Average People Start but Quit When Things Get Tough: Ancient Hindu Teachings and Their Modern-Day Relevance
Introduction: The Essence of Perseverance in Hindu Teachings
The statement, "Average people start but quit when things get tough," reflects a universal truth about human behavior. In the face of adversity, it is easy to give up rather than persevere. However, ancient Hindu teachings emphasize the importance of resilience and determination. Hindu scriptures and stories are rich with lessons that underscore the value of unwavering commitment and perseverance, which remain highly relevant in modern times.
Perseverance in Hindu Scriptures: The Bhagavad Gita
One of the most significant Hindu scriptures, the Bhagavad Gita, offers profound insights into the nature of perseverance. In this sacred text, Lord Krishna advises the warrior Arjuna, who is overwhelmed with doubt and fear on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Krishna's teachings encourage Arjuna to overcome his despair and to fulfill his duty as a warrior, regardless of the challenges he faces.
In Bhagavad Gita 2.47, Krishna says:
"Karmanye vadhikaraste Ma phaleshu kadachana, Ma karma phala hetur bhurmatey sangostva akarmani."
This verse translates to: "You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction."
This teaching emphasizes the importance of focusing on one's duties and responsibilities without getting attached to the outcomes. It encourages individuals to persevere in their efforts, even when success seems uncertain, thereby avoiding the temptation to quit when faced with difficulties.
Stories of Perseverance from Hindu Mythology
- The Story of Dhruva: A Child's Determination
The story of Dhruva, a young prince, is a powerful example of perseverance in Hindu mythology. Dhruva was denied his father's affection and kingdom due to the jealousy of his stepmother. Instead of giving up, Dhruva resolved to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu through intense penance. Despite being just a child, Dhruva faced severe hardships during his penance, including living in the forest and enduring physical suffering. However, his unwavering determination was rewarded when Lord Vishnu appeared before him and granted him a place in the heavens as the Pole Star. This story teaches that determination and faith can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
- The Story of Sita's Ordeal: Faith and Endurance
In the Ramayana, the story of Sita, Lord Rama's wife, is another example of enduring through adversity. Sita was abducted by the demon king Ravana and kept captive in Lanka. Despite the immense pressure and hardships she faced, Sita remained steadfast in her devotion to Rama and her commitment to righteousness (dharma). Her resilience during this ordeal exemplifies the importance of maintaining one's moral and ethical principles, even in the face of extreme adversity.
Modern-Day Relevance: The Need for Perseverance
In today's fast-paced and often challenging world, the lessons of perseverance from Hindu teachings are more relevant than ever. Whether in personal life, career, or spiritual practice, the ability to endure hardships and continue striving is essential for success and fulfillment.
Resilience in the Workplace: In the modern workplace, challenges such as competition, stress, and uncertainty are common. The teachings from the Bhagavad Gita remind us that focusing on our duties, rather than the outcomes, can help us stay motivated and committed, even when the going gets tough.
Personal Growth: Personal development often involves stepping out of one's comfort zone and facing new challenges. The stories of Dhruva and Sita inspire us to remain steadfast in our goals and values, regardless of the obstacles we encounter. This resilience is crucial for achieving long-term success and personal growth.
Spiritual Practice: The journey of spiritual growth is fraught with difficulties, including self-doubt, distractions, and external challenges. Hindu teachings encourage practitioners to remain focused on their spiritual goals and to persevere in their practices, such as meditation, prayer, and self-discipline, even when results are not immediately apparent.
The Importance of Satsanga and Discernment
Hinduism also emphasizes the importance of satsanga (association with the wise) and viveka (discernment) in maintaining perseverance. Surrounding oneself with individuals who embody resilience and wisdom can provide the support and encouragement needed to continue on a difficult path. Additionally, cultivating discernment helps individuals to make wise choices and avoid actions driven by fleeting emotions or external pressures.
Lesser-Known Teachings on Perseverance
The Concept of Tapas (Austerity): Tapas, a concept in Hinduism, refers to self-discipline and austerity practiced to achieve spiritual growth. It involves enduring hardships voluntarily to purify the mind and strengthen one's resolve. Tapas is not just physical endurance but also mental and emotional discipline. This concept reinforces the idea that true progress, whether spiritual or material, often requires enduring challenges with patience and determination.
Kshama (Forgiveness) and Perseverance: Another lesser-known aspect of perseverance is kshama (forgiveness). Hindu teachings suggest that holding on to anger or resentment can drain one's energy and hinder progress. By practicing forgiveness, one can maintain inner peace and continue to persevere on their path without being bogged down by negative emotions.
Embracing the Teachings of Perseverance
The ancient Hindu teachings on perseverance, found in scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and the stories of Dhruva and Sita, offer timeless wisdom. In a world where challenges and setbacks are inevitable, these teachings remind us that true success and spiritual growth come from unwavering commitment and resilience. By embracing these values, individuals can navigate the difficulties of modern life with strength and grace, ultimately achieving their goals and fulfilling their highest potential.