“Only when we suspend judgment and know the man and the motive before we criticize, that we shall be able to repose trust where trust is due. We must stiffen our character and educate ourselves up to a higher standard.”
— Sri Aurobindo
In his mother’s womb, Ashtavakra heard the chanting of the Vedas and learned the correct recitation. Once, when his father Kahoda was reciting the Vedas and erred in intonation, the fetus corrected his father from the womb. Angry, Kahoda cursed him to be born with eight deformities (hence Ashtavakra).
When Kahoda went to King Janaka to ask for riches since his family was poor, he lost a debate with Vandin and was imprisoned. Upon growing up, Ashtavakra learned about the curse and his father’s imprisonment. So at age 10, he went to King Janaka’s court, challenged the Vandin to a debate, and won. As a reward, he sought his father’s freedom, which was granted promptly.
Had Kahoda appreciated his son’s knowledge instead of getting angry, he wouldn’t have been imprisoned for 12 years. You too, won’t be imprisoned in your mind if you appreciate patience, if you don’t make snap judgments or get upset or excited easily. You will not succumb to ignorance or weakness, nor will you suffer fools.
Resolve to not give in to the first thought that comes to your mind in any situation. When someone criticizes you, rather than lashing out in return, ask yourself, “How much truth do these words hold?” When you’re eager to criticize someone’s behavior, stop. Let more pieces of the puzzle reveal themselves to give you a clearer picture.
When you feel tempted by a limited-period offer that’s too good to be true, ask yourself, “What am I missing here?” This discernment could help you avert a disaster.
Toughen up. Every unpleasant situation is just Nature polishing you to turn your coal into a diamond.