--> Skip to main content


Do Not Kill the Present with Good Old Days

By
There are so many things out there to lift our spirits if only we notice them. But we never look in the right place and instead start living in the good old days. We complain about everything in the present. Actually, the present is not bad; it is just that we are miserable and we try to hide this truth by glorifying the past. So stop killing the present with the good old days.

Every age has its positives and negatives. If we focus only on negatives then we will miss the positives.

A warm smile can light up the day. The smile is always present. All we have to learn is to drop the ego and let go. Love has not changed. It is the same as in the good old days. It is just that we forgot to love.

There are many things in this world, which are beyond our control, and this is what makes the old days good. But what we do not realize is that there are a lot of things which we can do to make our lives happier today.

Quite often, we want to be part of the crowd and then complain about the same crowd. Instead of going after the crowd find what makes us truly happy and walk on that path fearlessly.

Treat every situation as an opportunity to expand our mind.

Again, the present and future belongs to the younger generation. They were not part of the good old days. So allow them to build their good days. 

We cannot bring back the same good old days but we can create good days for us and for those around us. Instead of being grumpy, negative, cranky and frustrated, find joy in the present. This will make our lives and of those around us easy.

"Do Not Kill the Present with Good Old Days" - Hinduism Expanded

Meaning and Context

The phrase "Do not kill the present with the good old days" encapsulates the wisdom of living in the present moment rather than becoming trapped in nostalgia for the past. In Hindu philosophy, this idea is deeply rooted in the concepts of time (Kala), impermanence, and the cyclical nature of existence (Samsara). While the past holds valuable lessons, it is essential not to let it overshadow the importance of the present, which is the only moment where true action and transformation can occur.

Hinduism’s Perspective on Time and the Present

  1. Time (Kala): In Hinduism, time is seen as a cyclical force, encompassing the past, present, and future. The concept of Kala is revered, and it is believed that each moment is an expression of divine will. Hence, living in the present is crucial as it aligns one with the cosmic order.

  2. The Bhagavad Gita: A key scripture in Hinduism, the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes the importance of living in the present and performing one's duty without attachment to the results, whether they pertain to the past or future. Krishna advises Arjuna:

    • "Karmanye vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kadachana, Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhurmatey Sangostva Akarmani" (BG 2.47)
    • Translation: "You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction."

  3. Yajnavalkya Smriti: This ancient text also highlights the transitory nature of life, reminding followers that clinging to past glories or lamenting over lost opportunities only distracts from the present duties and potential for spiritual growth.

Other Similar Thoughts and Quotes from Hinduism

  1. "Tat Tvam Asi" (You are That): This Mahavakya (great saying) from the Chandogya Upanishad teaches the non-duality of existence, emphasizing that our true nature is beyond time and space, urging us to recognize the eternal present as the essence of our being.

  2. "Om Asato Maa Sadgamaya" (Lead me from the unreal to the real): This prayer from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad implores the divine to guide us from the illusion of the past (which is no longer real) to the truth of the present moment.

  3. "Anicca" (Impermanence): Though more commonly associated with Buddhism, the concept of Anicca is present in Hindu thought as well. It reminds us that everything is transient, and thus, attachment to past events or even future expectations is ultimately futile.

Modern Day Relevance

In today's fast-paced world, where people often dwell on past achievements or regrets, this wisdom from Hinduism is particularly relevant. Nostalgia can be comforting, but excessive focus on "the good old days" can lead to stagnation, preventing individuals from fully engaging with the opportunities and challenges of the present.

  • Mental Health: Dwelling on the past can contribute to anxiety and depression, as people often idealize the past and become dissatisfied with their current lives. Hindu philosophy encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness, which are key components of modern psychological practices like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).

  • Personal Growth: By focusing on the present, individuals can better respond to their current circumstances, make informed decisions, and engage in meaningful actions that shape their future. This aligns with the Hindu teaching of Dharma (duty), which emphasizes righteous living according to the present context.

  • Spiritual Evolution: The concept of living in the present also ties into the Hindu idea of Moksha (liberation). Spiritual liberation is not found in the past or future but is realized through the transcendence of time, achieved by living fully and mindfully in the present.

Hinduism offers profound insights into the importance of living in the present. While the past is a teacher and the future holds potential, the present is where life truly happens. The wisdom of not "killing the present with the good old days" encourages us to honor the past, plan for the future, but most importantly, engage with the present moment with awareness, responsibility, and spiritual mindfulness. This approach fosters a balanced, fulfilling life, rooted in the eternal now.