By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj
When we think of the many types of challenges that disturb our peace, trouble and disharmony in our relationships make the list. Whenever we are at odds with our loved ones, friends, colleagues, neighbours, or others around us, it causes turmoil in our lives and can bring pain and suffering. As social beings living in this world, we continually seek harmonious relationships with those around us.
Most problems arise when people disagree with each other. Each one feels he or she is right. Each digs in his or her heels to a point of view. When the other one does not come around or give in, anger surfaces. If we are unable to stay calm, we end up saying or doing something hurtful to the other. This escalates and the other retaliates. Soon, what began as a disagreement becomes a fight or over time a long-term feud. If we try and analyse, we will find that the main issues behind relationship problems is, inability to handle anger and stay calm, or our ego.
Yet, if we know where to look, harmonious relationships are not far from our reach.
Turmoil and disharmony arise because we see ourselves as distinct and separate from those around us. Driven by our ego, we live in a world of duality, of us and others. In such a world, we are always at odds with others. We consider ourselves distinct and better, and we judge others from this place. The secret to loving and harmonious relationships is to discover the unity of life. This happens when we embark on the inner spiritual journey through meditation and realize our true essence as a soul, a part of God. We then also recognize that a part of God resides in everyone else. When we see life through the lens of our soul, our outer differences vanish, and we realize we are all one and part of the same family of God. Our perspective is altered, and we embrace a life of unity and oneness, where love reigns.
When we look at others with love, we open our hearts. Our ego is kept in check because we want to reach out and help others. This enables us to put a stop to the escalation of relationship problems because we want to help others rather than rule over them.
As we meditate, we experience states of calm, peace, and joy. This feeling of tranquillity remains with us long after our meditations and radiates from us to all in our orbit. We are able to stay calm in the face of challenging situations or differences of opinion, not allowing situations to escalate into anger. When we remain on an even keel and are open to adjusting and compromising to ensure a peaceful resolution.
Turmoil and disharmony arise because we see ourselves as distinct and separate from those around us. Driven by our ego, we live in a world of duality, of us and others. In such a world, we are always at odds with others. We consider ourselves distinct and better, and we judge others from this place. The secret to loving and harmonious relationships is to discover the unity of life. This happens when we embark on the inner spiritual journey through meditation and realize our true essence as a soul, a part of God. We then also recognize that a part of God resides in everyone else. When we see life through the lens of our soul, our outer differences vanish, and we realize we are all one and part of the same family of God. Our perspective is altered, and we embrace a life of unity and oneness, where love reigns.
There is a more sublime aspect of meditation that has untold benefits in our lives. We begin to see all living things as a part of God. This is a profound realization that brings about fundamental changes in the way we live. We develop love for all humanity, in fact, for every living creature. As a result of this transformation, we begin to love all and gain tolerance and patience towards those around us.
The more we perfect our meditations, the more we come in contact with the source of divine love—and the more we can love and be loved. Peace and harmony enter our hearts and homes and are reflected in every aspect of our lives. The peace, love, and joy that we gain by meditating radiates to all those we meet. Without any effort on our part, we spread a divine fragrance wherever we go. (Text courtesy: www.sos.org)
