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Universal Love

6/1/2015

3 Comments

 
All good people agree,
And all good people say,
All nice people, like us, are we,
And everyone else is they:
But if you cross over the sea,
Instead of over the way,
You may end up by ( thinking of it!) looking on we
As only a sort of they!

-          Rudyard Kipling

The above poem shares the message of tolerance and universal love that is also exemplified throughout Sikh scriptures as an integral part of one’s spiritual journey. As such, I was reminded of the following shabad by our fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Jee.

Bisar gayee sab taat parayee,
Jab tey sadh sangat mohe payee.
Na ko bairee naahin begana
Sagal sang humko ban aayee.

-          Sri Guru Granth Sahib, page 1229

(I have totally forgotten my jealousy of others, since I found the company of spiritual beings.
No one is my enemy and no one is a stranger, I get along with everyone.)


I’d encourage us all to think about how we can engage in selfless and positive interactions, like many from all different backgrounds do, rising above narrow considerations of race, color, or creed. The Sikh prayer Ardas is ended by seeking welfare of every sentient being, saying “Nanak Naam Chardi Kala, Tere Bhane Sarbat da Bhala.” Blessings for everyone.
3 Comments
Renu
6/16/2015 12:39:13 pm

Hi Paul,
I just read through all of your posts at one go. I can feel your mental and spiritual growth. Things that really stood out for me:
1. Actually asking for a tempest in your life seems contradictory to a sublime life, but how else can we grow? only through struggles can we become the person we can meet at the top of that mountain. I agree with you completely. It's reminescent of the quote by Thomas Paine, "The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly. 'Tis dearness only that gives everything its value.'"
2. I love your line - can I call it the Paul tag line?- 'I am en route'. Aren't we all? It is important to recognize that the journey is the thing, not the destination. The journey becomes our destination if we pay attention, like you said, so that by the time we get there, we are different beings, and may not need to get there at all.

Looking forward to your next post!

Reply
Renu
7/9/2015 02:16:02 am

Dear Renu
Thank you very much for your beautiful thoughts. I love the quote by Thomas Paine.
I apologize for delay in responding. My next blog is going to be posted today. The title is You bet your inner garden.
Thanks

Reply
Vicky Bhalla Singh
9/16/2015 11:05:31 pm

Such basic simple truths to live by. Thank you for the reminder.

Reply



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    About Radiant Return

    I will be using this blog to share my thoughts on human nature, philosophy, and religion. 

    I hope you share your thoughts as well.

    Thanks,
    Paul
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