The present becomes the past after some time, and the future is just a little while away; once we reach there, it will be the present, before it too becomes the past. This play of the past, present and future goes on all the time.
How do we make sure that our past, present and future, all are good? The key is attention to what we are thinking and doing. The past is being created in the present; once the time has passed, we cannot do anything about it. But when we utilise the present prudently, being the best we can be, there is great satisfaction when we look back on it later, knowing that we used our time and other resources well. Do we live in the present in such a way that once it has become the past it is a source of inspiration for others?
Coming to the present, we can make it such that it really is a present—a gift—for everyone who meets us. A gift makes everyone happy—no matter how agitated, sad, or upset someone is, when they receive a present given with genuine love, they experience a wave of happiness. The value of a gift is determined not by the thing that is given but by the love that accompanies it. That is what gives joy to others and brings the giver their blessings and good wishes. The easy method to spread joy and live a life full of blessings is to freely give others presents such as love, cooperation, encouraging words, and good wishes. These are the presents needed the most today by almost everyone, and when we bestow these in the present, our past becomes such that it inspires regard and gratitude in the hearts of others.
What about the future? Our features can give others a glimpse of the future. How? When our eyes, smile, behaviour, and relationships are imbued with peace, love, compassion, and dignity, it shows others that it is possible to live an elevated life in today’s world; it creates a benchmark for them to follow. This is how each one of us can contribute to creating a better future for the human family.
B.K. Atam Prakash is a Rajyoga teacher at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.