If a person is deeply involved in thoughts, he takes steps to convert them into action. Thiruvalluvar says men of resolute mind will surely achieve whatever they wish for (Enniya Enniyangu — kural 666). Actions are the outcome of thoughts. It applies to both good and bad deeds. Suppose a thief is staunch in his determination, in that case, he indulges in robbery, whereas a student who aspires to become a good sports personality, driven by passion, works hard and achieves his goal.
How does the cerebration arise? Thanneerpalli Krishnan Swamy said in a discourse that we are in this Prakriti (nature), which consists of three qualities: Sattva, Rajas and Tamas. They are inherent in a person but in unequal proportions. They create the idea of cogitation in man. Lord Krishna declares in the Bhagavad Gita that actions are being performed in every way by the gunas of Prakriti. He, who is ignorant of the nature of self, thinks, “I am the doer” — but really being done by the gunas of Prakriti (CH 3-Verse 27). Like cotton, which catches fire easily, a person whose sole thought is to earn money, however, may follow the advice of a man even if it is wrong. The companion should be good. People should try to be associated with the pious who always tender saner advice to tread the righteous path. Good people create patriots, whereas anti-social elements create extremists. Both are influenced by persuasion but by different groups.
Sage Yagnavalkya says men should avoid the companionship of those who undertake deeds for the sake of others, praising them, who misinterpret the Sastras, and who are cunning and deceitful.
Noble people whose thoughts are clear, untainted and uncontaminated will always show the proper direction and help us cross the sea of samsara.
Published - January 31, 2025 05:10 am IST
