For our faith to be solid and strong, its foundation has to be underpinned with renewed fervour, passion and zeal. This requires both the in-depth understanding and the complete implementation of our moral framework, dictated by the Gnostic Knowledge and the guidance of the contemporary Guide. It is not a one-off initiative, but life-long learning.
Recently, during the pandemic, I managed to side-track into upgrading myself with the benefit of state-sponsored schemes – i.e. business courses. Though the classes were tiring, they brought out the best, both from me and my business. They made me realize how narrow my thoughts and visions, and their interpretations, were. I came to understand that in spite of my store being fully stocked, in the centre of Singapore, with the benefits of good staff, blessed with good communication skills; it was still not enough to stay ahead of the competitive market. In short, my perspective of business management had become outdated.
This was no different when it came to my spiritual beliefs. At one time, I was quite satisfied with attending the Satsang and following the five pledges. However, after almost 20 years of following this comfortable path, I came across some road-blocks in my every-day routines. My extended social circle and my customers were outside the Mission, whose way of life was far different to mine. In the beginning, my mind was comfortable with what I was doing, but over the years, just like my business-knowledge, I came to the conclusion that I needed to grow and acquire further learning, even if it was outside my comfort zone.
After two years, having taken the steps to read a wider selection of spiritual literature (properly with full respect of the beliefs, as set forward in the book, and not attempting to find faults) I realized that benefits are endless. Following the ground rules of not rushing through the books and ensuring that I understand clearly and consciously what was being said, my life has improved considerably. With the depth of spiritual guidance of the Avtar Bani, the Bible, the Quran and now the Buddhist sutras, my understanding of Scriptures has opened up many aspects of life.
First view
An individual, who dreams of becoming an accountant, would only prefer to read books relating to finance. He may not want to read any books that take him away from the subject of his potential career.
Second View
An individual, who reads something not quite in his comfort zone, would generally skim through it, and feel satisfied with having concentrated on his main subject.
Third View
An individual reads a book, with the intention of confirming his own views. Anything to the contrary, he simply disregards.
Last View,
An individual reads books to acquire information that can bring his spiritual knowledge to a higher level, extending his comfort zone in the process. This person falls into the category of a believer with life-long learning initiatives.
The lesson I have learned is that a perspective can only be called a perspective if it is viewed and understood in a positive manner. The term embracing- perspective is relevant when it is made into one statement. If we are not embracing, then there can be no meaningful perspective.
Today, I am in the process of understanding both Buddhism and Sikhism. My social circle has changed, though the numbers are low. I am still satisfied being around people who are able to give me positive vibes. I am able to communicate and understand individuals, who have a different view on life as a whole. I only take the positive from them for my spiritual growth.
Having renewed my faith by revisiting the Mission’s teachings, my company’s way of doing things has changed significantly. I have managed to attain the satisfaction of life that was missing inside me before the pandemic. All this has happened with the blessings of my Satguru, who has never left my side when days were dark and the nights were long. The strength to go forward has made me what I am today.
– Jaidev A Nanwani, Singapore
