The teachings found in the Sastras remain relevant for all times.
Primarily, Sastras guide individuals to abstain from wrongful paths and to stay on the right track in life. For instance, they provide a detailed explanation of vasanas and the methods to purify these impressions in one's mind. Vasanas refer to the imprints left in the mind by past actions, influencing individuals to participate in karmas (actions). These actions lead to the accumulation of punya (merits) and papa (demerits), with their effects manifested in the cycle of births and deaths.
The river of accumulated vasanas in the mind compels a person towards both beneficial and harmful pathways. It is crucial to exert effort to halt this influence and channel the flow exclusively towards one's beneficial path.
The Sastras emphasize the importance of making this conscious effort, declaring When harmful instincts, such as kama (unbridled desire), krodha (anger), lobha (greed), moha (delusion), mada (pride), and matsarya (jealousy), surface, along with negative thoughts such as the desire for revenge, it becomes crucial to restrain them. Instead, focus on cultivating positive and virtuous thoughts to counteract these detrimental influences.
The Sastras stress the significance of self-discipline in managing these destructive tendencies. By consciously keeping these instincts in check, individuals can create a mental environment conducive to righteous actions and moral conduct. This self-awareness allows for the redirection of energies towards constructive endeavors, fostering personal growth and spiritual development.
Once an individual internalizes this sadhana, it purifies the mind. Positive thoughts play a pivotal role in ensuring not only personal progress but also in bringing joy to oneself and others. The Sastras emphasize that the solution to the sorrows of worldly existence lies in the restraint of one's mind. Lasting peace can only be achieved through a subdued mind.
We extend our blessings to all, urging the cultivation of good vasanas by nurturing noble thoughts. Such thoughts pave the way for engaging in virtuous deeds, thereby making one's life meritorious and meaningful. May the practice of cultivating positive tendencies lead to a fulfilling and purposeful existence for everyone.
