What H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said today
‘If someone has done wrong to you, reform them’
India (Art of Living International Center, Bangalore), September 5:
Q. If some politician in power is corrupt, and causes a lot of pain to many people, is it correct to pray for his death?
H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar : Pray for his sadbuddhi (good sense) and if that doesn’t happen then pray that he is removed from the position of power. In many temples, you will find that rakshasas (demons) are carved at the entrance. Yet their place is outside or under God’s feet. If they sit on the main throne then there is trouble.
Q. When I don’t get to see you or miss my (Sudarshan) Kriya or satsang I get very upset. Am I getting attached to you or the Art of Living?
H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: This attachment is alright.
Q. It is said that inspiration for an action comes from the consciousness and also that an action is inspired by samskaras (past impressions). Which of the two is true?
H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar : Both are true at different levels. An action creates an associated impression in the mind (samskara) and with the samskara, the Supreme Consciousness is experienced. So think on what to do and what not to.
Q. Why is it that revenge is bad when Nature also gives every human being the result of one’s actions?
H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: The feeling of revenge is not for human beings, it is animalistic. The feeling to take revenge troubles you to a great extent. Till you have achieved it, you remain in hell. The thought of revenge itself puts you in hell. You suffer and others also suffer, there is no gain for anyone. Educating others is important. If someone has done wrong to you, explain to them and reform them. Otherwise you cannot improve the situation. However, remain aware. If some one betrays you, it shows your ignorance. We can be intelligent and give knowledge to others. When the thought for revenge comes, think of how much it would harm you and look at your gain.
(From the Office of His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar)
© The Art of Living Foundation