In Bhagwad Gita, Bible and other religious scriptures, Shadripus (kam, krodh, Lobh, mada, moha, and matsar (Lust, Anger, Greed, ego, attachment, jealousy) in that order; are defined as six enemies of the mind .
These negative characteristics prevent man from attaining moksha or salvation, or nirvana. They lead human beings to destructive behaviour and spiritual stagnation.
Stress, Anxiety tension, worries, anger, emotions…on the other hand can be considered the flavours of life that add depth and complexities to our life and make it more meaningful .They play crucial role in shaping our lives and even contribute to personal growth and resilience. Only one has to control the mind.
Their (‘friendly enemies’!) unprecedented rise in today’s rat race or cut throat competition can be attributed to man’s relentless pursuit for luxury comfort and materialistic pleasure. Even so, these are positive
factors if controlled in right manner as mentioned above.
Take stress, Anxiety for example – often seen negatively, but they drive us to meet deadlines, prepare for important events and push us to perform at our best. Without the spark of competition and impetus of stress and anxiety the world might lack remarkable achievements we see today. Stress or tension often arise in situations where performance matters such as exams ,work deadlines, sports, entertainment industry, technology, public speaking et el.
Similarly tension and worries help us to think critically and solve problems. Can make us more vigilant and prepared, encouraging us to find ways. By facing and overcoming challenges one learns to build temperament and he becomes adaptable to adverse situations. This helps as catalyst for personal and collective development.
Anger (though negative), when managed properly and constructively can motivate change and inspire action in any situations. It can highlight injustices in various fields and workplaces and can lead to personal and societal improvement and changes if channelled effectively.
Flavours can be also best tested if a person has gone through and experienced failures repeatedly, and suddenly success strikes. In vibrant tapestry of life; joy and sorrow, pleasure and pain, praise and
insult, heat and cold, success and failure often coexist.
My neighbour has two sons, Parth, and Abhijit both studying in same school in different classes though. In recently concluded exams Parth who always stood top at no 1 slipped to 2nd place and Abhijit who failed most of the time could make through this time! His joy knew no bounds.
As he celebrated his success in style by distributing pedhas to neighbours and bursting firecrackers, Parth remained aloof, brooding ,sobbing with tears. These two students standing at opposite ends of
emotional ladder remind us of diverse flavours of life!
Really life would be dry and parched without these upsets (flavours). They are essential and integral factors…it is the amalgam of all these factors (despite their bitterness) that make our life interesting and charming. They add spice to life. Really life is incomplete without them.
