When we work on ourselves to become a better person, it is very fulfilling to achieve a fair measure of success. However, that brings some people to a halt, as the sense of fulfilment turns into self-satisfaction.
Others, with higher goals, strive for continuous self-improvement. That is commendable in itself, but in order to bring truly remarkable results, such effort needs to be accompanied by generosity, and not remain a self-centred pursuit of superiority.
Do we just want to be better than others, or do we wish to be of service to the community and the wider world? I may be a great scholar, but if I disdain to speak to others, my knowledge will be of no use to anyone.
Generosity of spirit brings with it a sense of responsibility and concern for helping others—offering guidance, giving courage and hope, or simply inspiring people by the example of our life.
One who has this awareness will use all their resources—including time, talents, and wealth—unselfishly. This brings them abundant goodwill and the blessings of others.
Buoyed by the energy of the blessings, such individuals serve tirelessly. They don’t just serve according to a given timetable, but are ever-ready to assist those in need.
No matter what defects others may have: perhaps they are stubborn, they have little intelligence or wisdom, or they are always criticising others, generous souls would be loving and tactful with such persons.
But it so happens that instead of mercy we begin to have doubts about others, so much so that we condemn them, thinking, “This one can never change! They will always remain like this!” Such thoughts finish all charitable feelings.
Secondly, we develop arrogance: “I am more educated. This one does not know much. I can do everything better than them.” This kind of arrogance stops us from being merciful.
We may believe that we are asserting our value by thinking in this way, but we are actually limiting the radius of our service, and our worthiness, by refusing to be benevolent to all.
Boundless generosity is a mark of greatness. Those who have this quality do not look at the faults of others—they are forgiving and magnanimous. Even when they see defects in someone, their kindly feelings do not change. Instead, they remind the other person of their virtues and, in doing so, give them the courage to improve. It is because of this quality that such souls are revered.
Due to their benevolence and lack of arrogance, such souls are able to uplift others and change their life.
A doctor treats his patients and makes them well again; he does not rebuke them for their illness and leave them to their fate. Similarly, great souls have good wishes for all. Even when they need to correct someone, they first point out to the other person their specialities, and then draw their attention to their weakness in such a way that the other recognises what they need to do to remove the flaw.
Those who can relate to others with such sensitivity and understanding can serve anywhere, and they are valued wherever they go.
B.K. Atam Prakash is a senior Rajyoga teacher at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.