you, too, be forgiven. Allah is 'Most Forgiving'. Prophet Muhammad forgave people for their ignorance and was ever ready to forgive his enemies.

By being unforgiving, we keep creating an identity around our pain, and that is what is reborn, Buddhists believe. In Jainism, forgiveness is propounded as one of the main virtues to be cultivated by the faithful. Supreme forgiveness forms part of one of the 10 characteristics of dharma in Jainism.

"Always forgive your enemies - nothing annoys them as much," said Oscar Wilde. It's an interesting thing to say, but taking the tongue-in-cheek remark seriously might dilute the impact and power of forgiveness.

Forgiveness has great power. It is a glorious and selfless act that could radically transform the lives of both the forgiver and the forgiven - for the better.


"If you do not forgive, you will continue to think of the offender and the unpleasant event," said pranic healing master Choa Koi Sui. "By forgiving and blessing, you achieve inner peace and freedom." Those who follow Vedantic tradition pray to God to grant happiness even to their enemies. They pray to Providence not only for their well-being, but also for the prosperity of their adversaries. Vedantic wisdom believes in a prenatal harmony, a link and celestial communion among all souls. Hence, when you hate another person, you only hate yourself, as all souls are linked.

"How often do you forgive one person? Up to seven times?" Jesus Christ was asked by his disciple Peter. Jesus replied: "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven." Jesus even asked God to forgive those who had crucified him: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." In The Lord's Prayer, Christians pray: "And forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us."

The message is clear: Only when you forgive others will you, too, be forgiven. Allah is 'Most Forgiving'. Prophet Muhammad forgave people for their ignorance and was ever ready to forgive his enemies.

By being unforgiving, we keep creating an identity around our pain, and that is what is reborn, Buddhists believe. In Jainism, forgiveness is propounded as one of the main virtues to be cultivated by the faithful. Supreme forgiveness forms part of one of the 10 characteristics of dharma in Jainism.

"Always forgive your enemies - nothing annoys them as much," said Oscar Wilde. It's an interesting thing to say, but taking the tongue-in-cheek remark seriously might dilute the impact and power of forgiveness.

Forgiveness has great power. It is a glorious and selfless act that could radically transform the lives of both the forgiver and the forgiven - for the better.


Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Forgive Just Forgive To Be Happy Always

"If you do not forgive, you will continue to think of the offender and the unpleasant event," said pranic healing master Choa Koi Sui. "By forgiving and blessing, you achieve inner peace and freedom." Those who follow Vedantic tradition pray to God to grant happiness even to their enemies. They pray to Providence not only for their well-being, but also for the prosperity of their adversaries. Vedantic wisdom believes in a prenatal harmony, a link and celestial communion among all souls. Hence, when you hate another person, you only hate yourself, as all souls are linked.

"How often do you forgive one person? Up to seven times?" Jesus Christ was asked by his disciple Peter. Jesus replied: "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven." Jesus even asked God to forgive those who had crucified him: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." In The Lord's Prayer, Christians pray: "And forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us."

The message is clear: Only when you forgive others will you, too, be forgiven. Allah is 'Most Forgiving'. Prophet Muhammad forgave people for their ignorance and was ever ready to forgive his enemies.

By being unforgiving, we keep creating an identity around our pain, and that is what is reborn, Buddhists believe. In Jainism, forgiveness is propounded as one of the main virtues to be cultivated by the faithful. Supreme forgiveness forms part of one of the 10 characteristics of dharma in Jainism.

"Always forgive your enemies - nothing annoys them as much," said Oscar Wilde. It's an interesting thing to say, but taking the tongue-in-cheek remark seriously might dilute the impact and power of forgiveness.

Forgiveness has great power. It is a glorious and selfless act that could radically transform the lives of both the forgiver and the forgiven - for the better.


"If you do not forgive, you will continue to think of the offender and the unpleasant event," said pranic healing master Choa Koi Sui. "By forgiving and blessing, you achieve inner peace and freedom." Those who follow Vedantic tradition pray to God to grant happiness even to their enemies. They pray to Providence not only for their well-being, but also for the prosperity of their adversaries. Vedantic wisdom believes in a prenatal harmony, a link and celestial communion among all souls. Hence, when you hate another person, you only hate yourself, as all souls are linked.

"How often do you forgive one person? Up to seven times?" Jesus Christ was asked by his disciple Peter. Jesus replied: "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven." Jesus even asked God to forgive those who had crucified him: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." In The Lord's Prayer, Christians pray: "And forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us."

The message is clear: Only when you forgive others will you, too, be forgiven. Allah is 'Most Forgiving'. Prophet Muhammad forgave people for their ignorance and was ever ready to forgive his enemies.

By being unforgiving, we keep creating an identity around our pain, and that is what is reborn, Buddhists believe. In Jainism, forgiveness is propounded as one of the main virtues to be cultivated by the faithful. Supreme forgiveness forms part of one of the 10 characteristics of dharma in Jainism.

"Always forgive your enemies - nothing annoys them as much," said Oscar Wilde. It's an interesting thing to say, but taking the tongue-in-cheek remark seriously might dilute the impact and power of forgiveness.

Forgiveness has great power. It is a glorious and selfless act that could radically transform the lives of both the forgiver and the forgiven - for the better.


Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Free Yourself...........And Cherish The Life

Forgiveness is the one supreme peace.

Mahabharata

*

Forgiveness is illuminating like the sun. It is through this quality of forgiveness that Lord Brahma has achieved the post of master of the entire universe.

Srimad Bhagavatam

*

If among monks or nuns occurs a quarrel or dispute or dissension, the young monk should ask forgiveness of the superior, and the superior of the young monk. They should forgive and ask forgiveness, appease and be appeased, and converse without restraint.

Kalpa Sutra 8:59

*

The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.

M K Gandhi

*

As long as we don't forgive people who hurt us, they occupy a rent-free space in our mind. So forgive and forget.

Brahmakumaris

*

I can forgive, but i cannot forget is only another way of saying, i will not forgive. Forgiveness ought to be like a cancelled note, torn in two, and burned up, so that it never can be shown against one.

Henry W Beecher


Read more: Free your self - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Free-your-self/articleshow/6816208.cms#ixzz13XvPKtxT

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Free Yourself...........And Cherish The Life

Forgiveness is the one supreme peace.

Mahabharata

*

Forgiveness is illuminating like the sun. It is through this quality of forgiveness that Lord Brahma has achieved the post of master of the entire universe.

Srimad Bhagavatam

*

If among monks or nuns occurs a quarrel or dispute or dissension, the young monk should ask forgiveness of the superior, and the superior of the young monk. They should forgive and ask forgiveness, appease and be appeased, and converse without restraint.

Kalpa Sutra 8:59

*

The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.

M K Gandhi

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As long as we don't forgive people who hurt us, they occupy a rent-free space in our mind. So forgive and forget.

Brahmakumaris

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I can forgive, but i cannot forget is only another way of saying, i will not forgive. Forgiveness ought to be like a cancelled note, torn in two, and burned up, so that it never can be shown against one.

Henry W Beecher


Read more: Free your self - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Free-your-self/articleshow/6816208.cms#ixzz13XvPKtxT

Lovely Thoughts for Lovely People Just Like You

Words of Wisdom Of the Day # 299

“In the times of crisis I was not hurt by the harsh words of my enemies, but by the silence of my friends”.

~ Shakespeare

Words of Wisdom Of the Day # 299

“In the times of crisis I was not hurt by the harsh words of my enemies, but by the silence of my friends”.

~ Shakespeare

Words of Wisdom Of the Day # 298

“It is very easy to defeat someone, but it is very hard to win someone.”

~ John Keats (1795 - 1821)

Words of Wisdom Of the Day # 298

“It is very easy to defeat someone, but it is very hard to win someone.”

~ John Keats (1795 - 1821)

Words of Wisdom Of the Day # 297

"When you are in the light, everything follows you, but when you enter into the dark, even your own shadow doesn't follow you." 

~Adolf Hitler